Knitted pocket with element inserted

The knitting process integrates functional elements directly into sports articles by creating voids and using shrinkable yarns, addressing inefficiencies in traditional methods to produce a seamless, durable, and comfortable product with enhanced support.

US20260168143A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-06-18ADIDAS AG
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
US · United States
Patent Type
Applications(United States)
Current Assignee / Owner
ADIDAS AG
Filing Date
2025-12-17
Publication Date
2026-06-18

AI Technical Summary

⚠Technical Problem

Traditional methods for integrating functional elements like padding or reinforcements into sports articles through cutting and adhesive bonding are labor-intensive, prone to inconsistencies, and compromise structural integrity and flexibility.

⚗Method used

A method involving a knitting process that creates voids in the fabric and inserts elements like reinforcement pads or cushioning directly on the knitting machine, using shrinkable or melting yarns to secure the elements within the fabric, eliminating the need for cutting or adhesive steps.

🎯Benefits of technology

This method ensures secure, precise placement of functional elements, resulting in a seamless, durable, and comfortable sports article with enhanced structural support and reduced manufacturing steps.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention relates to a sports article and a method of fabricating the sports article comprising a knitting process. The knitting process may include knitting a fabric on a knitting machine using one or more yarns and providing an insert element to the knitting machine such that it is incorporated into the fabric during the knitting process. The insert element may be initially positioned within a void in the knit fabric. Once the insert element is positioned, knitting of yarns may be resumed around the insert element such that layers of the fabric are coupled to each other to at least partially secure the insert element within the void.
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