Woven shoe upper with pocket and filling material

Abstract

To provide a woven upper for a shoe having long durability of an outer surface of the upper and a good foot environment at the same time.SOLUTION: An upper for a shoe includes a woven element comprising at least one single-layer portion 103 and at least one multi-layer portion 105, where the single-layer portion is formed from a single woven layer and the multi-layer portion is formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, where the at least one single-layer portion is adjacent to the at least one multi-layer portion, and where the multi-layer portion comprises at least one protrusion 102, 107 of the woven element.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a shoe upper and a method for making a shoe upper. [Background technology]

[0002] An article of footwear must meet several requirements. One of the most important aspects is to ensure a comfortable fit. The shoe must not only fit the individual's foot shape perfectly, but also support the wearer as well as possible. The use of a woven shoe upper ensures a flexible fit to a given foot shape. However, a pure woven upper does not support the wearer well and therefore increases the risk of injury.

[0003] Furthermore, textiles can be very vulnerable to external influences depending on the yarn composition and weaving structure of the textile. If the surface of the upper comes into contact with a hard object, it will wear out quickly, which will dramatically shorten the durability of the shoe. In addition to this, the breathability of the material and the associated foot environment have a fundamental impact on the comfort of the shoe. To improve the subjective comfort of the wearer and to effectively remove moisture from the foot, a good air circulation must be ensured inside the shoe.

[0004] US Patent Publication No. 20130086726 relates to woven articles of apparel and methods for making woven articles of apparel. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Publication No. 20130086726 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a woven upper for a shoe that has good foot environment while at the same time providing long durability of the exterior surface of the upper. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The above problems are solved by a shoe upper comprising a woven element having at least one single layer portion and at least one multi-layer portion, the single layer portion being formed from a single woven layer and the multi-layer portion being formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the at least one single layer portion being adjacent to the at least one multi-layer portion, and the multi-layer portion comprising at least one protrusion of the woven element.

[0008] The woven element may have a shape that essentially matches the shape of the shoe upper. The finished shoe upper may be woven in a single weaving process, which is advantageous for simplifying production and saving costs and time. Furthermore, the number of seams that could potentially cause blisters and chafing can be significantly reduced. Alternatively, the woven element may form only a portion of the shoe upper. That is, the shoe upper may further comprise other elements, such as knitted elements, leather elements, or any other fabric elements.

[0009] The woven element may have an outer surface and an inner surface. At least one protrusion of the woven element may protrude from the outer surface, from the inner surface, or from both the outer surface and the inner surface. In particular, one of the at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layered portion is on the outer surface and the other one of the woven layers is on the inner surface. At least one of the at least two overlapping woven layers protrudes from the respective outer surface or inner surface to form a protrusion of the woven element.

[0010] At least one protrusion of the woven element forms a 3D structure on the surface of the shoe upper, which forms a locally elevated structure that allows increased air circulation or protection of the surface of the shoe upper. If the protrusion protrudes from the inner surface of the shoe upper that contacts the wearer's foot when worn, it can improve air circulation and therefore the foot environment in the shoe, especially during vigorous physical activity. If the protrusion protrudes from the outer surface of the shoe upper, the 3D structure can provide better protection from hard objects on the outermost surface of the shoe upper. Therefore, it can provide better wear resistance and longer durability of the shoe upper.

[0011] At least one protrusion of the multi-layered portion may have a periphery that is not connected to an edge of the shoe upper. In particular, the protrusion has a closed periphery that forms a closed boundary of the protrusion. Thus, an internal space between at least two overlapping woven layers of the protrusion is closed. Simultaneous sealing of the closed protrusions during the manufacturing process reduces manufacturing time and allows for rapid manufacturing since a subsequent manufacturing step to perform sealing is not required.

[0012] At least one protrusion of the multilayer part may have a periphery that terminates at an edge of the shoe upper. In particular, the protrusion has an open periphery and therefore an open space between at least two overlapping woven layers of the protrusion. The open protrusion may be sealed after the manufacturing process of the woven element or the shoe upper, which is advantageous and more convenient if a filling material is added inside the protrusion. It is easier to fill an open protrusion compared to a closed protrusion, since a manufacturing step after injection is required for the closed protrusion of the multilayer part. Furthermore, it is also easier to incorporate additional reinforcing material into the protrusion to make the structure of the multilayer part more stable.

[0013] The multi-layered part may comprise a filling material between at least two overlapping woven layers. In particular, the filling material may be in the interior space of at least one protrusion of the multi-layered part. The filling material can better stabilize the protrusion of the woven element. In addition, depending on the composition of the filling material, the filling material can have a significant effect on the storage of heat and the transfer of moisture in the shoe. At the outer surface of the shoe upper, the filling material can provide a cushioning effect, which is particularly advantageous when combined with the abrasion-resistant effect provided by the protrusion of the woven element.

[0014] In one embodiment, the filling material may be yarns including polyester yarns and / or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) yarns. The use of polyester materials has several advantages, such as high weather resistance and mechanical load resistance. Alternatively, the filling material may be recycled yarns, polypropylene yarns, wool yarns, TPE shock absorbing yarns, woven fabric scraps, or any other suitable materials to achieve various functional and aesthetic requirements. For example, the color and other visual properties of the filling material may be adjusted and applied in different areas of the shoe upper.

[0015] A gap of about 1 mm to about 12 mm may be formed between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion. In a protrusion of a woven element, this gap may also be understood as the height of the protrusion. The inventors have realized that protrusions having such heights often provide the advantageous effects referred to herein.

[0016] At least one protrusion of the woven element may have a shape of a straight stripe, a curved stripe, or a closed shape. Depending on various requirements and demands, different shapes can support and provide the advantageous effects mentioned herein. Moreover, the shape can be adapted to the requirements in a particular area of ​​the upper.

[0017] In one embodiment, the protrusion may have a closed shape with an outer periphery adjacent to the first single layer portion and an inner periphery adjacent to the second single layer portion. This form of protrusion is particularly advantageous in the instep area of ​​the shoe upper, since the height created by the protrusion prevents lace entanglement. In particular, protrusions used in the U-shaped throat of the shoe upper can avoid the undesirable lace pinching effect that creates excessive pressure on the wearer's foot when the lace pinches the skin of the foot.

[0018] The closed shape of the protrusions may be in the shape of a ring, an arrowhead, or a three-star. Using the techniques described herein, it is possible to provide uppers having protrusions of related shapes that would otherwise require more effort and cost.

[0019] The multi-layered portion of the woven element may be disposed in at least one of a toe region, a vamp region, a midfoot region, a tongue region, and a heel region of the shoe upper. In addition, the multi-layered portion of the woven element may also be disposed in a collar pad region or an inner lining region of the shoe upper.

[0020] The woven elements are not connected to each other and may optionally comprise at least two multi-layered sections arranged in different regions of the shoe upper. The distribution of the multi-layered sections in the shoe upper may result from the specific design and requirements of the shoe for various sports and performance applications, thus optimizing the air circulation around or within the entire shoe.

[0021] The woven element may comprise at least two protrusions differing in shape and / or size. By combining different shapes, different requirements can be met simultaneously. For example, bulky protrusions are required in some areas of the upper, while flat protrusions are required in other areas.

[0022] The woven element may include a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions increasing in size from the toe region to the heel region of the shoe upper, allowing the size of the protrusions to be tailored to particular areas of the shoe.

[0023] The woven element may include multiple protrusions, with the protrusions proximate the heel region of the shoe upper having the largest size. The heel region of a shoe is often the region most in need of cushioning and protection. Using the techniques described herein, such protection can be readily provided by placing appropriate cushioning protrusions in the heel region.

[0024] It should be understood that the amount, distribution and size of the multiple protrusions of the woven element are not limited and may be arbitrarily designed and selected based on various requirements of the shoe upper.

[0025] The woven element may comprise a first zone and a second zone, which differ at least in the yarns used and / or their weaving structure. The woven element may comprise polyester yarns and / or TPU yarns and / or nylon yarns, the first zone and the second zone differing in yarn composition. By using different yarns and / or yarn compositions, certain areas of the upper can be made more stretchy than others, which allows to improve and optimize the fit in the shoe.

[0026] The first and second zones may differ in the linear density of the yarn used, and combining zones having different linear densities results in zones having different strength, durability, tensile resistance, and breathability, as well as different stretch and / or elasticity.

[0027] In one embodiment, the first zone may be located in the vamp area of ​​the shoe upper and may comprise a yarn with a linear density of 150 denier, and the second zone may be located in the heel area of ​​the shoe upper and may comprise a yarn with a linear density of 300 denier. The heel area must withstand a greater force than the vamp area. On the other hand, the breathability of the vamp area must be greater than that of the heel area. Therefore, it is beneficial to combine zones with different linear mass densities.

[0028] The first and second zones may have different thread counts in their woven structures: if greater support is desired in a particular zone of the shoe upper, using more threads will result in a thicker, stiffer woven element.

[0029] The present invention also relates to a shoe comprising an upper as described herein and a sole attached to the upper.

[0030] The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing an upper for a shoe, the method comprising the steps of weaving, in a single weaving process, a woven element comprising at least one single layer portion and at least one multi-layer portion, the single layer portion being formed from a single woven layer and the multi-layer portion being formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the single layer portion being adjacent to the multi-layer portion, and the multi-layer portion comprising at least one protrusion of the woven element.

[0031] The advantages of such an upper have been discussed above and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0032] The method of manufacturing the upper further includes weaving the woven elements into essentially the shape of a shoe upper. In particular, the woven elements are woven into a unitary, two-dimensional shoe upper, which is used in subsequent manufacturing to produce a shoe or footwear article.

[0033] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include disposing a filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion. Disposing the filler material may include weaving the filler material between the at least two overlapping woven layers during weaving of the woven element.

[0034] After weaving the woven elements, the filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers may be broken into several pieces or yarn scraps by mechanical or chemical techniques.

[0035] After weaving the woven elements, a step may be performed of disposing a filler material between the at least two overlapping woven layers.

[0036] The filling material may be yarns including polyester yarns and / or TPU yarns. Alternatively, the filling material may be recycled yarns, polypropylene yarns, wool yarns, TPE shock absorbing yarns, or any suitable material to achieve various functional and aesthetic requirements.

[0037] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include weaving the woven element such that at least one protrusion of the woven element protrudes from an outer surface of the woven element and / or an inner surface of the woven element.

[0038] In one embodiment, the gap between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion may be from about 1 mm to about 12 mm, with a gap of from about 2 mm to 6 mm being preferred, and from about 2 mm to 4 mm being particularly preferred.

[0039] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include weaving the woven element such that at least one protrusion comprises a straight stripe, a curved stripe, or a closed shaped configuration.

[0040] At least one protrusion may comprise a closed shape having an outer periphery adjacent the first monolayer portion and an inner periphery adjacent the second monolayer portion.

[0041] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include disposing the multi-layer portion in at least one of a toe region, a vamp region, a midfoot region, a tongue region, and a heel region of the shoe upper.

[0042] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include weaving the woven element such that at least two multi-layered portions are formed that are not connected to one another.

[0043] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include weaving the woven elements to form a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions increasing in size from the toe region to the heel region of the shoe upper.

[0044] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include weaving the woven elements such that a plurality of lobes are formed, the lobes proximate the heel region having the largest magnitude.

[0045] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include weaving the woven element in a single weaving process to form a first zone and a second zone of the woven element, the first zone and the second zone differing at least in the yarns used and / or their weaving structures.

[0046] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include weaving the woven element with polyester yarns and / or TPU yarns and / or nylon yarns, wherein the first zone and the second zone have different yarn compositions.

[0047] The first and second zones may differ in the linear density of the yarns used and / or the thread count of their weave construction.

[0048] The method of manufacturing the upper may further include a step of heat pressing the woven elements in one or more preselected areas. Heat pressing is quicker than sealing. Thus, manufacturing time can be reduced. In addition, heat pressing can create harder properties and wear-resistant surfaces of the woven elements, which can also provide longer durability to the shoe.

[0049] The one or more preselected regions may be disposed in a single layer portion of the woven element.

[0050] The present invention also relates to a method of making a shoe, comprising the steps of making a shoe upper as described herein and attaching a sole to the shoe upper.

[0051] Another aspect of the invention relates to a shoe upper comprising a unitary woven element having a first zone disposed in a heel region, a second zone disposed in a midfoot region, and a third zone disposed in a forefoot region, the zones having different woven characteristics.

[0052] Manufacturing the woven elements in one piece avoids seams that may lead to injuries during sports activities. Combining different woven zones with different properties allows each zone of the shoe to be beneficially tailored to the desired requirements. The different weaving properties may be yarn composition and / or weaving structure.

[0053] At least one of these zones may comprise at least two sub-zones with different weaving characteristics. The additional sub-zones can increase the number of possible applications, thus enabling the shoe to provide the desired functionality and meet different demands for different sports.

[0054] At least one of these zones and / or subzones may comprise a different weft yarn than the other zones and / or subzones. The different weft yarns may differ in their yarn composition, linear density and / or number of threads. In one embodiment, the first zone may comprise a higher linear density and / or a higher number of threads than the second and third zones. Particularly in the heel area, reinforcement is advantageous to optimally assist the athlete, which can be achieved by using yarns of higher linear density and / or a higher number of threads.

[0055] At least one of these zones and / or subzones may comprise a different weave structure than the other zones and / or subzones. The weave structure may include a weave pattern and / or an orientation of the weave pattern. Different weave patterns result in different mechanical properties. Using different orientations of the weave structure, improved placement of stretch and / or elasticity required in different regions of the shoe upper may be achieved.

[0056] The second zone, located in the midfoot region of the shoe upper, may have a plain weave construction. Plain weave materials have a smooth surface and therefore tend to repel contaminating particles. In addition, the soft surface improves comfort.

[0057] The third zone, located in the toe cap area, may be partially covered by a foil, the use of which provides additional reinforcement to the covered area and improves the water resistance of the shoe.

[0058] The third zone may furthermore be provided with a perforated lining: on the one hand, the lining allows for good heat storage, on the other hand, these holes ensure better breathability and removal of moisture.

[0059] The present invention also relates to a shoe comprising an upper as described herein and a sole attached to the upper.

[0060] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0061] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram of an example of a preferred embodiment showing a shoe according to the present invention; [Diagram 2] 2 is another example of a preferred embodiment showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is another example of a preferred embodiment showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. FIG. [Figure 4A] 11A-11C are further examples of preferred embodiments showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. [Figure 4B] 11A-11C are further examples of preferred embodiments showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. [Diagram 5] 2 is another example of a preferred embodiment showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. FIG. [Figure 6A] 11A-11C are further examples of preferred embodiments showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. [Figure 6B] 11A-11C are further examples of preferred embodiments showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. [Figure 7] 2 is another example of a preferred embodiment showing woven elements of a shoe upper according to the present invention. FIG. [Figure 8] 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of a woven element of a shoe upper according to the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram of a cycling shoe according to another aspect of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram of a cycling shoe upper according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0062] In the following detailed description, possible embodiments of the invention will be described mainly with reference to shoes, it being emphasized that the invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0063] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of an upper 101 of a shoe 100 according to the present invention. The upper 101 comprises a woven monolayer portion 103, which is formed from a single woven layer and essentially corresponds to the shape of the upper 101. The upper 101 further comprises a woven multilayer portion 105, which is formed from two overlapping woven layers. In other embodiments, the woven multilayer portion 105 can be formed by three or more woven layers. This configuration results in a stable protrusion 102 in the shape of an essentially straight stripe 104. The woven monolayer portion 103 comprises a yarn composition of nylon, polyester, and TPU yarn. The woven multilayer portion 105 comprises TPU yarn.

[0064] The upper 101 includes a number of protrusions 102, 107 located in the midfoot, vamp, and toe regions of the shoe, generally corresponding to the multi-layered portion 105. The dimensions of the protrusions 102 in the midfoot region decrease along the direction from the heel region to the toe region. The four protrusions 107 in the toe region have a slight curvature corresponding to the curvature of the shape of the toe region. In other embodiments, the protrusions 102 can be applied in the heel region and / or instep region of the upper.

[0065] The single layer portion 103 has a flat outer surface facing the outside of the shoe. The protrusions 102 protrude from a surface corresponding to the outer surface of the adjacent single layer portion 103. The gap between two overlapping layers of the multi-layer portion 105 is about 1 mm to about 12 mm, which can be understood as the height of the protrusions 102. In this embodiment, the height of the protrusions 102, 107 located in the midfoot and toe area is about 2 to 6 mm, which is preferably approximately 4 mm. The protrusions 102, 107 are preferably made from TPU yarn, which can increase the wear and improve the durability of the shoe in these locations.

[0066] The projections 102 and 107 shown in Fig. 1 have a closed periphery that is not connected to the edge of the shoe upper, which can refer to the edge 108 between the upper and the sole, or the edge 109 of the upper next to the tongue area. Thus, the projections 102, 107 form closed pockets, each with a closed internal space.

[0067] In other embodiments, the protrusions may have an open periphery that terminates at the edges 108, 109 of the shoe upper (not shown). This type of protrusion thus forms an open pocket in the shoe upper with an open interior space. For example, the two ends of the periphery of one protrusion 102 in the midfoot region may both terminate at the edges 108 of the upper next to the sole. The protrusion 102 may thus form an open pocket, similar to an open channel, with an opening at the edges 108.

[0068] In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the closed pockets 102, 107 are filled with polyester yarns, preferably recycled polyester yarns. The polyester yarns can be filled into the internal space of the closed pockets by injecting through the gaps formed between the weft and warp yarns of the woven elements, which is performed after the manufacture of the woven shoe upper in a post-production method. In other embodiments, where the protrusion is an open pocket, the filling material, such as the filling yarns, can be added to the pocket through the pocket opening, which is then sealed or sewn. Thus, the manufacturing method of supplying the filling material to the open pockets can be easier and more convenient. In some embodiments, the filling yarns include TPU yarns, polyester yarns, or a mixture of polyester and TPU yarns.

[0069] Alternatively, the filling yarns can be selected according to different requirements for function, such as hydrophobic, hollow fiber, natural fiber, graphene fiber, strain rate dependent yarn, foamed yarn, adhesive-free foam, etc. The filling material provides a cushioning effect on the protrusions and the corresponding multi-layered parts of the woven elements so that the protrusions can be further deformed.

[0070] FIG. 2 shows a woven element of an upper 200 according to the present invention. The woven element includes a woven single layer portion 201 and multiple woven multi-layer portions 202, 203, 204a, and 204b. The composition of the woven element is 73% nylon monofilament yarn, 1% polyester yarn, and 26% TPU yarn in both the single layer portion 201 and the multi-layer portion. In other words, the single woven layer of the single layer portion 201 and at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion have the same composition and weave structure. Alternatively, the single layer portion and the multi-layer portion may have different compositions. For example, the multi-layer portion may be formed entirely of TPU yarn.

[0071] The woven multi-layered portions 202, 203, 204a, and 204b are formed as closed pockets with protrusions filled with polyester yarn. In alternative embodiments, all or some of the protrusions may be formed as open pockets or open channels.

[0072] The two protrusions 202 have a three-star shape and are disposed in the heel region of the upper 201 and the corresponding shoe after manufacture. The three-star shape is a closed shape and has an outer periphery adjacent to the first single-layer portion 201 and an inner periphery adjacent to the second single-layer portion 205. The protrusions 204a and 204b are disposed on the lateral and medial sides, respectively, of the midfoot region of the upper 201 and have the shape of straight stripes. The three protrusions 203 disposed in the toe cap region have the shape of curved stripes whose dimensions change and become smaller toward the toe.

[0073] 3 shows a woven element of an upper 300 according to the present invention. The woven element comprises a woven single layer portion 301 and multiple woven multi-layer portions 302 and 303.

[0074] Woven multi-layered portions 302, 303 include protrusions formed as closed pockets. Protrusions 302 extend from the heel region to the medial and lateral sides of upper 300, respectively. Protrusions 302 are seen to have a closed shape like a curve located at the heel and midfoot regions of upper 300. Protrusions 303 extend from the instep region to the vamp region of the upper and have a closed shape like an arrowhead. Similarly, protrusions 303 have an outer periphery adjacent to first single layer portion 301 and an inner periphery adjacent to second single layer portion 304.

[0075] The first monolayer portion 301 and the second monolayer portion 304 may have the same yarn composition or weave structure. For example, the yarn composition of the monolayer portions 301, 304 may be 24% nylon monofilament yarns, 25% polyester yarns, and 51% TPU monofilament yarns. Another example yarn composition is 44% nylon monofilament yarns, 29% polyester yarns, and 27% TPU monofilament yarns.

[0076] Alternatively, the first monolayer portion 301 and the second monolayer portion 304 may have different yarn compositions or weave structures. For example, the second monolayer portion 304 may be made from yarns having a higher linear density or number of threads than the yarns of the first monolayer portion 301. Optionally, the monolayer portion 301 of the woven element may include zones 305, 306, and 307 that have different yarn compositions to provide different properties and performance features, such as preferred wear, stretch, and tear strength, in different areas of the shoe. Zone 305 corresponds primarily to the toe and vamp regions, zone 306 corresponds to the instep and midfoot regions, while zone 307 corresponds primarily to the heel region. Different yarns such as high abrasion polyurethane (PU) yarns, polyethylene HDPE yarns, polyamide (PA) yarns, high tenacity PA yarns, polyester (PES), elastomeric yarns, and twisted yarns can be used in different zones to achieve optimal functional performance.

[0077] 4A and 4B show a further example of a woven element of an upper 400 according to the present invention. The woven element comprises a plurality of woven single layer portions 401, 402 and a plurality of woven multi-layer portions 403, 404, 405.

[0078] It can be seen that the woven single-layered parts 401, 402 have different weaving structures and different appearance and function properties. The positions, dimensions and shapes of the single-layered parts 401, 402 are different, which can be adjusted to meet different requirements. For example, the distributions of the single-layered parts 401, 402 in Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B are quite different. Optionally, the yarn compositions of the single-layered parts 401 and 402 may also be different. In these embodiments, transparent yarns are used in the single-layered part 402, basically corresponding to the midfoot areas of the shoe upper, to create special visual effects and better breathability in these areas.

[0079] The multiple multi-layered portions 403, 404, 405 can have different sizes, shapes, positions, quantities, and other characteristics. As described herein, the multi-layered portions form protrusions of woven elements, which can optionally be filled with a filling material in their internal space. Thus, the protrusions 403, 404, 405 can provide a cushioning effect and / or improved wear function, and can be arbitrarily designed and placed in preferred areas of the shoe. As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, it is preferable to place the protrusions in the forefoot, midfoot, and heel areas of the shoe upper, especially in the vamp area and the center of the midfoot area.

[0080] FIG. 5 shows a woven element of an upper 500 according to the present invention. The woven element 500 comprises a woven single layer portion 501 and a plurality of woven multi-layer portions 502. In this embodiment, the woven element comprises a jacquard woven fabric of a composition of TPU yarn, polyester yarn, and monofilament yarn. The monofilament yarn is a single filament of a strong synthetic polymer used in fabrics without the yarn being twisted with other filaments. In this embodiment, the monofilament yarn may be a TPU monofilament yarn and / or a thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) yarn, which can provide high strength and at the same time desirable transparent visual effects. Alternatively, the monofilament yarn may also be made of nylon, glass fiber, or other suitable materials.

[0081] Similar to the other embodiments shown above, the multi-layered portion 502 forms a plurality of protrusions and closed pockets located in various regions of the shoe upper. The use of TPU yarns in the woven elements, particularly the protrusions 502, can improve abrasion resistance on the exterior surface of the shoe upper while simultaneously providing comfort to the wearer on the inside.

[0082] The protrusions 502 are filled with a filler material, for example, virgin polyester yarn, woven fabric scraps, recycled polyester yarns, or recycled woven fabric scraps. The filler yarn is preferably in continuous form, rather than in short pieces of yarn. In this embodiment, the protrusions form closed pockets and are therefore filled with the filler material by injection with a fine needle using manual pedal speed control. The height or thickness of the protrusions can vary from about 2 mm to 8 mm with a manufacturing tolerance of 15% to 20%.

[0083] FIG. 6A shows a woven element of a shoe upper 600 according to the invention. The woven element 600 comprises a woven single layer portion 601 and a woven multi-layer portion 602 adjacent to the single layer portion 601. The woven multi-layer portion 602 forms a protrusion and a closed pocket that is placed in the tongue area of ​​the shoe upper. The closed pocket is preferably filled with a filling material to increase the thickness of the woven element and therefore provide an optimal cushioning effect in the tongue area. The dimensions of the protrusion can be adjusted according to specific requirements. In other embodiments, the woven element can also have several multi-layer portions 602, each separate from each other, that are placed in the tongue area.

[0084] FIG. 6B shows another woven element of a shoe upper 610 according to the present invention. The woven element comprises three pieces 611, 612, 613, respectively corresponding to the forefoot region of the shoe upper and the lateral and medial midfoot regions of the shoe upper. Each of the three pieces 611, 612, 613 is formed by a woven multi-layer portion 615 surrounded by a corresponding single layer portion 614. The woven multi-layer portion 615 preferably comprises 55-65% TPU monofilament yarn and 35-45% polyester yarn, which is high strength but can provide good hand and comfort to the shoe wearer. Optionally, the woven multi-layer portion 615 may be filled with a filling material, for example, polyester woven fabric waste scraps. The woven single layer portion 614 comprises TPU monofilament yarn.

[0085] The three pieces of woven elements 611, 612, 613 may be interlocked together, thus forming at least a major portion of the shoe upper. In this way, the shoe upper can be made with only the three pieces of woven elements 611, 612, 613, and optimally with only a few additional elements, which can simplify the manufacturing method of the shoe upper. For example, this can help to produce a less complicated woven fabric, reduce weaving / printing time, and apply a more raw material to replace the injection filling. In addition, the filled or filled pieces can provide comfort to a wider area of ​​the wearer's foot.

[0086] 7 shows a woven element 700 of an upper according to the present invention. The woven element 700 comprises a woven single layer portion 701 and a plurality of woven multi-layer portions 702. This embodiment differs from the other embodiments previously described in that the woven element further comprises a preselected region 703 that is heat pressed. It is preferred that the heat pressed region 703 is in the single layer portion 701 of the woven element 700. In particular, the heat pressed region 703 is adjacent to the multi-layer portion 702 as shown in FIG.

[0087] The woven elements 700, both in the single layer portion 701 and the multi-layer portion 702, are made from TPU monofilament yarns. The melting point of common TPU yarns is about 180-190 degrees Celsius. Heat pressing the preselected regions 703 achieves the purpose of high-temperature melting the TPU yarns, thus resulting in various functional properties of the woven elements in these preselected regions 703. The TPU yarns in the preselected regions 703 can be partially or completely high-temperature melted. When they are only partially melted, the woven elements in the preselected regions 703 still retain their woven structure. When they are completely melted, the TPU yarns melt into a continuous TPU film, which provides higher stiffness and better abrasion resistance in the preselected regions 703, thus improving the durability of the shoe upper.

[0088] The woven multi-layered portion 702 forms a plurality of closed pockets filled with polyester yarn. Optionally, other preselected areas of the multi-layered portion 702 can also be high-temperature melted to form a harder surface with higher abrasion resistance. Since the melting temperature of common polyester yarns is higher than that of TPU yarns, it is preferable to perform the heat press at a temperature higher than the melting point of the TPU yarns but lower than the melting point of the filled polyester yarns, so that the polyester yarns do not melt and therefore remain flexible. In this way, the closed pockets of the woven element 700 have a hard outer and inner surface with a softer, more mobile filling material in between to provide an optimized cushioning effect.

[0089] In other embodiments, the filling material can also include TPU yarns or other materials with lower melting points. Thus, when the multi-layered section is heat-pressed at a preselected temperature, both the overlapping woven layers of the multi-layered section and the filling material therein can be partially or completely high-temperature melted. Thus, the functional properties and characteristics of the woven element can be designed and adjusted in various parts and regions of the woven element. For example, one woven element can have different hardness and / or stiffness in different regions.

[0090] The embodiment of the woven element of the shoe upper according to the invention mentioned herein is preferably manufactured by weaving at least one single layer part and at least one multi-layer part in a single weaving step. In other words, the woven element of the shoe upper is preferably an integral woven fabric, in which the single layer part is formed from a single woven layer and the multi-layer part is formed from at least two overlapping woven layers. The multi-layer part is woven adjacent to the single layer part. In addition, the multi-layer part is woven with at least one protrusion of the woven element. Thus, the manufacture of the woven element of the shoe upper is simplified with high efficiency, which provides the possibility of manufacturing protrusions, i.e. 3D structures, on the shoe upper in a single manufacturing procedure. In particular, the woven element is essentially woven in the shape of the shoe upper.

[0091] The manufacturing of the woven element may further comprise a step of disposing a filling material between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layered part, in other words filling the protrusions or pockets formed by the multi-layered part with the filling material. The filling material may be filled into the multi-layered part after weaving the integral woven element, for example by an injection technique. Alternatively, the filling material may be woven together with the woven element during a single weaving process.

[0092] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of a woven element 800 of an upper according to the present invention. The woven element 800 comprises a woven single layer portion 801 and a woven multi-layer portion 802. In this embodiment, the filling material 803 is a yarn woven together with the woven element 800 and floating in the multi-layer portion 802. In other words, the woven element 800 including the single layer portion 801, the multi-layer portion 802, and the filling material 803 are completely manufactured together after a single weaving process. The filling material 803 can be optionally broken into several pieces or yarn scraps by mechanical or chemical techniques as an additional manufacturing step after the single weaving process. Optionally, the yarns used in the woven element may have different colors to provide a preferred aesthetic of the shoe upper.

[0093] FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of the present invention, namely an integrally designed woven shoe upper 901 of a sports shoe 900, in particular a cycling shoe. The woven shoe upper 901 comprises three zones located in the forefoot region 902, the midfoot region 903 and 904, and the heel region 905, respectively. These woven zones have different properties, such as different yarn compositions and / or weaving structures, to provide different functional requirements in different regions. For example, in the heel region 905 of the shoe, it is preferable to have higher stiffness, strength, and stability, which can be achieved by thicker woven elements. On the other hand, in the forefoot region 902, a softer, more flexible, and more comfortable fabric is desired for the shoe wearer, which can be provided by thinner woven elements with higher breathability.

[0094] In this embodiment, the different zones comprise different yarn compositions, e.g., with different linear densities and, optionally, different weave structures. In particular, only the weft yarns of each zone, which extend from the medial to the lateral side of the shoe upper 901, are different. The warp yarns used for the various zones, which extend from the toe region to the heel region of the shoe upper 901 and have, e.g., a linear density of 150 denier, are the same.

[0095] In the forefoot region 902, the weft yarns have a linear density of 150 denier. In the midfoot regions 903, 904, and heel region 905, the weft yarns have a linear density of 300 denier. However, the weave construction of zones 904 and 905 differ in weave patterns, while zones 903 and 905 have essentially the same weave pattern, but in different orientations.

[0096] Zone 903 and zone 904 have a plain weave structure on both the top (exterior) and back (interior) sides of the shoe upper 901. On the back (interior) side of the shoe upper 901, the weft yarns of zone 904 are partially raised above the surface, which creates a softer feel and more comfort for the wearer's foot. Zone 904 is particularly located on the eyestay side of the shoe.

[0097] The same yarn of 300 denier linear density is used in the weft yarn in heel region 905 and midfoot regions 903, 904, but the thread count in zone 1005 is higher than the thread count in zones 903, 904. For example, twice the amount of weft yarn is used in the same square area of ​​the woven element in zone 905. This results in the woven element in zone 905 in the heel region being thicker and stiffer, thus providing better support to the heel of the wearer.

[0098] Optionally, the yarns used in different zones may have different colors to provide a preferred aesthetic for the shoe upper.

[0099] Additionally, when a shoe is manufactured using the shoe upper 901, an additional heel counter together with padding may be added to the inside of the heel area 905 of the shoe upper 901 to provide additional support and comfort to the wearer.

[0100] Optionally, foil can be added to the shoe upper 901 at the toe box to reinforce the toe box of the shoe upper and at the same time maintain comfort and breathability in the forefoot region 902 of the shoe upper. Also, a perforated lining or reinforcement can be added to the inner surface of the forefoot region. FIG. 10 shows a diagram of another embodiment of the invention. Upper 1001 comprises zones 1002, 1003, 1004, and 1005. Zone 1002 is located in the forefoot region and is a plain weave with uniform structure. Zones 1003 and 1004 are located in the midfoot region and have different orientations of the weave structure. Zone 1005 is located in the heel region and comprises three parts or subzones with different yarn directions.

[0101] Described below are embodiments of other aspects of the invention that relate to uppers having specific woven structures. 1. A shoe upper, comprising: a first zone disposed in the heel region; a second zone disposed in the midfoot region; and a third zone disposed in a forefoot region. The upper for the shoe comprises a single piece of weave, with these zones having different weave characteristics. 2. An upper as described in embodiment 1, wherein at least one of the zones comprises at least two subzones having different yarn compositions and / or weave structures. 3. An upper according to any one of embodiments 1-2, wherein the weft yarns of at least two of these zones and / or subzones differ in their linear density and / or number of threads per unit area. 4. An upper according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of these zones and / or subzones differs in its weave structure and / or yarn composition and / or yarn properties. 5. An upper according to any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein the first zone comprises yarns having a higher linear density and / or a higher thread count per unit area than yarns in at least one of the other zones. 6. The upper of embodiment 4, wherein the woven structure comprises a weave pattern and / or an orientation of the weave pattern. 7. The upper of any one of embodiments 1-6, wherein the second zone comprises a plain weave construction. 8. An upper according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the third zone is partially covered by a foil and / or comprises a perforated lining. 9. A shoe comprising the shoe upper according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8 and a sole attached to the shoe upper.

[0102] Furthermore, the present invention includes the following embodiments. [1] A shoe upper comprising a woven element having at least one single layer portion formed from a single woven layer and at least one multi-layer portion formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the multi-layer portion having at least one protrusion of the woven element, and the at least one single layer portion adjacent to the at least one multi-layer portion. [2] The upper described in [1], wherein the woven element has a shape that basically corresponds to the shape of the shoe upper. [3] An upper described in [1] or [2], wherein the woven element has an outer surface and an inner surface, and at least one protrusion of the woven element protrudes from the outer surface and / or from the inner surface. [4] An upper described in any one of [1] to [3], wherein at least one protrusion of the multilayer portion has a closed periphery that is not connected to an edge of the shoe upper. [5] An upper described in any one of [1] to [4], wherein at least one protruding portion of the multilayer portion has a periphery that terminates at an edge of the shoe upper. [6] An upper described in any one of [1] to [5], wherein the multilayer portion has a filling material between at least two overlapping woven layers. [7] The upper according to [6], wherein the filling material is a yarn including a polyester yarn and / or a TPU yarn. [8] An upper described in any one of [1] to [7], wherein a gap between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multilayer portion is about 1 mm to about 12 mm. [9] An upper described in any one of [1] to [8], wherein at least one protrusion has a shape of a straight stripe, a curved stripe, or a closed shape.

[10] The upper described in [9], wherein at least one protrusion has a closed shape having an outer periphery adjacent to the first single layer portion and an inner periphery adjacent to the second single layer portion.

[11] An upper according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the closed shape is a ring, an arrowhead, or a three-star shape.

[12] An upper described in any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein the multilayer portion is arranged in at least one of the toe region, the vamp region, the midfoot region, the tongue region, and the heel region of the shoe upper.

[13] An upper described in any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein the woven element has at least two multi-layered portions that are not connected to each other.

[14] An upper described in any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein the woven element has at least two protrusions having at least different shapes and / or dimensions.

[15] An upper described in any one of [1] to

[14] , wherein the woven element has a plurality of protrusions, the size of the protrusions increasing from the toe region to the heel region of the shoe upper.

[16] An upper described in any one of [1] to

[15] , wherein the woven element has a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions immediately adjacent the heel region of the shoe upper having the largest size.

[17] An upper described in any one of [1] to

[16] , wherein the woven element has at least a first zone and a second zone differing in the yarn used and / or the weaving structure thereof.

[18] The upper of

[17] , wherein the woven elements comprise polyester yarns and / or TPU yarns and / or nylon yarns, and the first zone and the second zone have different yarn compositions.

[19] The upper according to

[17] or

[18] , wherein the first zone and the second zone have different linear densities of yarn used.

[20] The upper of

[19] , wherein a first zone is in a forefoot region of the shoe upper and comprises 150 denier linear density yarns, and a second zone is in a heel region of the shoe upper and comprises 300 denier linear density yarns.

[21] An upper described in any one of

[17] to

[20] , wherein the first zone and the second zone have different thread counts in their woven structures.

[22] An upper described in any one of [1] to

[21] , wherein the woven element is a unitary woven fabric.

[23] A shoe, A shoe upper according to any one of [1] to

[22] , The sole attached to the shoe upper and Shoes that are equipped with:

[24] A method for manufacturing a shoe upper, comprising: Weaving a woven element comprising at least one single layer portion and at least one multi-layer portion in a single weaving process; The method, wherein the single layer portion is formed from a single woven layer and the multi-layer portion is formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the multi-layer portion comprising at least one protrusion of the woven element, and the single layer portion is adjacent to the multi-layer portion.

[25] The method of

[24] , further comprising the step of weaving the woven element into essentially the shape of a shoe upper.

[26] The method according to

[24] or

[25] , wherein at least one protrusion has a periphery that is not connected to an edge of the shoe upper.

[27] The method of

[24] or

[25] , wherein at least one protrusion has a periphery that terminates at an edge of the shoe upper.

[28] The method of any one of

[24] to

[27] , further comprising the step of disposing a filling material between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multilayer portion.

[29] The method of

[28] , wherein the step of disposing the filler material includes the step of weaving the filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers while weaving the woven element.

[30] The method according to

[29] , wherein after weaving the woven elements, the filling material between at least two overlapping woven layers is broken into several pieces or yarn scraps by mechanical or chemical techniques.

[31] The method according to any one of

[28] to

[30] , wherein after weaving the woven elements, a step of placing a filling material between at least two overlapping woven layers is carried out.

[32] The method according to any one of

[28] to

[31] , wherein the filling material is a yarn comprising a polyester yarn and / or a TPU yarn.

[33] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[32] , further comprising a step of weaving the woven element such that at least one protrusion of the woven element protrudes from an outer surface of the woven element and / or an inner surface of the woven element.

[34] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[33] , wherein the gap between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multilayer portion is between about 1 mm and about 12 mm.

[35] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[34] , further comprising weaving the woven element so that at least one protrusion has a shape of a straight stripe, a curved stripe, or a closed shape.

[36] The method of

[35] , wherein at least one protrusion has a closed shape having an outer periphery adjacent to the first monolayer portion and an inner periphery adjacent to the second monolayer portion.

[37] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[36] , further comprising a step of disposing the multi-layer portion in at least one of a toe region, a vamp region, a midfoot region, a tongue region, and a heel region of a shoe upper.

[38] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[37] , further comprising a step of weaving the woven element so as to form at least two multilayer portions that are not connected to each other.

[39] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[38] , further comprising a step of weaving the weaving element so as to form at least two protrusions having at least different shapes and / or dimensions.

[40] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[39] , further comprising the step of weaving the woven element so as to form a plurality of protrusions, the size of the protrusions increasing from the toe region to the heel region of the shoe upper.

[41] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[40] , further comprising the step of weaving the woven element so as to form a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions immediately adjacent the heel region of the shoe upper having the largest size.

[42] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[41] , further comprising the step of weaving the woven element in a single weaving process to form a first zone and a second zone of the woven element, the first zone and the second zone differing at least in the yarns used and / or their weaving structures.

[43] The method of

[42] , further comprising the step of weaving the woven element with polyester yarns and / or TPU yarns and / or nylon yarns, wherein the first zone and the second zone have different yarn compositions.

[44] The method according to

[42] or

[43] , wherein the first zone and the second zone differ in the linear density of the yarn used and / or the thread count of the weave structure.

[45] The method according to any one of

[24] to

[44] , further comprising the step of heat pressing the woven elements in one or more preselected regions.

[46] The method of

[45] , wherein the one or more preselected regions are in a single layer portion of the woven element.

[47] A method for manufacturing a shoe, comprising the steps of: A step of manufacturing a shoe upper according to any one of

[24] to

[46] ; and attaching a sole to the shoe upper. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 100 Shoes 101 Upper 102 Protrusion 103 Single layer part 104 Straight Stripes 105 Multilayer part 107 Protrusion 108 Edge 109 Relationship 200 Upper 201 Single layer part 202 Multilayer part 203 Multilayer part 204a Multilayer part 204b Multilayer part 205 Single layer part 300 Upper 301 Single layer part 302 Multilayer part 303 Multilayer part 304 Single layer part 305 Zone 306 Zone 307 Zone 400 Upper 401 Single layer part 402 Single layer part 403 Multilayer part 404 Multilayer part 405 Multilayer part 500 Upper 501 Single layer part 502 Multilayer part 600 Upper 601 Single layer part 602 Multilayer part 610 Upper 611 Woven piece 612 Woven piece 613 Woven piece 614 Single layer part 615 Multilayer part 700 weaving elements 701 Single layer part 702 Multilayer part 703 Preselected Regions 800 weaving elements 801 Single layer part 802 Multilayer part 803 Filling material 900 Sports shoes 901 Upper 902 Forefoot area 903 Midfoot area 904 Midfoot area 905 Heel area 1001 Upper 1002 Zone 1003 Zone 1004 Zone 1005 Zone

Claims

1. a woven element comprising at least one monolayer portion formed from a single woven layer and at least one multilayer portion formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the multilayer portion comprising at least one protrusion of the woven element, the multilayer portion comprising a filler material between the at least two overlapping woven layers, the monolayer portion and the multilayer portion having different compositions, the at least one monolayer portion being adjacent to the at least one multilayer portion, and the at least one protrusion of the multilayer portion comprising a closed periphery that is not connected to an edge of the shoe upper; a gap is formed between the at least two overlapping woven layers, and a filler material is filled into the gap, the filler material including a yarn, the yarn being woven into a single woven layer, extending into the gap between the at least two overlapping woven layers, and suspended within the gap; the woven element has an outer surface and an inner surface, and at least one protrusion of the woven element protrudes from the outer surface and the inner surface; Upper for shoes.

2. The upper of claim 1 , wherein the woven element has a shape that essentially corresponds to a shape of the shoe upper.

3. The upper of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the multi-layer portion further comprises at least one projection of the woven element having a periphery that terminates at an edge of the shoe upper.

4. The upper of claim 3 , wherein the filling material is a yarn comprising polyester yarn and / or TPU yarn.

5. The upper of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a gap between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion is from about 1 mm to about 12 mm.

6. The upper of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one protrusion comprises a straight stripe, a curved stripe, or a closed shape.

7. The upper of claim 6 , wherein at least one projection comprises a closed shape having an outer periphery adjacent the first monolayer portion and an inner periphery adjacent the second monolayer portion.

8. 8. The upper of claim 6 or 7, wherein the closed shape is in the shape of a ring, an arrowhead, or three stars.

9. The upper of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the multi-layer portion is disposed in at least one of a toe region, a vamp region, a midfoot region, a tongue region, and a heel region of the shoe upper.

10. The upper of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the woven element comprises at least two multi-layered portions that are not connected to one another.

11. The upper according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the woven element comprises at least two protrusions differing in shape and / or size.

12. The upper of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the woven element comprises a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions increasing in size from the toe region to the heel region of the shoe upper.

13. 13. The upper of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the woven element comprises a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions proximate the heel region of the shoe upper having the greatest magnitude.

14. a woven element comprising at least one monolayer portion formed from a single woven layer and at least one multilayer portion formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the multilayer portion comprising at least one protrusion of the woven element, the multilayer portion comprising a filler material between the at least two overlapping woven layers, the monolayer portion and the multilayer portion having different compositions, the at least one monolayer portion being adjacent to the at least one multilayer portion, and the at least one protrusion of the multilayer portion comprising a closed periphery that is not connected to an edge of the shoe upper; a gap is formed between the at least two overlapping woven layers, and a filler material is filled into the gap, the filler material including a yarn, the yarn being woven into a single woven layer, extending into the gap between the at least two overlapping woven layers, and suspended within the gap; The weaving element comprises at least a first zone and a second zone differing in the yarns used and / or in the weaving structure thereof, An upper for a shoe, the first zone being in a forefoot region of the shoe upper and comprising yarns of a first linear density, and the second zone being in a heel region of the shoe upper and comprising yarns of a second linear density greater than the first linear density.

15. 15. The upper of claim 14, wherein the woven elements comprise polyester yarns and / or TPU yarns and / or nylon yarns, and the first zone and the second zone have different yarn compositions.

16. 15. The upper of claim 14, wherein a first zone comprises 150 denier linear density yarns and a second zone comprises 300 denier linear density yarns.

17. The upper of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the first zone and the second zone have different thread counts in their woven construction.

18. The upper of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the woven element is a unitary woven fabric.

19. A shoe, A shoe upper according to any one of claims 1 to 18; The sole attached to the shoe upper and Shoes that are equipped with:

20. 1. A method for manufacturing a shoe upper, comprising: Weaving a woven element comprising at least one single layer portion and at least one multi-layer portion in a single weaving process; and further comprising disposing a filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion; the single layer portion is formed from a single woven layer, the multi-layer portion is formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the multi-layer portion comprises at least one protrusion of a woven element, the single layer portion is adjacent to the multi-layer portion, the single layer portion and the multi-layer portion have different compositions, and the at least one protrusion of the multi-layer portion comprises a closed periphery that is not connected to an edge of the shoe upper; a gap is formed between the at least two overlapping woven layers, and a filler material is filled into the gap, the filler material including a yarn, the yarn being woven into a single woven layer, extending into the gap between the at least two overlapping woven layers and suspended within the gap; The method further includes weaving the woven element such that at least one protrusion of the woven element protrudes from an outer surface of the woven element and from an inner surface of the woven element. method.

21. 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of weaving the woven elements into essentially the shape of a shoe upper.

22. 22. The method of claim 20 or 21, wherein the multi-layer portion further comprises at least one projection of the woven element having a periphery that terminates at an edge of the shoe upper.

23. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein disposing the filler material comprises weaving the filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers while weaving the woven element.

24. 24. The method according to claim 23, wherein after weaving the woven elements, the filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers is broken into several pieces or yarn scraps by mechanical or chemical techniques.

25. 25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein after weaving the woven elements, a step of disposing a filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers is carried out.

26. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the filling material is a yarn comprising polyester yarn and / or TPU yarn.

27. The method of any one of claims 20 to 26, wherein the gap between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion is from about 1 mm to about 12 mm.

28. The method of any one of claims 20 to 27, further comprising weaving the weaving element such that at least one protrusion comprises the shape of a straight stripe, a curved stripe, or a closed shape.

29. 30. The method of claim 28, wherein at least one protrusion comprises a closed shape having an outer periphery adjacent the first monolayer portion and an inner periphery adjacent the second monolayer portion.

30. 30. The method of any one of claims 20-29, further comprising disposing the multi-layer portion in at least one of a toe region, a vamp region, a midfoot region, a tongue region, and a heel region of a shoe upper.

31. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 30, further comprising the step of weaving the weaving element such that at least two multi-layered portions that are not connected to each other are formed.

32. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 30, further comprising the step of weaving the weaving element such that at least two protrusions are formed, the protrusions differing in shape and / or size.

33. 33. The method of any one of claims 20 to 32, further comprising the step of weaving the woven element to form a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions increasing in size from a toe region to a heel region of the shoe upper.

34. 34. The method of any one of claims 20 to 33, further comprising the step of weaving the woven element such that a plurality of protrusions are formed, the protrusions proximate the heel region of the shoe upper having the largest magnitude.

35. 1. A method for manufacturing a shoe upper, comprising: Weaving a woven element comprising at least one single layer portion and at least one multi-layer portion in a single weaving process; and further comprising disposing a filler material between at least two overlapping woven layers of the multi-layer portion; the single layer portion is formed from a single woven layer, the multi-layer portion is formed from at least two overlapping woven layers, the multi-layer portion comprises at least one protrusion of a woven element, the single layer portion is adjacent to the multi-layer portion, the single layer portion and the multi-layer portion have different compositions, and the at least one protrusion of the multi-layer portion comprises a closed periphery that is not connected to an edge of the shoe upper; a gap is formed between the at least two overlapping woven layers, and a filler material is filled into the gap, the filler material including a yarn, the yarn being woven into a single woven layer, extending into the gap between the at least two overlapping woven layers, and suspended within the gap; The method further comprises the step of weaving the woven element in a single weaving process to form a first zone and a second zone of the woven element, the first zone and the second zone differing at least in the yarns used and / or in their weaving structure; The method includes a first zone in a forefoot region of the shoe upper and comprising yarns of a first linear density, and a second zone in a heel region of the shoe upper and comprising yarns of a second linear density greater than the first linear density.

36. 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising the step of weaving the woven element with polyester yarns and / or TPU yarns and / or nylon yarns, the first zone and the second zone having different yarn compositions.

37. 37. The method of claim 35 or 36, wherein the first zone and the second zone differ in the linear density of the yarn used and / or the thread count of the weave structure.

38. The method of any one of claims 20 to 37, further comprising the step of heat pressing the woven elements in one or more preselected areas.

39. 40. The method of claim 38, wherein the one or more preselected regions are in a single layer portion of the woven element.

40. 1. A method of manufacturing a shoe, comprising the steps of: A step of manufacturing a shoe upper according to any one of claims 20 to 39; and attaching a sole to the shoe upper.

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