ENGINEERED UPPER WITH ZONAL SUPPORT FOR AN ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/702,064, filed 01 October 2024, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure broadly relates to engineered composite textiles 130 and/or textile-like composite structures for use in constructing articles of functional apparel. As used herein, the term "functional apparel" may include any article of apparel or footwear that has a use or purpose beyond simply aesthetics or body coverage.

The engineered composite textiles 130 described herein may be particularly suitable for a wide range of functional apparel, including but not limited to: articles of footwear 100; bras (e.g., sports bras); compression gear (e.g., shorts, pants, shirts, sleeves); joint braces (e.g., ankle, knee, wrist, elbow); accessories or wearables (e.g., backpacks, bags, watch bands).

The engineered textile 130 described herein comprises three primary components: an elastic base layer 140 that serves as a foundation for the functional apparel, providing overall flexibility and comfort; a plurality of lockout panels 150 strategically positioned on the elastic base layer 140, designed to control and limit the stretch properties of the apparel in specific zones; and one or more stretch channels 160 or stretch zones formed between the lockout panels 150, allowing for controlled elasticity in areas not covered by the lockout panels 150.

The presently described engineered textile 130 utilizes zonal restriction to regionally constrain or alter stretch properties of the textile as a whole, while permitting a more elastic response between restricted zones. This approach may allow for enhanced performance characteristics, such as improved foot containment during rapid movements, overall fit and comfort, targeted support in high-stress areas, and flexibility where needed for natural motion.

The engineered textile construction 130 described herein may be particularly suitable for high-performance athletic shoes 100, such as those used in basketball or other sports requiring dynamic movements. In such applications, the present engineered textile 130 may provide a balance of support, flexibility, and comfort for the wearer during various athletic activities, including but not limited to activities such as cutting, jumping, and sprinting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a perspective view of an article of footwear that includes an upper formed from an engineered textile with zonal support

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 1, taken along line 2-2

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a plan view of an upper formed from an engineered textile with zonal support prior to assembly

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the constrained expansion of an upper having zonal support.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a side view of an article of footwear with closure eyelets integrated into lockout panels in an engineered textile.

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an engineered textile with zonal support and a dual-base layer configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to identify like or identical components in the various views, FIG. 1 generally illustrates an article of footwear 100 comprising an upper 110 and a sole structure 120. The upper 110 may be at least partially formed from an engineered textile 130 that provides a balance of support, flexibility, and comfort for the wearer. As noted above, this engineered textile 130 may comprise three primary components: an elastic base layer 140, a plurality of lockout panels 150, and one or more stretch channels 160 formed between the lockout panels 150. The elastic base layer 140 serves as a foundation for the upper 110, providing overall flexibility and comfort. The lockout panels 150 are strategically positioned on the elastic base layer 140 and are designed to control and limit the stretch properties of the shoe upper 110 in specific zones. Between the lockout panels 150, stretch channels 160 are formed, allowing for controlled elasticity in areas not covered by the lockout panels 150.

These components work together to achieve the desired performance characteristics of the shoe 100. The elastic base layer 140 provides a flexible and comfortable foundation, while the lockout panels 150 offer targeted support and stability in key areas. The stretch channels 160 or stretch zones allow for natural foot movement and adaptability where needed. This combination of components may allow for a shoe design that addresses various functional considerations in athletic footwear, including foot containment during rapid movements, overall fit and comfort, targeted support in high-stress areas, and flexibility where needed for natural foot motion.

The engineered textile 130 may be integrated with the sole structure 120 along a bite line 170, which represents the junction where the upper 110 attaches to the sole structure 120. In some configurations, certain lockout panels 150 may extend across this bite line 170 such that they are anchored relative to the sole 120, potentially enhancing force transmission and structural integrity. This integration along the bite line 170 may play a crucial role in the overall performance of the shoe 100, as it may allow for more direct transfer of forces between the upper 110 and the sole structure 120, potentially enhancing stability and responsiveness during dynamic movements.

By balancing these factors through the strategic use of materials and structural elements, the shoe 100 may be adapted to meet the requirements of high-performance athletic activities, providing a combination of support, flexibility, and comfort tailored to the specific needs of the wearer and the demands of various sports.

Elastic Base Layer

As generally illustrated in FIG. 2, the elastic base layer 140 serves as the foundation for the engineered textile 130 used in the construction of the shoe upper 110. This layer may be composed of various materials that exhibit high elasticity and provide comfort to the wearer. The primary purpose of the elastic base layer 140 is to offer overall flexibility, conformability, and a comfortable fit for the shoe 100.

Suitable materials for the elastic base layer 140 may include, but are not limited to: woven or knitted fabrics; open or closed cell foams; extruded materials; rubber-like substances capable of multi-directional stretch.

The elastic base layer 140 may be characterized by its ability to stretch in multiple directions, often referred to as 4-way stretch. In embodiments utilizing knit or woven fabrics, this property may be achieved through the incorporation of elastic fibers or elastomeric materials within the material/yarn structure forming the textile. The arrangement and density of these elastic fibers may be tailored to provide optimal stretch characteristics in different regions of the base layer 140. For example, areas corresponding to the midfoot may have a higher concentration of elastic fibers to provide enhanced support, while areas corresponding to the forefoot may have a lower concentration to allow for greater flexibility during toe-off motions.

The elastic base layer 140 may have a thickness 142 that can vary depending on the specific requirements of the shoe design and intended use. Generally, the thickness 142 may range from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, although thinner or thicker configurations may be employed based on the desired performance characteristics.

In terms of stretch properties, in some embodiments, the elastic base layer 140 may be designed to elongate by at least 50% of its original length in both longitudinal and transverse directions without significant loss of recovery. This high degree of elasticity allows the base layer 140 to provide a snug, comfortable fit while also facilitating ease of entry and exit from the shoe 100.

The elastic base layer 140 may also incorporate additional functional properties, such as: moisture-wicking capabilities to help manage perspiration; antimicrobial treatments to control odor; and/or thermal regulation properties for enhanced comfort in various climate. These additional properties may enhance the overall performance and comfort of the shoe 100, particularly during extended periods of wear or in challenging environmental conditions.

Lockout Panels

The lockout panels 150 are key components of the engineered textile 130 that work in conjunction with the elastic base layer 140 to provide targeted support and control stretch in specific areas of the shoe upper 110. These panels may be designed to control and limit the stretch properties of the upper 110 in specific zones, providing a balance of support and flexibility.

Lockout panels 150 may be constructed from materials that exhibit higher stiffness and lower elasticity compared to the elastic base layer 140. Suitable materials for the lockout panels 150 may include, but are not limited to: woven or knitted fabrics; foams; extruded materials; rubbers with a higher modulus of elasticity than the base layer material. The selection of materials for the lockout panels 150 may be based on the desired performance characteristics of the shoe 100, such as the level of support required for specific athletic activities.

The bonding between the lockout panels 150 and the elastic base layer 140 may be crucial for the overall performance of the engineered textile 130. Typically, a bonding material 180, such as a hot melt adhesive, may be used to secure the panels to the base layer. The bonding process may be carefully controlled to ensure a strong, durable connection while maintaining the desired flexibility at the bonding interface. The thickness of the bonding material 180 may typically range from about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm, though thinner or thicker applications may be used depending on the specific requirements of the shoe design.

Referring again to FIG. 1, lockout panels 150 may generally be categorized as either anchored or floating based on their attachment to the sole structure 120. Anchored panels 152 extend across the bite line 170 (i.e., where the upper 110 attaches to the sole structure 120) to directly secure the panel relative to the sole structure. In doing so, the anchoring may enhance force transmission from the upper 110 to the sole structure 120 and provide additional structural support to the shoe 100. Floating panels 154 are panels that do not extend to the bite line 170 and are entirely contained within the upper 110 area. Floating panels 154 may offer localized support and stretch control without directly influencing the connection between the upper 110 and the sole structure 120.

Each lockout panel 150 may have a panel edge 156 that defines its shape and size. The panel thickness 158 (shown in FIG. 2) may vary depending on the specific requirements of the shoe design and the intended placement of the panel. Generally, the panel thickness 152 may range from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm, although thinner or thicker configurations may be employed based on the desired performance characteristics.

In some embodiments, the lockout panels 150 may feature variable stiffness characteristics across their surface. This may be achieved through techniques such as varying the thickness of the panel material, incorporating reinforcing fibers or structures in specific areas, or using composite materials with directional stiffness properties. Such variations may allow for fine-tuning of the panel's performance characteristics to match the biomechanical needs of different foot regions. This concept of variable stiffness within panels may provide enhanced adaptability to different types of movements and stress levels experienced during athletic activities.

The strategic placement of anchored 152 and floating 154 lockout panels may allow for a customized support structure that adapts to the specific needs of different foot regions and movement patterns. For example, anchored panels 152 may be positioned in areas that require maximum support and force transmission, such as the midfoot region, while floating panels 154 may be used in areas where more flexibility is desired, such as the forefoot or ankle regions.

When the wearer's foot exerts pressure on the shoe 100, the anchored panels 152 may help to distribute these forces more evenly across the sole structure 120. This could potentially lead to enhanced stability during dynamic movements, such as quick direction changes or jumps, which are common in many athletic activities.

The anchored panels 152 may work in concert with floating panels 154 to create a comprehensive support system within the upper 110. While anchored panels 152 may provide targeted zones of high stability, floating panels 154 may offer localized support with greater flexibility. This combination may allow for a customized balance of rigidity and adaptability across different regions of the shoe 100.

Stretch Channels

The engineered textile 130 incorporates stretch channels 160 as a crucial component in its design to provide controlled elasticity within the shoe upper 110. These stretch channels 160 are formed in the areas between the lockout panels 150 (i.e., portions of the base layer 140 that are not directly covered by a corresponding lockout panel 150), allowing for localized stretching and flexibility in specific regions of the shoe upper 110.

Referring to FIG. 3, a top-down view of a flat, pre-assembled shoe upper 110 is shown, illustrating the arrangement of lockout panels 150 and the resulting stretch channels 160 formed between them. The design of the stretch channels 160 may be characterized by their aspect ratio, which is defined as the ratio of the channel length 162 to the channel width 164. This aspect ratio may play a significant role in controlling the elasticity and performance characteristics of the engineered textile 130.

Preferably, the aspect ratio of the stretch channels 160 may be at least 5, and more preferably at least 10. This elongated configuration may allow for controlled stretch primarily in the direction transverse to the channel length 162, while providing greater resistance to stretch along the channel length 162. The specific dimensions of the channel width 164 and channel length 162 may vary depending on the intended location within the shoe upper 110 and the desired performance characteristics. For example, stretch channels 160 in the forefoot region may have different dimensions compared to those in the midfoot or heel regions, allowing for customized flexibility and support in each area.

The placement and orientation of these stretch channels 160 may be strategically determined based on biomechanical considerations and the expected stress distributions during various athletic movements. For instance, in one configuration, a stretch channel 160 may be positioned along the lateral side of the upper 110 to allow for expansion during foot flexion, while a second channel may be placed near the ankle opening to facilitate easy entry and exit from the shoe 100. As such, the channel orientation relative to the shoe's structure may be optimized for different areas of the foot and types of movement.

Interaction between Components

The interaction between the stretch channels 160, the broader elastic base layer 140, and the surrounding lockout panels 150 may contribute to the overall performance of the shoe 100. As illustrated in FIG. 4, a cross-sectional view of the shoe upper 110 shows how the stretch channels 160 may allow the elastic base layer 140 to flex and expand in controlled areas, while the lockout panels 150 provide stability and support in others. This combination may enable the shoe upper 110 to adapt to the foot's shape and movement during dynamic activities, potentially enhancing both comfort and performance.

The elastic base layer 140 serves as the foundation, providing overall flexibility and comfort. The lockout panels 150, strategically positioned on the elastic base layer 140, offer targeted support and control in specific zones. Between these panels, the stretch channels 160 allow for controlled elasticity, creating a balanced system of support and flexibility throughout the shoe upper 110.

During athletic movements, this interplay of components may contribute to the shoe's adaptability in several ways:

Foot containment: The lockout panels 150 may provide stability and support during rapid movements, while the stretch channels 160 allow for natural foot expansion.

Pressure distribution: The elastic base layer 140 may help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, while the lockout panels 150 provide additional support in high-stress areas.

Dynamic fit: As the foot moves through different phases of athletic movements (e.g., landing, pushing off), the combination of components may allow the shoe upper 110 to adapt its shape and support characteristics accordingly.

Force transmission: The anchored panels 152, which extend over the bite line 170, may work in concert with the elastic base layer 140 and stretch channels 160 to efficiently transmit forces between the foot, upper 110, and sole structure 120.

For example, during a lateral cutting movement, the lockout panels 150 on the lateral side of the shoe may provide stability, while the stretch channels 160 on the medial side allow for controlled expansion. Simultaneously, the elastic base layer 140 may conform to the changing foot shape, maintaining a close, comfortable fit throughout the movement.

This complex interplay between components may allow the engineered textile 130 to provide a balance of support, flexibility, and comfort that can be tailored to the specific demands of various athletic activities.

Integration of Eyelets/Closure with Lockout Panels

As generally illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, in some embodiments, one or more eyelets 190 associated with a footwear closure system 192 may be attached to, extend through, or may otherwise be integrated with one or more of the lockout panels 150, potentially enhancing the overall performance of the shoe 100. This integration may create a more direct and efficient force transmission pathway from the closure system to the sole structure 120.

FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed view of an eyelet 190 integrated within a lockout panel 150, along with the structural arrangement and force distribution pathway 194. The integrated eyelet 190 may be formed as part of the lockout panel 150 structure or securely attached to it using various manufacturing techniques such as molding, welding, or bonding. This integration may allow for a more seamless and robust connection between the closure system and the structural elements of the shoe upper 110.

Surrounding the integrated eyelet 190, the lockout panel 150 may feature a force distribution zone 196. This zone may be designed to efficiently spread the closure forces across a wider area of the panel, potentially reducing stress concentrations and enhancing durability. The force distribution zone 196 may be achieved through various means, such as: localized thickening of the panel material; reinforcing structures; specific material choices that offer optimal load-bearing properties.

The force distribution pathway 194 represents the route through which forces from the laces are transmitted via the lockout panels 150 to the sole structure 120. This pathway may be optimized through the strategic placement and design of the integrated eyelets 190 and their corresponding lockout panels 150. For example, the orientation and shape of the integrated eyelet 190 may be tailored to direct forces along specific vectors, potentially enhancing foot containment or stability during particular athletic movements.

Zonal Support and Flexibility

The engineered textile 130 may incorporate a strategic arrangement of lockout panels 150 and stretch channels 160 to create zones of support and flexibility. This design approach may allow for enhanced foot containment during dynamic movements while maintaining comfort and adaptability to various foot shapes.

Referring to FIG. 3, a top-down view of the shoe upper 110 is shown, illustrating the arrangement of lockout panels 150 and the resulting stretch channels 160 formed between them. The placement of lockout panels 150 may be determined based on biomechanical considerations and the expected stress distributions during various athletic activities. For instance, areas requiring greater support, such as the midfoot region, may feature a higher concentration of lockout panels 150, and in particular, anchored panels 152. These panels may be composed of materials with lower elasticity than the base layer 140, allowing them to resist stretching and offer increased stability where needed.

Between the lockout panels 150, stretch channels 160 are formed, allowing for controlled flexibility in specific regions of the shoe upper 110. The interaction between the lockout panels 150 and stretch channels 160 may create distinct support zones and flexibility zones within the shoe upper 110. In general, support zones may correspond to areas with a higher concentration of lockout panels 150, providing enhanced structural integrity and foot containment. On the other hand, flexibility zones may include the stretch channels 160 and may allow for greater range of motion and adaptability to foot shape changes during movement.

This zonal approach to support and flexibility may be particularly beneficial in high-performance athletic shoes, such as those designed for basketball. For example: the lateral side of the shoe upper 110 may incorporate more lockout panels 150 to create a support zone that enhances stability during quick cuts and direction changes. the medial forefoot area may feature more prominent stretch channels 160, forming a flexibility zone that facilitates natural foot flexion during push-off movements.

Non-linear Stiffness Response

The engineered textile 130 may incorporate features that allow for non-linear stiffness response in certain areas of the shoe upper 110. This characteristic may provide variable support under different levels of strain, potentially enhancing the shoe's adaptability to various athletic movements.

Non-linear stiffness in the context of athletic footwear refers to a material or structure's ability to exhibit different levels of resistance to deformation depending on the applied force or strain. This property may be particularly beneficial in athletic shoes, as it allows the shoe to adapt its support characteristics based on the intensity and type of movement being performed.

One approach may involve the use of panels with varying thickness 152 across their surface area. For instance, a lockout panel 150 may have a graduated thickness, being thicker at one end and tapering towards the other. This variation in thickness may result in different levels of resistance to deformation under increasing loads, potentially providing a progressive support mechanism as the shoe upper 110 is subjected to greater forces during more intense movements.

Another method for achieving non-linear stiffness may involve the incorporation of initially slack fibers within the structure of the lockout panels 150. These fibers may be designed to engage progressively as the panel is subjected to increasing strain. At low levels of deformation, the slack fibers may not contribute significantly to the panel's stiffness. However, as the strain increases and the fibers become taut, they may begin to resist further deformation, effectively increasing the panel's stiffness at higher load levels.

The interaction between these specially designed lockout panels 150 and the elastic base layer 140 may create variable stiffness zones within the shoe upper 110. These zones may exhibit different mechanical responses depending on the level of strain applied, potentially allowing the shoe to adapt to the changing demands of various athletic movements. For example, during low-intensity activities, the shoe upper 110 may remain relatively compliant, providing comfort and flexibility. As the intensity of movement increases, the variable stiffness zones may progressively stiffen, offering enhanced support and stability when needed most. These non-linear stiffness characteristics may be tailored for different areas of the shoe upper 110 to optimize performance for specific athletic activities. For example, in one configuration, panels in the midfoot region may be designed with a more pronounced non-linear response to provide enhanced stability during lateral movements, while panels in the forefoot may have a more gradual non-linear response to allow for greater flexibility during push-off phases.

Adaptability to Different Athletic Movements

The engineered textile 130 may be designed to respond dynamically to various types of athletic movements, potentially enhancing overall performance across different sports and activities. The combination of zonal support, efficient force transmission, and non-linear stiffness characteristics may contribute to the shoe's adaptability during movements such as cutting, jumping, and sprinting.

During cutting movements, which involve rapid changes in direction, the shoe 100 may adapt in the following ways: the support zones on the lateral side of the shoe, created by strategically placed lockout panels 150, may provide enhanced stability to resist the lateral forces generated during the movement. Integrated eyelets 190 and anchored panels 152, may help distribute the forces generated during the cut across the shoe structure, potentially improving responsiveness. Non-linear stiffness response of certain lockout panels 150 may allow for initial flexibility during the initiation of the cut, followed by increased support as the forces intensify during the change of direction.

For jumping movements, the flexibility zones in the forefoot region may allow for natural foot flexion during the take-off phase of the jump. Integrated eyelets 190 and anchored panels 152 may help channel the explosive forces generated during the jump from the sole structure 120 through the upper 110, and variable stiffness zones may provide progressive support during the landing phase, adapting to the impact forces to help stabilize the foot.

During sprinting activities, the stretch channels 160 may allow for natural foot expansion and contraction during the gait cycle, potentially enhancing comfort and reducing energy loss. Integrated eyelets 190 and anchored panels 152 may help efficiently transfer propulsive forces from the foot to the ground during the push-off phase of each stride, and non-linear stiffness characteristics may provide flexibility during the initial foot strike and increasing support during the propulsive phase of the stride.

The combination of these features may allow the shoe 100 to adapt to the specific demands of different sports and activities. For example, in basketball, which involves a mix of cutting, jumping, and sprinting movements, the shoe may provide a balance of lateral stability, vertical support, and forward propulsion. In tennis, where lateral movements are frequent, the shoe may offer enhanced lateral support while still allowing for quick forward and backward movements, Finally, in distance running, the shoe may prioritize consistent support and energy return over multiple miles, adapting to changes in the runner's gait as fatigue sets in.

By incorporating these adaptive features, the engineered textile 130 may potentially enhance overall athletic performance across a wide range of sports and activities, providing the right balance of support, flexibility, and responsiveness for each specific movement.

Dual-Base Layer Construction

In some embodiments, the engineered textile 130 may incorporate a dual-base layer construction variant, which may offer additional design flexibility and performance tuning options for the shoe upper 110. This construction may involve multiple layers, allowing for a more tailored approach to support, flexibility, and comfort across different areas of the upper 110.

Referring to FIG. 6, a view of a dual-layer construction variant of the engineered textile 130 of a shoe upper 110 is shown. In this configuration, the basic layered structure may comprise the elastic base layer 140 as the foundation, with a secondary elastic layer 145 incorporated above it. The secondary elastic layer 145 may have similar or different properties compared to the primary elastic base layer 140, depending on the desired performance characteristics. In one example, a first layer may be designed to prioritize stretch and flexibility, while the other may focus on durability and support. In some embodiments, the thickness and composition of the layers may vary across different areas of the shoe upper 110. For example, the first base layer 140 may have a variable thickness 142 ranging from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, with thicker regions potentially providing additional cushioning or support where needed. Likewise, the secondary elastic layer 145 may have its own variable thickness, which may be tailored to complement the base layer's properties. In some embodiments, the combined thickness of the layers may typically range from about 1 mm to about 4 mm, though thinner or thicker constructions may be employed in certain embodiments.

To create a cohesive structure in dual-layer constructions, the two elastic layers may be bonded together at various points. Inter-layer bonds 182 may be formed around the perimeter of the layers and potentially at strategic internal locations. These bonds may be created using techniques such as adhesive bonding, heat welding, or stitching, depending on the materials used and the desired properties of the final structure.

In some variations, between the inter-layer bonds 182, one or more ventilation channels may be formed. These channels may allow for air circulation between the layers, potentially enhancing the shoe's 100 breathability and moisture management properties. The size, shape, and distribution of these ventilation channels may be optimized for different performance requirements or environmental conditions.

In some variations of the dual-layer construction, the lockout panels 150 may be sandwiched between the two base layers 140. This configuration may allow for a smoother outer surface of the upper 110 while still providing the targeted support offered by the lockout panels 150. Alternatively, lockout panels 150 may be attached to the exterior of the outer layer, the interior of the inner layer, or both, depending on the desired performance characteristics.

The dual-layer construction may allow for the creation of variable stiffness zones within the shoe upper 110, where the combination of different layer thicknesses and materials can provide varying levels of support and flexibility. For instance, areas requiring more support may utilize stiffer materials or greater combined thickness of the two layers, while areas needing more flexibility may use more elastic materials or reduced thickness.

The layered construction approach may also facilitate the integration of additional functional elements within the upper 110 structure. For instance, cushioning pads, support structures, or even electronic components could potentially be incorporated between the layers, expanding the shoe's 100 capabilities without significantly altering its external appearance.

Material Variations

The engineered textile 130 utilized in the construction of the shoe upper 110 may incorporate various material variations for the elastic base layer 140 and lockout panels 150. These variations may allow for customization of elasticity, durability, and performance characteristics across different areas of the shoe 100, potentially enhancing its overall functionality for specific athletic activities or user preferences.

For the elastic base layer 140, a range of materials may be considered to achieve desired stretch and recovery properties. These may include: woven or knitted fabrics with high elasticity, potentially incorporating elastomeric fibers such as spandex or elastane; engineered knit structures offering targeted zones of stretch and breathability; advanced synthetic fibers, such as polyester or nylon blends, which may offer benefits like moisture-wicking properties or enhanced durability; open or closed cell foams, which may offer additional cushioning and impact absorption properties in addition to elasticity; extruded materials or rubber-like substances capable of multi-directional stretch

The lockout panels 150 may also benefit from material variations to achieve specific performance goals. Potential materials may include: high-strength, low-stretch materials such as tightly woven nylon or polyester fabrics; fabrics incorporating high-strength fibers such as aramid or ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE); materials with controlled stretch characteristics, such as directional stretch fabrics or engineered knits with varying stitch patterns; engineered foams or composite materials that offer a balance of support and flexibility; composite materials combining different fibers or structures within a single panel

In some variations, the lockout panels 150 may incorporate multiple layers or zones of different materials to achieve specific performance characteristics. For instance, a panel may feature a high-strength core material surrounded by a more flexible outer layer, potentially allowing for a combination of support and comfort.

The selection of materials for both the elastic base layer 140 and lockout panels 150 may be tailored to meet the specific requirements of different athletic activities. For example, materials with enhanced moisture-wicking properties may be preferred for activities that involve intense perspiration, while materials with superior abrasion resistance may be chosen for sports that involve frequent contact with rough surfaces.

Furthermore, the material properties of the base layer 140 and lockout panels 150 may be optimized for different climate conditions. For instance, materials with enhanced thermal regulation properties may be used in shoes designed for hot weather, while materials with improved insulation may be preferred for cold weather applications.

Panel Design Variations

The engineered textile 130 utilized in the construction of the shoe upper 110 may incorporate various panel design variations for the lockout panels 150. These variations may allow for customization of support, flexibility, and performance characteristics across different areas of the shoe 100, potentially enhancing its overall functionality for specific athletic activities or user preferences.

One potential variation in panel design may involve the use of variable thickness panels. The profile of a variable thickness panel may feature areas of different thicknesses within a single panel, potentially allowing for a more nuanced control over the panel's response to applied forces. For example, a panel may have a thicker central region for maximum support, transitioning to thinner edges for improved flexibility and integration with the elastic base layer 140.

The variable thickness profile may contribute to a non-uniform response to applied forces, potentially allowing for greater flexibility under low strain conditions and increased support as the strain increases. This graduated response may be particularly beneficial in areas of the shoe 100 that experience complex stress patterns during athletic movements, such as the midfoot or heel regions.

Another design variation may include interlocking panel designs. In this approach, adjacent lockout panels 150 may feature complementary edge shapes that interlock or overlap when assembled on the elastic base layer 140. This interlocking configuration may enhance structural integrity and potentially create unique aesthetic patterns on the shoe upper 110. The interlocking design may also allow for more complex force distribution pathways, potentially improving overall support and stability.

The shape and size of lockout panels 150 may also be varied to achieve specific performance goals. For instance, elongated panels may be used in areas requiring directional support, while more compact, polygonal shapes may be employed for localized reinforcement. The strategic use of panel shapes may allow for the creation of more nuanced support zones and flexibility zones within the shoe upper 110.

In some embodiments, perforated or mesh-like panel designs may be incorporated to enhance breathability while maintaining structural support. These perforated panels may feature strategically placed openings or a grid-like structure that allows for air circulation while still providing the desired level of stretch resistance. This design variation may be particularly beneficial in areas of the shoe upper 110 prone to heat buildup during intense athletic activities.

The material composition of the lockout panels 150 may also be subject to variation within a single panel. For instance, a panel may feature zones of different materials or material densities, potentially allowing for areas of high support alongside areas of greater flexibility. This multi-material approach may be particularly useful in creating panels that can adapt to the complex movements and stress patterns experienced during athletic activities.

Alternative embodiments may explore combinations of these design variations within a single shoe upper 110. For example, a shoe may incorporate variable thickness panels in high-stress areas, interlocking designs for enhanced midfoot support, and perforated panels in zones requiring increased ventilation. This multi-faceted approach to panel design may allow for highly customized performance characteristics tailored to specific athletic activities or user needs.

The flexibility offered by these panel design variations may contribute to the overall adaptability of the engineered textile 130, potentially allowing for more precise tuning of shoe performance across different regions of the upper 110. By providing a range of options for controlling support, flexibility, and other functional aspects, these design variations may enhance the versatility and effectiveness of the shoe 100 across various athletic applications.