Article of apparel

Abstract

This article relates to a knitted textile having zoning characteristics based on the use of different knitting constructions in different regions of the knitted textile. Different knitting constructions produce, for example, knitted rib structures extending in the z-direction relative to the x and y planes of the knitted textile. As the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction, the knitted rib structure can have varying heights in the z-direction of the knitted textile, and / or alternatively extend in both the positive and negative loop directions of the knitted textile to produce a wave-like effect. In illustrative terms, different knitting constructions can be used to produce zoning stretch characteristics and zoning visual characteristics.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This article relates to various aspects of knitted textiles with zonal characteristics (including zonal stretch characteristics and zonal visual characteristics), clothing articles formed from knitted textiles, and methods for manufacturing knitted textiles. Prior Technology

[0002] Traditional knitted textiles may have a uniform structure or knitted pattern. Therefore, the resulting knitted textiles and garments made from them may lack, for example, zonal characteristics such as zonal stretch, zonal permeability, and zonal visual characteristics. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The aspects related to color also envision determining whether one color differs from another. In these aspects, color can include digital color values, which can be determined using instruments that objectively measure and / or calculate the color value of an object's color by standardizing and / or quantifying factors that may affect color perception. Such instruments include, but are not limited to, spectroradiometers, spectrophotometers, etc. Therefore, the aspects herein envision that the "color" of yarn, a portion of yarn, or a portion of knitted textile or a knitted rib structure formed from yarn can include digital color values ​​measured and / or calculated using a spectroradiometer and / or spectrophotometer. Furthermore, digital color values ​​can be associated with a color space or color model, which is a specific organization of colors that provides a color representation for digital color values, and thus, each digital color value corresponds to a single color represented in a color space or color model. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0004] The following diagrams provide detailed examples of various aspects of this article, in which: [Figure 1] shows an example loop diagram for knitting a first example knitting construction according to various aspects of this article; [Figure 2] shows a schematic diagram of an example knitting structure used in the first example knitting construction according to various aspects of this article; [Figure 3] shows a portion of a knitted textile having a first example knitted construction according to various aspects of this text; [Figure 4] shows a portion of a knitted textile according to various aspects of this article, schematically depicting a first example knitted construction; [Figure 5] shows a cross-section of the first example knitted construction and related visual effects according to various aspects of this paper; [Figure 6] shows an example upper garment with a first example knitted construction, in combination with various aspects of this article; Figures 7 and 8 show the front and back views, respectively, of an example lower garment with a first example knitted construction, in combination with various aspects of this text. [Figure 9] shows a flowchart of an example method for manufacturing a knitted textile having a first example knitted structure according to various aspects of this document; [Figure 10] shows an example stitch diagram for knitting a second example knitting construction according to various aspects of this article; [Figure 11] shows a schematic diagram of an example knitting structure used in the second example knitting construction according to various aspects of this article; [Figure 12 shows a portion of a knitted textile with a second example knitted construction according to various aspects of this article;] [Figure 13] shows a portion of a knitted textile with a second example knitted construction having different stretch zones according to various aspects of this article; Figures 14 through 16 show different variations of a knitted rib structure with a waveform formed by the second example knitting construction, according to various aspects of this paper; [Figure 17] shows a cross-section of the second example knitted construction and related visual effect according to various aspects of this article; [Figure 18] shows an example upper garment with a second example knitted construction, in combination with various aspects of this article; [Figure 19] and [Figure 20] respectively show the front and back views of an example lower garment with a second example knitted construction, in combination with various aspects of this article; and [Figure 21] shows a flowchart of an example method for manufacturing a knitted textile having a second example knitted structure according to various aspects of this document. Implementation

[0005] The subject matter of this invention has been specifically described herein to satisfy legal requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the inventors envision that the claimed or disclosed subject matter may also be embodied in other ways in combination with other current or future techniques to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to those described in this document. Furthermore, although the terms “step” and / or “box” are used herein to refer to different elements of the method employed, these terms should not be construed as implying any particular order among or between the various steps disclosed herein, unless and only if the order of individual steps is explicitly stated.

[0006] Traditional knitted textiles may have a uniform structure or knitted pattern. Therefore, the resulting knitted textiles and garments made from them may lack, for example, zonal characteristics such as zonal stretch, zonal permeability, and zonal visual characteristics.

[0007] At a high level, aspects of this paper relate to a knitted textile having zonal characteristics based on the use of different knitting constructions in different regions of the knitted textile. Different knitting constructions produce, for example, knitted rib structures extending in the z-direction relative to the x and y planes of the knitted textile. As the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction, the knitted rib structure can have varying heights in the z-direction of the knitted textile, and / or alternatively extend in both the positive and negative loop directions of the knitted textile to produce a wave-like effect. In illustrative terms, different knitting constructions can be used to produce zonal stretch characteristics and zonal visual characteristics.

[0008] In a first example, a first knitted construction can be used to create a knitted rib structure that has a varying height in the z-direction as the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction of the knitted textile. Different heights of the knitted rib structure can be produced by adjusting the number of intermediate knitted loop rows on which a set of holding loops extends. For example, the knitted rib structure may include a first knitted rib portion having a first height measured in the z-direction of the knitted textile and a second knitted rib portion having a second height measured in the z-direction, wherein the first and second knitted rib portions share at least one common knitted loop row. In one example aspect, the first height of the first knitted rib portion may be greater than the second height of the second knitted rib portion. This is achieved by having the set of holding loops forming the first knitted rib portion extend over a greater number of intermediate knitted loop rows than the second knitted rib portion.

[0009] In various respects, as the knitted textile moves forward in the knitting direction, multiple knitted rib structures of varying heights can be formed in discrete areas of the knitted textile, such that the multiple knitted rib structures are positioned adjacent to each other, with one or more consecutive rows of knitted loops separating adjacent knitted rib structures. Generally, discrete areas of the knitted textile containing multiple knitted rib structures of varying heights exhibit greater tensile strength compared to areas of the knitted textile without such structures. This is because discrete areas contain a higher density of holding loops and fewer consecutive knitted loops, which reduces the amount of mechanical stretch in these areas due to the fewer knitted loops. In a further example, tensile strength increases in areas where the upper knitted rib sections of the knitted textile are positioned adjacent to each other compared to areas where the lower knitted rib sections are positioned adjacent to each other. In this example, there are fewer consecutive rows of knitted loops between adjacent upper knitted rib sections compared to adjacent lower knitted sections, which also reduces the amount of mechanical stretch due to the fewer knitted loops.

[0010] When knitted textiles are incorporated into garments such as tops or bottoms, the knitted rib structure is generally oriented parallel to the vertical axis relative to the neck opening extending to the waist opening of the top garment or the leg opening extending to the leg portion of the bottom garment. In discrete areas where the knitted rib structure of varying height is located on the garment, tensile strength increases in a direction generally orthogonal to the vertical axis (i.e., in the horizontal direction when the garment is worn). This can provide surrounding support for muscle groups during prolonged athletic events (e.g., long-distance running) and reduce muscle vibration within these muscle groups. In a practical sense, this can help reduce muscle fatigue.

[0011] In the second example, a second knitting construction can be used to form a knitted rib structure that extends in the loop direction of the knitted textile and also alternately extends in the positive and negative loop directions to create a wave pattern. The wave pattern can be created by offsetting the loops in the positive and negative loop directions, with a set of holding loops extending from and terminating in these loops as the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction. In this example, unlike the first knitting construction, the number of intermediate loops extending from the holding loop set can remain constant, resulting in a constant height of the knitted rib structure in the z-direction.

[0012] In one example, multiple wavy knitted rib structures can be located in discrete areas of a knitted textile. In another example, the discrete areas where the wavy knitted rib structures are located can exhibit visual characteristics different from those associated with the remaining areas of the knitted textile. In one example, the knitted textile can be knitted in a repeating pattern comprising a first plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a first yarn of a first color, a second plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a second yarn of a second color, followed by a third plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a third yarn of a third color, wherein the first, second, and third colors are different from each other. Because the knitting structure used to form the wavy knitted rib structure offsets adjacent groups of loop rows, and the holding loop group extends from and terminates from this group of loop rows, the positions of the first, second, and third colors on the knitted rib structure change as the knitted rib structure extends in the direction of the loop rows. Therefore, when the knitted textile is viewed from a first viewpoint, for example, orthogonal to the x, y plane of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure visually presents different colors as it extends in the direction of the loop rows. Conversely, when viewed from a first-person perspective, the remaining areas of a knitted textile (e.g., areas of the knitted textile without a wavy rib pattern) appear the same color. The result is a zonal visual characteristic that can cause distraction when observed. This can be helpful in sports competitions, where distractions caused by clothing can affect a competitor's performance.

[0013] The amount of visual variation produced by the knitted rib structure can be adjusted by changing the wave period between consecutive waves of the waveform, changing the wave amplitude in the waveform, and changing the tangent angle associated with the upper and lower strokes of a specific wave in the waveform.

[0014] When knitted textiles are incorporated into apparel such as tops or bottoms, the knitted rib structure is generally oriented parallel to the vertical axis relative to the neck opening extending to the waist opening of the top garment, or the leg opening extending from the waist opening to the leg portion of the bottom garment. Visual distraction increases at discrete areas where the wavy knitted rib structure of the apparel is located. In practice, the positioning of these discrete areas can be strategically adjusted to provide maximum visual distraction when an athlete wears the apparel and it is being viewed by competitors. In practice, the positioning of these discrete areas can be based on the specific sport the wearer is engaged in. For example, the positioning of discrete areas on clothing worn by a sprinter may differ from the positioning of discrete areas on clothing worn by a wrestler. This could be due to the differences in the areas of clothing most frequently exposed to the competitor's line of sight during a sporting event.

[0015] As used herein, the term "knitted textiles" refers to textiles produced during a single knitting event. Various aspects of this text consider knitted textiles as being formed through weft knitting processes, including, for example, circular knitting and flat knitting. Knitted textiles can be used to form one or more knitted garment articles. As used herein, the term "knitted garment article" refers to any type of article that can be worn by a wearer, including, for example, upper garments, lower garments, sleeves of the limbs (e.g., calf sleeves, arm sleeves), socks, shoe uppers, gloves, hats, etc.

[0016] The positional terminology used herein to describe knitted garment articles is relative to knitted garment articles intended to be worn by an upright wearer. The term "inward-facing surface" refers to the surface of a knitted garment article configured to face the wearer's skin. In an example aspect, the inward-facing surface may be the innermost surface of the knitted garment article. The term "outward-facing surface" refers to the surface of a knitted garment article facing away from the inward-facing surface and towards the external environment. In an example aspect, the outward-facing surface may be the outermost surface of the knitted garment article. According to various aspects of this document, the inward-facing surface may include the crafted front side of a knitted textile, and the outward-facing surface may include the crafted back side of a knitted textile.

[0017] When clothing is in the form of upper garment, the term "front" refers to the portion of the garment covering the upper front of the wearer's torso, while the term "back" refers to the portion of the garment covering the upper back of the wearer's torso. The term "side" refers to the portion of the upper garment covering the area below the wearer's armpits. When clothing is in the form of lower garment, the term "front" refers to the portion of the garment covering the lower front of the wearer's torso and at least a portion of the front of the wearer's legs. The term "back" refers to the portion of the garment covering the lower back of the wearer's torso and at least a portion of the back of the wearer's legs. The term "side" refers to the portion of the lower garment covering the side of the wearer's torso and at least a portion of the side of the wearer's legs.

[0018] As used herein, the term "knitting loop row" refers to a main horizontal row of knitting loops in an upright textile knitted in the same knitting cycle by adjacent needles in the same knitting direction. A knitting loop row can include one or more loop types, such as knitting loops in which continuous knitting loops are interlocked (referred to herein as "continuous knitting loop row" or "continuous knitting loop"), hold loops, float loops, tuck loops, transfer loops, etc., terms known in the knitting industry. As used herein, a "hold loop" includes a loop having loop posts (or loop bases) interlocked in a first knitting loop row and loop needle arcs interlocked in a second knitting loop row, wherein one or more intermediate knitting loop rows are arranged between the first and second knitting loop rows. Therefore, since the needle arcs of the hold loop do not interlock or overlap with knitting loop rows continuously arranged after the first knitting loop row, the loop posts of the hold loop span the intermediate knitting loop rows and are generally elongated. Based on this definition of the hold loop, the hold loop is typically created by holding the loops of one or more intermediate knitting loop rows in the needle in a manner that avoids interleaving with the loops in the intermediate knitting loop rows before finally interleaving with the loops in the second knitting loop row.

[0019] As used herein, the term "row of loops" refers to a main vertical row of interlocking or nested knitted loops, typically produced by the same needle in consecutive (but not necessarily all) rows of loops or knitting cycles. The terms "horizontal" and "vertical" are relative to an upright textile as a knitted fabric, where the needle arc of the knitted loops faces the top of the textile, and the row of loops initially faces the bottom of the textile. The term "row of loops direction" refers to a direction parallel to the row of knitted loops, which can also be oriented along the x-axis of a Cartesian coordinate system. Thus, the terms "positive" and "negative" can be used with the term "row of loops direction." The term "row of loops direction" refers to a direction orthogonal to and / or parallel to the row of knitted loops, which can also be oriented along the y-axis of a Cartesian coordinate system. Thus, the terms "positive" and "negative" can be used with the term "row of loops direction." The term "knitting direction" refers to the unidirectional direction in which the knitted textile moves as it is knitted on a knitting machine.

[0020] Yarns used to form knitted textiles may include yarns made of natural fibers / filaments (e.g., cotton, wool, silk, etc.), yarns comprising synthetic fibers / filaments (e.g., polyester comprising recycled polyester, nylon, etc.), or yarns comprising both natural fibers / filaments and synthetic fibers / filaments. Yarns used to form knitted textiles may also include elastic yarns, wherein the term "elastic" refers to the ability of a yarn to be stretched to about 100% to about 200% of its original length and to return to approximately its original length (e.g., within 5% to 10%) after the stretching force is removed. In an example, elastic yarns may be overlaid with other yarns, such as polyester or nylon yarns.

[0021] As used herein, the terms “visual presentation,” “visual effect,” or “visual characteristic” broadly refer to the visual impression produced by different areas of a knitted textile. This may be due to the different characteristics of the yarns used to form the knitted textiles and knitted rib structures described herein, including differences in texture, denier, luster, color, etc. Regarding the term “color,” it generally refers to the color of a material that can be provided by dyes and / or colorants. Furthermore, when describing, for example, yarn, the term “color” refers to the observable color of the fibers / filaments that form the yarn. Such an aspect envisions that color can be any color that can be provided to a yarn using dyes, pigments, and / or colorants known in the art. Accordingly, yarn can be configured to have a color, including but not limited to red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, purple, white, black, and their hues.

[0022] The aspects related to color also envision determining whether one color differs from another. In these aspects, color can include digital color values, which can be determined using instruments that objectively measure and / or calculate the color value of an object's color by standardizing and / or quantifying factors that may affect color perception. Such instruments include, but are not limited to, spectroradiometers, spectrophotometers, etc. Therefore, the aspects herein envision that the "color" of yarn, a portion of yarn, or a portion of knitted textile or a knitted rib structure formed from yarn can include digital color values ​​measured and / or calculated using a spectroradiometer and / or spectrophotometer. Furthermore, digital color values ​​can be associated with a color space or color model, which is a specific organization of colors that provides a color representation for digital color values, and thus, each digital color value corresponds to a single color represented in a color space or color model.

[0023] In these respects, if the digital color values ​​of each color are different, it can be determined that one color is different from another. Such determination can be made by measuring and / or calculating, for example, the digital color value of a portion of a knitted rib structure having a first color, using a spectroradiometer or spectrophotometer, measuring and / or calculating the digital color values ​​of different portions of a knitted rib structure having a second color using the same instrument (i.e., if the digital color value of the first color is measured using a spectrophotometer, then the digital color value of the second color is measured using a spectrophotometer), etc., and comparing the digital color value of the first color with the digital color value of the second color. If the digital color values ​​are not equal, then the first color is different from the second color, and vice versa.

[0024] Furthermore, it is envisioned that the visual difference between two colors can be correlated with the percentage difference between the digital color values ​​of the first and second colors, and that the visual difference will be greater as the percentage difference between the color values ​​increases. Additionally, the visual difference can be based on a comparison between color representations of color values ​​in a color space or model. For example, when the first color has a digital color value corresponding to the represented color being black or dark blue, and the second color has a digital color value corresponding to the represented color being red or yellow, the visual difference between the first color (represented as red) and the second color (represented as yellow) is greater than the visual difference between the first color (represented as red) and the second color (represented as yellow).

[0025] The tensile modulus data used in this article can be measured using ASTM 4964. Elongation at a maximum of 15 lbs can also be measured using ASTM 4964. Unless otherwise specified, all measurements provided herein were performed on knitted textiles at standard ambient temperature and pressure (298.15 K and 100 kPa) and in a resting state (e.g., unstretched).

[0026] Figure 1 depicts a portion of an example loop diagram 100 for knitting a first knitted construction that forms a knitted textile with a knitted rib structure that varies in height as the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction. Loop diagram 100 shows a knitting direction 110, a loop direction 112, and a warp direction 114. Small black circles represent needles on a knitting machine. Knitted loops are represented by large black circles around the small black circles, and hold loops are represented by white circles around the small black circles. Loop diagram 100 is illustrative only and is intended to convey what type of knitted construction can be used to form a knitted rib structure with varying heights. The number of intermediate knitted loop rows on which hold loops extend or cross, the difference in the number of intermediate knitted loop rows between adjacent hold loop groups, the number of consecutive knitted loop rows separating adjacent knitted rib structures, etc., may differ from those shown in Figure 1.

[0027] Figure 1 depicts, for example, a first knitting configuration 105. The first knitting configuration 105 includes a first knitting structure 116 comprising a first knitting loop row 118 and a second knitting loop row 120, the second knitting loop row being coupled to the first knitting loop row 118 via a first set of hold loops 122. The first set of hold loops 122 spans a first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 124; in the example shown in Figure 1, this first set of intermediate knitting loop rows comprises eight intermediate knitting loop rows. Figure 1 also depicts a second knitting configuration 125 comprising a third knitting loop row 126 and a fourth knitting loop row 128, the fourth knitting loop row being coupled to the third knitting loop row 126 via a second set of hold loops 130. The third knitting loop row 126 is offset from one or more consecutive knitting loop rows of the first knitting loop row 118 in the positive loop warp direction. The fourth knitting loop row 128 is offset from one or more consecutive knitting loop rows of the second knitting loop row 120 in the negative loop warp direction. Offset the third and fourth knitting loop rows 126 and 128 in opposite directions (e.g., in the positive and negative loop directions, respectively) to help form a knitted rib portion that is less tall than the knitted rib portion formed by the first and second knitting loop rows 118 and 120. A second set of hold loops 130 spans a second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 132, which, in the example shown in Figure 2, comprises four intermediate knitting loop rows. As shown, the first and second sets of intermediate knitting loop rows 124 and 132 share at least one common knitting loop row, such as knitting loop row 134.

[0028] In the first knitting loop row 118, the supports of the holding loops in the first set of holding loops 122 are separated from the supports of the adjacent holding loops in the first set of holding loops 122 by knitting loops forming a loop warp (e.g., loop warp 136), wherein the loop warp 136 extends between the first knitting loop row 118 and the second knitting loop row 120. Similarly, in the third knitting loop row 126, the supports of the holding loops in the second set of holding loops 130 are separated from the supports of the adjacent holding loops in the second set of holding loops 130 by knitting loops forming a loop warp (e.g., loop warp 138), wherein the loop warp 138 extends between the third knitting loop row 126 and the fourth knitting loop row 128.

[0029] The first set of holding loops 122 is used to tension the first row of knitting loops 118 and the second row of knitting loops 120 toward each other, such that the loop warp 136 extends outward from the process back of the knitted textile (i.e., in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile) to form the first knitted rib portion of the knitted rib structure. Similarly, the second set of holding loops 130 is used to tension the third row of knitting loops 126 and the fourth row of knitting loops 128 toward each other, such that the loop warp 138 extends outward from the process back of the knitted textile to form the second knitted rib portion of the knitted rib structure. Because the loop warp 136 has a greater width in the loop warp direction 114 before being tensioned compared to the loop warp 138, it extends further outward in the z direction when tensioned compared to the loop warp 138. Accordingly, the first knitted rib portion of the knitted rib structure has a greater height in the z direction compared to the second knitted rib portion of the knitted rib structure.

[0030] The loop diagram 100 also depicts an additional knitting structure 140 having the same knitting sequence as the first knitting structure 105. Although shown aligned with the first knitting structure 105 in the loop warp direction 114, it is envisioned here that the additional knitting structure 140 may deviate from the first knitting structure 105 in one of the positive and negative loop row directions 112. The additional knitting structure 140 deviates from the first knitting structure 105 in the knitting direction 110 by multiple consecutive loop rows 142. The number of loop rows in the multiple consecutive loop rows 142 can vary, such that the additional knitting structure 140 may be spaced apart from the first knitting structure 105 by different amounts in the knitting direction 110. Additional additional knitting structures having the same or similar knitting sequence as knitting structures 105 and 140 may be formed by multiple loop rows and deviated from adjacent knitting structures, such that the different knitting structures are “stacked” in the knitting direction. As will be further described below, areas of knitted textiles with this “stacked” configuration of knitted rib structures can exhibit greater tensile strength than areas of knitted textiles with different knitting structures. This is because there are higher density holding loops and fewer continuous knitting loops in these areas, which reduces the amount of mechanical stretch in these areas due to the fewer knitting loops.

[0031] In an example, and as shown in Figure 1, a knitted textile formed using loop pattern 100 can be knitted into a repeating pattern with colored stripes. For example, as shown in the color blocks on the right side of loop pattern 100, the knitted textile can be knitted in a repeating pattern comprising a first plurality of rows of knitted loops knitted with yarn of a first color 150 to form a first color block, a second plurality of knitted loops knitted with yarn of a second color 152 to form a second color block, followed by a third plurality of knitted loops knitted with yarn of a third color 154 to form a third color block, wherein each of the first, second, and third colors is different. This is illustrative, and it is conceivable that the knitted textile can be knitted with stripes of additional colors, or that fewer color blocks may exist than shown. For example, the knitted textile can be knitted with alternating stripes of two different colors, or the knitted textile can be knitted with a solid color (i.e., knitted using only one colored yarn).

[0032] In an example, each of the first knitted structure 105 and the additional knitted structure 140 may be positioned such that the knitted loop rows that typically form the center lines of the loop rows of the first knitted structure 105 and the additional knitted structure 140 are generally located within a specific color block. For example, in Figure 1, the knitted loop rows located at the center lines of the loop rows of each of the first knitted structure 105 and the additional knitted structure 140 are located within the second color 152. By positioning the first knitted structure 105 and the additional knitted structure 140 as described above, when the knitted textile is viewed from a first perspective that is substantially orthogonal to the x, y plane of the knitted textile, the top of the knitted rib structure formed by the first knitted structure 105 and the additional knitted structure 140 visually presents the second color 152. In other words, the second color 152 is presented on top of the knitted rib structure such that it is visible when viewed from the first perspective. When viewed from corresponding second and third perspectives that are not orthogonal to the x, y plane of the knitted textile, the first color 150 and the third color 154 can be visually presented.

[0033] Figure 2 depicts a schematic diagram of an example knitted structure 200 for a first example knitted construction 105. The knitted structure 200 is illustrative only, and it is contemplated that the knitted structure 200 may include additional features not shown. The knitted structure 200 includes a first row of knitted loops 210, which generally corresponds to the first row of knitted loops 118 of Figure 1. The first row of knitted loops 210 includes supports for a first set of hold-up loops 212, which generally corresponds to the first set of hold-up loops 122 of Figure 1. The first row of knitted loops 210 also includes knitted loops 214, in which the supports for each hold-up loop in the first set of hold-up loops 212 are separated from each other by the knitted loops 214. The knitted structure 200 also includes a second row of knitted loops 216, which generally corresponds to the second row of knitted loops 120 of Figure 1. The second row of knitted loops 216 includes the needle arcs of the first set of hold-up loops 212. The second row of knitting loops 216 also includes knitting loops 218, wherein the needle arcs of each holding loop in the first group of holding loops are separated from each other by the knitting loops 218.

[0034] The loops of the first set of hold loops 212 span the first set of intermediate knit loop rows 220. Each intermediate knit loop row in the first set of intermediate knit loop rows 220 extends as a float (e.g., float 211) passes below (or above) the loops of the hold loops in the first set of hold loops 212, and then forms a knit loop (e.g., knit loop 222) located between adjacent hold loops in the first set of hold loops 212. The knit structure 222 in the first set of intermediate knit loop rows 220 interlocks with the knit loops 214 in the first knit loop row 210 and the knit loops 218 in the second knit loop row 216 to form a loop warp extending from the first knit loop row 210 to the second knit loop row 216, for example, loop warp 224. As previously discussed with respect to Figure 1, the first set of holding coils 212 tensions the first row of knitted coils 210 and the second row of knitted coils 216 toward each other, such that the coil wale 224 extends outward from the back of the process to form the first knitted rib portion.

[0035] Example knitting structure 200 also includes a third knitting loop row 226, which may correspond to the third knitting loop row 126 of FIG. 1. In the example, the third knitting loop row 226 is offset from the first knitting loop row 210 in the knitting direction corresponding to the positive loop warp direction. The third knitting loop row 226 includes supports for a second set of hold loops 228, which generally correspond to the second set of hold loops 130 of FIG. 1. The third knitting loop row 226 also includes knitting loops 230, wherein the supports for each hold loop in the second set of hold loops 228 are separated from each other by knitting loops 230. Knitting structure 200 also includes a fourth knitting loop row 232, which generally corresponds to the fourth knitting loop row 128 of FIG. 1. The fourth knitting loop row 232 is offset from the second knitting loop row 216 in the negative loop warp direction. The fourth knitting loop row 232 includes the needle arcs of the second set of hold loops 228. The fourth row of knitting loops 232 also includes knitting loops 234, wherein the needle arcs of each holding loop in the second group of holding loops 228 are separated from each other by the knitting loops 234.

[0036] The loops of the second set of hold loops 228 span the second set of intermediate knit loop rows 236. Each intermediate knit loop row in the second set of intermediate knit loop rows 236 extends as a float (e.g., float 237) passes below (or above) the loops of the hold loops in the second set of hold loops 228, and then forms a knit loop (e.g., knit loop 238) located between adjacent hold loops in the second set of hold loops 228. The knit loops 238 in the second set of intermediate knit loop rows 236 are interlocked with each other and interlocked with the knit loops 230 in the third knit loop row 226 and the knit loops 234 in the fourth knit loop row 232 to form a loop warp extending from the third knit loop row 226 to the fourth knit loop row 232, for example, loop warp 240. The second set of holding loops 228 tensions the third knitting loop row 226 and the fourth knitting loop row 232 toward each other, causing the loop warp 240 to extend outward from the back of the knitted textile to form the second knitted rib portion. Because the number of intermediate knitting loop rows in the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 220 is greater than the number of intermediate knitting loop rows in the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 236, the loop warp 224 has a larger width in the loop warp direction when untensioned compared to the loop warp 240. Accordingly, the first knitted rib portion has a larger height in the z-direction when tensioned compared to the second knitted rib portion.

[0037] Figure 2 illustrates how a knitted rib structure is not formed using a knitting technique known as "short stitch," where the reciprocating motion of the knitting machine rotates the knitting loops before reaching the end of the knitting cycle (i.e., the knitting loops are not fully knitted). Instead, knitted structure 200 includes the same number of knitting loops along the warp direction throughout the entire knitted structure 200. In other words, each knitting loop in knitted structure 200 is fully knitted.

[0038] Figure 3 depicts a knitted textile 300 comprising discrete regions having a knitted rib structure of varying height as the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction of the knitted textile 300. For example, a knitted rib structure of varying height can be formed using the first knitted construction 105 shown in loop diagram 100 of Figure 1. The knitted textile 300 extends in the x, y plane defined by the Cartesian coordinate system shown in Figure 3, and the knitted rib structure extends in the positive z direction defined by the Cartesian coordinate system. In an exemplary aspect, the knitted textile 300 may include a plurality of base ribs 310 extending in the loop direction and having a constant height. As used throughout this disclosure, the term "base rib" refers to a rib having a substantially constant height and width as the base rib extends linearly in the loop direction. In an exemplary aspect, the base ribs 310 may be formed by holding a set of hold loops on a minimum number of intermediate knitted loop rows (e.g., from about two to about four intermediate knitted loop rows).

[0039] The knitted textile 300 may also include discrete regions, such as discrete regions 312 and 314, the latter of which includes knitted rib structures with varying heights formed using, for example, a first knitting construction 105. For example, with respect to discrete region 312, four knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d are positioned adjacent to each other in the knitting direction. Although each of the four knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d is depicted as aligned in the warp direction of the loops, it is contemplated that the knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d may be offset from each other in either the positive or negative warp direction. Furthermore, although the knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d are depicted as having substantially the same shape / height characteristics, it is contemplated that the knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d may have different shapes / heights relative to each other. Knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d are separated from each other by multiple consecutive rows of knitted loops, namely knitted loop rows 318a, 318b, and 318c. The number of knitted loop rows in each of the knitted loop rows 318a, 318b, and 318c can vary, such that the wale distance between each of the knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d can vary. Alternatively, the number of knitted loop rows in each of the knitted loop rows 318a, 318b, and 318c can be the same, such that the wale distance between each of the knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d is approximately the same. Any and all aspects and any variations thereof are contemplated within the scope of this document.

[0040] As shown in the figure, the height of each of the knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d gradually increases and then decreases as the knitted rib structures 316a, 316b, 316c, and 316d extend along the direction of the positive loop rows. This prevents the knitted material from bunching or pleating when a knitted rib structure with a large height is formed first.

[0041] As described above, because a knitted rib structure with varying heights is formed using holding loops spanning a variable number of intermediate knitted loop rows, the density of interlocking knitted loops (i.e., continuous knitted loops) in discrete regions 312 and 314 is generally lower compared to region 320, which includes, for example, multiple base ribs 310 with constant heights. Because fewer knitted loops are present in discrete regions 312 and 314, mechanical stretching is reduced in these regions. In other words, discrete regions 312 and 314 have greater tensile strength or a greater modulus compared to region 320. In some examples, the tensile modulus of region 320, where the first stretch zone can be formed, at 40% stretch can be from about 4 lbs to about 6 lbs in the length direction (e.g., the wale direction). As used herein, the term "about" means within ±10% of the indicated value. The elongation at region 320 can be from about 55% to about 65% in the length direction or the wale direction, or from about 60% to about 62%. Conversely, region 322, located within discrete region 314 (which has the same dimensions as region 320 and may be referred to as the second stretching region), may have a tensile modulus at 40% stretching that ranges from about 6.1 lbs to about 8 lbs in the length direction or the longitudinal direction of the coil, or from about 6.5 lbs to about 7.5 lbs. The elongation at region 322 may range from about 40% to about 52% in the length direction or the longitudinal direction of the coil, or from about 44% to about 51%.

[0042] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a knitted textile 400, provided to illustrate how a knitted rib structure formed using a first knitting construction 105 is arranged such that the knitted rib structure gradually increases in height and then decreases in height to reduce fabric bunching or pleating. This schematic diagram depicts the knitted textile 400 in an unstressed state to indicate the width of the holding loop area. The knitted textile 400 includes a plurality of base ribs 410 having a constant height, or a constant width as shown in Figure 4. In an example, the plurality of base ribs 410 can be formed by extending a set of holding loops, for example, from about two to about four intermediate knitting loop rows.

[0043] For example, regarding the knitted rib structure 412, the knitted rib structure 412 may include a first knitted rib portion 412a, a second knitted rib portion 412b, a third knitted rib portion 412c, a fourth knitted rib portion 412d, and a fifth knitted rib portion 412e. In the first knitted rib portion, the holding loop group extends over, for example, six intermediate knitted loop rows; in the second knitted rib portion, the holding loop group extends over eight intermediate knitted loop rows; in the third knitted rib portion, the holding loop group extends over ten intermediate knitted loop rows; in the fourth knitted rib portion, the holding loop group extends over eight intermediate knitted loop rows; and in the fifth knitted rib portion, the holding loop group extends over six intermediate knitted loop rows. This is schematically depicted in Figure 4 by increasing and decreasing the width of different knitted rib portions in the loop warp direction. When this construction is translated into actual knitted textiles, the widest portions, such as the third knitted rib section 412c, will have the greatest height, the second and fourth knitted rib sections 412b and 412d will have the second greatest height, and the first and fifth knitted rib sections 412a and 412e will have the smallest height in the resulting knitted rib structure. By tapering the knitted rib structure 412 at its beginning and end, the gathering of fabric material caused by the holding loops gradually increases and then decreases, creating a smooth transition and avoiding fabric tufting.

[0044] Figure 4 also depicts another functional feature associated with the knitted rib structure with varying height produced using the first knitting construction 105. As shown in Figure 4, when multiple knitted rib structures are “stacked” in the knitting direction, there are more consecutive rows of knitted loops between “thinner” knitted rib sections compared to “wider” knitted rib sections. For example, there are more consecutive rows of knitted loops 418 between knitted rib sections 414 and 416 than between knitted rib sections 420 and 422. For example, region 426 has less tensile strength than region 428 because region 426 has more interlocking knitted loops compared to region 428 (which has the same dimensions as region 426). Therefore, tensile strength can vary along the length of the rows of loops of multiple knitted rib structures positioned adjacent to each other in the knitting direction.

[0045] Figure 5 depicts a cross-section of a knitted textile 500 having multiple knitted rib structures with varying heights in the z-direction, and is provided to illustrate how different portions or sides of the knitted rib structures appear to have a consistent color when viewed from a specific perspective. The knitted textile 500 includes, for example, knitted rib structures 510, 512, and 514, which, when viewed in Figure 5, have a decreasing height from left to right. Figure 5 also depicts a base rib 516, such as the base rib 310 of Figure 3.

[0046] In the example shown in Figure 5, the knitted textile 500 is knitted according to the color pattern shown in Figure 1. This color pattern includes a first plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a first yarn of a first color 150 to form a first color block, a second plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a second yarn of a second color 152 to form a second color block, and subsequently a third plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a third yarn of a third color 154 to form a third color block. As described with respect to Figure 1, in an example, the center lines of the approximate loop rows forming the knitted rib structures 510, 512, and 514 and the knitted loop rows of the base rib 516 can be consistently located in the same position on a particular color block. For example, as shown in Figures 1 and 5, the center lines of the approximate loop rows of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, and 514 and the base rib 516 all fall within the same color block of the second color 152.

[0047] Due to this construction, when viewed from a first viewing angle 518, which is approximately orthogonal or directly above the surface plane of the knitted textile 500, the second color 152 is visually present or visible at the top (or highest portion) of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, and 514 and at the base rib 516. This is because the second color 152 is always located on the top and base ribs 516 of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, and 514, regardless of the height of the structure. When viewed from a second viewing angle 520 on the first side of the knitted textile 500, the third color 154 is visually present or visible because the third color 154 is always located on the first side portions of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, and 514 and at the base rib 516, regardless of the height of the structure. When the knitted textile 500 is viewed from a third perspective 522 on the opposite second side, the first color 150 is visually presented or visible because the first color 150 is always located on the second side portions of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, and 514 and the base rib 516, regardless of the height of the structure. As a result, the knitted textile 500 presents a consistent first visual effect (e.g., second color 152) when viewed from a first perspective 518, regardless of the height of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, 514, and the base rib 516; a consistent second visual effect (e.g., first color 150) when viewed from a second perspective 520, regardless of the height of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, 514, and the base rib 516; and a consistent third visual effect (e.g., third color 154) when viewed from a third perspective 522, regardless of the height of the knitted rib structures 510, 512, 514, and the base rib 516.

[0048] The knitted textiles described herein, incorporating a knitted rib structure with varying heights, such as knitted textile 300, can be incorporated into various garment articles. When incorporated into garment articles, the knitted textile is oriented such that the rows of knitted loops generally extend vertically, and the warp of the knitted loops extend horizontally. This is typically done to give the knitted textile greater stretchability in the warp direction, where horizontal stretch (e.g., across the body) is more necessary than vertical stretch in garments. Furthermore, as described above, the use of the knitted rib structure formed by the first knitted construction 105 increases tensile strength, at least in the warp direction. By orienting the knitted textile on garment articles such that the warp of the knitted loops extend horizontally, the low-stretch zones formed by the knitted rib structure can be oriented to "wrap" around muscle groups laterally along the body, providing enhanced support to these muscles.

[0049] Figure 6 depicts an example upper garment 600 in vest form. The garment 600 depicted in vest form is illustrative only, and it is envisioned here that the garment 600 could be in the form of a shirt with sleeves, including long sleeves, hoodies, undershirts, etc. The upper garment 600 includes a front torso portion 605 and a back torso portion (not shown), which together define a neck opening 610, a waist opening 612, a first sleeve opening 614, and an opposing second sleeve opening 616. An imaginary vertical axis 618 extends from the neck opening 610 to the waist opening 612.

[0050] The upper garment 600 may be formed, in whole or in part, from a knitted textile with a varying height of knitted rib structure, such as knitted textile 300. Accordingly, the upper garment 600 includes a plurality of base ribs 620 extending substantially parallel to (i.e., within ±15 degrees of parallel) a vertical axis 618. The upper garment 600 also includes discrete regions, such as discrete regions 622 and 624, the latter comprising knitted rib structures of different heights, such as knitted rib structures 626 and 628. Knitted rib structures 626 and 628 are also oriented substantially parallel to the vertical axis 618. The positioning of the discrete regions 622 and 624 of the knitted rib structure can be selected based on a body diagram of muscle vibration. Because discrete regions 622 and 624 exhibit increased tensile strength, these discrete regions can be positioned to cover areas of the body that exhibit increased muscle vibration or movement during exercise. The increased tensile strength in discrete regions 622 and 624 serves to support muscle groups that exhibit moderate to large muscle vibrations or movements, and thus helps reduce muscle fatigue due to vibration. In the example shown in Figure 6, discrete regions 622 and 624 are positioned to cover and support the wearer's abdominal muscles. The positioning of discrete regions 622 and 624 is illustrative, and it is envisioned here that the upper garment 600 may include additional discrete regions located in different parts of the upper garment 600, including the rear torso portion of the upper garment 600.

[0051] Figures 7 and 8 depict the front and rear views of the lower garment 700, respectively. Although shown as shorts, the lower garment 700 is envisioned to be in the form of trousers, leggings, capri pants, etc. The lower garment 700 includes a front torso portion 710 and a rear torso portion 800 defining a waist opening 712 (as shown in Figure 8). The lower garment also includes a first leg portion 714 having a first leg opening 716 and a second leg portion 718 having a second leg opening 720. An imaginary vertical axis 722 is shown extending from the waist opening 712 through the first leg opening 716.

[0052] The lower garment 700 may be formed wholly or partially from a knitted textile with a varying height of knitted rib structure, such as knitted textile 300. Accordingly, the lower garment 700 includes a plurality of base ribs 724 extending substantially parallel to (i.e., within ±15 degrees of parallelism) a vertical axis 722. The lower garment 700 also includes discrete regions, such as discrete regions 726, 728, 730, 732, 734, and 736, which include knitted rib structures of different heights, such as knitted rib structure 740 and knitted rib structure 810. The knitted rib structures (e.g., knitted rib structures 740 and 810) are also oriented substantially parallel to the vertical axis 722. The positioning of the discrete regions 726, 728, 730, 732, 734, and 736 of the knitted rib structure can be selected based on a body diagram of muscle vibration. Because discrete regions 726, 728, 730, 732, 734, and 736 exhibit increased tensile strength, these discrete regions can be positioned to cover areas of the body that exhibit increased muscle vibration or movement during exercise. The increased tensile strength in discrete regions 726, 728, 730, 732, 734, and 736 can support muscle groups that exhibit moderate to large muscle vibration or movement, and thus help reduce muscle fatigue due to vibration. In the example shown in Figure 7, discrete regions 726, 728, 730, 732, 734, and 736 can be positioned to cover and help support the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings. The positioning of discrete regions 726, 728, 730, 732, 734, and 736 is illustrative, and it is envisioned here that the lower garment 700 may include additional discrete regions located in different parts of the lower garment 700.

[0053] In an example, the location of discrete areas of a knitted rib structure with varying heights on an apparel can serve as a visual indicator of the location of a consumer's high-strength areas. Because these stretch-resistant areas can vary on the apparel depending on, for example, the intended sporting activity the garment will be worn for, visual indications can easily allow consumers to select clothing that meets their specific support needs.

[0054] Figure 9 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 900 for manufacturing a knitted textile as described herein, the knitted textile having a knitted rib structure of varying heights. In step 910, a first knitted structure is formed, such as the first knitted structure 116 of Figure 1. For example, in a first sub-step 912, a first set of stitches is formed in a first knitted course, such as a first knitted course 118, wherein the first set of stitches includes knitted stitches and supports for a first set of hold-up stitches, such as a first set of hold-up stitches 122.

[0055] In the second sub-step 914, a first set of intermediate knitting loops, such as the first set of intermediate knitting loops 124, is formed while holding the first set of holding loops. In the third sub-step 916, a second set of stitches is formed in a second knitting loop course, such as the second knitting loop course 120. The second set of stitches includes the knitting loops and the needle arcs of the first set of holding loops. The first set of holding loops spans the first set of intermediate knitting loops.

[0056] In step 918, a second knitted structure is formed, such as the second knitted structure 125 of FIG. 1. For example, in a first sub-step 920, a third set of stitches is formed in a third knitted course, such as a third knitted course 126. The third set of stitches includes knitted stitches and supports for a second set of hold-up stitches, such as a second set of hold-up stitches 130. In a second sub-step 922, a second set of intermediate knitted course, such as a second set of intermediate knitted course 132, is formed while holding the second set of hold-up stitches. The second set of intermediate knitted course shares at least one common knitted course with the first set of intermediate knitted course. In a third sub-step 924, a fourth set of stitches is formed in a fourth knitted course, such as a fourth knitted course 128. The fourth set of stitches includes the stitches of the knitted stitches and the second set of hold-up stitches. The second set of hold-up stitches spans the second set of intermediate knitted course. In various respects, the first set of intermediate knitted course includes a different number of knitted course stitches than the second set of intermediate knitted course.

[0057] Various aspects of this paper also envision the use of a second knitting construction that forms a knitted textile with discrete regions having knitted rib structures that form waves as the knitted rib structures extend in the direction of the loops. As mentioned above, when the knitted textile is knitted into stripes of different colors, the use of wavy knitted rib structures creates visually dispersed areas, which can provide a competitive advantage in sports activities. In terms of examples, the knitted textile may include only discrete regions with knitted rib structures of different heights formed by the first knitting construction, only discrete regions with wavy knitted rib structures formed by the second knitting construction, or discrete regions with knitted rib structures of different heights formed by the first knitting construction and discrete regions with wavy knitted rib structures formed by the second knitting construction.

[0058] Figure 10 depicts a portion of an example loop diagram 1000 for knitting a second knitting construction that forms a knitted textile with a wavy knitted rib structure, which has a wave-like shape as the knitted rib structure extends in the loop row direction. Loop diagram 1000 shows the knitting direction 1010, the loop row direction 1012, and the warp direction 1014. Small black circles represent needles on a knitting machine. Knitted loops are represented by large black circles around the small black circles, and hold loops are represented by white circles around the small black circles. Loop diagram 1000 is illustrative only and is intended to convey what type of knitting construction can be used to form a wavy knitted rib structure. The number of intermediate knitted loop rows on which hold loops extend or cross, the number of consecutive knitted loop rows separating adjacent knitted rib structures, etc., may differ from those shown in Figure 10.

[0059] Figure 10 depicts, for example, a second knitting configuration 1005. The second knitting configuration 1005 includes a first knitting structure 1016 comprising a first knitting loop row 1018 and a second knitting loop row 1020, the second knitting loop row being coupled to the first knitting loop row 1018 via a first set of holding loops 1022. The first set of holding loops 1022 spans a first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1024, which, in the example shown in Figure 10, comprises four intermediate knitting loop rows.

[0060] Figure 10 also depicts a second knitting structure 1025, which includes a third knitting loop row 1026 and a fourth knitting loop row 1028, the fourth knitting loop row being coupled to the third knitting loop row 1026 via a second set of hold loops 1030. The third knitting loop row 1026 is offset from the single knitting loop row of the first knitting loop row 1018 in the negative loop warp direction. Similarly, the fourth knitting loop row 1028 is offset from the single knitting loop row of the second knitting loop row 1020 in the negative loop warp direction. Offsetting the third knitting loop row 1026 and the fourth knitting loop row 1028 in the same direction (e.g., the negative loop warp direction) helps to generate a waveform. Offsetting the third knitting loop row 1026 and the fourth knitting loop row 1028 from the single knitting loop rows of the first knitting loop row 1018 and the second knitting loop row 1020 helps to generate a smooth curve of the waveform. Various aspects of this paper envision that the third knitting loop row 1026 and the fourth knitting loop row 1028 may be offset from the first knitting loop row 1018 and the second knitting loop row 1020 by more than one knitting loop row. A second set of hold loops 1030 spans a second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1032, which comprises four intermediate knitting loop rows. Making the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1024 include the same number of knitting loop rows as the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1032 ensures that the different knitted rib portions of the waveform have a consistent height in the z-direction. Various aspects of this paper also envision varying the number of knitting loop rows in the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1024 and the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1032 (e.g., similar to the first knitting configuration 105) to produce waveforms with varying heights. As shown, the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1024 and the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1032 share at least one common knitting loop row.

[0061] In the first knitted loop row 1018, the supports of the holding loops in the first set of holding loops 1022 are separated from the supports of the adjacent holding loops in the first set of holding loops 1022 by knitted loops forming a loop warp (e.g., loop warp 1036), wherein the loop warp 1036 extends between the first knitted loop row 1018 and the second knitted loop row 1020. Similarly, in the third knitted loop row 1026, the supports of the holding loops in the second set of holding loops 1030 are separated from the supports of the adjacent holding loops in the second set of holding loops 1030 by knitted loops forming a loop warp (e.g., loop warp 1038), wherein the loop warp 1038 extends between the third knitted loop row 1026 and the fourth knitted loop row 1028.

[0062] The first set of holding loops 1022 is used to tension the first and second knitting loop rows 1018 and 1020 toward each other, such that the loop warp 1036 extends outward from the process back of the knitted textile (i.e., in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile) to form the first knitted rib portion of the knitted rib structure. Similarly, the second set of holding loops 1030 is used to tension the third and fourth knitting loop rows 1026 and 1028 toward each other, such that the loop warp 1038 extends outward from the process back of the knitted textile to form the second knitted rib portion of the knitted rib structure. Because the loop warps 1036 and 1038 have the same width in the loop warp direction 114 when untensioned (i.e., spanning the same number of intermediate knitting loop rows), the loop warps 1036 and 1038 have the same height in the z direction when tensioned.

[0063] Figure 10 depicts an additional knitted structure extending from the second knitted structure 1025 and forming an additional knitted rib portion. Each of the additional knitted structures shares at least one common knitted loop row with the preceding knitted structure. Each of the additional knitted structures shown in Figure 10 deviates from the preceding knitted structure in the negative loop direction, resulting in a downward slope of the waveform. Although not shown, it is conceivable that there could be additional knitted structures that deviate from the preceding knitted structure in the positive loop direction to form an upward stroke of the waveform. As described above, deviating successive knitted structures from the preceding knitted structure by one knitted loop row produces a smooth curve of the waveform. It is also conceivable that successive knitted structures may deviate from the preceding knitted structure by more than one knitted loop row.

[0064] The loop diagram 1000 also depicts an additional knitting structure 1040 having the same knitting sequence as the second knitting structure 1005. Although shown aligned with the second knitting structure 1005 in the loop warp direction, it is envisioned here that the additional knitting structure 1040 may deviate from the second knitting structure 1005 in one of the positive or negative loop direction. The additional knitting structure 1040 deviates from the second knitting structure 1005 by multiple consecutive loop directions in the knitting direction 1010. For example, the first knitting structure 1016 and its corresponding first knitting structure 1040 deviate from multiple consecutive loop directions 1042. The number of loop directions in the multiple consecutive loop directions 1042 can vary, such that the additional knitting structure 1040 can be spaced apart from the second knitting structure 1005 by different amounts in the knitting direction. An additional knitting structure having the same or similar knitting sequence as the second knitting structure 1005 and the additional knitting structure 1040 can be formed by multiple loop directions and deviated from adjacent knitting structures, such that different knitting structures are “stacked” in the knitting direction. As will be further described below, areas of knitted textiles with this “stacked” configuration of knitted rib structure can exhibit greater visual dispersion than areas with different knitted constructions. Additionally, in some respects, these areas may contain a higher density of hold loops and fewer continuous knitted loops, and consequently, the amount of mechanical stretching or elongation may be reduced compared to areas with different knitted constructions.

[0065] In terms of examples, and as shown in Figure 10, a knitted textile formed using loop pattern 1000 can be knitted into a repeating pattern with colored stripes. For example, as shown in the color blocks on the right side of loop pattern 1000, the knitted textile can be knitted in a repeating pattern comprising a first plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with yarn of a first color 1050 to form a first color block, a second plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with yarn of a second color 1052 to form a second color block, and subsequently a third plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with yarn of a third color 1054 to form a third color block, wherein each of the first, second, and third colors is different. This is illustrative, and it is conceivable that the knitted textile can be knitted with stripes of additional colors, or that fewer color blocks may exist than shown. For example, the knitted textile can be knitted with alternating stripes of two different colors, or the knitted textile can be knitted with a solid color (i.e., knitted using only one colored yarn).

[0066] Due to the deviation of the positive or negative warp rows of successive knitted structures forming different knitted rib sections, the knitted loop rows forming the center line of the loop direction of a particular knitted structure can typically be located within a different color block than the preceding or successive knitted rib sections. In other words, due to the positive or negative deviation of the knitted loop rows at the beginning and end of a set of holding loops, the knitted loop rows forming the center line of the loop direction of a particular knitted structure typically are located within a different color block than the preceding or successive knitted rib sections. For example, the knitted loop rows typically located at the center line of the loop row of the first knitted structure 1016 are located within the third color block 1054, and the knitted loop rows typically located at the center line of the loop row of the second knitted structure 1025 are located between the third color block 1054 and the second color block 1052. A knitted structure following the second knitted structure 1025 in the loop direction 1012 has a knitted loop row located at the center line of the loop row in the second color block 1052. By changing the positioning of the knitted structure, when the knitted textile is viewed from a first perspective that is approximately orthogonal to the x and y planes of the knitted textile, the top of the knitted rib structure formed by, for example, the second knitted construction 1005, visually presents each of the first color 1050, the second color 1052, and the third color 1054. In other words, each of the first color 1050, the second color 1052, and the third color 1054 can be successively presented on the top of the knitted rib structure.

[0067] Figure 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example knitted structure 1100 for a second knitted construction 1005. The knitted structure 1100 is illustrative only, and it is contemplated that the knitted structure 1100 may include additional features not shown, and may also include variations of the features shown. The knitted structure 1100 includes a first row of knitted loops 1110. The first row of knitted loops 1110 includes supports for a first set of hold loops 1112. The first row of knitted loops 1110 also includes knitted loops 1114, wherein the supports for each hold loop in the first set of hold loops 1112 are separated from each other by knitted loops 1114. The knitted structure 1100 also includes a second row of knitted loops 1116. The second row of knitted loops 1116 includes needle arcs of the first set of hold loops 1112. The second row of knitted loops 1116 also includes knitted loops 1118, wherein the needle arcs of each hold loop in the first set of hold loops 1112 are separated from each other by knitted loops 1118.

[0068] The loops of the first set of hold loops 1112 span the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1120. Each intermediate knitting loop row in the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1120 extends as a float (e.g., float 1121) passes below (or above) the loops of the hold loops in the first set of hold loops 1112, and then forms a knitting loop (e.g., knitting loop 1122), wherein the knitting loop 1122 is located between adjacent hold loops in the first set of hold loops 1112. The knitting loops 1122 in the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1120 are interlocked with each other, and interlocked with the knitting loops 1114 in the first knitting loop row 1110 and the knitting loops 1118 in the second knitting loop row 1116 to form a loop warp extending from the first knitting loop row 1110 to the second knitting loop row 1116, for example, loop warp 1124. As previously discussed with respect to Figure 10, the first set of holding coils 1112 tensions the first row of knitting coils 1110 and the second row of knitting coils 1116 toward each other, such that the coil wale 1124 extends outward from the back of the process to form the first knitted rib portion.

[0069] Example knitting structure 1100 also includes a third row of knitting loops 1126. In this example, the third row of knitting loops 1126 is offset from the first row of knitting loops 1110 in the knitting direction corresponding to the positive wale direction. The third row of knitting loops 1126 includes supports for a second set of hold loops 1128. The third row of knitting loops 1126 also includes knitting loops 1130, wherein the supports for each hold loop in the second set of hold loops 1128 are separated from each other by knitting loops 1130. Knitting structure 1100 also includes a fourth row of knitting loops 1132. The fourth row of knitting loops 1132 is offset from the second row of knitting loops 1116 in the positive wale direction. The fourth row of knitting loops 1132 includes needle arcs of the second set of hold loops 1128. The fourth row of knitting loops 1132 also includes knitting loops 1134, wherein the needle arcs of each hold loop in the second set of hold loops 1128 are separated from each other by knitting loops 1134.

[0070] The loops of the second set of hold loops 1128 span the second set of intermediate knit loop rows 1136. Each intermediate knit loop row in the second set of intermediate knit loop rows 1136 extends as a float (e.g., float 1137) passes below (or above) the loops of the hold loops in the second set of hold loops 1128, and then forms a knit loop (e.g., knit loop 1138), wherein the knit loop 1138 is located between adjacent hold loops in the second set of hold loops 1128. The knit loops 1138 in the second set of intermediate knit loop rows 1136 are interlocked with each other, and interlocked with the knit loops 1130 in the third knit loop row 1126 and the knit loops 1134 in the fourth knit loop row 1132, to form a loop warp extending from the third knit loop row 1126 to the fourth knit loop row 1132, for example, loop warp 1140. At least one knitting loop row in the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1136 also extends along with the knitting loop rows in the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1120. The second set of holding loops 1128 tensions the third knitting loop rows 1126 and the fourth knitting loop rows 1132 toward each other, such that the loop warp 1140 extends outward from the back of the knitted textile to form the second knitted rib portion. Because the number of intermediate knitting loop rows in the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1120 is the same as the number of intermediate knitting loop rows in the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1136, once tensioned, the loop warp 1124 has the same height as the loop warp 1140.

[0071] Example knitted structure 1100 also includes a fifth knitted loop row 1142. In this example, the fifth knitted loop row 1142 is offset from the third knitted loop row 1126 in the positive loop warp direction. The fifth knitted loop row 1142 is coupled to a sixth knitted loop row 1144 via a third set of hold loops extending over a third set of intermediate knitted loop rows having the same number of knitted loop rows as the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows 1120 and the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows 1136. The third set of intermediate knitted loop rows shares at least one common knitted loop row with the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows 1136. The sixth knitted loop row 1144 is offset from the fourth knitted loop row 1132 in the positive loop warp direction. Other features of this knitted structure are similar to those already described herein and will therefore not be repeated.

[0072] As further shown in Figure 11, and moving in the positive loop direction, the knitting structure 1100 includes an additional holding loop 1146 extending between the third knitting loop row 1126 and the fourth knitting loop row 1132. The holding loop 1146 is offset in the negative loop direction from the holding loop extending between the fifth knitting loop row 1142 and the sixth knitting loop row 1144. Therefore, as shown in Figure 11, a waveform with an upward stroke in the positive loop direction and a downward stroke in the negative loop direction is generated.

[0073] Figure 12 depicts a knitted textile 1200 comprising discrete regions having knitted rib structures, each forming a wave as the knitted rib structures extend in the loop direction. The wave-shaped knitted rib structure can be generated using, for example, the loop pattern 1000 of Figure 10. The knitted textile 1200 extends in the x, y plane defined by the Cartesian coordinate system shown in Figure 12, and the knitted rib structures extend in the positive z direction defined by the Cartesian coordinate system. In an example aspect, the knitted textile 1200 may include a plurality of base ribs 1210 extending in the loop direction and having a constant height. In an example aspect, intermediate knitted loop rows extending therefrom the holding loop groups forming the base ribs 1210 may include the same number of knitted loop rows as the intermediate knitted loop rows forming the knitted rib structure formed using the second knitting construction 1005. For example, both the base ribs 410 and the knitted rib structure formed using the second knitting construction 1005 may include approximately four to approximately six intermediate knitted loop rows.

[0074] The knitted textile 1200 may also include discrete regions, such as discrete region 1212, which includes knitted rib structures having waveforms, for example, formed using a second knitting construction 1005. Regarding discrete region 1212, four knitted rib structures 1214a, 1214b, 1214c, and 1214d are positioned adjacent to each other in the knitting direction. It is envisioned that each of the knitted rib structures 1214a, 1214b, 1214c, and 1214d may share the same waveform (e.g., the same period, the same amplitude, the same tangential angle). It is also envisioned that each of the knitted rib structures 1214a, 1214b, 1214c, and 1214d has a different waveform, as shown in Figure 12. In another example, some knitted rib structures may share the same waveform, while others may differ. Any and all aspects and any variations thereof are envisioned within the scope of this document.

[0075] Knitted rib structures 1214a, 1214b, 1214c, and 1214d are separated from each other by multiple consecutive knitted loop rows 1216a, 1216b, and 1216c. The number of knitted loop rows in each of the multiple consecutive knitted loop rows 1216a, 1216b, and 1216c can be the same, such that the loop spacing between each of the knitted rib structures 1214a, 1214b, 1214c, and 1214d is approximately the same. Alternatively, the number of knitted loop rows in each of the multiple consecutive knitted loop rows 1216a, 1216b, and 1216c can vary, such that the loop spacing between each of the knitted rib structures 1214a, 1214b, 1214c, and 1214d generally varies. Any and all aspects and any variations thereof are contemplated within the scope of this document.

[0076] In some respects, the waveform characteristics associated with the knitted rib structure can be adjusted to increase tensile strength in discrete regions of the knitted textile. Figure 13 illustrates a knitted textile 1300 having multiple base ribs 1310. The knitted textile 1300 also includes a first discrete region 1312 comprising a first plurality of knitted rib structures 1314 having relatively short wave periods. The term "wave period" as used herein refers to the distance between adjacent peaks of the waveform of a particular knitted rib structure. The first plurality of knitted rib structures 1314 are stacked in the knitting direction.

[0077] The knitted textile 1300 also includes a second discrete region 1315 comprising a second plurality of knitted rib structures 1316 having a relatively longer period compared to the first plurality of knitted rib structures 1314. The second discrete region 1315 has the same dimensions as the first discrete region 1312. The second plurality of knitted rib structures 1316 are also stacked in the knitting direction. In an example, the first discrete region 1312 typically has more holding loops and fewer interlocking knitted loops (e.g., continuous knitted loops) compared to the second discrete region 1315. In other words, because the waveform period of the first plurality of knitted rib structures 1314 is shorter, the density of holding loops in the first discrete region 1312 is greater than that in the second discrete region 1315, and the density of interlocking knitted loops in the first discrete region 1312 is smaller than that in the second discrete region 1315.

[0078] The third discrete region 1318, having the same dimensions as the first discrete region 1312 and the second discrete region 1315, comprises only a base rib 1310, which extends linearly in the transverse direction of the loops and does not exhibit any wave-like behavior. Accordingly, the density of the holding loops in the third discrete region 1318 is less than that in the first discrete region 1312 and the second discrete region 1315. The density of the continuous knitting loops in the third discrete region 1318 is greater than that in the first discrete region 1312 and the second discrete region 1315.

[0079] Therefore, in some examples, the tensile strength or modulus is greatest in the first discrete region 1312 and smallest in the third discrete region 1318, wherein the tensile strength or modulus of the second discrete region 1315 is between that of the first discrete region 1312 and the third discrete region 1318. In some examples, the tensile modulus of the third discrete region 1318 at 40% stretch can be about 2 to about 3 pounds (lbs) in the length direction (e.g., the longitudinal direction of the coil). The elongation at the third discrete region 1318 can be about 80% to about 90%, or about 82% to about 85%, in the length direction or the longitudinal direction of the coil. Conversely, the tensile modulus of the first discrete region 1312 at 40% stretch can be about 3.1 lbs to about 4 lbs in the length direction or the longitudinal direction of the coil. The elongation at the first discrete region 1312 can be about 70% to about 75% in the length direction or the longitudinal direction of the coil. As shown in the figure, the total tensile strength produced by the knitted rib structure is less than that of the second knitted structure 1005 compared to the first knitted structure 105. Therefore, in an example sense, the second knitted structure 1005 can be primarily used to generate visual dispersion while still providing a certain degree of tensile strength, which can be used in short-duration sporting events, such as sprints, where even a competitive advantage of milliseconds can be important.

[0080] Figures 14 to 16 illustrate different ways in which the waveform of a knitted rib structure can be adjusted to provide different characteristics. Regarding Figure 14, it depicts a knitted rib structure 1400 formed using a second knitting construction 1005, wherein the knitted rib structure 1400 has different waveform periods as it extends in the loop direction. For example, the knitted rib structure 1400 has a first waveform period 1410 and a second waveform period 1412, wherein the second waveform period 1412 is greater than the first waveform period 1410. As described with respect to Figure 13, shortening the waveform period of the knitted rib loops can increase the density of the held loops per unit area, which increases the tensile strength in that area. Furthermore, as further explained below with respect to Figure 17, adjusting the waveform period can also affect the length of a specific segment displayed at the top of a specific wave in the knitted rib structure. For example, because the second waveform period 1412 is greater than the first waveform period 1410, the peak of wave 1414 extends a greater distance in the loop direction compared to the peak of wave 1416. Therefore, the length of the color segment appearing at the top of wave 1414 is greater than the length of the color segment appearing at the top of wave 1416.

[0081] Figure 15 depicts a knitted rib structure 1500 with different tangential angles associated with the upper and lower strokes of wave 1510. The tangential angle is defined as the angle between the tangent to the curve and the x-axis. For example, wave 1510 has a steeper upper stroke compared to a gentler lower stroke. Accordingly, the angle 1512 associated with the upper stroke is smaller than the angle 1514 associated with the lower stroke. Changing the tangential angles associated with the upper and lower strokes of a particular wave of the knitted rib structure can alter the visual presentation of color when viewed from a perspective different from that orthogonal to the x, y plane of the knitted textile (e.g., knitted textile 1200). For example, when wave 1510 is viewed from perspective 1516, the steeper upper stroke of wave 1510 gives the visual impression of a shorter length of the presented color segment. Conversely, when wave 1510 is viewed from perspective 1518, the gentler lower stroke of wave 1510 gives the visual impression of a longer length of the presented color segment.

[0082] Figure 16 depicts a knitted rib structure 1600 with different amplitudes, where the amplitude is measured from the x-axis to the top of a particular wave. For example, the knitted rib structure 1600 includes a first wave 1610 with a first amplitude 1612 and a second wave 1614 with a second amplitude 1616, where the first amplitude 1612 is greater than the second amplitude 1616. Changing the amplitude of the knitted rib structure allows the base rib to transition smoothly to a wavy knitted rib structure. For example, the amplitude and / or wave period can gradually increase as the base rib transitions to the knitted rib structure and then gradually decrease as the knitted rib structure transitions back to the base rib. This can produce a pleasing aesthetic in terms of example, in contrast to a waveform that abruptly transitions to a wave with a large amplitude or short wave period.

[0083] In one example, when a knitted textile is knitted into multiple stripes of different colors as described with respect to Figure 10, the maximum amplitude of the knitted rib structure (e.g., knitted rib structure 1600) can be less than or equal to twice the distance between the corresponding midpoints of successive color patches of a particular color (e.g., the distance of color repetition). In another example, the maximum amplitude of the knitted rib structure can generally be equal to or less than the distance between the corresponding midpoints of successive color patches of a particular color. By configuring the maximum amplitude to be less than twice or approximately equal to the distance between color repetitions, each of the different colors, such as colors 1050, 1052, and 1054, will be presented on top of the knitted rib structure such as knitted rib structure 1600. In other words, if the maximum amplitude is more than twice the distance between repeating colors, more than one of the different color patches will be "omitted" or not presented on top of the knitted rib structure.

[0084] Figure 17 depicts schematic cross-sections taken through different waves of a particular knitted rib structure 1700 formed using the second knitting construction 1005, and provides the figure to illustrate how different portions or sides of the knitted rib structure 1700 visually present different colors as the knitted rib structure 1700 extends in the direction of the positive loop rows when viewed from a particular perspective.

[0085] In the example shown in Figure 17, a knitted textile incorporating a knitted rib structure 1700 is knitted according to the color pattern shown in Figure 10. This color pattern includes a first plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a first yarn of a first color 1050 to form a first color block, a second plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a second yarn of a second color 1052 to form a second color block, and subsequently a third plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a third yarn of a third color 1054 to form a third color block. As described with respect to Figure 10, in an example, the knitted loop rows forming approximate loop row centerlines of knitted structures such as the first knitted structure 1016 and the second knitted structure 1025 can be located at different positions on the color block formed by the first plurality of knitted loop rows, the second plurality of knitted loop rows, and the third plurality of knitted loop rows. This is because the cast-on loop rows and cast-off loop rows, which extend a set of holding loops between them, are successively offset from one or more knitted loop rows in the positive or negative loop warp direction.

[0086] Due to this construction, the visually apparent or visible color at the top (or highest point) of different sections of the knitted rib structure 1700 varies as the knitted rib structure 1700 extends in the transverse direction of the loops. For example, regarding waves 1710, 1712, and 1714, when viewed from a first viewing angle 1730, the third color 1054 appears at the top of wave 1710, which is approximately orthogonal to or directly above the surface plane of the knitted textile incorporating the knitted rib structure 1700. When viewed from the first viewing angle 1730, the second color 1052 appears visually at the top of wave 1712, while when viewed from the first viewing angle 1730, the first color 1050 appears visually at the top of wave 1714.

[0087] The color on the side of the knitted rib structure 1700 can also change as the wave advances in the transverse direction of the loops. When the knitted rib structure 1700 is viewed from a second perspective 1732 on the first side, the first color 1050 is visually presented at wave 1710, the third color 1054 is visually presented at wave 1712, and the second color 1052 is visually presented at wave 1714. When the knitted rib structure 1700 is viewed from a third perspective 1734 on the opposite second side, the first color 1050 is visually presented at wave 1714, the first color 1050 and the third color 1054 are visually presented on one side of wave 1712, and the second color 1052 is visually presented on the side of wave 1710. As a result, the knitted rib structure 1700 presents a different visual effect when viewed from each of the first, second, and third perspectives 1730, 1732, and 1734. This feature contributes to the visual dispersion created by forming the knitted rib structure using the second knitted construction 1005. In an example, and as described above with respect to Figure 5, the base rib of the base rib 1210 of a knitted textile 1200 can consistently present the same color at the top and sides of the base rib. This can increase the visual dispersion created by the wavy knitted rib structure.

[0088] The knitted textiles described herein, incorporating a wavy knitted rib structure, such as knitted textile 1200, can be incorporated into various garments. When incorporated into garments, the knitted textile is oriented such that the rows of knitted loops generally extend vertically, and the warp rows extend horizontally. Because the visual variation in color of the knitted rib structure typically changes in the direction of the rows of loops, orienting the rows of knitted loops so that they extend approximately vertically on garments creates visual dispersion in the approximately vertical direction.

[0089] Figure 18 depicts an example upper garment 1800 in vest form. The garment 1800 depicted in vest form is illustrative only, and it is envisioned here that the garment 1800 could be in the form of a shirt with sleeves, including long sleeves, hoodies, undershirts, etc. The upper garment 1800 includes a front torso portion 1805 and a back torso portion (not shown), which together define a neck opening 1810, a waist opening 1812, a first sleeve opening 1814, and an opposing second sleeve opening 1816. An imaginary vertical axis 1818 extends from the neck opening 1810 to the waist opening 1812.

[0090] The upper garment 1800 may be formed, in whole or in part, from a knitted textile having a wavy knitted rib structure, such as knitted textile 1200. Accordingly, the upper garment 1800 includes a plurality of base ribs 1820 extending linearly and substantially parallel (i.e., within ±15 degrees of parallel) to a vertical axis 1818. The upper garment 1800 also includes discrete regions, such as discrete regions 1822 and 1824, the latter comprising wavy knitted rib structures, such as knitted rib structures 1826 and 1828. At least a portion of knitted rib structures 1826 and 1828 is also oriented substantially parallel to the vertical axis 1818. The positioning of the discrete regions 1822 and 1824 of the knitted rib structures may be selected based on data indicating which parts of the garment are more visible to an observer, for example, during a particular sport. For example, depending on the specific sport (e.g., running versus wrestling), different parts of the garment may be more visible to the competing athlete. In this respect, discrete regions 1822 and 1824 are located on the lower front torso of the upper garment 1800. The location of discrete regions 1822 and 1824 is illustrative, and it is contemplated here that the upper garment 1800 may include additional discrete regions located on different parts of the upper garment 1800, including the rear torso portion of the upper garment 1800.

[0091] In one example, the upper garment 1800 may include knitted mesh 1830 located in areas of the upper garment 1800 where increased breathability is desired. In some aspects, the positioning of the knitted mesh 1830 may be based on a thermogram or sweat map of the human body. In some example aspects, each of the knitted mesh 1830 may be formed by a triple tuck loop (e.g., a tuck loop holding yarn from three rows of knitted loops). To help stabilize the knitted mesh 1830, a thicker denier yarn may be used in one or more rows of knitted loops forming the tuck loop. Although not shown, it is contemplated here that additional knitted mesh may be located on the back section of the upper garment 1800. The knitted mesh described herein can be used in other garment articles such as the upper garment 600, the lower garment 700, and other lower garments described herein.

[0092] Figures 19 and 20 depict the front and rear views of the lower garment 1900, respectively. Although shown as shorts, the lower garment 1900 is envisioned to be in the form of trousers, leggings, capri pants, etc. The lower garment 1900 includes a front torso portion 1910 and a rear torso portion 2000 defining a waist opening 1912 (as shown in Figure 20). The lower garment 1900 also includes a first leg portion 1914 having a first leg opening 1916 and a second leg portion 1918 having a second leg opening 1920. An imaginary vertical axis 1922 is shown extending from the waist opening 1912 through the first leg opening 1916.

[0093] The lower garment 1900 may be formed wholly or partially from a knitted textile having a wavy knitted rib structure, such as knitted textile 1200. Accordingly, the lower garment 1900 includes a plurality of base ribs 1924 extending substantially parallel to (i.e., within ±15 degrees of parallel) a vertical axis 1922. The lower garment 1900 also includes discrete regions, such as discrete regions 1926, 1928, 1930, and 1932, which include wavy knitted rib structures, such as knitted rib structures 1940 and 2010. The knitted rib structures, or portions thereof (e.g., knitted rib structures 1940 and 2010), are also oriented substantially parallel to the vertical axis 1922. Similar to the upper garment 1800, the positions of the discrete regions 1926, 1928, 1930, and 1932 may be selected based on data indicating which parts of the garment are more visible to an observer, for example, during a particular movement. Furthermore, since discrete regions 1926, 1928, 1930, and 1932 may also exhibit greater tensile strength than other regions of the lower garment 1900, their positioning on the lower garment 1900 may also be chosen to provide support for large muscle groups in the wearer's legs. The positioning of discrete regions 1926, 1928, 1930, and 1932 is illustrative, and it is envisioned here that the lower garment 1900 may include additional discrete regions located in different parts of the lower garment 1900.

[0094] In an example, the location of discrete areas with a wavy knitted rib structure on an apparel can serve as a visual indicator of the location of a consumer's visual distraction zones. Because these visual distraction zones can vary on the apparel based, for example, on the anticipated sporting activity the apparel will be worn for, visual indicators can easily allow consumers to select clothing that meets their specific visual distraction needs.

[0095] Figure 21 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 2100 for manufacturing a knitted textile as described herein, the knitted textile having a wavy knitted rib structure. In step 2110, a first knitted structure is formed, such as the first knitted structure 1016 of Figure 10. For example, in a first sub-step 2112, a first set of loops is formed in a first knitted loop row, such as a first knitted loop row 1018, wherein the first set of loops includes knitted loops and supports for a first set of hold-up loops, such as a first set of hold-up loops 1022.

[0096] In the second sub-step 2114, a first set of intermediate knitting loop rows, such as the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows 1024, is formed while holding the first set of holding loops. In the third sub-step 2116, a second set of loops is formed in a second knitting loop row, such as the second knitting loop row 1020. The second set of loops includes the knitting loops and the needle arcs of the first set of holding loops. The first set of holding loops spans the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows.

[0097] In step 2118, a second knitted structure is formed, such as the second knitted structure 1025 of FIG. 10. For example, in the first sub-step 2120, a third set of loops is formed in a third knitted loop row, such as a third knitted loop row 1026, wherein the third knitted loop row is offset from the first knitted loop row in the knitting direction. The third set of loops includes knitted loops and supports for a second set of hold-up loops, such as a second set of hold-up loops 1030. In the second sub-step 2122, a second set of intermediate knitted loop rows, such as a second set of intermediate knitted loop rows 1032, is formed while holding the second set of hold-up loops. The second set of intermediate knitted loop rows shares at least one common knitted loop row with the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows. In the third sub-step 2124, a fourth set of loops is formed in a fourth knitted loop row, such as a fourth knitted loop row 1028, wherein the fourth knitted loop row is offset from the second knitted loop row in the knitting direction. The fourth set of loops includes the needle arcs of the knitted loops and the second set of hold-up loops. The second set of hold-up loops spans the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows. In all respects, the first group of intermediate knitting loop rows includes the same number of knitting loop rows as the second group of intermediate knitting loop rows.

[0098] The following clauses represent exemplary aspects of the concepts envisioned herein. Any of the following clauses may be combined in a dependent manner to be subordinate to one or more other clauses. Furthermore, any combination of dependent clauses (clauses that explicitly rely on preceding clauses) may be combined while remaining within the scope of the aspects envisioned herein. The following clauses are illustrative and not restrictive.

[0099] Clause 1. A knitted textile comprising: a first knitted construction, the first knitted construction comprising: a first knitted structure including: a first knitted loop row and a second knitted loop row, the second knitted loop row being coupled to the first knitted loop row via a first set of hold loops, the first set of hold loops spanning a first set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row; and a second knitted construction comprising: a third knitted loop row and a fourth knitted loop row, the fourth knitted loop row being coupled to the third knitted loop row via a second set of hold loops, the second set of hold loops spanning a second set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the third knitted loop row and the fourth knitted loop row, wherein the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows includes a different number of knitted loop rows than the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows, and wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows share at least one common knitted loop row.

[0100] Clause 2. The knitted textile according to Clause 1, wherein the first knitting construction further comprises: a third knitting structure, the third knitting structure comprising: a fifth knitting loop row and a sixth knitting loop row, the sixth knitting loop row being coupled to the fifth knitting loop row via a third set of holding loops, the third set of holding loops spanning a third set of intermediate knitting loop rows positioned between the fifth knitting loop row and the sixth knitting loop row, wherein the third set of intermediate knitting loop rows comprises a different number of knitting loop rows than each of the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows, and wherein the third set of intermediate knitting loop rows shares the common knitting loop rows with the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows.

[0101] Clause 3. The knitted textile as described in Clause 2, wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows comprises a greater number of knitted loop rows than the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows, and wherein the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows comprises a greater number of knitted loop rows than the third set of intermediate knitted loop rows.

[0102] Clause 4. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein in the first knitted loop row, the holding loops in the first set of holding loops are separated from the adjacent holding loops in the first set of holding loops by knitted loops forming a warp that extends between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row.

[0103] Clause 5. A knitted textile fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4 further comprises an additional knitted construction having the same knitting sequence as the first knitted construction, the additional knitted construction being offset in the knitting direction from one or more consecutive rows of knitted loops of the first knitted construction.

[0104] Clause 6. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the region of the knitted textile having the first knitted construction has greater tensile strength than the region of the knitted textile having a second knitted construction different from the first knitted construction.

[0105] Clause 7. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the first knitting structure and the second knitting structure form a knitted rib structure extending in the loop direction of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile.

[0106] Clause 8. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the knitted rib structure includes a first knitted rib portion corresponding to the first knitted structure and a second knitted rib portion corresponding to the second knitted structure, and wherein the second knitted rib portion extends continuously from the first knitted rib portion.

[0107] Clause 9. The knitted textile according to Clause 8, wherein the first knitted rib portion has a different height measured in the z-direction of the knitted textile compared to the second knitted rib portion.

[0108] Clause 10. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the knitted textile is knitted using at least a first yarn having a first color, a second yarn having a second color different from the first color, and a third yarn having a third color different from the first color and the second color.

[0109] Clause 11. The knitted textile as described in Clause 10, wherein when viewed from a first perspective, the knitted rib structure visually presents the first color.

[0110] Clause 12. An apparel article comprising: a knitted textile having a first knitted construction, the first knitted construction comprising: a first knitted rib portion comprising: a first knitted loop row and a second knitted loop row, the second knitted loop row being coupled to the first knitted loop row via a first set of gripping loops, the first set of gripping loops spanning a first set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row; and a second knitted rib portion comprising: a third knitted loop row and a fourth knitted loop row, the fourth knitted loop row being coupled to the third knitted loop row via a second set of gripping loops, the second set of gripping loops spanning a second set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the third knitted loop row and the fourth knitted loop row, wherein the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows comprises a different number of knitted loop rows than the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows, and wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows share at least one common knitted loop row.

[0111] Clause 13. The garment article according to Clause 12, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion form a knitted rib structure extending in the loop direction of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile.

[0112] Clause 14. Clothing articles according to any one of Clauses 12 to 13, wherein the clothing articles are upper garments.

[0113] Clause 15. The garment article according to Clause 14, wherein the knitted rib structure extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the neck opening of the upper garment to the waist opening of the upper garment.

[0114] Clause 16. Clothing articles according to any one of Clauses 12 to 13, wherein the clothing articles are lower garments.

[0115] Clause 17. The garment article according to Clause 16, wherein the knitted rib structure extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the waist opening of the lower garment to the leg opening of the leg portion of the lower garment.

[0116] Clause 18. A method of manufacturing a knitted textile, comprising: forming a first knitted structure by the steps of: forming a first set of loops in a first knitted loop row, the first set of loops including knitted loops and supports for a first set of holding loops, forming a first set of intermediate knitted loop rows while holding the first set of holding loops, and forming a second set of loops in a second knitted loop row, the second set of loops including knitted loops and needle arcs of the first set of holding loops, wherein the first set of holding loops spans the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows; and forming a second knitted structure by the steps of: forming a third set of loops in a third knitted loop row, The third group of coils includes a support for a knitted coil and a second group of holding coils. While holding the second group of holding coils, a second group of intermediate knitted coil rows is formed, and a fourth group of coils is formed in a fourth group of knitted coil rows. The fourth group of coils includes a knitted coil and a needle arc of the second group of holding coils. The second group of holding coils spans the second group of intermediate knitted coil rows. The first group of intermediate knitted coil rows includes a different number of knitted coil rows than the second group of intermediate knitted coil rows. The first group of intermediate knitted coil rows and the second group of intermediate knitted coil rows share at least one common knitted coil row.

[0117] Clause 19. The method of manufacturing a knitted textile as described in Clause 18, wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows comprises a greater number of knitted loop rows than the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows.

[0118] Clause 20. A method of manufacturing a knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 18 to 19, wherein in the first knitted loop row, the holding loops in the first set of holding loops are separated from the adjacent holding loops in the first set of holding loops by knitted loops forming a warp that extends between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row.

[0119] Clause 21. A knitted textile comprising: a first knitted construction, the first knitted construction comprising: a first knitted structure including: a first knitted loop row and a second knitted loop row, the second knitted loop row being coupled to the first knitted loop row via a first set of holding loops, the first set of holding loops spanning a first set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row; and a second knitted construction comprising: a third knitted loop row offset in a knitting direction from the first knitted loop row; a fourth knitted loop row offset in the knitting direction from the second knitted loop row, the fourth knitted loop row being coupled to the third knitted loop row via a second set of holding loops, the second set of holding loops spanning a second set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the third knitted loop row and the fourth knitted loop row, wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows share at least one common knitted loop row.

[0120] Clause 22. The knitted textile according to Clause 21, wherein the first knitting construction further comprises a third knitting structure, the third knitting structure comprising: a fifth knitting loop row offset from the third knitting loop row in the knitting direction, and a sixth knitting loop row offset from the fourth knitting loop row in the knitting direction, the sixth knitting loop row being coupled to the fifth knitting loop row via a third set of holding loops, the third set of holding loops spanning a third set of intermediate knitting loop rows positioned between the fifth knitting loop row and the sixth knitting loop row, wherein the third set of intermediate knitting loop rows shares the common knitting loop row with the first set of intermediate knitting loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitting loop rows.

[0121] Clause 23. The knitted textile as described in Clause 22, wherein each of the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows, the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows, and the third set of intermediate knitted loop rows has the same number of knitted loop rows.

[0122] Clause 24. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 21 to 23, wherein in the first knitted loop row, the holding loops in the first set of holding loops are separated from the adjacent holding loops in the first set of holding loops by knitted loops forming a warp that extends between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row.

[0123] Clause 25. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 21 to 24, wherein the first knitting structure and the second knitting structure form a knitted rib structure extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile.

[0124] Clause 26. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 21 to 25, wherein the knitted rib structure includes a first knitted rib portion corresponding to the first knitted structure and a second knitted rib portion corresponding to the second knitted structure.

[0125] Clause 27. The knitted textile according to Clause 26, wherein the first knitted rib portion extends linearly in the row direction of the knitted textile, and wherein the second knitted rib portion extends in the warp direction relative to the first knitted rib portion.

[0126] Clause 28. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 21 to 27, wherein the knitted textile is knitted using at least a first yarn having a first color, a second yarn having a second color different from the first color, and a third yarn having a third color different from the first color and the second color.

[0127] Clause 29. The knitted textile as described in Clause 28, wherein when viewed from a first perspective, the first knitted rib portion visually presents the first color, and wherein when viewed from the first perspective, the second knitted rib portion visually presents the second color.

[0128] Clause 30. A garment article comprising: a knitted textile having a first knitted construction, the first knitted construction comprising: a first knitted rib portion comprising: a first knitted loop row and a second knitted loop row, the second knitted loop row being coupled to the first knitted loop row via a first set of gripping loops, the first set of gripping loops spanning a first set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row; and a second knitted rib portion comprising: a third knitted loop row offset in the knitting direction from the first knitted loop row; a fourth knitted loop row offset in the knitting direction from the second knitted loop row, the fourth knitted loop row being coupled to the third knitted loop row via a second set of gripping loops, the second set of gripping loops spanning a second set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the third knitted loop row and the fourth knitted loop row, wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows share at least one common knitted loop row.

[0129] Clause 31. The garment article according to Clause 30, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion form a knitted rib structure.

[0130] Clause 32. The garment article according to Clause 31, wherein the knitted rib structure extends in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile.

[0131] Clause 33. The garment article according to any one of Clauses 30 to 32, wherein the first knitted rib portion extends linearly in the row direction of the knitted textile, and wherein the second knitted rib portion extends in the warp direction relative to the first knitted rib portion.

[0132] Clause 34. Clothing articles pursuant to any one of Clauses 30 to 33, wherein the clothing article is an upper garment.

[0133] Clause 35. The garment article according to Clause 34, wherein at least the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the neck opening of the upper garment to the waist opening of the upper garment.

[0134] Clause 36. Clothing articles pursuant to any one of Clauses 30 to 33, wherein the clothing articles are lower garments.

[0135] Clause 37. The garment article according to Clause 36, wherein at least the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the waist opening of the lower garment to the leg opening of the leg portion of the lower garment.

[0136] Clause 38. A method of manufacturing a knitted textile, the method comprising: forming a first knitted structure by the steps of: forming a first group of loops in a first knitted loop row, the first group of loops including knitted loops and supports for a first group of holding loops, forming a first group of intermediate knitted loop rows while holding the first group of holding loops, and forming a second group of loops in a second knitted loop row, the second group of loops including knitted loops and needle arcs of the first group of holding loops, the first group of holding loops spanning the first group of intermediate knitted loop rows; and forming a second knitted structure by the steps of: forming a third group of loops in a third knitted loop row, the third group of loops... The knitting loop row is offset from the first knitting loop row in the knitting direction. The third group of loops includes a knitting loop and a support for a second group of holding loops. While holding the second group of holding loops, a second group of intermediate knitting loop rows is formed. A fourth group of loops is formed in the fourth knitting loop row. The fourth knitting loop row is offset from the second knitting loop row in the knitting direction. The fourth group of loops includes a knitting loop and a needle arc of the second group of holding loops. The second group of holding loops spans the second group of intermediate knitting loop rows. The first group of intermediate knitting loop rows and the second group of intermediate knitting loop rows share at least one common knitting loop row.

[0137] Clause 39. The method of manufacturing a knitted textile as described in Clause 38, wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows comprise the same number of knitted loop rows.

[0138] Clause 40. A method of manufacturing a knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 38 to 39, wherein in the first knitted loop row, the holding loops in the first set of holding loops are separated from adjacent holding loops in the first set of holding loops by knitted loops forming a warp that extends between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row.

[0139] Clause 41. A knitted textile comprising: at least one knitted rib structure extending in a loop direction of the knitted textile and also extending in a z direction relative to an x, y plane of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure comprising: a first knitted rib portion having a first height measured in the z direction of the knitted textile, and a second knitted rib portion having a second height measured in the z direction of the knitted textile, the second height being different from the first height, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion share at least one common loop direction.

[0140] Clause 42. The knitted textile according to Clause 41 further includes a third knitted rib portion having a third height measured in the z-direction of the knitted textile, the third height being different from each of the first height and the second height, wherein the third knitted rib portion shares the common knitted loop row with the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion.

[0141] Clause 43. The knitted textile according to Clause 42, wherein the third height of the third knitted rib portion is less than the second height of the second knitted rib portion, and wherein the second height of the second knitted rib portion is less than the first height of the first knitted rib portion.

[0142] Clause 44. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 41 to 43, wherein the area of ​​the knitted rib structure of the knitted textile exhibits greater tensile strength than the area of ​​the knitted textile with a different knitted structure.

[0143] Clause 45. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 41 to 44, wherein the knitted textile is knitted in a repeating pattern, the repeating pattern comprising a first plurality of knitting loop rows knitted with a first yarn having a first color, a second plurality of knitting loop rows knitted with a second yarn having a second color, and a third plurality of knitting loop rows knitted with a third yarn having a third color, wherein each of the first color, the second color, and the third color is different.

[0144] Clause 46. The knitted textile as described in Clause 45, wherein when viewed from a first perspective, the knitted rib structure visually presents the first color.

[0145] Clause 47. The knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 41 to 46 further includes a plurality of additional knitted rib structures, each of the plurality of additional knitted rib structures having a varying height in the z-direction of the knitted textile.

[0146] Clause 48. The knitted textile according to Clause 47, wherein the knitted rib structure and the plurality of additional knitted rib structures are located together in discrete regions of the knitted textile to form a first stretch zone having a first tensile strength.

[0147] Clause 49. The knitted textile according to Clause 48, wherein the remaining area of ​​the knitted textile does not include the knitted rib structure and the plurality of additional knitted rib structures, the remaining area forming a second tensile region having a second tensile strength, wherein the first tensile strength is greater than the second tensile strength.

[0148] Clause 50. A garment article comprising: a knitted textile having at least one knitted rib structure extending in a loop direction of the knitted textile and also extending in a z direction relative to an x, y plane of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure comprising: a first knitted rib portion having a first height measured in the z direction of the knitted textile, and a second knitted rib portion having a second height measured in the z direction of the knitted textile, the second height being different from the first height, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion share at least one common loop direction.

[0149] Clause 51. The garment article as described in Clause 50, wherein the garment article is an upper garment.

[0150] Clause 52. The garment article according to Clause 51, wherein the knitted rib structure extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the neck opening of the upper garment to the waist opening of the upper garment.

[0151] Clause 53. Clothing articles as described in Clause 50, wherein the clothing articles are lower garments.

[0152] Clause 54. The garment article according to Clause 53, wherein the knitted rib structure extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the waist opening of the lower garment to the leg opening of the lower garment.

[0153] Clause 55. A knitted textile comprising: a first knitted rib structure extending in a loop direction of the knitted textile and also extending in a z direction relative to an x, y plane of the knitted textile; a second knitted rib structure offset from the first knitted rib structure in a knitting direction, extending in the loop direction of the knitted textile and also extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile; a first plurality of knitted loop rows located between a first portion of the first knitted rib structure and a first portion of the second knitted rib structure; and a second plurality of knitted loop rows located between a second portion of the first knitted rib structure and a second portion of the second knitted rib structure, the first plurality of knitted loop rows and the second plurality of knitted loop rows sharing at least one common knitted loop row, wherein the first plurality of knitted loop rows comprises a greater number of knitted loop rows than the second plurality of knitted loop rows.

[0154] Clause 56. The knitted textile according to Clause 55, wherein the area of ​​the knitted textile in which the first portion of the first knitted rib structure, the first portion of the second knitted rib structure, and the first plurality of knitted loop rows are located exhibits less tensile strength than the area of ​​the knitted textile in which the second portion of the first knitted rib structure, the second portion of the second knitted rib structure, and the second plurality of knitted loop rows are located.

[0155] Clause 57. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 55 to 56, wherein the knitted textile is knitted in a repeating pattern, the repeating pattern comprising a first plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a first yarn having a first color, a second plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a second yarn having a second color, and a third plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a third yarn having a third color, wherein each of the first color, the second color, and the third color is different.

[0156] Clause 58. The knitted textile as described in Clause 57, wherein each of the first knitted rib structure and the second knitted rib structure visually presents the first color when viewed from a first perspective.

[0157] Clause 59. The knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 55 to 58 further comprises a plurality of additional knitted rib structures extending in the direction of the loop rows of the knitted textile and also extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile, the plurality of additional knitted rib structures having a substantially constant height measured in the z direction.

[0158] Clause 60. The knitted textile as described in Clause 59, when viewed from the first perspective, the plurality of additional knitted rib structures visually present the first color.

[0159] Clause 61. A knitted textile comprising: at least one knitted rib structure extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure comprising: a first knitted rib portion extending linearly in the loop direction of the knitted textile; and a second knitted rib portion extending in the positive loop direction relative to the first knitted rib portion, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion share at least one common loop direction.

[0160] Clause 62. The knitted textile according to Clause 61, wherein the first knitted rib portion has the same height measured in the z-direction as the second knitted rib portion.

[0161] Clause 63. The knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 61 to 62 further includes a third knitted rib portion extending relative to the second knitted rib portion in the negative loop direction, the third knitted rib portion sharing the common knitted loop row with at least the first knitted rib portion.

[0162] Clause 64. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 61 to 63, wherein the knitted textile is knitted in a repeating pattern, the repeating pattern comprising a first plurality of knitting loop rows knitted with a first yarn having a first color, a second plurality of knitting loop rows knitted with a second yarn having a second color, and a third plurality of knitting loop rows knitted with a third yarn having a third color, wherein each of the first color, the second color, and the third color is different.

[0163] Clause 65. The knitted textile as described in Clause 64, wherein when viewed from a first perspective, the first knitted rib portion visually presents the first color, the second knitted rib portion visually presents the second color when viewed from the first perspective, and the third knitted rib portion visually presents the third color when viewed from the first perspective.

[0164] Clause 66. An apparel article comprising: a knitted textile, the knitted textile including: at least one knitted rib structure extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure including: a first knitted rib portion extending linearly in the loop direction of the knitted textile; and a second knitted rib portion extending in the positive loop direction relative to the first knitted rib portion, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion share at least one common loop direction.

[0165] Clause 67. Clothing articles as described in Clause 66, wherein the clothing article is an upper garment.

[0166] Clause 68. The garment article according to Clause 67, wherein the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the neck opening of the upper garment to the waist opening of the upper garment.

[0167] Clause 69. Clothing articles as described in Clause 66, wherein the clothing articles are lower garments.

[0168] Clause 70. The garment article according to Clause 69, wherein the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from the waist opening of the lower garment to the leg opening of the leg portion of the lower garment.

[0169] Clause 71. A knitted textile comprising: a knitted rib structure extending in the transverse direction of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure having a substantially constant height measured in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure extending alternately in the positive and negative longitudinal directions of the knitted textile to form a waveform, the waveform comprising two or more wave periods and two or more wave amplitudes.

[0170] Clause 72. The knitted textile according to Clause 71, wherein regions of the knitted rib structure with relatively small wave periods exhibit greater tensile strength compared to regions of the knitted rib structure with relatively large wave periods.

[0171] Clause 73. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 71 to 72, wherein the knitted textile is knitted in a repeating pattern, the repeating pattern comprising a first plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a first yarn having a first color, followed by a second plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a second yarn having a second color, followed by a third plurality of knitted loop rows knitted with a third yarn having a third color, wherein each of the first color, the second color and the third color is different.

[0172] Clause 74. The knitted textile as described in Clause 73, wherein the respective midpoints of adjacent strips of the first plurality of knitted loop rows are separated by a first distance.

[0173] Clause 75. The knitted textile as described in Clause 74, wherein the largest of the two or more amplitudes is less than or equal to twice the first distance.

[0174] Clause 76. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 74 to 75, wherein the largest amplitude of the two or more amplitudes is approximately the first distance.

[0175] Clause 77. A knitted textile according to any one of Clauses 73 to 76, wherein, when viewed from a first perspective, different portions of the knitted rib structure visually present each of the first color, the second color, and the third color as the knitted rib structure extends along the transverse direction of the loops.

[0176] Clause 78. A knitted textile fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 77, wherein the waveform comprises two or more different tangent angles.

[0177] Clause 79. The knitted textile as described in Clause 78, wherein the wave of the waveform comprises two different tangent angles.

[0178] Clause 80. A knitted textile comprising: a knitted rib structure having a wave pattern as the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction, and having a variety of different colors continuously appearing on top of the knitted rib structure as the knitted rib structure advances in the loop direction.

[0179] Clause 81. A knitted textile comprising: a knitted rib structure having a wave pattern as the knitted rib structure extends in the direction of the loops, the knitted rib structure visually presenting a first color at a first position on top of the knitted rib structure, and the knitted rib structure visually presenting a different second color at a second position on the top of the knitted rib structure.

[0180] Clause 81. The knitted textile according to Clause 81, wherein the knitted rib structure visually presents the second color on the first side of the knitted rib structure at the first position, and wherein the knitted rib structure visually presents the first color on the first side of the knitted rib structure at the second position.

[0181] Clause 82. A knitted textile comprising: a first discrete region including a knitted base rib, the knitted base rib visually presenting a first color on top of the knitted base rib; and a second discrete region including a knitted rib structure, the knitted rib structure visually presenting a variety of different colors continuously on top of the knitted rib structure as the knitted rib structure extends in the loop direction.

[0182] Various aspects of this disclosure have been described in an illustrative and not restrictive manner. Alternative aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from its scope. Those skilled in the art can develop alternative means to achieve the above improvements without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0183] It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations, and are envisioned to be within the scope of the request. Not all steps listed in the various figures need to be performed in the specific order described.

[0184] 100: Coil Diagram 105: First knitting structure 110: Knitting direction 112: Horizontal direction of positive and negative coils 114: Vertical direction of positive and negative coils 116: First knitting structure 118: First row of knitting loops 120: Second row of knitting loops 122: First set of holding coils 124: The first group of middle knitting loops are arranged in a horizontal row. 125: Second knitting structure 126: Third row of knitting loops 128: Fourth row of knitting loops 130: Second set of holding coils 132: Second group of middle knitting loops in rows 134: Knitting loops in rows 136: Coil longitudinal 138: Coil longitudinal 140: Additional knitted construction 142: Multiple continuous knitted loops arranged in rows 150: First color 152: Second color 154: Third color 200: Knitted Structure 210: First row of knitting loops 211: Floating line 212: First set of holding coils 214: Knitting loops 216: Second row of knitting loops 218: Knitting loops 220: The first group of middle knitting loops are arranged in a horizontal row. 222: Knitting loops 224: Coil longitudinal 226: Third row of knitting loops 228: Second set of holding coils 230: Knitting loops 232: Fourth row of knitting loops 234: Knitting loops 236: Second group of middle knitting loops in rows 237: Floating Line 238: Knitting loops 240: Coil longitudinal 300: Knitted textiles 310: Base ribs 312: Discrete Region 314: Discrete Region 316a: Knitted rib construction 316b: Knitted rib construction 316c: Knitted rib construction 316d: Knitted rib structure 318a: Knitting loop row 318b: Knitting loop row 318c: Knitting loops in rows 320: Area 322: Area 400: Knitted textiles 410: Base ribs 412: Knitted rib structure 412a: First knit rib section 412b: Second knit rib section 412c: Third knit rib section 412d: Fourth knit rib section 412e: Fifth knit rib section 414: Ribbed knit section 416: Ribbed knit section 418: Continuous knitting loop row 420: Ribbed knit section 422: Ribbed knit section 424: Continuous knitting loop row 426: Area 428: Area 500: Knitted textiles 510: Knitted rib structure 512: Knitted rib structure 514: Knitted rib structure 516: Base Ribs 518: First-person perspective 520: Second Perspective 522: Third-person perspective 600: Upper body clothing 605: Forequarters 610: Neck opening 612: Waist opening 614: First sleeve opening 616: Second sleeve opening 618: Vertical axis 620: Base Ribs 622: Discrete Region 624: Discrete Region 626: Knitted rib structure 628: Knitted rib structure 700: Lower body clothing 710: Forequarters 712: Waist opening 714: First leg section 716: First leg opening 718: Second Leg Section 720: Second leg opening 722: Vertical axis 724: Base Ribs 726: Discrete Region 728: Discrete Region 730: Discrete Region 732: Discrete Region 734: Discrete Region 736: Discrete Region 740: Knitted rib structure 800: Rear torso 810: Knitted rib structure 900: Example Method 910: Steps 912: First Sub-step 914: Second Sub-step 916: Third Sub-step 918: Steps 920: First Sub-step 922: Second Sub-step 924: Third Sub-step 1000: Coil Diagram 1005: Second knitting construction 1010: Knitting direction 1012: Horizontal direction of positive and negative coils 1014: Vertical direction of positive and negative coils 1016: First knitting structure 1018: First row of knitted loops 1020: Second row of knitting loops 1022: First set of holding coils 1024: First group of middle knitting loops in a horizontal row 1025: Second knitting structure 1026: Third row of knitting loops 1028: Fourth row of knitting loops 1030: Second set of holding coils 1032: Second group of middle knitting loops in rows 1036: Coil longitudinal 1038: Coil longitudinal 1040: Additional knitted construction 1042: Multiple continuous knitted loops arranged in rows 1050: First color 1052: Second color 1054: Third color 1100: Knitted Structure 1110: First row of knitting loops 1112: First set of holding coils 1114: Knitting loops 1116: Second row of knitting loops 1118: Knitting loops 1120: First group of middle knitting loops in a horizontal row 1121: Floating Line 1122: Knitting loops 1124: Coil longitudinal 1126: Third row of knitting loops 1128: Second set of holding coils 1130: Knitting loops 1132: Fourth row of knitting loops 1134: Knitting loops 1136: Second group of middle knitting loops in a horizontal row 1137: Floating Line 1138: Knitting loops 1140: Coil longitudinal 1142: Fifth row of knitting loops 1144: Sixth row of knitting loops 1146: Holding the coil 1200: Knitted textiles 1210: Base ribs 1212: Discrete Region 1214a: Knitted rib structure 1214b: Knitted rib structure 1214c: Knitted rib structure 1214d: Knitted rib structure 1216a: Multiple continuous knitted loops arranged in rows 1216b: Multiple continuous knitted loops arranged in rows 1216c: Multiple continuous knitted loops arranged in rows 1300: Knitted textiles 1310: Base Ribs 1312: First Discrete Region 1314: The first multiple knitted rib structure 1315: Second Discrete Region 1316: Second multiple knitted rib structure 1318: Third Discrete Region 1400: Knitted rib construction 1410: First waveform period 1412: Second waveform period 1414: Wave 1416: Wave 1500: Knitted rib construction 1510: Wave 1512: Angle associated with the previous stroke 1514: Angle associated with the next stroke 1516: Perspective 1518: Perspective 1600: Knitted rib construction 1610: The First Wave 1612: First Wave 1614: The Second Wave 1616: Second Wave 1700: Knitted rib construction 1710: Wave 1712: Wave 1714: Wave 1730: First-person perspective 1732: Second Perspective 1734: Third-Person Perspective 1800: Upper body clothing 1805: Forequarters 1810: Neck opening 1812: Waist opening 1814: First sleeve opening 1816: Second sleeve opening 1818: Vertical axis 1820: Base Ribs 1822: Discrete Region 1824: Discrete Region 1826: Knitted rib structure 1828: Knitted rib structure 1830: Knitted mesh 1900: Lower body clothing 1910: Forequarters 1912: Waist opening 1914: First leg section 1916: First leg opening 1918: Second leg section 1920: Second leg opening 1922: Vertical axis 1924: Base Ribs 1926: Discrete Region 1928: Discrete Region 1930: Discrete Region 1932: Discrete Region 1940: Knitted rib structure 2000: Rear trunk 2010: Knitted Rib Structure 2100: Example Method 2110: Steps 2112: First sub-step 2114: Second Sub-step 2116: Third Sub-step 2118: Steps 2120: First Sub-step 2122: Second sub-step 2124: Third Sub-step

Claims

1. A garment article comprising: A knitted textile having a first knitted structure comprising: a first knitted rib portion including: a first knitted loop row and a second knitted loop row coupled to the first knitted loop row via a first set of holding loops spanning a first set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the first knitted loop row and the second knitted loop row; and a second knitted rib portion including: a third knitted loop row offset from the first knitted loop row in a knitting direction, and a fourth knitted loop row offset from the second knitted loop row in the knitting direction, the fourth knitted loop row coupled to the third knitted loop row via a second set of holding loops spanning a second set of intermediate knitted loop rows positioned between the third knitted loop row and the fourth knitted loop row, wherein the first set of intermediate knitted loop rows and the second set of intermediate knitted loop rows share at least one common knitted loop row.

2. The garment article according to claim 1, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion form a knitted rib structure.

3. The garment article according to claim 2, wherein the knitted rib structure extends in a z direction relative to an x, y plane of the knitted textile.

4. The garment article according to claim 1, wherein the first knitted rib portion extends linearly in a loop direction of the knitted textile, and wherein the second knitted rib portion extends relative to the first knitted rib portion in a loop direction.

5. The garment article according to claim 1, wherein the garment article is an upper garment.

6. The garment article according to claim 5, wherein at least the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from a neck opening of the garment to a waist opening of the garment.

7. The garment article according to claim 5, wherein the upper garment includes one of a vest, a shirt, a hoodie, or a T-shirt.

8. The garment article according to claim 1, wherein the garment article is a lower garment.

9. The garment article according to claim 8, wherein at least the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from a waist opening of the lower garment to a leg opening of a leg portion of the lower garment.

10. The garment article according to claim 8, wherein the lower garment includes one of shorts, trousers, leggings, or capri pants.

11. The garment article according to claim 1, wherein the knitted textile is knitted using at least a first yarn having a first color, a second yarn having a second color different from the first color, and a third yarn having a third color different from the first color and the second color.

12. The garment article according to claim 11, wherein when viewed from a first perspective, the first knitted rib portion visually presents the first color, and wherein when viewed from the first perspective, the second knitted rib portion visually presents the second color.

13. A garment article comprising: A knitted textile comprising: at least one knitted rib structure extending in a z direction relative to an x, y plane of the knitted textile, the knitted rib structure comprising: a first knitted rib portion extending linearly in a loop row direction of the knitted textile; and a second knitted rib portion extending in a positive loop warp direction relative to the first knitted rib portion, wherein the first knitted rib portion and the second knitted rib portion share at least one common loop row.

14. The garment article according to claim 13, wherein the garment article is an upper garment.

15. The garment article according to claim 14, wherein the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from a neck opening of the garment to a waist opening of the garment.

16. The garment article according to claim 13, wherein the garment article is a lower garment.

17. The garment article according to claim 16, wherein the first knitted rib portion extends in a direction substantially parallel to a vertical axis extending from a waist opening of the lower garment to a leg opening of a leg portion of the lower garment.

18. The garment article according to claim 13, wherein the at least one knitted rib structure includes a first knitted rib structure, the garment article further comprising: A second knitted rib structure, the second knitted rib structure being offset from the first knitted rib structure in the knitting direction, the second knitted rib structure extending in the loop row direction of the knitted textile and also extending in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile; a first plurality of knitted loop rows located between a first portion of the first knitted rib structure and a first portion of the second knitted rib structure; and a second plurality of knitted loop rows located between a second portion of the first knitted rib structure and a second portion of the second knitted rib structure, the first plurality of knitted loop rows and the second plurality of knitted loop rows sharing at least one common knitted loop row, wherein the first plurality of knitted loop rows includes a greater number of knitted loop rows than the second plurality of knitted loop rows.

19. The garment article according to claim 13, wherein the at least one knitted rib structure has a substantially constant height measured in the z direction relative to the x, y plane of the knitted textile.

20. The garment article according to claim 19, wherein the at least one knitted rib structure extends alternately in a positive and a negative wale direction of the knitted textile to form a waveform, the waveform comprising two or more wave periods and two or more wave amplitudes.

Images