Sole structure for an article of footwear

Abstract

To solve problems with the prior art.SOLUTION: A sole structure 200 for an article of footwear 10 includes a forefoot region 12 disposed adjacently to an anterior end 18, a heel region 16 disposed adjacently to a posterior end 20, and a mid-foot region 14 disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region. The sole structure 200 further includes a first segment extending along a medial side in the heel region, a second segment 218b extending along a lateral side in the heel region, and a web area disposed between the first segment and the second segment 218b. Additionally, the sole structure 200 includes an outer sole member having an upper portion extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region. The second end of the outer sole member is received on a first side of the web area. The outer sole member also includes a rib extending downwardly from the upper portion and defining a cavity.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (Reference to Related Application) This application claims priority to U.S. Non-provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 885,676, filed January 31, 2018, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] (Technical field) The present disclosure relates generally to sole structures for articles of footwear, and more specifically to sole structures incorporating a fluid-filled bladder. [Background technology]

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure that is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] An article of footwear traditionally includes an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from any suitable material(s) to receive, secure, and support the foot with the sole structure. The upper may cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. A bottom portion of the upper adjacent the bottom surface of the foot is attached to the sole structure.

[0005] The sole structure generally includes a layered construction extending between the ground and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides abrasion resistance and traction with the ground. The outsole may be formed from rubber or other materials that provide durability and abrasion resistance and enhance traction with the ground. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole that is disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be formed in part from a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to provide cushioning to the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. The midsole may additionally or alternatively include a fluid-filled bladder to increase the durability of the sole structure and to elastically compress under an applied load to provide cushioning to the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. The sole structure may include a comfort-enhancing insole or sockliner disposed within a void adjacent a bottom portion of the upper, and a strobel attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner.

[0006] Midsoles utilizing fluid-filled bladders typically include a bladder formed from two barrier layers of polymeric material sealed or otherwise bonded together. The fluid-filled bladder is pressurized with a fluid, such as air, and may incorporate tensile members within the bladder to retain the shape of the bladder when elastically compressed under an applied load, such as during athletic activity. In general, bladders are designed with an emphasis on balancing cushioning characteristics and support for the foot with respect to responsiveness when the bladder is elastically compressed under an applied load. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0009] [Diagram 2] 2 is an exploded view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 showing the article of footwear having upper and sole structures arranged in a layered configuration.

[0010] [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG.

[0011] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3B showing segments of fluid-filled bladders disposed within the heel region of the sole structure and separated from one another by web regions.

[0012] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3B showing segments of fluid-filled bladders disposed within the heel region of the sole structure and separated from one another by web regions.

[0013] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3B showing components of the sole structure in the forefoot region.

[0014] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 3B showing components of the sole structure in the midfoot region of the sole structure.

[0015] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 3B showing components extending from a front end of the sole structure to a rear end of the sole structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Corresponding reference numbers indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0017] Next, the exemplary configurations will be described more completely with reference to the accompanying drawings. The exemplary configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details are described, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosed configurations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be utilized, that the exemplary configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific example configurations only and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, singular terms may be intended to include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and thus specify the presence of configurations, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other configurations, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically specified as an order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be utilized.

[0019] When an element or layer is referred to as "on," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged with, connected to, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other terms describing relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" vs. "directly between," "adjacent" vs. "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0020] Terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below can be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary configuration.

[0021] With reference to the drawings, a sole structure for an article of footwear is provided. The sole structure includes a forefoot region disposed adjacent a forward end, a heel region disposed adjacent a rearward end, and a midfoot region disposed intermediate the forefoot region and the heel region. A fluid-filled bladder of the sole structure has a first segment extending along a medial side in the heel region, a second segment extending along a lateral side in the heel region, and a web region disposed between the first and second segments. The first segment, the second segment, and the web region define a pocket. An outer sole member has an upper portion extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region and received on a first side of the web region. A rib extends downwardly from the first end of the upper portion and defines a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure. The ribs cooperate with the pockets of the fluid-filled bladder to define a recess that extends continuously from the forefoot region to the heel region.

[0022] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional configurations: In some examples, the sole structure includes an inner sole member extending from a first end disposed within the cavity to a second end received on a second side of the web region opposite the outer sole member, where the outer sole member may be formed of a first expanded polymer material and the inner sole member may be formed of a second polymer material having a greater density than the one expanded polymer material. Each of the fluid-filled bladder, the outer sole member, and the inner sole member may define a portion of a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

[0023] In some implementations, a rib may be formed along a perimeter of the sole structure in the forefoot and midfoot regions, and the rib may have a first width in the midfoot region and a second width in the forefoot region.

[0024] In some instances, the first segment may terminate at a first distal end in the midfoot region and the second segment terminates at a second distal end in the midfoot region, with the rib extending continuously from a first end opposite the first distal end in the midfoot region to a second end opposite the second distal end in the midfoot region.

[0025] In some implementations, the rib may include a first segment extending along the lateral side in the midfoot region and a second segment extending along the lateral side in the forefoot region, the second segment having a greater width than the first segment.

[0026] In some examples, the fluid-filled bladder may further include a third segment fluidly connecting the first segment to the second segment and extending along an arcuate path around the rear end, wherein the thickness of the fluid-filled bladder tapers continuously at a constant rate from the rear end to the first distal end, wherein the sole structure further includes a heel counter extending along each of the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment and formed from the same material as the fluid-filled bladder.

[0027] In another aspect of the disclosure, a sole structure for an article of footwear is provided. The sole structure includes a fluid-filled bladder disposed in a heel region of the sole structure. The fluid-filled bladder tapers from a first thickness at a rear end of the sole structure to a second thickness at a midfoot region of the sole structure. An outer sole member includes an upper portion extending from a first end in a forefoot region of the sole structure to a second end received by the fluid-filled bladder. A rib extends downwardly from the first end of the upper portion and defines a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure. The sole structure further includes an inner sole member having a first end received in the cavity of the outer sole member and a second end received by the fluid-filled bladder in the heel region.

[0028] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional configurations: In some examples, the sole structure further includes a heel counter extending from the fluid-filled bladder and covering the upper portion of the outer sole member.

[0029] In some implementations, the fluid-filled bladder, the outer sole member, and the inner sole member each define a portion of a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure. Optionally, the fluid-filled bladder, the outer sole member, and the inner sole member each include one or more traction elements disposed on the ground-engaging surface. The first plurality of traction elements each include a protrusion extending from the first plurality of traction elements, and the second plurality of traction elements each include a plurality of sawtooth formed on the second plurality of traction elements. In some examples, the one or more traction elements include a first plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along a first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a first D-shaped traction element disposed at a distal end of the first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a second plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along an inner side of the rib, a second D-shaped traction element disposed at an end of the rib opposite the first D-shaped traction element, and at least one of a front traction element and a rear traction element extending from the inner side to the outer side.

[0030] In some implementations, the outer sole member includes a plurality of channels formed in the underside of the rib along a direction from the medial side of the sole structure to the lateral side of the sole structure.

[0031] In some examples, the first end of the medial sole member includes a traction element extending from the forefoot region through the midfoot region and having a plurality of serrations formed thereon. In some implementations, the second end of the medial sole member includes a bulge disposed within the fluid-filled bladder and having a convex shape.

[0032] In some implementations, the outer sole member may include a sidewall configured to extend over an upper of an article of footwear.

[0033] 1-8, an article of footwear 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200. The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region 12, a mid-foot region 14, and a heel region 16. The forefoot region 12 includes a toe portion 12 that corresponds to the phalanges. T (toe portion) and the ball portion 12 associated with the metatarsal bones of the foot B The footwear 10 may be subdivided into a midfoot region 14 and a midfoot ball portion. The midfoot region 14 may correspond to an arch area of ​​the foot, and the heel region 16 may correspond to a posterior portion of the foot including the calcaneus. The footwear 10 may further include an anterior end 18 associated with a forward-most point of the forefoot region 12 and a posterior end 20 corresponding to a posterior-most point of the heel region 16. As shown in FIG. 3A , a longitudinal axis AL of the footwear 10 extends from the anterior end 18 to the posterior end 20 along the length of the footwear 10 and divides the footwear 10 into a lateral side 24 and a medial side 22. Thus, the lateral side 24 and the medial side 22 correspond to opposite lateral sides of the footwear 10, respectively, and extend through the regions 12, 14, and 16.

[0034] The upper 100 includes an interior surface that defines an interior void 102 configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 200. The upper 100 may be formed from one or more materials that are sewn or adhesively bonded together to form the interior void 102. Suitable materials for the upper include, but are not limited to, mesh, fabric, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials may be selected and arranged to impart properties of durability, air permeability, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0035] 2 and 8, in some examples, the upper 100 includes a strobel 104 having a bottom surface facing the sole structure 200 and an opposing top surface that defines a footbed 106 of the interior cavity 102. Stitching or adhesive may secure the strobel 104 to the upper 100. The footbed 106 may be contoured to match the contours of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot. Optionally, the upper 100 may also include an additional layer, such as an insole 108 or sockliner, which may be disposed over the strobel 104 and reside within the interior cavity 102 of the upper 100 to receive the plantar surface of the foot and enhance the comfort of the article of footwear 10. An ankle opening 114 in the heel region 16 may provide access to the interior cavity 102. For example, the ankle opening 114 may receive the foot and secure the foot within the cavity 102, and facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the interior cavity 102.

[0036] In some examples, one or more fasteners 110 extend along the upper 100 to adjust the fit of the interior cavity 102 around the foot and accommodate entry and removal of the foot from the interior cavity. The upper 100 may include holes 112, such as eyelets, and / or other engagement mechanisms, such as woven or mesh loops, that receive the fasteners 110. The fasteners 110 may include laces, straps, cords, hook and loop, or any other suitable type of fastener. The upper 100 may include a tongue portion 116 that extends between the interior cavity 102 and the fasteners.

[0037] 1-3B and 6-8, sole structure 200 includes a fluid-filled bladder 208 that surrounds the periphery of sole structure 200 in heel region 16. Fluid-filled bladder 208 includes a fluid-filled chamber 210 and an overmolded portion 220 that is joined to fluid-filled chamber 210 and defines a first portion of ground-engaging surface 202 of sole structure 200. Sole structure 200 further includes an lateral sole member 230 that surrounds the periphery of sole structure 200 in forefoot region 12 and midfoot region 14, and an medial sole member 260 that extends from forefoot region 12 to heel region 16, as discussed in more detail below.

[0038] 2, 4, 5, and 8, the fluid-filled chamber 210 is formed from a pair of barrier layers 212 joined together to define an interior void 213 for receiving a pressurized fluid (e.g., air). The barrier layers 212 include an upper first barrier layer 212a and a lower second barrier layer 212b. The first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b are joined and bonded to each other at multiple separate locations during a molding or thermoforming process to define the barrier layers for the chamber 210. Thus, the first barrier layer 212a is joined to the second barrier layer 212b to form a seam 214 that extends around the periphery of the sole structure 200 and a web region 216 that extends between the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200. The first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b may each be formed from a sheet of transparent thermoplastic polyurethane. In some examples, the barrier layers 212a, 212b may be formed of a non-transparent polymer material.

[0039] Although the seam 214 is shown as forming a relatively pronounced flange that projects outwardly from the fluid-filled chamber 210, the seam 214 may be a flat seam such that the upper barrier layer 212a and the lower barrier layer 214a are substantially continuous with one another. Moreover, the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b are joined to one another between the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200 and the medial side 22 of the sole structure 200 to define a substantially continuous web region 216, as shown in Figures 3 and 4.

[0040] In some implementations, the first and second barrier layers 212a, 212b are formed by respective mold parts, each of which defines various surfaces to form recesses and pinch surfaces corresponding to where the seam 214 and / or web region 216 will be formed when the second barrier layer 212b and the first barrier layer 212a are joined and bonded together. In some implementations, adhesive bonding joins the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b to form the seam 214 and web region 216. In other implementations, the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b are joined to form the seam 214 and web region 216 by thermal bonding. In some examples, one or both of the barrier layers 212a, 212b are heated to a temperature that facilitates molding and melting. In some examples, the barrier layers 212a, 212b are heated before being placed between their respective molds. In other examples, the mold may be heated to increase the temperature of the barrier layers 212a, 212b. In some implementations, the molding process used to form the chamber 210 incorporates vacuum ports in the mold parts to remove air as the first and second barrier layers 212a, 212b are drawn into contact with their respective mold parts. In other embodiments, a fluid such as air may be injected into the area between the upper and lower barrier layers 212a, 212b such that an increase in pressure forces the barrier layers 212a, 212b into engagement with the surfaces of their respective mold parts.

[0041] 3A and 3B, the fluid-filled chamber 210 includes a plurality of segments 218a-218c. In some implementations, the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b cooperate to define the geometry (e.g., thickness, width, and length) of each of the plurality of segments 218a-218c. For example, the seam 214 and the web region 216 may cooperate to bound and extend around each of the segments 218a-218c to seal fluid (e.g., air) within each of the segments 218a-218c. Thus, each of the segments 218a-218c is associated with an area of ​​the chamber 210 where the upper and lower barrier layers 212a, 212b are not joined to each other and are therefore separated from each other to form a respective void 213.

[0042] In the illustrated example, the chamber 210 includes a series of connected segments 218 disposed in the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200. Additionally or alternatively, the chamber 210 may be disposed in the forefoot region 12 or midfoot region 14 of the sole structure. The medial segment 218a extends along the medial side 22 of the sole structure 200 in the heel region and terminates at a first distal end 219a in the midfoot region 14. Similarly, the lateral segment 218b extends along the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200 in the heel region 16 and terminates at a second distal end 219b in the midfoot region 14.

[0043] The rear segment 218c extends around the rear end 20 of the heel region 16 and fluidly couples to the medial segment 218a and the lateral segment 218b. In the illustrated example, the rear segment 218c projects beyond the rear end 20 of the upper 100 such that the upper 100 is offset from the rearmost portion of the rear segment 218c toward the front end 18. As shown, the rear segment 218c extends along a substantially arcuate path to connect the rear end of the medial segment 218a to the rear end of the lateral segment 218b. Moreover, the rear segment 218c is formed contiguous with each of the medial segment 218a and the lateral segment 218b. Thus, the chamber 210 may generally define a horseshoe shape, with the rear segment 218c coupled to the medial segment 218a and the lateral segment 218b on the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24, respectively.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3B, the inner segment 218a is oriented along a first longitudinal axis A in a direction from the rear end 20 to the front end 18. S1 The outer segment 218b extends along a second longitudinal axis A in a direction from the rear end 20 to the front end 18. S2 Thus, the first segment 218a and the second segment 218b extend from the third segment 218c in generally the same direction. S1 , second longitudinal direction A S2 , and the arcuate paths of posterior segment 218c may all extend along a common plane.

[0045] First Longitudinal Axis A S1 and a second longitudinal axis A S2 One or both of the longitudinal axis A of the footwear L Alternatively, the first longitudinal axis A S1 and a second longitudinal axis A S2may converge toward one another along a direction from the third segment 218c to the distal ends 219a, 219b. In some examples, the medial segment 218a and the lateral segment 218b may have different lengths. For example, the lateral segment 218b may extend further into the midfoot region 14 along the lateral side 24 than the medial segment 218a extends into the midfoot region 14 along the medial side 22.

[0046] 4, 5, and 8, each segment 218a-218c may be tubular and define a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. C is the thickness T of the chamber 210 C and width W C The thickness T of the chamber 210 corresponds to both. C is defined by the distance between the second barrier layer 212b and the first barrier layer 212a in a direction from the ground engaging surface 202 toward the upper 100, while the bladder width W C is the thickness T of the chamber 210 C 2. In some examples, the thickness T of the chamber 210 is defined by the distance across the interior gap 213 taken perpendicular to the thickness T of the chamber 210. C and width W C may be different from each other.

[0047] At least two of the segments 218a-218c are spaced apart from one another by different diameters D of the chamber 210. C For example, one or more of the segments 218a-218c may define a larger diameter D than one or more of the other segments 218a-218c. C In addition, the diameter of the segment D C The diameter D of the chamber 210 may be tapered from one end to the other. CThe chamber 210 tapers from the rear end 20 to the midfoot region 14 to provide a greater degree of cushioning to absorb greater magnitude ground reaction forces that occur first in the heel region 16 and decrease as the midfoot region 14 of the sole structure 200 rolls to engage the ground. More specifically, the chamber 210 has a first diameter D at the rear end 20. C1 (see FIG. 8) to a second diameter D at the midfoot region 14 C2 (See FIG. 4) . As shown, the first diameter D C1 is defined by the rear segment 218c and has a second diameter D B2 is defined at distal ends 219a, 219b of inner segment 218a and outer segment 218b. In some examples, the second diameter D of chamber 210 C2 is the same on each of the inner side 22 and the outer side 24. However, in some instances, the second diameter D provided at the distal end 219a of the inner segment 218a may be C2 may be different from the diameter of the chamber 210 at the distal end 219b of the outer segment 218b.

[0048] 1 and 3A, the distal ends 219a, 219b of the inner and outer segments 218a, 218b, respectively, are hemispherical, and both the thickness TC and width WC of the chamber 210 decrease along a direction toward the distal ends 219a, 219b. The distal ends 219a, 219b function as anchor points for the respective segments 218a, 218b, as well as for the chamber 210 as a whole, to maintain the shape of the chamber 210 when a load, such as a shear force, is applied to the chamber.

[0049] Each of the segments 218a-218c may be filled with a pressurized fluid (i.e., gas, liquid) to provide cushioning and stability for the foot during use of the footwear 10. In some implementations, the compressibility of a first portion of the plurality of segments 218a-218c under an applied load may provide responsive-type cushioning, while a second portion of the segments 218a-218c may be configured to provide soft-type cushioning under an applied load. Thus, the segments 218a-218c of the chamber 210 may cooperate to provide gradient cushioning to the article of footwear 10 that changes as the applied load changes (i.e., the greater the load, the more the segments 218a-218c compress, thus making the footwear 10 perform more responsively).

[0050] In some implementations, the segments 218a-c are in fluid communication with one another to form a unitary pressure system for the chamber 210. The unitary pressure system directs fluid through the segments 218a-c as they compress or expand when under an applied load to provide cushioning, stability, and support by attenuating ground reaction forces, particularly during forward motion of the footwear 10. Optionally, one or more of the segments 218a-c may be fluidly isolated from the other segments 218a-c such that at least one of the segments 218a-c can be differentially pressurized.

[0051] In other implementations, one or more cushioning materials, such as polymer foam and / or particulate matter, are encapsulated by one or more of the segments 218a-218c instead of or in addition to the pressurized fluid that provides cushioning for the foot. In these implementations, the cushioning material may provide one or more of the segments 218a-218c with different cushioning properties than the pressurized fluid-filled segments 218a-218c. For example, the cushioning material may be more or less responsive than the pressurized fluid or may provide greater shock absorption than the pressurized fluid.

[0052] With continued reference to FIGS. 3-5, the segments 218a-218c cooperate to define a pocket 217 within the chamber 210. As shown, the pocket 217 is formed between the medial segment 218a and the lateral segment 218b and extends continuously from the aft segment 218c to an opening between the distal ends 219a, 219b of the chamber 210. In the illustrated example, a web region 216 is disposed within the pocket 217. As shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 8, the web region 216 is disposed midway perpendicular to the thickness of the chamber 210 such that the web region 216 is spaced between the upper and lower surfaces of the chamber 210. Thus, the web region 216 separates the pocket 217 into an upper pocket 217a disposed on a first side of the web region 216 facing the upper 100 and a lower pocket 217b disposed on an opposite second side of the web region 216 facing the ground. As discussed below, upper pocket 217a may be configured to receive an outer sole member 230, while lower pocket 217b is configured to receive a second sole member 260. In some instances, web region 216 may not be present in pocket 217, and pocket 217 may be uninterrupted from the ground to upper 100.

[0053] In some implementations, the overmolded portion 220 extends over a portion of the chamber 210 to provide increased durability and resilience for the segments 218a-218c when under an applied load. Thus, the overmolded portion 220 is formed of a different material than the chamber 210 and includes at least one of a different thickness, a different hardness, and a different wear resistance than the second barrier layer 212b. In some examples, the overmolded portion 220 may be integrally formed with the second barrier layer 212b of the chamber 210 using an overmolding process. In other examples, the overmolded portion 220 may be formed separately from the second barrier layer 212b of the chamber 210 and adhesively bonded to the second barrier layer 212b.

[0054] The overmolded portion 220 may extend over each of the segments 218a-218b of the chamber 210 by attaching to the second barrier layer 212b to provide increased durability and resilience to the chamber 210 where the separation distance between the second barrier layer 212b and the first barrier layer 212a is greater, or to provide increased thickness in certain areas of the chamber 210. Thus, the overmolded portion 220 may include a number of segments 222a-222c that correspond to the segments 218a-218c of the chamber 210. Thus, the overmolded portion 220 may be limited to attaching only to areas of the second barrier layer 212b that partially define the segments 218a-218c, and thus the overmolded portion 220 is absent from the seams 214 and web regions 216. More specifically, segments 222a-222b of overmolded portion 220 may cooperate with segments 218a-218c of chamber 210 to define an opening 224 to lower pocket 217b, the opening being configured to receive a portion of inner sole member 260 therein, as discussed below.

[0055] In some examples, the overmolded portion 220 has a thickness T O4 and 5, the concave inner surface 226a and the convex outer surface 226b define a thickness T of the overmolded portion 220. The surfaces 226 include a concave inner surface 226a bonded to the second barrier layer 212b and a convex outer surface 226b that defines a portion of the ground-engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200. Thus, the overmolded portion 220 defines a substantially arcuate or crescent-shaped cross-section. As shown in FIGs. 4 and 5, the concave inner surface 226a and the convex outer surface 226b define a thickness T of the overmolded portion 220. O may be configured to taper from the intermediate portion towards a peripheral edge 228. In some cases, surfaces 226a, 226b may converge toward one another to define peripheral edge 228 and provide a substantially continuous or flush transition between overmolded portion 220 and chamber 210. As shown in Figures 4, 5, and 8, peripheral edge 228 may abut seam 214 of chamber 210 such that outer surface 226b is substantially flush with and continuous with a distal end of seam 214.

[0056] 1-5 and 8, the fluid-filled bladder 208 may be continuously exposed along the periphery of the heel region 16 from the first distal end 219a to the second distal end 219b. For example, the first barrier layer 212a may be continuously exposed along the periphery of the sole structure 200 between the upper 100 and the overmolded portion 220 such that the transparent first barrier layer 212a is exposed around the periphery of the heel region 16. Similarly, the overmolded portion 220 may be continuously exposed along the periphery of the sole structure from the first distal end 219a to the second distal end 219b.

[0057] The outer sole member 230 includes an upper portion 232 having a sidewall 234 and ribs 236 that cooperate with the upper portion 232 to define a cavity 238 that receives the inner sole member 260, as discussed below. The outer sole member 230 may be formed from an energy absorbing material such as, for example, a polymer foam. Forming the outer sole member 230 from an energy absorbing material such as a polymer foam enables the outer sole member 230 to attenuate ground reaction forces caused by movement of the article of footwear 10 over the ground during use.

[0058] 4-8, the outer sole member 230 includes an upper surface 240 that extends continuously from the front end 18 to the rear end 20 between the medial side 2 and the lateral side 24, with the upper portion 232 facing the strobel 104 of the upper 100 such that the upper portion 232 substantially defines the contour of the footbed 106 of the upper 100. The outer sole member 230 further includes a lower surface 242 that is spaced apart from the upper surface 240 and defines a portion of the ground-engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200 in the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14. An intermediate surface 244 of the outer sole member 230 is recessed from the lower surface 242 toward the upper surface 240. A peripheral side surface 246 extends around the periphery of the sole structure 200 and joins the upper surface 240 to the lower surface 242. An inner side surface 248 is spaced inwardly from the peripheral side surface 246 to define a width W of the rib 236. R and extends between the lower surface 242 and the intermediate surface 246 .

[0059] The upper surface 240, the intermediate surface 242, and the peripheral side 246 cooperatively form an upper portion 232 of the outer sole member 230. The upper portion 232 extends from a first end adjacent the front end 18 to a second end adjacent the rear end 20. As shown in Figures 4, 5, and 8, the second end of the upper portion 232 may be at least partially received within the upper pocket 217a of the chamber 210, on the first side of the web region 216. Thus, the sole structure 200 may include a polymer foam layer of the outer sole member 230 disposed between the first barrier layer 212a of the chamber 210 and the upper 100. Thus, the foam layer of sole structure 200 is an intermediate layer that indirectly attaches first barrier layer 212a of chamber 210 to upper 100 by bonding first barrier layer 212a of chamber 210 to a bottom surface of upper 100 and / or strobel 104, thereby securing sole structure 200 to upper 100. Moreover, the foam layer of outer sole member 230 may also reduce the degree to which first barrier layer 212a directly adheres to upper 100, thus increasing the durability of footwear 10.

[0060] As shown, upper surface 240 may have a contoured shape. In particular, upper surface 240 may be convex such that a perimeter of upper surface 240 extends upwardly and may converge with peripheral side surface 242 to form a sidewall 234 that extends along the perimeter of sole structure 200. Sidewall 234 may extend at least partially over the exterior surface of upper 100 such that outer sole member 230 conceals the juncture between upper 100 and Strobel 104.

[0061] 1 , the height of the sidewalls 234 from the lower surface 242 may increase continuously from the forefoot end 18 through the midfoot region 14 to the apex 250, and then decrease continuously from the apex to the rear end 20. The sidewalls 234 are generally configured to provide increased lateral reinforcement to the upper 100. Thus, providing the sidewalls 234 with an increased height adjacent the heel region 16 provides the upper with additional support to minimize lateral movement of the foot in the heel region 16.

[0062] 6 and 7, the rib 236 extends downwardly from the upper portion 232 to a lower surface 242 and forms a portion of the ground-engaging surface 202 in the forefoot region 12 and midfoot region 14. The distance between the peripheral side 246 and the inner surface 248 is defined as a width W of the rib 236. R As shown in FIG. 3B, the width W R may vary along the perimeter of sole structure 200.

[0063] 3B, the rib 236 extends continuously from a first end 250a in the midfoot region 14 opposite the first distal end 219a of the lateral segment 218b of the chamber 210, around the periphery of the forefoot region 12 to a second end 250b in the midfoot region 14 opposite the second distal end 219b of the lateral segment 218b. As shown, each of the first end 250a and second end 250b may be defined by an arcuate or concave surface configured to complement or receive the hemispherical distal ends 219a, 219b of the bladder 208. Thus, the bladder 208 and the rib 236 cooperatively define a substantially continuous ground-engaging surface 202 around the periphery of the sole structure 200.

[0064] The rib 236 includes a plurality of segments 252 that extend along the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 and converge at the fore end 18 of the sole structure 200. The segments 252 of the rib 236 include a first segment 252a extending from a first distal end 238a along the medial side 22 in the midfoot region 14, a second segment 252b connected to the first segment 252a and extending along the medial side 22 between the midfoot region 14 and the fore end 18, a third segment 236c connected to the second segment 252b and extending along the lateral side 24 from the fore end 18 to the midfoot region 14, and a fourth segment 252d connected to the third segment 252c and extending along the lateral side 24 in the midfoot region 14 to a second end 250b.

[0065] As discussed above, the width W of the rib 236 R may vary along the perimeter of sole structure 200. For example, one or more of segments 252a-252d may have a different width W than one or more of the other segments 252a-252d. R In the illustrated example, the first segment 252a, the second segment 252b, and the fourth segment 252d may each have a substantially similar width W R1 , W R2 , W R4 while the third segment 252c has a larger width W R3Accordingly, rib 236 may include a transition portion 254 joining opposing ends of segments 252 of different thicknesses. For example, in the illustrated example, rib 236 includes a first transition portion 254a disposed between third segment 252c and fourth segment 252d along side 22 of sole structure 200 in ball portion 12B of forefoot region 12. Rib 236 further includes a second transition portion 254b between second segment 252b and fourth segment 252d along front end 18.

[0066] 3B, 6 and 7, the intermediate surface 244 and the medial side surface 248 cooperatively define a cavity 238 in the outer sole member 230. Thus, the depth of the cavity 238 corresponds to the distance between the lower surface 242 and the intermediate surface 244, and the peripheral profile of the cavity 238 corresponds to the medial profile of the rib 236 defined by the medial side surface 248. The cavity 238 extends from the forefoot portion 12 of the forefoot region 12 between the distal ends 250a, 250b. T The inner sole member 260 extends from a first end within the cavity 238 to an opening disposed in the midfoot region 14 of the sole structure. Thus, the opening of the cavity 238 of the lateral sole member 230 may face the opening of the lower pocket 217b of the chamber 210 such that the cavity 238 and the lower pocket 217b provide a substantially continuous recess for receiving the inner sole member 260.

[0067] The outer sole member 230 is aligned along the longitudinal axis A of the footwear 10. LThe lower surface 242 may further include one or more channels 256 formed therein, extending from the peripheral side 246 to the medial side 248 along a direction substantially perpendicular to the inner side 248. In the illustrated example, each of the channels 256 is substantially semi-cylindrical in shape. The channels 256 may include a first channel 256a disposed on the medial side 22 between the first segment 252a and the second segment 252b. Specifically, the first channel 256a may be formed between the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14. A second channel 256b may be formed in the midfoot region at a middle portion of the third segment 252c, and a third channel 256c may be formed in the midfoot region at a middle portion of the fourth segment 252d. Specifically, the third channel 256c may be formed in the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. B and hem part 12 T The second transition portion 254a may be formed at an end of the first transition portion 254a adjacent to the fourth segment 252d, intermediate the first transition portion 254a and the second transition portion 254b.

[0068] 3B, the medial sole member 260 includes a first end 262 that is received in the cavity 238 of the outer sole member 230 and a second end 264 that is received in the lower pocket 217b of the bladder 208. The medial sole member 260 is formed of a different polymer material than the outer sole member 230 to impart desired properties to the sole structure 200. For example, the medial sole member 260 may be formed of a material having a greater coefficient of friction, wear resistance, and stiffness than the expanded polymer material of the outer sole member 230. Thus, the medial sole member 260 may function as a shank that controls the stiffness or flexibility of the sole structure 200. In some examples, the medial sole member 260 may be formed of a polymer foam material. Additionally or alternatively, the medial sole member 260 may be formed of a non-expanded polymer material, such as rubber.

[0069] A first end 262 of the medial sole member 260 is disposed within the cavity 238 of the outer sole member 230 and has an outer profile that complements the profile of the medial side 248 of the outer sole member. Thus, the outer profile of the first end 262 may include a recess 266 formed in the forefoot region 12 along the lateral side 24 that is configured to cooperate with the relatively wide fourth segment 252d of the rib 236.

[0070] The first end 262 may form a portion of the ground-engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200 and includes one of the traction elements 204, 204g extending from the forefoot region 12 to the midfoot region 14, as discussed in more detail below. A second end 264 of the medial sole member 260 is received within the lower pocket 217b of the chamber 210 on a second side of the web region 216. The second end 264 is bounded by the medial segments 218a, 222a, the lateral segments 218b, 222b, and the rearward segments 218c, 222c of the bladder 208. Thus, the web region 216 may be disposed between the upper portion 232 of the lateral sole member 230 and the second end 264 of the medial sole member 260.

[0071] The second end 264 may include a substantially convex bulge 268 that forms a portion of the ground engaging surface 202. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the bulge 268 extends beyond the longitudinal axis A of the inner sole member 260. L208 to provide an area of ​​increased thickness along the center of the sole structure 200. The geometry of the bulge 268 may be variable along the length of the sole structure 200 to impart desired properties of energy absorption. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the profile of the bulge 268 in the midfoot region 14 may be relatively flat compared to the profile of the bulge 268 in the heel region 16 such that the rate of energy absorption of the bulge 268 in the midfoot region 14 is relatively constant while the rate of energy absorption in the heel region 16 is progressive. Additionally or alternatively, the bulge 268 may be spaced from the portion of the ground engaging surface 202 defined by the bladder 208 such that the bulge 268 only engages the ground under certain conditions, such as periods of relatively high impact.

[0072] As discussed above, overmolded portion 220 of bladder 208, outer sole member 230, and inner sole member 260 cooperatively define ground-engaging surface 202 of sole structure 200, which includes a plurality of traction elements 204 extending therefrom, which are configured to engage the ground to provide responsiveness and stability to sole structure 200 during use.

[0073] The outer surface 226b of the overmolded portion 220 may include a plurality of traction elements 204 formed thereon. For example, the medial segment 222a and the lateral segment 222b may each include a plurality of quadrilateral shaped traction elements 204a disposed between the posterior segment 222c and the respective distal ends 223a, 223b of the overmolded portion 220. The medial segment 222a and the lateral segment 222b may each further include a distal traction element 204b associated with the respective distal ends 223a, 223b. The distal traction element 204b is generally D-shaped with an arcuate side facing toward the center of the midfoot region 14 and a straight side facing away from the midfoot region 14.

[0074] Similarly, the lower surface 242 of the outer sole member 230 includes a plurality of quadrilateral-shaped traction elements 204c formed along each of the medial side 22 and lateral side 24 intermediate the respective ends 250a, 250b and the leading end 18. The lower surface 242 further includes a pair of D-shaped traction elements 204d disposed at each of the ends 250a, 250b of the ribs 236 and opposing the distal traction elements 204b of the bladder 208. Thus, the arcuate sides of the traction elements 204d oppose the arcuate sides of the D-shaped traction elements 204b formed on the overmold portion 220, with the straight sides facing toward the leading end 18.

[0075] The ground engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200 further includes a forward traction element 204e formed on the outer sole member 230 and a rearward traction element 204f formed on the overmolded portion 220 of the bladder 208. As shown in FIG. 3, the forward traction element 204e extends from a first end of the second segment 252b at the medial side 22, around the forward end 18, to a second end of the fourth segment 252d at the lateral side 22. Similarly, the rearward traction element 204f extends along the rearward segment 222c of the overmolded portion 220 from a first end adjacent the medial side 22 to a second end adjacent the lateral side 24.

[0076] As discussed above, the first end 262 of the medial sole member 260 may include a medial traction element 204g extending from a first end in an intermediate portion of the forefoot region 12 to a second end in an intermediate portion of the midfoot region 14. As shown, the medial traction element 204 has an outer profile that corresponds to and is offset from the profile of the medial side 248. The second end of the medial traction element 204g is substantially aligned with the ends 250a, 250b of the ribs 236 in a direction from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24.

[0077] Each of the traction elements 204a-204g may include a ground-engaging surface 206 formed therein that is configured to interface with the ground to enhance traction between the ground-engaging surface 202 and the ground. As shown, the traction elements 204a-204d formed along the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 may include a single, centrally located protrusion 206a extending therefrom that is configured to provide a desired degree of engagement with the ground. In some examples, the protrusion 206a is a single hemispherical protrusion. Additionally or alternatively, the traction elements 204a-204d may include multiple protrusions having, for example, a polygonal or cylindrical shape.

[0078] The ground engaging configuration 206 may further include one or more serrations 206b formed in the traction element 204. For example, the front traction element 204e and the rear traction element 204f may each include an elongated serration 206b extending from the medial side 22 toward the lateral side 24. Similarly, the inner traction element 204g may include a plurality of parallel serrations 206b evenly spaced along the entire length of the inner traction element 204g, with each serration 206b extending from the medial side 22 toward the lateral side 24. The serrations 206b of the inner traction element 204g may extend continuously through the entire width of the inner traction element 204g, while the serrations 206b formed in the front traction element 204e and the rear traction element 204e, 204f may be formed within the periphery of the traction element 204e, 204f.

[0079] The sole structure 200 further includes a heel counter 270 formed from the same transparent TPU material as the first barrier layer 212a and extending over the outer bottom member 230. As shown, the heel counter 270 extends from a first distal end 219a of the chamber 210, around the rear end 200 to a second distal end 219b of the chamber 210.

[0080] 1, the height of the heel counter 270 increases from the second distal end 219b of the chamber 210 to an apex 272 in the heel region of the lateral side 24 and then decreases to the rear end 20. Although not illustrated, the heel counter 270 is similarly formed along the medial side 22 such that the height of the heel counter 270 is cupped around the rear end 20 of the upper 100 between the apex 272 on the lateral side 24 and an apex (not shown) on the medial side 22. As shown in FIG. 4, at a first location along the longitudinal axis AF, the height of the heel counter 270 may be less than the height of the sidewall 234 of the outer sole member 230 such that the heel counter 270 extends partially up the sidewall 234. However, as shown in FIG. 5, at a second location along the longitudinal axis AF adjacent or at the apex, the height of the heel counter 270 may be greater than the height of the side wall 234 such that the heel counter 270 extends beyond the side wall 234 and is attached to the upper 100.

[0081] In use, bladder 208, lateral sole member 230, and medial sole member 260 may cooperate to provide increased stability and support for the foot by damping foot vibrations that occur in response to ground reaction forces during use of footwear 10, while enhancing the functionality and cushioning characteristics provided by a conventional midsole. For example, a load applied to sole structure 200 during a forward motion, such as walking or running, may cause some of segments 218a-218c to compress and provide cushioning for the foot by damping ground reaction forces, while other segments 218a-218c may retain their shape to provide support and stability that dampens foot vibrations for footwear 10 in response to the initial impact of a ground reaction force.

[0082] The following clauses provide exemplary constructions for the articles of footwear described above.

[0083] Clause 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure having a forefoot region disposed adjacent a front end, a heel region disposed adjacent a rear end, a midfoot region disposed intermediate the forefoot region and the heel region, a first segment extending along a medial side in the heel region, a second segment extending along a lateral side in the heel region, and a web region disposed between the first segment and the second segment, the first segment, the second segment, and the a web region including an outer sole member having a fluid-filled bladder defining a pocket, an upper portion extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region and received on a first side of the web region, and a rib extending downwardly from the upper portion in the forefoot region and defining a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure, the cavity cooperating with the pocket of the fluid-filled bladder to define a recess extending continuously from the forefoot region to the heel region.

[0084] Clause 2: The sole structure of clause 1, further comprising an inner sole member extending from a first end disposed within the cavity to a second end received on a second side of the web region opposite the outer sole member.

[0085] Clause 3: The sole structure of clause 2, wherein the outer sole member is formed of a first expanded polymer material and the inner sole member is formed of a second polymer material having a density greater than the first expanded polymer material.

[0086] Clause 4: The sole structure of clause 2, wherein the fluid-filled bladder, the outer sole member, and the inner sole member each define a portion of a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

[0087] Clause 5: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the ribs are formed along a periphery of the sole structure in the forefoot region and the midfoot region.

[0088] Clause 6: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the rib has a first width in the midfoot region and a second width in the forefoot region.

[0089] Clause 7: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the first segment terminates at a first distal end in the midfoot region, the second segment terminates at a second distal end in the midfoot region, and the rib extends continuously from a first end opposite the first distal end in the midfoot region to a second end opposite the second distal end in the midfoot region.

[0090] Clause 8: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the rib includes a first segment extending along the lateral side in the midfoot region and a second segment extending along the lateral side in the forefoot region, the second segment having a greater width than the first segment.

[0091] Clause 9: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the fluid-filled bladder further includes a third segment fluidly connecting the first segment to the second segment and extending along an arcuate path around the rearward end, and wherein a thickness of the fluid-filled bladder tapers continuously at a constant rate from the rearward end to the first distal end.

[0092] Clause 10: The sole structure of clause 9, further comprising a heel counter extending along each of the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment and formed from the same material as the fluid-filled bladder.

[0093] Clause 11: A sole structure for an article of footwear comprising: an outer sole member including a fluid-filled bladder positioned in a heel region of the sole structure and tapering from a first thickness at a rear end of the sole structure to a second thickness at a midfoot region of the sole structure; an upper portion extending from a first end in a forefoot region of the sole structure to a second end received by the fluid-filled bladder; and a rib extending downwardly from the first end of the upper portion and defining a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure; and an inner sole member having a first end received in the cavity of the outer sole member and a second end received by the fluid-filled bladder in the heel region.

[0094] Clause 12: The sole structure of clause 11, further comprising a heel counter extending from the fluid-filled bladder and covering the upper portion of the outer sole member.

[0095] Clause 13: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the fluid-filled bladder, the outer sole member, and the inner sole member each define a portion of a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

[0096] Clause 14: The sole structure of clause 13, wherein the fluid-filled bladder, the outer sole member, and the inner sole member each include one or more traction elements disposed on the ground-engaging surface.

[0097] Clause 15: The sole structure of clause 14, wherein the first plurality of traction elements includes projections extending from the first plurality of traction elements and the second plurality of traction elements includes a plurality of sawtooth formed on the second plurality of traction elements.

[0098] Clause 16: The sole structure of clause 14, wherein the one or more traction elements include a first plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along a first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a first D-shaped traction element disposed at a distal end of the first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a second plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along an inner side of the rib, a second D-shaped traction element disposed at an end of the rib opposite the first D-shaped traction elements, and at least one of a front traction element and a rear traction element extending from the inner side to the outer side.

[0099] Clause 17: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the outer sole member includes a plurality of channels formed in an underside of the rib along a direction from an inner side of the sole structure to an outer side of the sole structure.

[0100] Clause 18: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the first end of the medial sole member includes a traction element extending from the forefoot region through the midfoot region and having a plurality of serrations formed thereon.

[0101] Clause 19. The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the second end of the inner sole member includes a bulge disposed within the fluid-filled bladder and having a convex shape.

[0102] Clause 20: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the outer sole member includes a sidewall configured to extend into an upper of the article of footwear.

[0103] The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but, where applicable, may be interchangeable and used in a selected configuration even if not specifically shown or described. The same may be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered departures from the present disclosure, and all such variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. Upper and Sole structure, A heel counter, 1. An article of footwear comprising: the sole structure is attached to the upper and includes a fluid-filled chamber including a first portion extending along a medial side of the sole structure, a second portion extending along a lateral side of the sole structure, and a third portion extending between and connecting the first and second portions; the heel counter extends from a first distal end of the first portion, around a rear end of the upper, to a second distal end of the second portion; Footwear articles.

2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the heel counter opposes and extends over a portion of the upper.

3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the heel counter comprises thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and the fluid-filled chamber comprises thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

4. The article of footwear of claim 3 , wherein the heel counter comprises thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

5. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the heel counter increases in height from the first distal end to a first apex located on the medial side of the sole structure.

6. The article of footwear of claim 5 , wherein the heel counter increases in height from the second distal end to a second apex located on the lateral side of the sole structure.

7. The article of footwear recited in claim 6 , wherein the height of the heel counter decreases from the first apex to the rear end of the upper and from the second apex to the rear end of the upper.

8. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the heel counter increases in height from the second distal end to an apex located on the lateral side of the sole structure.

9. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the sole structure includes an outer sole member formed from foam, the heel counter extending at least partially over a sidewall of the outer sole member.

10. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the heel counter is attached to the fluid-filled chamber.

11. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the heel counter extends from the fluid-filled chamber at the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion.

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