AUTOMATIC PUMP WITH RELEASE FEATURE FOR ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/718,310, filed on Nov. 8, 2024. The disclosure of this prior application is considered part of the disclosure of this application and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to an article of footwear, and more particularly to a sole structure for an article of footwear

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

Articles of apparel, such as garments and headwear, and articles of footwear, such as shoes and boots, typically include a receptacle for receiving a body part of a wearer. For example, an article of footwear may include an upper and a sole structure that cooperate to form a receptacle for receiving a foot of a wearer. Likewise, garments and headwear may include one or more pieces of material formed into a receptacle for receiving a torso or head of a wearer.

Articles of apparel or footwear are typically adjustable and/or include a relatively flexible material to allow the article of apparel or footwear to accommodate various sizes of wearers, or to provide different fits on a single wearer. While conventional articles of apparel and articles of footwear are adjustable, such articles typically require a wearer to secure the article by lacing or other means. For example, while laces adequately secure an article of footwear to a wearer by contracting or constricting a portion of an upper around the wearer's foot, the laces do not cause the upper to lock in a size or shape conforming to the user's foot. Accordingly, an optimum fit of the upper around the foot is difficult to achieve.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1A is a lateral side perspective view of an article of footwear incorporating an automatic pump according to an example of the present disclosure, where the article of footwear is in a relaxed state;

FIG. 1B is a lateral side perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A, where the article of footwear is in a constricted state;

FIG. 2 is an exploded top perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pump device according to an example of the present disclosure with a first plate and a second plate disposed around a fluid envelope;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the pump device of FIG. 3 with part of a housing removed to show a fluid envelope;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional plan view of the pump device of FIG. 2, taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a release feature of the pump device of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a pump device according to another example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A is a lateral side perspective view of an article of footwear equipped with an exemplary release device according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B is a lateral side perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 7A, where the article of footwear is in a constricted state and the exemplary release device is rotated to release the constricted state;

FIG. 8A is an exploded side view of an exemplary release device according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 8B is an exploded top perspective view of the release device of FIG. 8A; and

FIG. 8C is a perspective view of the release device of FIG. 8B, the release device being rotatably operable.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and the example configurations should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

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

In one configuration, an article of footwear includes an upper including a chamber and a compressible component disposed within the chamber and operable between a relaxed state and a constricted state. The article of footwear also includes a pump device fluidly coupled to the chamber. The pump device is operable to transition the compressible component from the relaxed state to the constricted state by removing fluid from the chamber at a first flow rate. The pump device includes a release feature operable to transition the compressible component from the constricted state to the relaxed state at a second flow rate.

The article of footwear may include one or more of the following optional features. For example, a sole structure of the article of footwear may include a recess forming a cavity, and the pump device may be disposed within the cavity. In some examples, the pump device may include a fluid envelope. Additionally or alternatively, the pump device may include a first plate and a second plate, and the fluid envelope may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate. Optionally, the second rate may define a static release of the release feature. In some instances, the release feature may include an orifice. The orifice may be defined by the second flow rate being greater than the first flow rate. The article of footwear may also include at least one conduit coupled to the pump device and may include the release feature operable to selectively allow fluid to enter the chamber and permit movement of the compressible component from the constricted state to the relaxed state. The at least one conduit may include a first conduit coupled to the pump device and a second conduit coupled to the first conduit, and the second conduit may include the release feature. Optionally, the pump device may include a valve in fluid communication with the chamber and the fluid envelope, and the fluid removed from the chamber may be received within the fluid envelope.

In another configuration, an article of footwear includes an upper including a chamber and a pump device fluidly coupled to the chamber. The pump device is operable to transition the upper from a relaxed state to a constricted state by removing fluid from the chamber at a first rate. The article of footwear also includes a release feature fluidly coupled with the chamber and operable to transition the upper from the constricted state to the relaxed state at a second rate. The second rate defines a static release of the release feature.

The article of footwear may include one or more of the following optional features. For example, the article of footwear may include a sole structure including a recess forming a cavity, and the pump device may be disposed within the cavity. In some examples, the pump device may include a fluid envelope and is fluidly coupled with the release feature. Optionally, the pump device may include a first plate and a second plate, and the fluid envelope may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate. The article of footwear may also include a release device including the release feature. The release device may include a first housing and a second housing, and the first housing and the second housing may be rotatably operable in opposing directions between a first position and a second position. The release feature may define an orifice in the second position of the first housing and the second housing.

In some instances, the second position of the first housing and the second housing may correspond with the relaxed state of the upper. Additionally or alternatively, the first housing and the second housing may be rotated in opposing directions when the upper is moved from the constricted state to the relaxed state. The article of footwear may also include at least one conduit coupled to the pump device, and the release feature may be disposed at the at least one conduit and may be operable to selectively allow fluid to enter the chamber and permit movement of the upper from the constricted state to the relaxed state. In some examples, the at least one conduit may include a first conduit coupled to the pump device and a second conduit coupled to the first conduit, and the second conduit may include the release feature. Optionally, the pump device may include a valve in fluid communication with the chamber and the fluid envelope, and the fluid removed from the chamber may be received within the fluid envelope.

The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

Referring to FIGS. 1A-2, an article of footwear 10 includes a sole structure 100 and an upper 200 attached to the sole structure 100. The article of footwear 10 may further include an anterior end 12 associated with a forward-most point of the footwear, and a posterior end 14 corresponding to a rearward-most point of the footwear 10. A longitudinal axis A₁₀ of the footwear 10 extends along a length of the footwear 10 from the anterior end 12 to the posterior end 14 parallel to a ground surface, and generally divides the footwear 10 into a medial side 16 and a lateral side 18. Accordingly, the medial side 16 and the lateral side 18 respectively correspond with opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend from the anterior end 12 to the posterior end 14. As used herein, a longitudinal direction refers to the direction extending from the anterior end 12 to the posterior end 14, while a lateral direction refers to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the medial side 16 to the lateral side 18.

The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region 20, a mid-foot region 22, and a heel region 24. The forefoot region 20 may correspond with the phalanges and the metatarsal bones of a foot. The mid-foot region 22 may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel region 24 may correspond with rear portions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone.

As shown, the sole structure 100 includes a midsole 102 configured to provide cushioning and support and an outsole 104 defining a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure 100. In other examples, the midsole 102 may be configured as a composite structure including a plurality of components joined together.

The article of footwear 10 may be further described as including an automatic pump device 300 and a valve 108. The automatic pump device 300 is disposed in the sole structure 100 and may be in fluid communication with the upper 200 through one or more valves to adjust the pressure in the upper 200 from a first pressure (e.g., at or above ambient) to a second pressure (e.g., at or below ambient) by removing fluid (e.g., a gas or liquid) from the upper 200. As illustrated, the automatic pump device 300 may include a first pump 302 disposed in the forefoot region 20 of the midsole 102, and a second pump 304 disposed in the heel region 24 of the midsole 102. However, in some implementations, the automatic pump device 300 may include a single pump device 300 disposed in the forefoot region 20, the mid-foot region 22, or the heel region 24 or any combination of pump devices 300 located in the forefoot region 20, the mid-foot region 22, and/or the heel region 24. The valve 108 may be connected to an outside surface of the upper 200 and is in fluid communication with the automatic pump device 300. As discussed in greater detail below, the automatic pump device 300 is operable to transition the upper 200 between a relaxed state (FIG. 1A) and a constricted state (FIG. 1B). In some configurations, the article of footwear 10 may include a release device 400 (FIG. 7A) that is configured to return the upper 200 to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A), described below.

With reference to FIG. 2, the midsole 102 is further defined by a top surface 110 facing the upper 200, and a bottom surface 112 formed on an opposite side of the midsole 102 than the top surface 110 and facing away from the upper 200. Stitching and/or adhesives may secure the midsole 102 to the upper 200. The top surface 110 of the midsole 102 includes a foot cavity that defines a footbed of the sole structure 100 extending continuously from the anterior end 12 to the posterior end 14 of the footwear 10. The outsole 104 is defined by a top surface 114 facing the bottom surface 112 of the midsole 102, and a bottom surface 116 that defines a ground-engaging surface and is formed on an opposite side of the outsole 104 than the top surface 114.

The midsole 102 and the outsole 104 include a resilient polymeric material, such as foam or rubber, to impart properties of cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution to the foot of the wearer. In the illustrated example, the midsole 102 is formed of a first foam material, and the outsole 104 is formed of a second foam material. For example, the midsole 102 may include foam materials providing greater cushioning and impact distribution, while the outsole 104 includes a foam material having a greater stiffness and/or rigidity in order to provide increased lateral stiffness to the sole structure 100.

Example resilient polymeric materials for the midsole 102 and the outsole 104 may include those based on foaming or molding one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)). The one or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or mixtures of both; and may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or mixtures of both.

In some aspects, the one or more polymers may include olefinic homopolymers, olefinic copolymers, or blends thereof. Examples of olefinic polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof. In other aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more ethylene copolymers, such as, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, EVOH copolymers, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymers, ethylene-unsaturated mono-fatty acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

In further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylic acetate, polymethyl acrylate, polyethyl acrylate, polybutyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyvinyl acetate; including derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, and any combinations thereof.

In yet further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more ionomeric polymers. In these aspects, the ionomeric polymers may include polymers with carboxylic acid functional groups, sulfonic acid functional groups, salts thereof (e.g., sodium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), and/or anhydrides thereof. For instance, the ionomeric polymer(s) may include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomeric polymers, polystyrene sulfonate, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

In further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more styrenic block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile block copolymers, styrene ethylene butylene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene propylene styrene block copolymers, styrene butadiene styrene block copolymers, and combinations thereof.

In further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyamide copolymers (e.g., polyamide-polyether copolymers) and/or one or more polyurethanes (e.g., cross-linked polyurethanes and/or thermoplastic polyurethanes). Alternatively, the one or more polymers may include one or more natural and/or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

When the resilient polymeric material is a foamed polymeric material, the foamed material may be foamed using a physical blowing agent which phase transitions to a gas based on a change in temperature and/or pressure, or a chemical blowing agent which forms a gas when heated above its activation temperature. For example, the chemical blowing agent may be an azo compound such as azodicarbonamide, sodium bicarbonate, and/or an isocyanate.

In some embodiments, the foamed polymeric material may be a crosslinked foamed material. In these embodiments, a peroxide-based crosslinking agent such as dicumyl peroxide may be used. Furthermore, the foamed polymeric material may include one or more fillers such as pigments, modified or natural clays, modified or unmodified synthetic clays, talc glass fiber, powdered glass, modified or natural silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips, and the like.

The resilient polymeric material may be formed using a molding process. In one example, when the resilient polymeric material is a molded elastomer, the uncured elastomer (e.g., rubber) may be mixed in a Banbury mixer with an optional filler and a curing package such as a sulfur-based or peroxide-based curing package, calendared, formed into shape, placed in a mold, and vulcanized.

In another example, when the resilient polymeric material is a foamed material, the material may be foamed during a molding process, such as an injection molding process. A thermoplastic polymeric material may be melted in the barrel of an injection molding system and combined with a physical or chemical blowing agent and optionally a crosslinking agent, and then injected into a mold under conditions which activate the blowing agent, forming a molded foam.

Optionally, when the resilient polymeric material is a foamed material, the foamed material may be a compression molded foam. Compression molding may be used to alter the physical properties (e.g., density, stiffness and/or durometer) of a foam, or to alter the physical appearance of the foam (e.g., to fuse two or more pieces of foam, to shape the foam, etc.), or both.

The compression molding process desirably starts by forming one or more foam preforms, such as by injection molding and foaming a polymeric material, by forming foamed particles or beads, by cutting foamed sheet stock, and the like. The compression molded foam may then be made by placing the one or more preforms formed of foamed polymeric material(s) in a compression mold, and applying sufficient pressure to the one or more preforms to compress the one or more preforms in a closed mold. Once the mold is closed, sufficient heat and/or pressure is applied to the one or more preforms in the closed mold for a sufficient duration of time to alter the preform(s) by forming a skin on the outer surface of the compression molded foam, fuse individual foam particles to each other, permanently increase the density of the foam(s), or any combination thereof. Following the heating and/or application of pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is removed from the mold.

With further reference to FIGS. 1A-2, a recessed surface 118 is offset from the top surface 110 of the midsole 102 to form a first cavity 120 and a second cavity 122 and in the top surface 110 of the midsole 102. The second cavity 122 may be spaced apart from the first cavity 120. The first cavity 120 may be sized to receive a first pump device 302 of the automatic pump device 300, while the second cavity 122 may be sized to receive a second pump device 304 of the automatic pump device 300. In other words, the first cavity 120 and the second cavity 122 cooperate to receive the automatic pump device 300 including the first pump 302 and the second pump 304. Optionally, the first pump 302 and the second pump 304 may be configured to operate in series to maximize the evacuation of the upper 200. Alternatively, the first pump 302 and the second pump 304 may be coupled in parallel to maximize the total volume of fluid drawn by the pump device 300. While FIG. 2 shows the first cavity 120 and the second cavity 122 disposed in the forefoot region 20 and the heel region 24, respectively, the first cavity 120 and the second cavity 122 may alternatively be disposed in any of the forefoot region 20, the mid-foot region 22, or the heel region 24 of the midsole 102. In some implementations, the midsole 102 and the outsole 104 are integrally formed and receive the automatic pump device 300. Alternatively, the automatic pump device 300 may extend to an outer surface of the article of footwear (not shown) to allow access to the automatic pump device 300.

Referring again to FIGS. 1A-2, the upper 200 may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to define the interior void 202. Suitable materials of the upper 200 may include, but are not limited to, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The example upper 200 may be formed from a combination of one or more substantially inelastic or non-stretchable materials and one or more substantially elastic or stretchable materials disposed in different regions of the upper 200 to facilitate movement of the article of footwear 10 between the constricted state and the relaxed state. The one or more elastic materials may include any combination of one or more elastic fabrics such as, without limitation, spandex, elastane, rubber or neoprene. The one or more inelastic materials may include any combination of one or more of thermoplastic polyurethanes, nylon, leather, vinyl, or another material/fabric that does not impart properties of elasticity.

In the illustrated example, the upper 200 includes one or more fluid chambers 204 in fluid communication with the pump device 300. Each of the chambers 204 includes a compressible component 206 disposed therein, which compresses as the upper 200 transitions from the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) to the constricted state (FIG. 1B). The compressible component 206 may include a lattice structure 208 defining a plurality of reliefs 210 (e.g., openings) and is designed to resiliently be contracted and expanded by the pump device 300. As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the automatic pump device 300 is in fluid communication with the chambers 204 of the upper 200. In these implementations, a conduit 306 connects the automatic pump device 300 to the chambers 204 of the upper 200 allowing fluid communication between the automatic pump device 300 and the upper 200. Stated differently, the pump device 300 may be fluidly coupled to the chambers 204 to transition the compressible component 206 between the relaxed state and the constricted state.

With reference to FIGS. 3-7C, the automatic pump device 300 is illustrated in multiple configurations. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the automatic pump device 300, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

With particular reference to FIGS. 3-5A, an automatic pump device 300a is illustrated with a body 308 defining a central flex region 310 and arms 312 radially extending therefrom. The body 308 also has first plate 314 and a second plate 316 that interconnect to define a locking arrangement of the body 308. The arms 312 may generally taper from the flex region 310 of each of the first and second plates 314, 316 of the body 308. The arms 312 may have varying lengths, such that a short arm 318 is disposed between two long arms 320. This arrangement may define a nested configuration of the first and second plates 314, 316 to define the body 308. Each of the arms 312 may have curved or otherwise hooked ends 322 configured to interlock with an end 322 of an adjacent arm 312 on the opposing plate 314, 316. The ends 322 alternate in connectivity, such that every other arm 312 of the first plate 314 is nested with every other arm 312 of the second plate 316. Stated differently, the arms 312 of the first and second plates 314, 316 may define an alternating interlocked configuration.

The first and second plates 314, 316 are disposed around and generally encase a fluid envelope 330a configured to collect the fluid displaced from the upper 200 (FIG. 1A). The fluid envelope 330a is contemplated to be configured as an airbag, a bladder, and/or any mechanism for holding a volume of fluid (e.g., liquid and/or gas). The automatic pump device 300a draws an at least partial vacuum within the chambers 204 (FIG. 1B) of the upper 200 by removing fluid from the chambers 204 and transferring the fluid into the fluid envelope 330a. The fluid envelope 330 is at least partially sealed via a pump valve 332, which may be a check valve and/or any valve for receiving and selectively retaining fluid drawn from the chambers 204 (FIG. 1B).

The pump device 300a includes a release feature 334a proximate to the pump valve 332. For example, the release feature 334a may be defined along the conduit 306a within the pump device 300a, as illustrated in FIG. 5. In other examples, the release feature 334a may be defined along the conduit 306 outside the pump device 300a. In either configuration, the release feature 334a is in fluid communication with the chambers 204 of the upper 200 via a conduit or otherwise. The release feature 334a may be formed using laser cutting, such that the release feature 334a may be a knife cut in the conduit 306 to assist in selective release of the fluid from the fluid envelope 330a into the chambers 204 of the upper 200. As such, the release feature 334a forms an opening or aperture formed through a thickness of the conduit 306. For example, the release feature 334a defines a static release of the fluid from the fluid envelope 330a, such that the chambers 204 are transitioned, via the release feature 334a, from the constricted state to the relaxed state (FIG. 1B) as a function of time.

For example, the pump device 300a transitions the compressible component 206 from the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) to the constricted state (FIG. 1B) by removing fluid from the chambers 204 to the fluid envelope 330a at a first rate, or first flow rate. The first flow rate may generally be defined during a gait cycle (e.g., walking, running, etc.) of the wearer, such that the pump device 300a may be activated during the gait cycle to define the first flow rate. The release feature 334a is similarly configured to translate the fluid during a static period (e.g., non-movement of the footwear). For example, the release feature 334a transitions the compressible component 206 from the constricted state (FIG. 1B) to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) at a second rate, such that fluid may exit the fluid envelope 330a at the second rate, or second flow rate. The second flow rate defines the static release of the release feature 334a and is contemplated as a function of time.

The release feature 334a illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 5A is depicted in a release state, such that fluid contained within the fluid envelope 330a may be released back to the chambers 204 (FIG. 1A). The release state of the release feature 334a may be defined based on a fluid pressure of the fluid envelope 330a. For example, the fluid envelope 330a may approach a predefined pressure at which the fluid may re-enter the conduit 306a and transition the release feature 334a into the release state from a closed state. For example, the release feature 334a may be in the closed state during operation of the pump device 300a corresponding to movement of the footwear 10 (FIG. 1B). The fluid within the fluid envelope 330a may reach the predefined pressure within the fluid envelope 330a and may return to the conduit 306a. The pressure defined within the conduit 306a may transition the release feature 334a into the release state, such that the fluid may exit the pump device 300a via the release feature 334a.

In some instances, the fluid may re-enter the conduit 306a at the second rate while additional fluid is drawn into the fluid envelope 330a at the first rate. The first rate is greater than the second rate, such that the release feature 334a may remain in the closed state until the fluid moving at the second rate exceeds fluid moving at the first rate. For example, as the wearer slows or stops movement of the footwear 10, the pump device 300a slows or stops drawing fluid from the upper 200. Thus, the fluid in the fluid envelope 330a may transition, at the second rate, through the release feature 334a toward the upper 200. Once released from the pressure device 300a, the fluid may re-enter the chambers 204 (FIG. 1A) to transition the chambers 204 back to the relaxed state.

In other examples, the release feature 334a may remain in the release state during operation of the pump device 300a. For example, the pressure, at the first flow rate, of the fluid entering the fluid envelope 330a may be greater than a release pressure, at the second flow rate, defined at the release feature 334a. Thus, during operation of the pump device 300a, the fluid is drawn into the fluid envelope 330a past the release feature 334a to transition the compressible component 206 from the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) to the constricted state (FIG. 1B). After operation of the pump device 300a, the release feature 334a may slowly release the fluid from the fluid envelope 330a to transition the compressible component 206 from the constricted state (FIG. 1B) back to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A). In this configuration, the release feature 334a operates as a passive feature in that the release feature 334a is free of activation by the pump device 300a and is operable based on the fluid flow over a period of time.

As mentioned above, activation of the pump device 300a draws fluid into the fluid envelope 330a at the first rate and deactivation of the pump device 300a draws fluid to the release feature 334a at the second rate. The second rate, defined at the release feature 334a, may be less than the first rate. Thus, when the pump device 300a actively draws fluid into the fluid envelope 330a at the first rate, the fluid remains within the conduit 306a and is directed into the fluid envelope 330a. Once the first rate is slowed or stopped, as a result of deactivation of the pump device 300a, the fluid may transition toward the release feature 334a at the second rate.

The second rate of fluid flow may be sufficient to open or activate the release feature 334a or to pass from the fluid envelope 330a and out of the release feature 334a, depending on the configuration of the release feature 334a. Thus, the release feature 334a may be described as being an engineered release or engineered leak of the pump device 300a. The engineered leak provides passive transition of the upper 200 from the constricted state (FIG. 1B) to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A). The passive release provides the wearer with the ability to actively tighten or constrict the upper 200 via the pump device 300a during active movement and the ability to passively release once the movement is complete. The operation of the pump device 300a with respect to transitioning the compressible component 206 from the relaxed state to the constricted state is described in more detail below.

With reference now to FIG. 6, an automatic pump device 300b has a body 308 that surrounds or otherwise encases a fluid envelope 330b configured to receive a fluid (e.g., liquid and/or gas) from the upper 200 (FIG. 1A) of the footwear 10 (FIG. 1A). The body 308 also includes arms 312 that radially extend from a central flex region 310 at which the automatic pump device 300b may be compressed, as will be described in greater detail below. The body 308 also has a first plate 314 and a second plate 316 that interconnect to define a locking arrangement of the body 308. The arms 312 may generally taper from the flex region 310 of each of the first and second plates 314, 316 of the body 308. The arms 312 may have varying lengths, such that a short arm 318 is disposed between two long arms 320. This arrangement may define a nested configuration of the first and second plates 314, 316 to define the body 308. Each of the arms 312 may have curved or otherwise hooked ends 322 configured to interlock with an end 322 of an adjacent arm 312 on the opposing plate 314, 316. The ends 322 alternate in connectivity, such that every other arm 312 of the first plate 314 is nested with every other arm 312 of the second plate 316. Stated differently, the arms 312 of the first and second plates 314, 316 may define an alternating interlocked configuration.

The first and second plates 314, 316 are disposed around and generally encase the fluid envelope 330b. The pump device 300b further includes a first conduit 306b coupled to the fluid envelope 330b via a pump valve 332b and a second, branch conduit 340b coupled to the first conduit 306b via a second pump valve 342b. The second pump valve 342b is configured to allow the fluid to pass from the first conduit 306b into the second conduit 340b. The second conduit 340b includes a release feature 334b of the pump device 300b through which fluid may be expelled back into the chambers 204 (FIG. 1A). For example, the second conduit 340b may be in fluid communication with the chambers 204 via the release feature 334b by positioning the release feature 334b within one of the chambers 204 of the upper 200 or, alternatively, by coupling the release feature 334b to the chambers 204 via a conduit or otherwise.

As similarly described with respect to FIGS. 5 and 5A, the release feature 334b defines a passive release system of the pressure device 300b. The release feature 334b may be defined along the branch conduit 340b proximate to the second pump valve 342b. Alternatively, the release feature 334b may be defined at any practicable location along the branch conduit 340b. FIG. 6 illustrates the release feature 334b being positioned proximate to the second pump valve 342b, but the release feature 334b may be positioned at any practicable location along the branch conduit 340. For example, a portion of the branch conduit 340b may be exterior to the chambers 204, while a distal portion of the branch conduit 340b may be disposed within the chambers 204. The release feature 334b within the chamber 204 remains sealed or otherwise inactive during operation of the pump device 300b and is activated in response to the fluid passing through the branch conduit 340b.

The second pump valve 342b may be configured as a spring-loaded ball valve that is activated in response to a dynamic state change based on the difference in a first flow rate of the fluid and a second flow rate of the fluid. Stated differently, the pump device 300b may be operable to transition the compressible component 206 (FIG. 1A) from the relaxed state to the constricted state (FIG. 1B) by removing fluid from the chambers 204 at the first flow rate. The release feature 334b is configured to transition the compressible component 206 from the constricted state (FIG. 1B) to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) at the second flow rate. For example, as mentioned above, the fluid may flow into the fluid envelope 330b at the first flow rate and may exit the fluid envelope 330b at the second flow rate.

The second pump valve 342b may be activated in response to the second flow rate and may be closed or otherwise inactive when the pump device 300b is actively drawing fluid into the fluid envelope 330b. For example, the second pump valve 342b may be configured to open in response to the second flow rate, with the first flow rate being greater and, thus, passing over the second pump valve 342b. The second flow rate defines the static release of the release feature 334b when the second flow rate is greater than the first flow rate. The second flow rate is greater than the first flow rate when the wearer stops or minimizes movement of the footwear 10, resulting in deactivation of the pump device 300b, as described in more detail below.

The release feature 334b defined along the branch conduit 340b may be formed as a knife or laser cut in the branch conduit 340. The release feature 334b may thus be selectively sealed and opened based on the fluid flow from the second pump valve 342b or may be an opening in the conduit 340b through which the fluid may pass after passing through the second pump valve 342b. As mentioned above, the fluid is drawn into the fluid envelope 330b from the chambers 204 at the first flow rate. When the pump device 300b is inactive or otherwise passive, the fluid may pass from the fluid envelope 330b to the branch conduit 340b at the second flow rate. The second flow rate may be less than the first flow rate, such that when the pump device 300b is active, the fluid is translated past the branch conduit 340b toward the fluid envelope 330b.

As the fluid may exit the fluid envelope 330b toward the branch conduit 340b when the pump device 300b is passive, the pump valve 332b may be configured as a two-way valve. Thus, the fluid may both enter and exit the fluid envelope 330b via the pump valve 332b. Comparatively, the second pump valve 342b may be configured as a one-way valve configured to direct the fluid moving away from the fluid envelope 330b into the branch conduit 340b. The branch conduit 340b may be connected to or otherwise positioned within the chambers 204 (FIG. 1A) to return the fluid to the chambers 204 and transition the compressible component 206 from the constricted state (FIG. 1B) to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) with fluid from the fluid envelope 330b.

With reference now to FIGS. 7A-8C, an article of footwear 10a is provided. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

The article of footwear 10a includes a release device 400 at a lateral side 18. The automatic pump device 300, described in detail above, is disposed in a sole structure 100 and may be in fluid communication with an upper 200 through one or more valves to adjust the pressure in the upper 200 from a first pressure (e.g., at or above ambient) to a second pressure (e.g., at or below ambient) by removing fluid (e.g., a gas or liquid) from the upper 200. The release device 400 is in fluid communication with the upper 200 through one or more conduits to adjust the pressure in the upper 200 from the second pressure (e.g., at or below ambient) to the first pressure (e.g., at or above ambient) by adding fluid (e.g., a gas or liquid) to the upper 200.

For example, FIG. 7A illustrates the release device 400 in a neutral state where the upper 200 is in a relaxed state, and FIG. 7B illustrates the release device 400 in a release state when the upper 200 is in a constricted state. The release device 400 is configured to have a slow leak or release of fluid into the upper 200 when the release device 400 is in the neutral state, such that the constricted state of the upper 200 may experience a slow release by the release device 400. To increase the rate of release of the upper 200 (i.e., from the constricted state to the relaxed state), the release device 400 may be transitioned to the release state (FIG. 7B) to encourage an increased rate of fluid return to the upper 200. The release device 400 may be utilized in an example where the pump device 300, described above, is free of or otherwise not configured with a release feature 334c, such that a release feature 334c is configured as part of the release device 400. In other instances, the release device 400 may be utilized in combination with the pump device 300 regardless of whether the pump device 300 is configured with the release feature 334c.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8C, the release device 400 has a body 402 that surrounds or otherwise encases the release feature 334c, which is configured to receive a fluid (e.g., liquid and/or gas). The body 402 also includes a first housing 404 and a second housing 406 that each defines a groove 408 configured to receive a projection 410c of the release feature 334c. The projections 410c are disposed within the grooves 408 when the release device 400 is assembled. The first housing 404 and the second housing 406 are configured to rotate about the release feature 334c. For example, the projections 410c of the release feature 334c are assembled within the grooves 408 and engage the respective housings 404, 406 upon rotation of the housings 404, 406. As described below, the engagement between the projections 410c and the grooves 408 engages or activates the release feature 334c to permit fluid flow into the chambers 204.

The fluid from the chambers 204 may be drawn into the fluid envelope 330 of the pump device 300 in any manner described herein. The fluid gathered by the pump device 300 may be expelled from the footwear 10 via the valve 108, which may be configured as a one-way exhaust valve, or via the release device 400. The release device 400 may be activated by the wearer to return fluid to the chambers 204 and transition the upper 200 from the constricted state (FIG. 7B) to the relaxed state (FIG. 7A). For example, the release device 400 includes an inlet 412 that may draw fluid into the release device 400. The inlet 412 is illustrated as part of the second housing 406. However, the inlet 412 may be configured on the first housing 404 in other configurations. In further configurations, the release device 400 may include multiple inlets 412. The wearer may rotate the housings 404, 406 relative to one another, which activates the release feature 334c. The release feature 334c, when activated, defines an orifice 414c through which the fluid may pass into the chambers 204 to translate the upper 200 into the relaxed state (FIG. 7A).

When the release device 400 is inactive, the orifice 414c of the release feature 334c is at least partially sealed, such that fluid within the release device 400 is minimized from moving into the chambers 204. The orifice 414c may be defined via laser cutting the release feature 334c, which may be formed of a pliable or flexible material (e.g., silicone). The orifice 414c generally provides a partial leak or fluid access from the inlet 412 into the upper 200, such that a continuous, slow rate leak of fluid enters the upper 200. Once the compressible component 206 is transitioned from the relaxed state (FIG. 7A) to the constricted state (FIG. 7B) and movement of the wearer is reduced or minimal, the wearer may rotate one of the housings 404, 406 to fully activate the release feature 334c. The fluid may enter the release device 400 via the inlet 412 at an increased rate compared to when the release device 400 is static (i.e., not rotated). In some examples, the wearer may actuate the inlet 412 to supply the release device 400 with fluid and may rotate at least one of the housings 404, 406 to actuate the release feature 334c. In other examples, the inlets 412 may be automatically actuated when the housings 404, 406 are rotated to permit fluid to enter the chambers 204 via the release feature 334c.

Activating the release feature 334c is accomplished due to interaction between the projections 410c, the grooves 408, and the material defining the release feature 334c. Namely, as one or both of the housings 404, 406 are rotated, the projections 410c exert a force on the pliable material defining the release feature 334c, thereby causing the material to twist and bend. In so doing, the orifice 414c is widened and the release feature 334c is moved into an actuated state.

When the first housing 404 and the second housing 406 rotate, the fluid may be expelled into the chambers 204 (FIG. 7A) via the orifice 414c of the release feature 334c. When the wearer is actively moving, the release feature 334c is sealed and the fluid is prevented from entering the chambers 204 (FIG. 7A). Once the wearer is inactive and actuates the release device 400, the release feature 334c may be activated and the fluid may be expelled via the orifice 414c. For example, an outlet 416c of the release device 400 may be coupled to the conduit 306 to direct the fluid back into the chambers 204 (FIG. 7A). The outlet 416c is illustrated as being part of the first housing 404 but may be configured as part of the second housing 406 where the orifice 414c of the release feature 334c may be defined proximate to the second housing 406. The pump valve 332 may prevent the fluid from being directed toward the pump device 300 (FIG. 3) when the release device 400 is active, such that the pump valve 332 (FIG. 3) remains inactive when the pump device 300 is inactive. For example, the pump valve 332 may permit fluid flow only in response to the activation of the pump device 300.

FIGS. 7B and 8C illustrate the rotational movement of the release device 400, such that the first housing 404 may rotate relative to the second housing 406 and/or the second housing 406 may rotate relative to the first housing 404. For example, a wearer of the footwear 10a may manually manipulate one of the housings 404, 406 to activate the release device 400 via rotation of one of the housings 404, 406. The projections 410c of the release feature 334c are configured to engage the respective housing 404, 406 in opposing directions at the grooves 408 to actuate or open the orifice 414c. The rotation opens the release feature 334c to define the orifice 414c through which the fluid may enter the chambers 204 to define the relaxed state (FIG. 7A). A bottom portion of the release feature 334c may be sealed relative to the second housing 406, such that the fluid is directed from the release feature 334c toward the outlet 416c at the first housing 404. In other configurations, the orifice 414c may be defined on both sides of the release feature 334c.

With reference to FIGS. 3-8C, the automatic pump device 300-300b may have a circular configuration, as illustrated. Additionally or alternatively, the automatic pump devices 300-300b may be configured as an oval, an orb, a leaf spring, and/or any other configuration for drawing a vacuum within the upper 200 (FIG. 7A). The first and second plates 314, 316 of the pump device 300-300b each have a predefined restorative force that returns the flex region 310 to an expanded condition after compression of the pump device 300-300b. For example, the pump device 300-300b may be compressed at the flex region 310, and the release of the compressed pump device 300-300b may draw the vacuum by drawing air from the upper 200 (FIG. 7A) into the fluid envelope 330-330b to define the constricted state of the upper 200 (FIG. 7B), as described in more detail below. Stated differently, the pump device 300-300b may transition between a first position and a second position as the vacuum is drawn within the upper 200.

Referring now to FIGS. 3-7C, in use, the pressure within the chambers 204 of the upper 200 is reduced by drawing a vacuum within the chambers 204 of the upper 200 via the automatic pump device 300-300b. As the pressure is reduced, the upper 200 moves from the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) to the constricted state (FIG. 1B) that forms or otherwise draws the upper 200 around the wearer's foot. Thus, as the vacuum is drawn by cycling the automatic pump device 300-300b, fluid is drawn from within the chambers 204 of the upper 200 and into the fluid envelope 330 of the automatic pump device 300-300b. In so doing, the lattice structure 208 of the compressible component 206 is compressed, thereby constricting the upper 200 around the foot of the wearer. When the release feature 334a-334c is actuated, the lattice structure 208 of the compressible component 206 expands within each chamber 204 due to the shape and resilient nature of the material forming the compressible component 206, thereby causing an internal volume of the chamber 204 to increase. In some examples, the fluid is returned to the chambers 204 from the fluid envelope 330-330b via the release feature 334a, 334b. In other examples, the fluid is returned through the release feature 334c of the release device 400 and allows the upper 200 to move to the relaxed state around the foot of the wearer.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3-7C, the upper 200 may be transitioned between the relaxed state and the constricted state via the automatic pump device 300. For example, a vacuum may be drawn by compressing the automatic pump device 300-300b during a gait cycle. In other words, when a wearer of the article of footwear 10, 10a takes a step (i.e., a foot strike), the sole structure 100 is compressed. As the sole structure 100 compresses, the automatic pump device 300-300b is moved from the first position to the second position and draws fluid from the chamber 204 into the fluid envelope 330 of the pump device 300-300b and/or expels the fluid from the upper 200 via the valve 108.

When the foot of the wearer of the article of footwear 10, 10a raises (i.e., a foot swing), the sole structure 100 is uncompressed, allowing the automatic pump device 300-300b to expand from the second position to the first position, creating a vacuum and drawing fluid from the upper 200 into the automatic pump device 300-300b via the pump valve 332. When the automatic pump device 300-300b expands, the first and second plates 314, 316 of the pump device 300-300b move away from one another due to the shape and resilient material of each plate 314, 316. In so doing, barrier layers of the fluid envelope 330-330b likewise move away from one another, as the layers are attached to the respective plates 314, 316. When the layers of the fluid envelope 330 move away from one another, the effective volume of the fluid envelope 300-300b increases and draws fluid from within the chamber 204 of the upper 200.

Accordingly, the steps of a gait cycle result in compression of the sole structure 100 followed by decompression of the sole structure 100 and constitute a cycle. For each cycle that the sole structure 100 is compressed, and then decompressed, the pressure within the upper 200 is incrementally reduced. In some examples, the pressure within the upper 200 reaches an ideal pressure to constrict the upper 200 (e.g. −5 psi) after nine (9) steps. In other examples, fewer or more steps are required. It is contemplated that with each decompression of the sole structure 100, the fluid drawn into the fluid envelope 330 may be expelled to an exterior of the footwear 10. Stated differently, the automatic pump 300 may continually draw a vacuum within the upper 200 by drawing fluid into the fluid envelope 330 and subsequently expelling the drawn fluid from the fluid envelope 330 into the ambient surroundings. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid may be retained within the fluid envelope 330-330b and returned to the upper 200 via the release feature 334a, 334b.

Referring still to FIGS. 3-8C, the upper 200 may automatically transition to the relaxed state when the wearer arrests movement of the footwear 10, 10a and the release feature 334a-334c of the pump device 300-300b and/or the release device 400 is actively or passively operational. For example, the fluid enters the fluid envelope 330-330b at the first flow rate in response to movement of the footwear 10, 10a and, in some examples, compression of the pump device 300-300b. Once movement of the footwear 10, 10a is complete and/or the pump device 300-300b is in a passive state, the second flow rate of the fluid results in the fluid exiting the fluid envelope 330-330b and returning back to the chambers 204. For example, the second flow rate may cause the release feature 334a, 334b to open to pass the fluid through an orifice of the release feature 334a, 334b. Additionally or alternatively, the wearer may selectively activate the release device 400 once movement is complete to return fluid to the upper 200 via the release feature 334c.

Thus, the release feature 334a-334c may slowly decompress the upper 200 (FIG. 1A) by reintroducing the fluid into the chambers 204. The release feature 334a-334c may be a valve that opens and closes when the wearer is still or lacking movement sufficient to activate the pump device 300-300b, described above. Stated differently, the release feature 334a, 334b may be operable to selectively permit a flow of fluid from the fluid envelope 330-330b to decompress and relax the compressible component 206 (FIG. 1A). For example, when the wearer remains still, the pressure within the fluid envelope 330-330b may open the release feature 334a, 334b. Comparatively, when the pump device 300-300b is active, as a result of wearer movement, the flow rate into the fluid envelope 330-330b is greater than the flow rate defined at the release feature 334a-334c, as described above. Consequently, the pressure within the chambers 204 of the upper 200 is increased when the release feature 334a-334c is activated, and the upper 200 transitions from the constricted state (FIG. 1B) to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) around the wearer's foot. Opening of the valve 108 may also supplement the fluid provided by the release feature 334a, 334b into the chamber 204 of the upper 200 to translate the compressible component 206 of the upper 200 from the constricted state (FIG. 1B) to the relaxed state (FIG. 1A) more quickly.

With reference again to FIGS. 1A-8C, the automatic pump device 300-300b and/or the release device 400 advantageously assist in evacuating the chamber 204 of the upper 200 to translate the compressible component 206 from the relaxed state to the constricted state, while the release feature 334a-334c advantageously assists in automatically decompressing the upper 200 when movement has completed. Optionally, when two pumps 302, 304 are utilized, the pumps 302, 304 may be configured either in series or in parallel. For example, the pump devices 302, 304 illustrated in FIG. 1A are in series with one another. Regardless of the configuration and/or orientation of the pump device 300-300b and/or use of the release device 400, the release feature 334a-334c is configured to optimize the transition from the constricted state to the relaxed state of the upper 200 when it may be preferable to have the upper 200 in the relaxed state. For example, the wearer may desire to have the upper 200 in the constricted state during active movement (i.e., running, walking, etc.) but in the relaxed state during non-movement (i.e., resting, sitting, laying, etc.). The release feature 334a-334c is designed to automatically transition the upper 200 from the constricted state to the relaxed state in response to the change in movement of the footwear 10, 10a. Thus, the wearer may consistently have an advantageous fit of the upper 200 for the associated activity.

The following Clauses provide an exemplary configuration for a sole structure for an article of footwear, an article of footwear, and a composite structure described above.

Clause 1. An article of footwear includes an upper including a chamber, a compressible component disposed within the chamber and operable between a relaxed state and a constricted state, and a pump device fluidly coupled to the chamber, the pump device operable to transition the compressible component from the relaxed state to the constricted state by removing fluid from the chamber at a first flow rate, the pump device including a release feature operable to transition the compressible component from the constricted state to the relaxed state at a second flow rate.

Clause 2. The article of footwear of Clause 1, further including a sole structure including a recess forming a cavity, the pump device disposed within the cavity.

Clause 3. The article of footwear of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the pump device includes a fluid envelope.

Clause 4. The article of footwear of Clause 3, wherein the pump device includes a first plate and a second plate, the fluid envelope disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

Clause 5. The article of footwear of Clause 3, wherein the pump device includes a valve in fluid communication with the chamber and the fluid envelope, the fluid removed from the chamber received within the fluid envelope.

Clause 6. The article of footwear of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the second rate defines a static release of the release feature.

Clause 7. The article of footwear of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the release feature includes an orifice.

Clause 8. The article of footwear of Clause 7, wherein the orifice is defined by the second flow rate being greater than the first flow rate.

Clause 9. The article of footwear of any of the preceding Clauses, further including at least one conduit coupled to the pump device and including the release feature operable to selectively allow fluid to enter the chamber and permit movement of the compressible component from the constricted state to the relaxed state.

Clause 10. The article of footwear of Clause 9, wherein the at least one conduit includes a first conduit coupled to the pump device and a second conduit coupled to the first conduit, the second conduit including the release feature.

Clause 11. An article of footwear including an upper including a chamber, a pump device fluidly coupled to the chamber, the pump device operable to transition the upper from a relaxed state to a constricted state by removing fluid from the chamber at a first rate, and a release feature fluidly coupled with the chamber and operable to transition the upper from the constricted state to the relaxed state at a second rate, the second rate defining a static release of the release feature.

Clause 12. The article of footwear of Clause 11, further including a sole structure including a recess forming a cavity, the pump device disposed within the cavity.

Clause 13. The article of footwear of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the pump device includes a fluid envelope and is fluidly coupled with the release feature.

Clause 14. The article of footwear of Clause 13, wherein the pump device includes a first plate and a second plate, the fluid envelope disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

Clause 15. The article of footwear of Clause 13, wherein the pump device includes a valve in fluid communication with the chamber and the fluid envelope, the fluid removed from the chamber received within the fluid envelope.

Clause 16. The article of footwear of any of the preceding Clauses, further including a release device including the release feature, the release device including a first housing and a second housing, the first housing and the second housing rotatably operable in opposing directions between a first position and a second position, the release feature defining an orifice in the second position of the first housing and the second housing.

Clause 17. The article of footwear of Clause 16, wherein the second position of the first housing and the second housing corresponds with the relaxed state of the upper.

Clause 18. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein the first housing and the second housing are rotated in opposing directions when the upper is moved from the constricted state to the relaxed state.

Clause 19. The article of footwear of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising at least one conduit coupled to the pump device, the release feature being disposed at the at least one conduit and being operable to selectively allow fluid to enter the chamber and permit movement of the upper from the constricted state to the relaxed state.

Clause 20. The article of footwear of Clause 19, wherein the at least one conduit includes a first conduit coupled to the pump device and a second conduit coupled to the first conduit, the second conduit including the release feature.

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