Patent Publication Number: US-9404206-B2

Title: Feeder for knitting machine having pushing member

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Various knitting machines have been proposed that can automate one or more steps in knitting a fabric. For instance, flat knitting machines can include a bed of knitting needles, a carriage, and a feeder. The carriage can move relative to the bed of needles to move the feeder relative to the needles as the feeder feeds yarn or other strands toward the needles. The needles can, in turn, knit or otherwise form the knitted fabric from the strands. These actions can repeat until the knitted component is complete. 
     Various components can be produced from such knitted components. For instance, an upper for an article of footwear can be made from the knitted component. 
     SUMMARY 
     A feeder for a knitting machine is disclosed. The knitting machine has a knitting bed with a plurality of needles that form a knit component. The feeder includes a feeder arm with a dispensing area configured to feed a strand toward the knitting bed. The feeder also includes a pushing member that is operably supported by the feeder arm. The pushing member is configured to push a portion of the knit component to provide clearance for the strand to be incorporated in the knit component. 
     A knitting machine for forming a knit component is also disclosed. The knitting machine includes a knitting bed with a plurality of needles and a feeder that feeds a strand toward the knitting bed. The feeder includes a feeder arm with a dispensing area configured to feed the strand toward the knitting bed. The dispensing area terminates at a dispensing tip. The feeder also includes a pushing member that projects from the dispensing tip. The pushing member is configured to push a portion of the knit component to provide clearance for the strand to be incorporated in the knit component. 
     Moreover, a method of knitting a knit component with a knitting machine is disclosed. The method includes feeding a strand toward a knitting bed of the knitting machine with a dispensing area of a feeder of the knitting machine. The strand fed by the dispensing area is to be incorporated into the knit component. The method also includes pushing a portion of the knit component with a pushing member of the feeder to provide clearance for the strand to be incorporated in the knit component. 
     The advantages and features of novelty characterizing aspects of the present disclosure are pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. To gain an improved understanding of the advantages and features of novelty, however, reference may be made to the following descriptive matter and accompanying figures that describe and illustrate various configurations and concepts related to the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       FIGURE DESCRIPTIONS 
       The foregoing Summary and the following Detailed Description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an article of footwear. 
         FIG. 2  is a lateral side elevational view of the article of footwear. 
         FIG. 3  is a medial side elevational view of the article of footwear. 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  are cross-sectional views of the article of footwear, as defined by section lines  4 A- 4 C in  FIGS. 2 and 3 . 
         FIG. 5  is a top plan view of a knitted component that forms a portion of an upper of the article of footwear according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  is a bottom plan view of the knitted component of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIGS. 7A-7E  are cross-sectional views of the knitted component, as defined by section lines  7 A- 7 E in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  are plan views showing knit structures of the knitted component of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a knitting machine according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 10-12  are elevational views of a combination feeder of the knitting machine. 
         FIG. 13  is an elevational view corresponding with  FIG. 10  and showing internal components of the combination feeder. 
         FIG. 14-16  are elevational views corresponding with  FIG. 13  and showing the operation of the combination feeder. 
         FIG. 17  is an elevational view of the combination feeder of  FIGS. 10-16  shown in the retracted position. 
         FIG. 18  is an elevational view of the combination feeder of  FIGS. 10-16  shown in the extended position. 
         FIG. 19  is an end view of a conventional feeder knitting a knit component. 
         FIGS. 20 and 21  are end views of the combination feeder of  FIGS. 10-16  shown inlaying a strand into the knit component of  FIG. 19 , wherein the combination feeder is shown in the retracted position in  FIG. 20 , and wherein the combination feeder is shown in the extended position in  FIG. 21 . 
         FIGS. 22-30  are schematic perspective views of a knitting process utilizing the combination feeder and a conventional feeder. 
         FIG. 31  is an elevational view of a combination feeder according to additional exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 32  is an end view of a group of rollers of the take-down assembly of the knitting machine of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIGS. 33-36  are perspective views of the group of rollers of the take-down assembly shown during operation according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 37  is a section view of the knitting machine taken along the line  37 - 37  of  FIG. 9  and showing a take-down assembly of the knitting machine according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 38  is a schematic perspective view of groups of rollers of the take-down assembly of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIGS. 39-42  are perspective views of the group of rollers of the take-down assembly shown during operation according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 43  is an elevational view of a combination feeder according to additional exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 44 and 45  are elevational views of the combination feeder of  FIG. 43 , shown during use. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose a variety of concepts relating to knitting machines, knitted components, and the manufacture of knitted components. Although the knitted components may be utilized in a variety of products, an article of footwear that incorporates one of the knitted components is disclosed below as an example. In addition to footwear, the knitted components may be utilized in other types of apparel (e.g., shirts, pants, socks, jackets, undergarments), athletic equipment (e.g., golf bags, baseball and football gloves, soccer ball restriction structures), containers (e.g., backpacks, bags), and upholstery for furniture (e.g., chairs, couches, car seats). The knitted components may also be utilized in bed coverings (e.g., sheets, blankets), table coverings, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. The knitted components may be utilized as technical textiles for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical textiles (e.g. bandages, swabs, implants), geotextiles for reinforcing embankments, agrotextiles for crop protection, and industrial apparel that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. Accordingly, the knitted components and other concepts disclosed herein may be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes. 
     Footwear Configuration 
     An article of footwear  100  is depicted in  FIGS. 1-4C  as including a sole structure  110  and an upper  120 . Although footwear  100  is illustrated as having a general configuration suitable for running, concepts associated with footwear  100  may also be applied to a variety of other athletic footwear types, including baseball shoes, basketball shoes, cycling shoes, football shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, training shoes, walking shoes, and hiking boots, for example. The concepts may also be applied to footwear types that are generally considered to be non-athletic, including dress shoes, loafers, sandals, and work boots. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed with respect to footwear  100  apply to a wide variety of footwear types. 
     For reference purposes, footwear  100  may be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region  101 , a midfoot region  102 , and a heel region  103 . Forefoot region  101  generally includes portions of footwear  100  corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region  102  generally includes portions of footwear  100  corresponding with an arch area of the foot. Heel region  103  generally corresponds with rear portions of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Footwear  100  also includes a lateral side  104  and a medial side  105 , which extend through each of regions  101 - 103  and correspond with opposite sides of footwear  100 . More particularly, lateral side  104  corresponds with an outside area of the foot (i.e. the surface that faces away from the other foot), and medial side  105  corresponds with an inside area of the foot (i.e., the surface that faces toward the other foot). Regions  101 - 103  and sides  104 - 105  are not intended to demarcate precise areas of footwear  100 . Rather, regions  101 - 103  and sides  104 - 105  are intended to represent general areas of footwear  100  to aid in the following discussion. In addition to footwear  100 , regions  101 - 103  and sides  104 - 105  may also be applied to sole structure  110 , upper  120 , and individual elements thereof. 
     Sole structure  110  is secured to upper  120  and extends between the foot and the ground when footwear  100  is worn. The primary elements of sole structure  110  are a midsole  111 , an outsole  112 , and a sockliner  113 . Midsole  111  is secured to a lower surface of upper  120  and may be formed from a compressible polymer foam element (e.g., a polyurethane or ethylvinylacetate foam) that attenuates ground reaction forces (i.e., provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. In further configurations, midsole  111  may incorporate plates, moderators, fluid-filled chambers, lasting elements, or motion control members that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot, or midsole  21  may be primarily formed from a fluid-filled chamber. Outsole  112  is secured to a lower surface of midsole  111  and may be formed from a wear-resistant rubber material that is textured to impart traction. Sockliner  113  is located within upper  120  and is positioned to extend under a lower surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of footwear  100 . Although this configuration for sole structure  110  provides an example of a sole structure that may be used in connection with upper  120 , a variety of other conventional or nonconventional configurations for sole structure  110  may also be utilized. Accordingly, the features of sole structure  110  or any sole structure utilized with upper  120  may vary considerably. 
     Upper  120  defines a void within footwear  100  for receiving and securing a foot relative to sole structure  110 . The void is shaped to accommodate the foot and extends along a lateral side of the foot, along a medial side of the foot, over the foot, around the heel, and under the foot. Access to the void is provided by an ankle opening  121  located in at least heel region  103 . A lace  122  extends through various lace apertures  123  in upper  120  and permits the wearer to modify dimensions of upper  120  to accommodate proportions of the foot. More particularly, lace  122  permits the wearer to tighten upper  120  around the foot, and lace  122  permits the wearer to loosen upper  120  to facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the void (i.e., through ankle opening  121 ). In addition, upper  120  includes a tongue  124  that extends under lace  122  and lace apertures  123  to enhance the comfort of footwear  100 . In further configurations, upper  120  may include additional elements, such as (a) a heel counter in heel region  103  that enhances stability, (b) a toe guard in forefoot region  101  that is formed of a wear-resistant material, and (c) logos, trademarks, and placards with care instructions and material information. 
     Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined through stitching or bonding, for example. In contrast, a majority of upper  120  is formed from a knitted component  130 , which extends through each of regions  101 - 103 , along both lateral side  104  and medial side  105 , over forefoot region  101 , and around heel region  103 . In addition, knitted component  130  forms portions of both an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface of upper  120 . As such, knitted component  130  defines at least a portion of the void within upper  120 . In some configurations, knitted component  130  may also extend under the foot. Referring to  FIGS. 4A-4C , however, a strobel sock  125  is secured to knitted component  130  and an upper surface of midsole  111 , thereby forming a portion of upper  120  that extends under sockliner  113 . 
     Knitted Component Configuration 
     Knitted component  130  is depicted separate from a remainder of footwear  100  in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . Knitted component  130  is formed of unitary knit construction. As used herein and in the claims, a knitted component (e.g., knitted component  130 ) is defined as being formed of “unitary knit construction” when formed as a one-piece element through a knitting process. That is, the knitting process substantially forms the various features and structures of knitted component  130  without the need for significant additional manufacturing steps or processes. A unitary knit construction may be used to form a knitted component having structures or elements that include one or more courses of yarn or other knit material that are joined such that the structures or elements include at least one course in common (i.e., sharing a common yarn) and/or include courses that are substantially continuous between each of the structures or elements. With this arrangement, a one-piece element of unitary knit construction is provided. Although portions of knitted component  130  may be joined to each other (e.g., edges of knitted component  130  being joined together) following the knitting process, knitted component  130  remains formed of unitary knit construction because it is formed as a one-piece knit element. Moreover, knitted component  130  remains formed of unitary knit construction when other elements (e.g., lace  122 , tongue  124 , logos, trademarks, placards with care instructions and material information) are added following the knitting process. 
     The primary elements of knitted component  130  are a knit element  131  and an inlaid strand  132 . Knit element  131  is formed from at least one yarn that is manipulated (e.g., with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of intermeshed loops that define a variety of courses and wales. That is, knit element  131  has the structure of a knit textile. Inlaid strand  132  extends through knit element  131  and passes between the various loops within knit element  131 . Although inlaid strand  132  generally extends along courses within knit element  131 , inlaid strand  132  may also extend along wales within knit element  131 . Advantages of inlaid strand  132  include providing support, stability, and structure. For example, inlaid strand  132  assists with securing upper  120  around the foot, limits deformation in areas of upper  120  (e.g., imparts stretch-resistance) and operates in connection with lace  122  to enhance the fit of footwear  100 . 
     Knit element  131  has a generally U-shaped configuration that is outlined by a perimeter edge  133 , a pair of heel edges  134 , and an inner edge  135 . When incorporated into footwear  100 , perimeter edge  133  lays against the upper surface of midsole  111  and is joined to strobel sock  125 . Heel edges  134  are joined to each other and extend vertically in heel region  103 . In some configurations of footwear  100 , a material element may cover a seam between heel edges  134  to reinforce the seam and enhance the aesthetic appeal of footwear  100 . Inner edge  135  forms ankle opening  121  and extends forward to an area where lace  122 , lace apertures  123 , and tongue  124  are located. In addition, knit element  131  has a first surface  136  and an opposite second surface  137 . First surface  136  forms a portion of the exterior surface of upper  120 , whereas second surface  137  forms a portion of the interior surface of upper  120 , thereby defining at least a portion of the void within upper  120 . 
     Inlaid strand  132 , as noted above, extends through knit element  131  and passes between the various loops within knit element  131 . More particularly, inlaid strand  132  is located within the knit structure of knit element  131 , which may have the configuration of a single textile layer in the area of inlaid strand  132 , and between surfaces  136  and  137 , as depicted in  FIGS. 7A-7D . When knitted component  130  is incorporated into footwear  100 , therefore, inlaid strand  132  is located between the exterior surface and the interior surface of upper  120 . In some configurations, portions of inlaid strand  132  may be visible or exposed on one or both of surfaces  136  and  137 . For example, inlaid strand  132  may lay against one of surfaces  136  and  137 , or knit element  131  may form indentations or apertures through which inlaid strand passes. An advantage of having inlaid strand  132  located between surfaces  136  and  137  is that knit element  131  protects inlaid strand  132  from abrasion and snagging. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , inlaid strand  132  repeatedly extends from perimeter edge  133  toward inner edge  135  and adjacent to a side of one lace aperture  123 , at least partially around the lace aperture  123  to an opposite side, and back to perimeter edge  133 . When knitted component  130  is incorporated into footwear  100 , knit element  131  extends from a throat area of upper  120  (i.e., where lace  122 , lace apertures  123 , and tongue  124  are located) to a lower area of upper  120  (i.e., where knit element  131  joins with sole structure  110 . In this configuration, inlaid strand  132  also extends from the throat area to the lower area. More particularly, inlaid strand repeatedly passes through knit element  131  from the throat area to the lower area. 
     Although knit element  131  may be formed in a variety of ways, courses of the knit structure generally extend in the same direction as inlaid strands  132 . That is, courses may extend in the direction extending between the throat area and the lower area. As such, a majority of inlaid strand  132  extends along the courses within knit element  131 . In areas adjacent to lace apertures  123 , however, inlaid strand  132  may also extend along wales within knit element  131 . More particularly, sections of inlaid strand  132  that are parallel to inner edge  135  may extend along the wales. 
     As discussed above, inlaid strand  132  passes back and forth through knit element  131 . Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , inlaid strand  132  also repeatedly exits knit element  131  at perimeter edge  133  and then re-enters knit element  131  at another location of perimeter edge  133 , thereby forming loops along perimeter edge  133 . An advantage to this configuration is that each section of inlaid strand  132  that extends between the throat area and the lower area may be independently tensioned, loosened, or otherwise adjusted during the manufacturing process of footwear  100 . That is, prior to securing sole structure  110  to upper  120 , sections of inlaid strand  132  may be independently adjusted to the proper tension. 
     In comparison with knit element  131 , inlaid strand  132  may exhibit greater stretch-resistance. That is, inlaid strand  132  may stretch less than knit element  131 . Given that numerous sections of inlaid strand  132  extend from the throat area of upper  120  to the lower area of upper  120 , inlaid strand  132  imparts stretch-resistance to the portion of upper  120  between the throat area and the lower area. Moreover, placing tension upon lace  122  may impart tension to inlaid strand  132 , thereby inducing the portion of upper  120  between the throat area and the lower area to lay against the foot. As such, inlaid strand  132  operates in connection with lace  122  to enhance the fit of footwear  100 . 
     Knit element  131  may incorporate various types of yarn that impart different properties to separate areas of upper  120 . That is, one area of knit element  131  may be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, and another area of knit element  131  may be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. In this configuration, properties may vary throughout upper  120  by selecting specific yarns for different areas of knit element  131 . The properties that a particular type of yarn will impart to an area of knit element  131  partially depend upon the materials that form the various filaments and fibers within the yarn. Cotton, for example, provides a soft hand, natural aesthetics, and biodegradability. Elastane and stretch polyester each provide substantial stretch and recovery, with stretch polyester also providing recyclability. Rayon provides high luster and moisture absorption. Wool also provides high moisture absorption, in addition to insulating properties and biodegradability. Nylon is a durable and abrasion-resistant material with relatively high strength. Polyester is a hydrophobic material that also provides relatively high durability. In addition to materials, other aspects of the yarns selected for knit element  131  may affect the properties of upper  120 . For example, a yarn forming knit element  131  may be a monofilament yarn or a multifilament yarn. The yarn may also include separate filaments that are each formed of different materials. In addition, the yarn may include filaments that are each formed of two or more different materials, such as a bicomponent yarn with filaments having a sheath-core configuration or two halves formed of different materials. Different degrees of twist and crimping, as well as different deniers, may also affect the properties of upper  120 . Accordingly, both the materials forming the yarn and other aspects of the yarn may be selected to impart a variety of properties to separate areas of upper  120 . 
     As with the yarns forming knit element  131 , the configuration of inlaid strand  132  may also vary significantly. In addition to yarn, inlaid strand  132  may have the configurations of a filament (e.g., a monofilament), thread, rope, webbing, cable, or chain, for example. In comparison with the yarns forming knit element  131 , the thickness of inlaid strand  132  may be greater. In some configurations, inlaid strand  132  may have a significantly greater thickness than the yarns of knit element  131 . Although the cross-sectional shape of inlaid strand  132  may be round, triangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, or irregular shapes may also be utilized. Moreover, the materials forming inlaid strand  132  may include any of the materials for the yarn within knit element  131 , such as cotton, elastane, polyester, rayon, wool, and nylon. As noted above, inlaid strand  132  may exhibit greater stretch-resistance than knit element  131 . As such, suitable materials for inlaid strands  132  may include a variety of engineering filaments that are utilized for high tensile strength applications, including glass, aramids (e.g., para-aramid and meta-aramid), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and liquid crystal polymer. As another example, a braided polyester thread may also be utilized as inlaid strand  132 . 
     An example of a suitable configuration for a portion of knitted component  130  is depicted in  FIG. 8A . In this configuration, knit element  131  includes a yarn  138  that forms a plurality of intermeshed loops defining multiple horizontal courses and vertical wales. Inlaid strand  132  extends along one of the courses and alternates between being located (a) behind loops formed from yarn  138  and (b) in front of loops formed from yarn  138 . In effect, inlaid strand  132  weaves through the structure formed by knit element  131 . Although yarn  138  forms each of the courses in this configuration, additional yarns may form one or more of the courses or may form a portion of one or more of the courses. 
     Another example of a suitable configuration for a portion of knitted component  130  is depicted in  FIG. 8B . In this configuration, knit element  131  includes yarn  138  and another yarn  139 . Yarns  138  and  139  are plated and cooperatively form a plurality of intermeshed loops defining multiple horizontal courses and vertical wales. That is, yarns  138  and  139  run parallel to each other. As with the configuration in  FIG. 8A , inlaid strand  132  extends along one of the courses and alternates between being located (a) behind loops formed from yarns  138  and  139  and (b) in front of loops formed from yarns  138  and  139 . An advantage of this configuration is that the properties of each of yarns  138  and  139  may be present in this area of knitted component  130 . For example, yarns  138  and  139  may have different colors, with the color of yarn  138  being primarily present on a face of the various stitches in knit element  131  and the color of yarn  139  being primarily present on a reverse of the various stitches in knit element  131 . As another example, yarn  139  may be formed from a yarn that is softer and more comfortable against the foot than yarn  138 , with yarn  138  being primarily present on first surface  136  and yarn  139  being primarily present on second surface  137 . 
     Continuing with the configuration of  FIG. 8B , yarn  138  may be formed from at least one of a thermoset polymer material and natural fibers (e.g., cotton, wool, silk), whereas yarn  139  may be formed from a thermoplastic polymer material. In general, a thermoplastic polymer material melts when heated and returns to a solid state when cooled. More particularly, the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from a solid state to a softened or liquid state when subjected to sufficient heat, and then the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from the softened or liquid state to the solid state when sufficiently cooled. As such, thermoplastic polymer materials are often used to join two objects or elements together. In this case, yarn  139  may be utilized to join (a) one portion of yarn  138  to another portion of yarn  138 , (b) yarn  138  and inlaid strand  132  to each other, or (c) another element (e.g., logos, trademarks, and placards with care instructions and material information) to knitted component  130 , for example. As such, yarn  139  may be considered a fusible yarn given that it may be used to fuse or otherwise join portions of knitted component  130  to each other. Moreover, yarn  138  may be considered a non-fusible yarn given that it is not formed from materials that are generally capable of fusing or otherwise joining portions of knitted component  130  to each other. That is, yarn  138  may be a non-fusible yarn, whereas yarn  139  may be a fusible yarn. In some configurations of knitted component  130 , yarn  138  (i.e., the non-fusible yarn) may be substantially formed from a thermoset polyester material and yarn  139  (i.e., the fusible yarn) may be at least partially formed from a thermoplastic polyester material. 
     The use of plated yarns may impart advantages to knitted component  130 . When yarn  139  is heated and fused to yarn  138  and inlaid strand  132 , this process may have the effect of stiffening or rigidifying the structure of knitted component  130 . Moreover, joining (a) one portion of yarn  138  to another portion of yarn  138  or (b) yarn  138  and inlaid strand  132  to each other has the effect of securing or locking the relative positions of yarn  138  and inlaid strand  132 , thereby imparting stretch-resistance and stiffness. That is, portions of yarn  138  may not slide relative to each other when fused with yarn  139 , thereby preventing warping or permanent stretching of knit element  131  due to relative movement of the knit structure. Another benefit relates to limiting unraveling if a portion of knitted component  130  becomes damaged or one of yarns  138  is severed. Also, inlaid strand  132  may not slide relative to knit element  131 , thereby preventing portions of inlaid strand  132  from pulling outward from knit element  131 . Accordingly, areas of knitted component  130  may benefit from the use of both fusible and non-fusible yarns within knit element  131 . 
     Another aspect of knitted component  130  relates to a padded area adjacent to ankle opening  121  and extending at least partially around ankle opening  121 . Referring to  FIG. 7E , the padded area is formed by two overlapping and at least partially coextensive knitted layers  140 , which may be formed of unitary knit construction, and a plurality of floating yarns  141  extending between knitted layers  140 . Although the sides or edges of knitted layers  140  are secured to each other, a central area is generally unsecured. As such, knitted layers  140  effectively form a tube or tubular structure, and floating yarns  141  ( FIG. 7E ) may be located or inlaid between knitted layers  140  to pass through the tubular structure. That is, floating yarns  141  extend between knitted layers  140 , are generally parallel to surfaces of knitted layers  140 , and also pass through and fill an interior volume between knitted layers  140 . Whereas a majority of knit element  131  is formed from yarns that are mechanically-manipulated to form intermeshed loops, floating yarns  141  are generally free or otherwise inlaid within the interior volume between knitted layers  140 . As an additional matter, knitted layers  140  may be at least partially formed from a stretch yarn. An advantage of this configuration is that knitted layers will effectively compress floating yarns  141  and provide an elastic aspect to the padded area adjacent to ankle opening  121 . That is, the stretch yarn within knitted layers  140  may be placed in tension during the knitting process that forms knitted component  130 , thereby inducing knitted layers  140  to compress floating yarns  141 . Although the degree of stretch in the stretch yarn may vary significantly, the stretch yarn may stretch at least one-hundred percent in many configurations of knitted component  130 . 
     The presence of floating yarns  141  imparts a compressible aspect to the padded area adjacent to ankle opening  121 , thereby enhancing the comfort of footwear  100  in the area of ankle opening  121 . Many conventional articles of footwear incorporate polymer foam elements or other compressible materials into areas adjacent to an ankle opening. In contrast with the conventional articles of footwear, portions of knitted component  130  formed of unitary knit construction with a remainder of knitted component  130  may form the padded area adjacent to ankle opening  121 . In further configurations of footwear  100 , similar padded areas may be located in other areas of knitted component  130 . For example, similar padded areas may be located as an area corresponding with joints between the metatarsals and proximal phalanges to impart padding to the joints. As an alternative, a terry loop structure may also be utilized to impart some degree of padding to areas of upper  120 . 
     Based upon the above discussion, knitted component  130  imparts a variety of features to upper  120 . Moreover, knitted component  130  provides a variety of advantages over some conventional upper configurations. As noted above, conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined through stitching or bonding, for example. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into an upper increases, the time and expense associated with transporting, stocking, cutting, and joining the material elements may also increase. Waste material from cutting and stitching processes also accumulates to a greater degree as the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases. Moreover, uppers with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than uppers formed from fewer types and numbers of material elements. By decreasing the number of material elements utilized in the upper, therefore, waste may be decreased while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper. To this end, knitted component  130  forms a substantial portion of upper  120 , while increasing manufacturing efficiency, decreasing waste, and simplifying recyclability. 
     Knitting Machine and Feeder Configurations 
     Although knitting may be performed by hand, the commercial manufacture of knitted components is often performed by knitting machines. An example of a knitting machine  200  that is suitable for producing knitted component  130  is depicted in  FIG. 9 . Knitting machine  200  has a configuration of a V-bed flat knitting machine for purposes of example, but the knitting machine  200  can have different configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Knitting machine  200  includes two needle beds  201  that are angled with respect to each other, thereby forming a V-bed. Each of needle beds  201  include a plurality of individual needles  202  that lay on a common plane. That is, needles  202  from one needle bed  201  lay on a first plane, and needles  202  from the other needle bed  201  lay on a second plane. The first plane and the second plane (i.e., the two needle beds  201 ) are angled relative to each other and meet to form an intersection that extends along a majority of a width of knitting machine  200 . As described in greater detail below and shown in  FIGS. 19-21 , needles  202  each have a first position where they are retracted (shown in solid lines) and a second position where they are extended (shown in broken lines). In the first position, needles  202  are spaced from the intersection where the first plane and the second plane meet. In the second position, however, needles  202  pass through the intersection where the first plane and the second plane meet. 
     A pair of rails  203  extend above and parallel to the intersection of needle beds  201  and provide attachment points for multiple first feeders  204  and combination feeders  220 . Each rail  203  has two sides, each of which accommodates either one first feeder  204  or one combination feeder  220 . As such, knitting machine  200  may include a total of four feeders  204  and  220 . As depicted, the forward-most rail  203  includes one combination feeder  220  and one first feeder  204  on opposite sides, and the rearward-most rail  203  includes two first feeders  204  on opposite sides. Although two rails  203  are depicted, further configurations of knitting machine  200  may incorporate additional rails  203  to provide attachment points for more feeders  204  and  220 . 
     The knitting machine  200  also includes carriage  205 , which can move substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rails  203 , above the needle beds  201 . The carriage  205  can include one or more drive bolts  219  ( FIGS. 17 and 18 ) that can be moveably mounted to an underside of the carriage  205 . As indicated by the arrow  402  in  FIG. 18 , the drive bolt(s)  219  can selectively extend downward and retract upward relative to the carriage  205 . Thus, the drive bolt  219  can move between an extended position ( FIG. 18 ) and a retracted position ( FIG. 17 ) relative to the carriage  205 . 
     The carriage  205  can include any number of drive bolts  219 , and each drive bolt  219  can be positioned so as to selectively engage different ones of the feeders  204 ,  220 . For instance,  FIGS. 17 and 18  show how the drive bolt  219  can operably engage with the combination feeder  220 . When the bolt  219  is in the retracted position ( FIG. 17 ), the carriage  205  can move along the rails  203  and bypass the feeder  220 . However, when the bolt  219  is in the extended position ( FIG. 18 ), the bolt  219  can abut against a surface  253  of the feeder  220 . Thus, when the bolt  219  is extended, movement of the carriage  205  can drive movement of the feeder  220  along the axis of the rail  203 . 
     Also, in relation to the combination feeder  220 , the drive bolt  219  can supply a force, which causes the combination feeder  220  to move (e.g., downward) toward the needle bed  201 . These operations will be discussed in more detail below. 
     As the feeders  204 ,  220  move along the rails  203 , the feeders  204 ,  220  can supply yarns to needles  202 . In  FIG. 9 , a yarn  206  is provided to combination feeder  220  by a spool  207 . More particularly, yarn  206  extends from spool  207  to various yarn guides  208 , a yarn take-back spring  209 , and a yarn tensioner  210  before entering combination feeder  220 . Although not depicted, additional spools  207  may be utilized to provide yarns to first feeders  204 . 
     Moreover, the first feeders  204  can also supply a yarn to needle bed  201  that needles  202  manipulate to knit, tuck, and float. As a comparison, combination feeder  220  has the ability to supply a yarn (e.g., yarn  206 ) that needles  202  knit, tuck, and float, and combination feeder  220  has the ability to inlay the yarn. Moreover, combination feeder  220  has the ability to inlay a variety of different strands (e.g., filament, thread, rope, webbing, cable, chain, or yarn). The feeders  204 ,  220  can also incorporate one or more features of the feeders disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/048,527, entitled “Combination Feeder for a Knitting Machine,” which was filed on Mar. 15, 2011 and published as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012-0234051 on Sep. 20, 2012, and which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     The combination feeder  220  will now be discussed in greater detail. As shown in  FIGS. 10-13 , combination feeder  220  can include a carrier  230 , a feeder arm  240 , and a pair of actuation members  250 . Although a majority of combination feeder  220  may be formed from metal materials (e.g., steel, aluminum, titanium), portions of carrier  230 , feeder arm  240 , and actuation members  250  may be formed from polymer, ceramic, or composite materials, for example. As discussed above, combination feeder  220  may be utilized when inlaying a yarn or other strand, in addition to knitting, tucking, and floating a yarn. Referring to  FIG. 10  specifically, a portion of yarn  206  is depicted to illustrate the manner in which a strand interfaces with combination feeder  220 . 
     Carrier  230  has a generally rectangular configuration and includes a first cover member  231  and a second cover member  232  that are joined by four bolts  233 . Cover members  231  and  232  define an interior cavity in which portions of feeder arm  240  and actuation members  250  are located. Carrier  230  also includes an attachment element  234  that extends outward from first cover member  231  for securing feeder  220  to one of rails  203 . Although the configuration of attachment element  234  may vary, attachment element  234  is depicted as including two spaced protruding areas that form a dovetail shape, as depicted in  FIG. 11 . A reverse dovetail configuration on one of rails  203  may extend into the dovetail shape of attachment element  234  to effectively join combination feeder  220  to knitting machine  200 . It should also be noted that second cover member  234  forms a centrally-located and elongate slot  235 , as depicted in  FIG. 12 . 
     Feeder arm  240  has a generally elongate configuration that extends through carrier  230  (i.e., the cavity between cover members  231 ,  232 ) and outward from a lower side of carrier  230 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10 and 13 , feeder arm  240  includes an actuation bolt  241 , a spring  242 , a pulley  243 , a loop  244 , and a dispensing area  245 . Actuation bolt  241  extends outward from feeder arm  240  and is located within the cavity between cover members  231  and  232 . One side of actuation bolt  241  is also located within slot  235  in second cover member  232 , as depicted in  FIG. 12 . Spring  242  is secured to carrier  230  and feeder arm  240 . More particularly, one end of spring  242  is secured to carrier  230 , and an opposite end of spring  242  is secured to feeder arm  240 . Pulley  243 , loop  244 , and dispensing area  245  are present on feeder arm  240  to interface with yarn  206  or another strand. Moreover, pulley  243 , loop  244 , and dispensing area  245  are configured to ensure that yarn  206  or another strand smoothly passes through combination feeder  220 , thereby being reliably-supplied to needles  202 . Referring again to  FIG. 10 , yarn  206  extends around pulley  243 , through loop  244 , and into dispensing area  245 . In addition, the dispensing area  245  can terminate at a dispensing tip  246 , and the yarn  206  can extend out from the dispensing tip  246  to be supplied to the needles  202  of the needle bed  201 . It will be appreciated, however, that the feeder  220  could be configured differently and that the feeder  220  can be configured for actuation relative to the needle beds  201  in different ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Moreover, in some embodiments, the feeder  220  can be provided with one or more features that are configured to assist with inlaying a yarn or other strand within a knitted component. These features can also assist in otherwise incorporating strands within a knitted component during knitting processes. For instance, as shown in  FIGS. 10-13 , the feeder  220  can include at least one pushing member  215  that is operably supported by the feeder arm  240 . The pushing member  215  can push against the knitted component to assist in inlaying yarn or other strands therein as will be discussed. 
     In the embodiments illustrated, the pushing member  215  includes a first projection  216  and a second projection  217 , which project from opposite sides of the dispensing tip  246 . Stated differently, the dispensing tip  246  can be disposed and defined between the first and second projections  216 ,  217 . Also, an open-ended groove  223  ( FIG. 11 ) can be collectively defined by inner surfaces of the projections  216 ,  217  and the dispensing tip  246 . 
     As will be discussed, the feeder  220  can be supported on the rail  203  of the knitting machine  200  ( FIG. 9 ), and the feeder  220  can move along the axis of the rail  203 . As such, the groove  223  can extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail  203  and, thus, substantially parallel to the direction of movement of the feeder  220 . Stated differently, the projections  216 ,  217  can be spaced from the dispensing tip  246  in opposite directions and substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the feeder  220 . 
     In some embodiments, projections  216 ,  217  can have a shape that is configured to further assist in pushing the knitted component for inlaying yarns or other strands and/or for otherwise facilitating the incorporation of strands within the knitted component. For instance, the projections  216 ,  217  may be tapered. The projections  216 ,  217  can taper so as to substantially match the profile of the dispensing area  245  (see  FIGS. 10, 12, and 13 ). Also, the projections  216 ,  217  can each include a terminal end  224  that is rounded convexly. The end  224  can curve three-dimensionally (e.g., hemispherically). In additional embodiments, the end  224  can curve in two dimensions. 
     As shown in  FIG. 11 , each projection  216 ,  217  projects generally downward from the dispensing tip  246  at a distance  218  ( FIG. 11 ) such that the projections  216 ,  217  can push against the knit component during knitting processes. The distance  218  can have any suitable value, such as from approximately 1 mil (0.0254 millimeters) to approximately 5 millimeters. Each projection  216 ,  217  can project at substantially the same distance  218  as shown, or in additional embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can project at different distances. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can be moveably attached to the feeder arm  240  such that the distance  218  is selectively adjustable. For instance, in some embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can have a plurality of set positions relative to the dispensing tip  213 , and the user of the knitting machine  200  can select the distance  218  that the projections  216 ,  217  project from the tip  213 . 
     The projections  216 ,  217  can be made from any suitable material. For instance, in some embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can be made from and/or include a metallic material, such as steel, titanium, aluminum, and the like. Also, in some embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can be made from a polymeric material. Moreover in some embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can be at least partially made from a ceramic material, such that the projections  216 ,  217  can have high strength and can have a low surface roughness. As such, the projections  216 ,  217  are unlikely to damage the yarn  206  and/or the knitted component  130  during use of the feeder  220 . 
     In some embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can be integrally connected to the dispensing area  245  so as to be monolithic. For instance, the dispensing area  246  and projections  216 ,  217  can be formed together in a common mold or machined from a block of material. In additional embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can be removably attached to the dispensing area  245  of the feeder  220  via fasteners, adhesives, or other suitable ways. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 10-13 , the actuation members  250  of the feeder  220  will be discussed. Each of actuation members  250  includes an arm  251  and a plate  252 . Each of arms  251  can be elongate and can define an outside end  253  and an opposite inside end  254 . Each plate  252  can be flat and generally rectangular. 
     In some configurations of actuation members  250 , each arm  251  is formed as a one-piece (monolithic) element with one of the plates  252 . The arms  251  and/or plates  252  can be made from a metal, nylon or from another suitable material. 
     The arms  251  can be located outside of carrier  230  and at an upper side of carrier  230 , and the plates  252  can be located within carrier  250 . Arms  251  are positioned to define a space  255  between both of inside ends  254 . That is, arms  251  are spaced from each other longitudinally. Also, as shown in  FIG. 11 , the arms  251  can be spaced transversely such that one arm  251  is disposed closer to the first cover member  231 , and the other arm  251  is disposed closer to the second cover member  232 . 
     The arms  251  can additionally include one or more features that assist in engaging and/or disengaging the drive bolts  219 . The arms  251  can be shaped so as to facilitate engagement and/or disengagement of the drive bolts  219 . Also, the arms  251  can include other features that reduce friction during disengagement. This can reduce the likelihood of the feeder  220  missing stitches or otherwise causing errors during the knitting process. 
     For instance, in the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 10, 12, and 13 , the outside end  253  of each arm  251  can be rounded and convex. In some embodiments, the end  253  can be two-dimensionally curved (i.e., in the plane of  FIGS. 10, 12, and 13 ). In additional embodiments, the end  253  can be hemispherical so as to be three-dimensionally curved. Additionally, the ends  253  can have a relatively low surface roughness. For instance, in some embodiments, the ends  253  can be polished. Moreover, the ends  253  can be treated with a lubricant. Also, although the inside ends  254  of the arms  251  are substantially planar in the embodiments illustrated, the inside ends  254  can be rounded and convex, similar to the outside ends  253  shown in  FIGS. 10, 12 , and  13 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , each of plates  252  define an aperture  256  with an inclined edge  257 . Moreover, actuation bolt  241  of feeder arm  240  extends into each aperture  256 . 
     The configuration of combination feeder  220  discussed above provides a structure that facilitates a translating movement of feeder arm  240 . As discussed in greater detail below, the translating movement of feeder arm  240  selectively positions dispensing tip  246  at a location that is above or below the intersection of needle beds  201  (compare  FIGS. 20 and 21 ). That is, dispensing tip  246  has the ability to reciprocate through the intersection of needle beds  201 . An advantage to the translating movement of feeder arm  240  is that combination feeder  220  (a) supplies yarn  206  for knitting, tucking, and floating when dispensing tip  246  is positioned above the intersection of needle beds  201  and (b) supplies yarn  206  or another strand for inlaying when dispensing tip  246  is positioned below the intersection of needle beds  201 . Moreover, feeder arm  240  reciprocates between the two positions depending upon the manner in which combination feeder  220  is being utilized. 
     In reciprocating through the intersection of needle beds  201 , feeder arm  240  translates from a retracted position to an extended position. When in the retracted position, dispensing tip  246  is positioned above the intersection of needle beds  201  ( FIG. 20 ). When in the extended position, dispensing tip  246  is positioned below the intersection of needle beds  201  ( FIG. 21 ). Dispensing tip  246  is closer to carrier  230  when feeder arm  240  is in the retracted position than when feeder arm  240  is in the extended position. Similarly, dispensing tip  246  is further from carrier  230  when feeder arm  240  is in the extended position than when feeder arm  240  is in the retracted position. In other words, dispensing tip  246  moves away from carrier  230  and toward the needle bed  201  when moving toward the extended position, and dispensing tip  246  moves closer to carrier  230  and away from the needle bed  201  when moving toward the retracted position. 
     For purposes of reference in  FIGS. 13-16 , an arrow  221  is positioned adjacent to dispensing area  245 . When arrow  221  points upward or toward carrier  230 , feeder arm  240  is in the retracted position. When arrow  221  points downward or away from carrier  230 , feeder arm  240  is in the extended position. Accordingly, by referencing the position of arrow  221 , the position of feeder arm  240  may be readily ascertained. 
     The spring  242  can bias the feeder arm  240  toward the retracted position (i.e., the neutral state of the feeder arm  240 ) as shown in  FIG. 13 . The feeder arm  240  can move from the retracted position toward the extended position when a sufficient force is applied to one of arms  251 . More particularly, the extension of feeder arm  240  occurs when a sufficient force  222  is applied to one of outside ends  253  and is directed toward space  255  (see  FIGS. 14 and 15 ). Accordingly, feeder arm  240  moves to the extended position as indicated by arrow  221 . Upon removal of force  222 , however, feeder arm  240  will return to the retracted position due to the biasing force of the spring  242 . It should also be noted that  FIG. 16  depicts force  222  as acting upon inside ends  254  and being directed outward. As a result, the feeder  220  will move horizontally (along the rail  203 ), and yet the feeder arm  240  remains in the retracted position. 
       FIGS. 13-16  depict combination feeder  220  with first cover member  231  removed, thereby exposing the elements within the cavity in carrier  230 . By comparing  FIG. 13  with  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the manner in which force  222  induces feeder arm  240  to extend and retract may be apparent. When force  222  acts upon one of outside ends  253 , one of actuation members  250  slides in a direction that is perpendicular to the length of feeder arm  240 . That is, one of actuation members  250  slides horizontally in  FIGS. 14 and 15 . The movement of one of actuation members  250  causes actuation bolt  241  to engage one of inclined edges  257 . Given that the movement of actuation members  250  is constrained to the direction that is perpendicular to the length of feeder arm  240 , actuation bolt  241  rolls or slides against inclined edge  257  and induces feeder arm  240  to translate to the extended position. Upon removal of force  222 , spring  242  pulls feeder arm  240  from the extended position to the retracted position. 
     Movement of Feeders Relative to Needle Bed 
     As mentioned above, feeders  204  and  220  move along rails  203  and over the needle beds  201  due to the action of carriage  205  and drive bolt(s)  219 . More particularly, respective drive bolts  219  extended from carriage  205  can contact feeders  204  and  220  to push feeders  204  and  220  along the rails  203  to move over the needle beds  201 . More specifically, as shown in  FIG. 18 , the drive bolt  219  can extend downward from the carriage  205 , and horizontal movement of the carriage  205  can cause the drive bolt  219  to push against the outside end  253 , thereby moving the feeder  220  horizontally in tandem with the carriage  205 . Alternatively, the drive bolt  219  can abut against one of the inside ends  254  to move the feeder  240  along the rail  203 . Drive bolt  219  can also selectively push against an arm of the first feeder  204  (similar to drive bolt  219  pushing against arm  251  of the combination feeder  220 ) to move the first feeder  204  over the needle bed  201 . As a result of this movement, the feeders  204 ,  220  can be used to feed yarn  206  or other strands toward the needle beds  201  to produce the knitted component  130 . 
     With respect to combination feeder  220 , the drive bolt  219  can also cause the feeder arm  240  to move from the retracted position toward the extended position. As shown in  FIG. 18 , when the drive bolt  219  abuts and pushes against one of outside ends  253 , feeder arm  240  translates to the extended position. As a result, the dispensing tip  246  passes below the intersection of needle beds  201  as shown in  FIG. 21 . 
     The drive bolt  219  can then move from the extended position ( FIG. 18 ) to the retracted position ( FIG. 17 ) to disengage from the end  253 . The spring  242  can bias the feeder  220  back to the retracted position as a result as indicated by the arrow  221  in  FIG. 17 . 
     It will be appreciated that frictional forces can inhibit disengagement of the drive bolt  219  from the end  253  of the feeder  220 . Also, in the case of the combination feeder  220 , the return force of the spring  242  and/or tension in the yarn  206  can cause the end  253  to be pressed into the bolt  219  with significant force, thereby increasing frictional engagement with the bolt  219 . If the bolt  219  fails to disengage, the feeder  220  can erroneously remain in the extended position, the bolt  219  could move the feeder  220  too far in the longitudinal direction, and the like, and the knitted component may be formed erroneously. However, the convexly rounded shape of the end  253  can facilitate disengagement of the bolt  219  from the end  253 . This is because the convex and round surface of the end  253  can reduce the area of contact between the drive bolt  219  and the end  253 . Polishing and/or lubricating the end  253  can also reduce friction. Therefore, the drive bolt  219  is better able to disengage from the end  253 , the feeder  220  can operate more accurately and efficiently, and speed of the knitting process can be improved. Furthermore, the drive bolt  219  and/or end  253  is less prone to wear over time after repeatedly disengaging from each other. 
     It will also be appreciated that the inside ends  254  can be curved and convex, can be polished, treated with lubricant, or otherwise similar to the ends  253  described in detail herein. As such, the drive bolts  219  can similarly disengage the ends  254  more efficiently. Moreover, the first feeders  204  can include actuation members with rounded, convex ends that are similar to the ends  253  described in detail herein. Embodiments of the first feeders  204  with rounded ends  253  are shown, for instance, in  FIG. 22 . 
       FIG. 31  also illustrates additional embodiments of a combination feeder  1220  that can disengage from the drive bolts  1219  with increased efficiency. The feeder  1220  can be substantially similar to the feeder  220  described above. However, the feeder  1220  can include actuation members  1250 , each with a base arm  1251  and a bearing  1225 . The bearing  1225  can be a barrel-shaped wheel that is rotatably attached to the base arm  1251 . The outer radial surface of the bearing  1225  can define a convexly curved outer end  1253  of the actuation member  1250 . The bearing  1225  can rotate relative to the arm  1251  when the drive bolt  1219  disengages the feeder  1220 . As such, disengagement between the drive bolt  1219  and the feeder  1220  can be facilitated. It will be appreciated that the first feeder  204  can include similar bearings  1225  to thereby reduce frictional engagement with the drive bolt  1219 . Also, it will be appreciated that the inner ends  1254  can include similar bearings  1225 . 
     Knitting Process 
     The manner in which knitting machine  200  operates to manufacture a knitted component  130  will now be discussed in detail. Moreover, the following discussion will demonstrate the operation of first feeders  204  and combination feeder  220  during a knitting process. Referring to  FIG. 22 , a portion of knitting machine  200  that includes various needles  202 , rail  203 , first feeder  204 , and combination feeder  220  is depicted. Whereas combination feeder  220  is secured to a front side of rail  203 , first feeder  204  is secured to a rear side of rail  203 . Yarn  206  passes through combination feeder  220 , and an end of yarn  206  extends outward from dispensing tip  246 . Although yarn  206  is depicted, any other strand (e.g., filament, thread, rope, webbing, cable, chain, or yarn) may pass through combination feeder  220 . Another yarn  211  passes through first feeder  204  and forms a portion of a knitted component  260 , and loops of yarn  211  forming an uppermost course in knitted component  260  are held by hooks located on ends of needles  202 . 
     The knitting process discussed herein relates to the formation of knitted component  260 , which may be any knitted component, including knitted components that are similar to knitted component  130  discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 5 and 6 . For purposes of the discussion, only a relatively small section of knitted component  260  is shown in the figures in order to permit the knit structure to be illustrated. Moreover, the scale or proportions of the various elements of knitting machine  200  and knitted component  260  may be enhanced to better illustrate the knitting process. 
     First feeder  204  includes a feeder arm  212  with a dispensing tip  213 . Feeder arm  212  is angled to position dispensing tip  213  in a location that is (a) centered between needles  202  and (b) above an intersection of needle beds  201 .  FIG. 19  depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Note that needles  202  lay on different planes, which are angled relative to each other. That is, needles  202  from needle beds  201  lay on the different planes. Needles  202  each have a first position and a second position. In the first position, which is shown in solid line, needles  202  are retracted. In the second position, which is shown in dashed line, needles  202  are extended. In the first position, needles  202  are spaced from the intersection of the planes upon which needle beds  201  lay. In the second position, however, needles  202  are extended and pass through the intersection of the planes upon which needle beds  201  lay. That is, needles  202  cross each other when extended to the second position. It should be noted that dispensing tip  213  is located above the intersection of the planes. In this position, dispensing tip  213  supplies yarn  211  to needles  202  for purposes of knitting, tucking, and floating. 
     Combination feeder  220  is in the retracted position, as evidenced by the orientation of arrow  221  in  FIG. 22 . Feeder arm  240  extends downward from carrier  230  to position dispensing tip  246  in a location that is (a) centered between needles  202  and (b) above the intersection of needle beds  201 .  FIG. 20  depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 23 , first feeder  204  moves along rail  203  and a new course is formed in knitted component  260  from yarn  211 . More particularly, needles  202  pull sections of yarn  211  through the loops of the prior course, thereby forming the new course. Accordingly, courses may be added to knitted component  260  by moving first feeder  204  along needles  202 , thereby permitting needles  202  to manipulate yarn  211  and form additional loops from yarn  211 . 
     Continuing with the knitting process, feeder arm  240  now translates from the retracted position to the extended position, as depicted in  FIG. 24 . In the extended position, feeder arm  240  extends downward from carrier  230  to position dispensing tip  246  in a location that is (a) centered between needles  202  and (b) below the intersection of needle beds  201 .  FIG. 21  depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Note that dispensing tip  246  is positioned below the location of dispensing tip  246  in  FIG. 22B  due to the translating movement of feeder arm  240 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 25 , combination feeder  220  moves along rail  203  and yarn  206  is placed between loops of knitted component  260 . That is, yarn  206  is located in front of some loops and behind other loops in an alternating pattern. Moreover, yarn  206  is placed in front of loops being held by needles  202  from one needle bed  201 , and yarn  206  is placed behind loops being held by needles  202  from the other needle bed  201 . Note that feeder arm  240  remains in the extended position in order to lay yarn  206  in the area below the intersection of needle beds  201 . This effectively places yarn  206  within the course recently formed by first feeder  204  in  FIG. 23 . 
     Also, it is noted that the projections  216 ,  217  of the feeder  220  can push aside the yarn  211  within the previously-formed course of the knitted component  260  as the feeder  220  moves across the knitted component  260 . Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 21 , the projections  216 ,  217  can push the knitted yarns  211  horizontally (as represented by arrows  225 ) to widen the course and provide ample clearance for the yarn  206  to be inlaid. In some embodiments, the projections  216 ,  217  can also push the knitted yarns  211  downward. Thus, even if the yarns  211 ,  206  have a relatively large diameter, the yarn  206  can be effectively laid within the course of the knitted component  260 . Also, because the ends of the projections  216 ,  217  are rounded, the projections  216 ,  217  can assist in preventing tearing or otherwise damaging the yarns  211 . 
     In order to complete inlaying yarn  206  into knitted component  260 , first feeder  204  moves along rail  203  to form a new course from yarn  211 , as depicted in  FIG. 26 . By forming the new course, yarn  206  is effectively knit within or otherwise integrated into the structure of knitted component  260 . At this stage, feeder arm  240  may also translate from the extended position to the retracted position. 
     The general knitting process outlined in the above discussion provides an example of the manner in which inlaid strand  132  may be located in knit element  131 . More particularly, knitted component  130  may be formed by utilizing combination feeder  220  to effectively insert inlaid strands  132  and  152  into knit elements  131 . Given the reciprocating action of feeder arm  240 , inlaid strands may be located within a previously formed course prior to the formation of a new course. 
     Continuing with the knitting process, feeder arm  240  now translates from the retracted position to the extended position, as depicted in  FIG. 27 . Combination feeder  220  then moves along rail  203  and yarn  206  is placed between loops of knitted component  260 , as depicted in  FIG. 28 . This effectively places yarn  206  within the course formed by first feeder  204  in  FIG. 26 . Again, the projections  216 ,  217  can push aside the yarn  211  in the course to make room for inlaying the yarn  206 . In order to complete inlaying yarn  206  into knitted component  260 , first feeder  204  moves along rail  203  to form a new course from yarn  211 , as depicted in  FIG. 29 . By forming the new course, yarn  206  is effectively knit within or otherwise integrated into the structure of knitted component  260 . At this stage, feeder arm  240  may also translate from the extended position to the retracted position. 
     Referring to  FIG. 29 , yarn  206  forms a loop  214  between the two inlaid sections. In the discussion of knitted component  130  above, it was noted that inlaid strand  132  repeatedly exits knit element  131  at perimeter edge  133  and then re-enters knit element  131  at another location of perimeter edge  133 , thereby forming loops along perimeter edge  133 , as seen in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . Loop  214  is formed in a similar manner. That is, loop  214  is formed where yarn  206  exits the knit structure of knitted component  260  and then re-enters the knit structure. 
     As discussed above, first feeder  204  has the ability to supply a strand (e.g., yarn  211 ) that needles  202  manipulate to knit, tuck, and float. Combination feeder  220 , however, has the ability to supply a yarn (e.g., yarn  206 ) that needles  202  knit, tuck, or float, as well as inlaying the yarn. The above discussion of the knitting process describes the manner in which combination feeder  220  inlays a yarn while in the extended position. Combination feeder  220  may also supply the yarn for knitting, tucking, and floating while in the retracted position. Referring to  FIG. 30 , for example, combination feeder  220  moves along rail  203  while in the retracted position and forms a course of knitted component  260  while in the retracted position. Accordingly, by reciprocating feeder arm  240  between the retracted position and the extended position, combination feeder  220  may supply yarn  206  for purposes of knitting, tucking, floating, and inlaying. 
     Following the knitting processes described above, various operations may be performed to enhance the properties of knitted component  130 . For example, a water-repellant coating or other water-resisting treatment may be applied to limit the ability of the knit structures to absorb and retain water. As another example, knitted component  130  may be steamed to improve loft and induce fusing of the yarns. 
     Although procedures associated with the steaming process may vary greatly, one method involves pinning knitted component  130  to a jig during steaming. An advantage of pinning knitted component  130  to a jig is that the resulting dimensions of specific areas of knitted component  130  may be controlled. For example, pins on the jig may be located to hold areas corresponding to perimeter edge  133  of knitted component  130 . By retaining specific dimensions for perimeter edge  133 , perimeter edge  133  will have the correct length for a portion of the lasting process that joins upper  120  to sole structure  110 . Accordingly, pinning areas of knitted component  130  may be utilized to control the resulting dimensions of knitted component  130  following the steaming process. 
     The knitting process described above for forming knitted component  260  may be applied to the manufacture of knitted component  130  for footwear  100 . The knitting process may also be applied to the manufacture of a variety of other knitted components. That is, knitting processes utilizing one or more combination feeders or other reciprocating feeders may be utilized to form a variety of knitted components. As such, knitted components formed through the knitting process described above, or a similar process, may also be utilized in other types of apparel (e.g., shirts, pants, socks, jackets, undergarments), athletic equipment (e.g., golf bags, baseball and football gloves, soccer ball restriction structures), containers (e.g., backpacks, bags), and upholstery for furniture (e.g., chairs, couches, car seats). The knitted components may also be utilized in bed coverings (e.g., sheets, blankets), table coverings, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. The knitted components may be utilized as technical textiles for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical textiles (e.g. bandages, swabs, implants), geotextiles for reinforcing embankments, agrotextiles for crop protection, and industrial apparel that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. Accordingly, knitted components formed through the knitting process described above, or a similar process, may be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes. 
     Additional Features for Feeder and Knitting Operations 
     Referring now to  FIG. 43 , additional embodiments of combination feeder  3220  are illustrated. The feeder  3220  can be substantially similar to the feeder  220  discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 10-21 , except as noted. 
     As will be discussed, the feeder  3220  of  FIG. 43  can include one or more features that assist in knitting processes. For instance, the feeder  3220  can push previously-knitted courses that lie ahead of the dispensing tip of the feeder  3220  relative to the feeding direction of the feeder  3220 . It will be appreciated that  FIG. 43  is merely exemplary of various embodiments, and the feeder  3220  could vary in one or more ways. 
     The feeder  3220  can include a feeder arm  3240  having a first portion  3241  and a second portion  3249 . The first portion  3241  can be attached to and can extend downward from the carrier  3230 . The first portion  3241  can also include the pulley  3243 . Additionally, the second portion  3249  can be moveably attached to the first portion  3241 . For instance, the first and second portions  3241 ,  3249  can be pivotally attached via a hinge  3247 , a flexible joint, or other suitable coupling. Moreover, the dispensing area  3245  can be attached to the second portion  3249 . 
     The feeder  3220  can also include an enlarged end  3261 . In some embodiments, the end  3261  can be bulbous. The end  3261  can be hollow and received over the tapered dispensing area  3245  of the feeder  3220 . In additional embodiments, the end  3261  can be integrally attached to the dispensing area  3245 . The end  3261  can include one or more projections  3262 ,  3264  that are rounded and convex. The projections  3262 ,  3264  can be separated by a gap, and the dispensing tip  3246  can be disposed between the projections  3262 ,  3264  as shown in  FIG. 43 . Stated differently, the projections  3262 ,  3264  can be spaced in opposite directions from the dispensing tip  3246  substantially parallel to the direction of movement of the feeder  3220  along the rails of the knitting machine. 
     Because the first and second portions  3241 ,  3249  are moveably attached, the feeder  3220  can have a first position ( FIG. 44 ) and a second position ( FIG. 45 ). The feeder  3220  can move between the first and second positions depending on the feeding direction of the feeder  3220 . 
     For instance, when the feeder  3220  moves in the feeding direction  3270  ( FIG. 44 ), friction between the bulbous end  3261  and the knit component  3260  can push and rotate the second portion  3249  in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow  3272  in  FIG. 44 . As the feeder  3220  moves linearly in the feeding direction  3270 , the first projection  3262  can push against the previously knit courses of the knit component  3260 . More specifically, the first projection  3262  can push the stitches that lie ahead of the dispensing tip  3246  in the feeding direction  3270 . Pushing of the first projection  3262  against the stitches of the knit component  3260  is indicated by arrow  3274 . As such, the strand  3206  being fed by the feeder  3220  can have sufficient clearance to be incorporated into the knit component  3260 . For instance, if the strand  3206  is being inlaid into the knit component  3260 , the first projection  3262  can provide clearance for such inlaying. 
     On the other hand, if the feeder  3220  is moving in the opposite feeding direction as indicated by arrow  3271  in  FIG. 45 , then friction between the knit component  3260  and the bulbous end  3261  can cause the second portion  3249  to rotate counterclockwise as indicated by arrow  3273 . Thus, as the feeder  3220  moves in the feeding direction  3271 , the second projection  3264  can push against the stitches lying ahead of the dispensing tip  3246  as indicated by arrow  3275 . Accordingly, the second projection  3264  can provide ample clearance for incorporation of the strand  3206  into the knit component  3260 . 
     Thus, the projections  3262 ,  3264  can push stitching that lies ahead of the dispensing tip  3246  as the feeder  3220  moves for more accurate knitting. Also, it will be appreciated that the knitting machine can include so-called “sinkers” or “knock-overs” that are disposed adjacent the needles in the needle bed. The sinkers can sequentially open as the feeder  3220  moves across the needle bed and these sinkers can sequentially close after the feeder  3220  has passed to push down on the knitted stitches. Because the dispensing tip  3246  is angled away from the direction of movement  3270  of the feeder  3220 , the dispensing tip  3246  can be moved closer to the sinkers that are closing behind the feeder  3220 . As such, the strand  3206  can be quickly grasped by the closing sinkers and pushed into the knit component  3260 . Thus, the strand  3206  is more likely to be inlaid properly into the knit component  3260 . 
     It will be appreciated that movement of the feeder  3220  between its first position ( FIG. 44 ) and its second position ( FIG. 45 ) can be controlled in additional ways. For instance, the feeder  3220  can include an actuator and a controller for selectively moving the feeder  3220  between its first and second positions. It will also be appreciated that a single feeder can incorporate one or more features of the embodiments of  FIGS. 43-45  as well as the embodiments of  FIGS. 10-21  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Take-Down Assembly 
     Referring now to  FIG. 37 , a section view of the knitting machine  200  is shown in simplified form and according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. ( FIG. 37  is taken along the line  37 - 37  of  FIG. 9 .) As shown, the knitting machine  200  can additionally include a take-down assembly  300 , which can advance (e.g., pull, etc.) the knit component  260  away from the needle beds  201 . More specifically, the knit component  260  can be formed between the needle beds  201 , and the knit component  260  can grow in the downward direction as sequential courses are added at the needle beds  201 . The take-down assembly  300  can receive, grasp, pull and/or advance the knit component  260  away from the needle beds  201  as indicated by the downward arrow  315  in  FIG. 37 . Also, the take-down assembly  300  can apply tension to the knit component  260  as the take-down assembly  300  pulls the knit component  260  from the needle beds  201 . 
     As will be discussed, the take-down assembly  300  can include one or more features that increases the user&#39;s control over the tension applied to different portions of the knit component  260  as the knit component  260  is formed at and grows from the needle beds  201 . Specifically, the take-down assembly  300  can include a variety of independently controlled and independently actuated members for applying different levels of tension to the knit component  260  along the longitudinal direction along the needle beds  201 . 
     For instance, the take-down assembly  300  can include a plurality of rollers  303 ,  304 ,  305 ,  306 ,  307 ,  308 ,  309 ,  310 ,  311 ,  312 ,  313 ,  314 , as shown schematically in  FIGS. 37 and 38 . The rollers  303 - 314  can be cylindrical and can include rubber or other material on the outer circumferential surfaces thereof. Also, the rollers  303 - 314  can include texturing (e.g., raised surfaces) on the outer circumferential surfaces to enhance gripping, or the rollers  313 - 314  can be substantially smooth. The rollers  303 - 314  can have any suitable radius (e.g., between approximately 0.25 inches and 2 inches) and can have any suitable longitudinal length (e.g., between approximately 0.5 inches and 5 inches). As will be discussed, the rollers  303 - 314  can rotate about respective axes of rotation and contact and grip the knit component  360 . Because the knit component  360  is held by the needles  201  as the rollers  303 - 314  rotate, the rotation of the rollers  303 - 314  can pull and apply tension to the knit component  360 . 
     In the embodiments illustrated in  FIG. 38 , the knitting machine  200  can include a first group  301  of rollers  303 ,  304 ,  305 ,  306 ,  307 ,  308  (main rollers) and a second group  302  of rollers  309 ,  310 ,  311 ,  312 ,  313 ,  314  (auxiliary rollers). As shown, rollers  303 - 305  can be arranged generally in a row  316  that extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the needle beds  201 . Likewise, rollers  306 - 308  can be arranged in a row  317 . Moreover, the outer circumferential surface of roller  303  can oppose that of roller  306 . Likewise, roller  304  can oppose roller  307 , and roller  305  can oppose roller  308 . In the second group  302 , rollers  309 - 311  can be arranged in a row  318 , and rollers  312 - 314  can be arranged in a separate row  319 . These rollers  309 - 314  can be opposingly paired such that roller  309  opposes roller  312 , roller  310  opposes roller  313 , and roller  311  opposes roller  314 . 
     As shown in the embodiments of  FIG. 38 , the take-down assembly  300  can further include one or more biasing members  320 - 325 . The biasing members  320 - 325  can include a compression spring, a leaf spring, or other type of biasing member. The biasing members  320 - 325  can bias the opposing pairs of rollers  303 - 314  toward each other. For instance, the biasing member  320  can be operably coupled (e.g., via mechanical linkage, etc.) to an axle of roller  306  such that roller  306  is biased toward the roller  303 . Moreover, the biasing member  320  can bias roller  306  toward roller  303  such that the respective axes of rotation remain substantially parallel, but spaced apart. Likewise, biasing member  321  can bias roller  307  toward roller  304 , biasing member  322  can bias roller  308  toward roller  305 , biasing member  323  can bias roller  312  toward roller  309 , biasing member  324  can bias roller  313  toward roller  310 , and biasing member  325  can bias roller  314  toward roller  311 . The outer circumferential surfaces of these opposing pairs of rollers can press against each other due to the respective biasing members  320 - 325 . 
     Moreover, the take-down assembly  300  can include a plurality of actuators  326 - 331 . The actuator  312  can include an electric motor, a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, or any other suitable type of automated actuating mechanism. The actuators  326 - 331  can also include a servomotor in some embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 38 , actuator  326  can be operably coupled to the biasing member  320 , the actuator  327  can be operably coupled to the biasing member  321 , the actuator  328  can be operably coupled to the biasing member  322 , the actuator  329  can be operably coupled to the biasing member  323 , the actuator  330  can be operably coupled to the biasing member  324 , and the actuator  331  can be operably coupled to the biasing member  325 . The actuators  326 - 331  can actuate to selectively adjust the biasing load of the respective biasing members  320 - 325 . For instance, the actuators  326 - 331  can actuate to change the length of springs of the biasing members  320 - 325  for such adjustment of the biasing loads according to Hooke&#39;s law. The term “biasing load” is to be interpreted broadly to include biasing force, spring stiffness, and the like. Accordingly, compression between opposing pairs of the rollers  303 - 314  can be selectively adjusted. 
     The actuators  326 - 331  can be operably coupled to a controller  332 . The controller  332  can be included in a personal computer and can include programmed logic, a processor, a display, input devices (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, a touch-sensitive screen, etc.), and other related components. The controller  332  can send electric control signals to the actuators  326 - 331  to control actuations of the actuators  326 - 331 . It will be appreciated that the controller  332  can control the actuators  326 - 331  independently. Accordingly, the biasing force, spring stiffness, etc. can vary among the biasing members  320 - 325 . Thus, as will be described, the tension across the knit component  260  can be varied as will be discussed, allowing different stitch types to be incorporated across the knit component  260 , allowing some stitched areas to be pulled tighter than others, and the like. 
     Operation of the take-down assembly  300  will now be discussed. As shown generally in  FIG. 37 , the knit component  260  can grow in a downward direction as courses are added. Thus, the knit component  260  can be received, initially, between the rows  318 ,  319  of rollers  309 - 314 . As the knit component  260  continues to grow, the knit component  260  can be received between the rows  316 ,  317  of rollers  303 - 308 . 
     Also, because the pairs of opposing rollers  303 - 314  are spaced along the longitudinal direction of the needle beds  201 , different pairs of rollers  303 - 314  contact and advance different portions of the knit component  260 . Biasing loads of the biasing members  320 - 325  can be independently controlled such that tension is applied in a desired manner to each portion of the knit component  260 . 
       FIGS. 39-42  show these operations in more detail. For purposes of clarity, only the rollers  309 - 314  are shown; however, it will be appreciated that the other rollers of the take-down assembly  300  could be used in a related manner. In the embodiments of  FIGS. 39-42 , the rollers  309 - 314  rotate continuously; however, the biasing loads applied by the biasing members  323 - 325  are independently adjusted. 
     As shown in  FIG. 39 , a first portion  340  of the knit component  260  is formed above the opposing pairs of rollers  310 ,  313 . Stated differently, the yarn  211  is knit into the first portion  340  at a knitting area immediately above the rollers  310 ,  313 . Once the first portion  340  has grown enough to be received between the rollers  310 ,  313 , the actuator  330  actuates to increase the biasing load applied by the biasing member  324  to a predetermined level, and the rollers  310 ,  313  can firmly grip and advance the first portion  340 . This is indicated by the arrow  342  in  FIG. 39 . Accordingly, the rollers  310 ,  313  can pull the first portion  340  from the needle beds  201  at a desired tension to facilitate knitting of the first portion  340 . Meanwhile, the other rollers  309 ,  311 ,  312 ,  314  rotate, but the biasing loads  323 ,  325  applied by the biasing members  323 ,  325  remain relatively low. 
     Subsequently, as shown in  FIG. 40 , a second portion  344  of the knit component  260  can begin to be formed at an area of the needle beds  201  immediately above the pair of rollers  311 ,  314 . The second portion  344  can grow to eventually be received between rollers  311 ,  314  as shown in  FIG. 41 . As shown in  FIGS. 40 and 41 , the actuator  331  can actuate to increase the biasing load applied by the biasing member  325  to a predetermined level. This is indicated by arrow  342  in  FIGS. 40 and 41 . Meanwhile, the first portion  340  of the knit component  260  can be held stationary relative to the rollers  310 ,  313  (and held stationary at the area of the needle bed  201  immediately above rollers  310 ,  313 ). To keep the first portion  340  stationary and, yet, at a desirable tension, the actuator  330  can actuate to reduce the biasing load applied by the biasing member  324  on the rollers  310 ,  313 . This is indicated by the arrow  343  in  FIG. 40 . By reducing the biasing load, the rollers  310 ,  313  can rotate and slip on the respective surfaces of the first portion  340  without advancing the first portion  340  away from the needle beds  201 . 
     Then, as shown in  FIG. 42 , the yarn  211  can knit one or more courses to join the first and second portions  340 ,  344  together. The actuators  330 ,  331  can both actuate to increase the biasing loads applied by the biasing members  324 ,  325 , respectively. Accordingly, the rollers  310 ,  313  can more tightly grip the first portion  340  of the knit component  260 , and the rollers  311 ,  314  can grip the second portion  344  to further advance the knit component  260  and pull the knit component  260  at the desired tension from the needle beds  201 . 
     These manufacturing techniques can be employed, for instance, when forming an upper of an article of footwear, such as the knit components described above. For instance, the first portion  340  shown in  FIGS. 39-42  can represent a tongue of the article of footwear, and the second portion  344  can represent a medial or lateral portion of the upper that becomes integrally attached to the tongue. Stated differently, the techniques can be employed to form a one-piece upper in which the tongue and surrounding portions of the upper are joined by at least one common, continuous course at the throat area of the upper. Examples of such an upper are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/400,511, filed Feb. 20, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. These techniques can also be employed where the knit component  260  is a knitted fabric that spans across the needle bed  201 , and the different portions  340 ,  344  are pulled from the needle beds  201  at different tensions by the take-down assembly  300 . 
     It will be understood that when the rollers  303 - 314  increase tension on the respective portions  340 ,  344  of the knit component  260 , stitching in those portions  340 ,  344  can be tighter and “cleaner.” On the other hand, decreasing tension on the respective portions  340 ,  344  can allow the stitches to be looser. As such, adjusting tension applied by the rollers  303 - 314  of the take-down assembly  300  can affect the look, feel, and/or other features of the knit component  260 . Also, tension applied by the rollers  303 - 314  can be varied to allow different types of yarns (e.g., yarns of different diameter) to be incorporated into the knit component  260 . 
     Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the circumferential surfaces of the rollers  303 - 314  can roll evenly and continuously over the sides of the knit component  260  to advance the knit component  260 . As such, compressive and tangential loading from the rollers  303 - 314  can be distributed evenly over the surface of the knit component  260 . As a result, knitting can be completed in a highly controlled manner. 
     Additional embodiments of the take-down assembly are shown in  FIGS. 32-36 . Although shown separately, it will be appreciated that one or more features of the take down assembly of  FIGS. 32-42  can be combined. 
     Also, for purposes of simplicity,  FIG. 32  illustrates one pair of opposing rollers  2303 ,  2306  that can be incorporated in the assembly. As shown, the roller  2306  can be operably coupled to an actuator  2326 . The actuator  2326  can be configured to drivingly rotate the roller  2306  about its axis of rotation. This can cause rotation of the roller  2303  due to compression between the two rollers  2306 ,  2303 . Like the embodiments of  FIGS. 38-42 , the actuator  2326  can include an electric motor, a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, and the like. Also, the actuator  2326  can be a hub motor such that the roller  2306  rotates about a housing of the actuator  2326 . The actuator  2326  can be controlled via a controller  2332 , similar to the embodiments of  FIGS. 38-42 . 
       FIG. 33  shows how the configuration of  FIG. 32  can be employed for a plurality of rollers  2303 - 2306  of the take-down assembly. As shown, each of rollers  2306 ,  2307  can be drivingly rotated by separate, respective actuators  2326 ,  2327 . Also, the actuators  2326 ,  2327  can be controlled by controller  2332 . As will be discussed, the controller  2332  can control the actuators  2326 ,  2327  to drivingly rotate the rollers  2306 ,  2307  at different speeds. For instance, roller  2306  can be driven faster than the roller  2307 , or vice versa. Also, roller  2306  can be driven in rotation while the roller  2307  remains substantially stationary, or vice versa. 
       FIGS. 33-36  show a sequence of operations of the take-down assembly, wherein the rollers  2306 ,  2307  are independently rotated. As shown in  FIG. 33 , the roller  2307  can be driven in rotation by the respective actuator  2327  to advance the portion  2320  of the knit component  2260  between rollers  2307 ,  2304  and to pull the portion  2320  at a desired tension from the area of the needle beds  201  directly above. This driving rotation of the rollers  2307 ,  2304  is indicated by arrows  2360  in  FIG. 33 . This rotation can occur while the roller  2306  remains substantially stationary. 
     Then, once the portion  2320  of the knit component  260  has reached a predetermined length (i.e., sufficient courses of the yarn  211  have been added to the portion  320 ), the rollers  2307 ,  2304  can discontinue rotating. As shown in  FIG. 34 , another portion  2322  of the knit component  260  can begin to be formed. 
     Once the portion  2322  is long enough to reach the rollers  2306 ,  2303 , the roller  2306  can be driven in rotation by the respective actuator  2326 . This rotation is represented by the two curved arrows  2360  in  FIG. 35 . The yarn  2211  can continue to be knit into or otherwise incorporated into the portion  2322 . The rollers  2306 ,  2303  can also rotate while the rollers  2307 ,  2304  remain substantially stationary. 
     Once the portion  2322  has reached a predetermined length, the pairs of rollers  2303 ,  2306 ,  2304 ,  2307  can rotate together. This can occur while the yarn  2211  is incorporated into both the portions  2320 ,  2322 . Stated differently, the yarn  2211  can be knit into one or more continuous courses that connect the portions  2320 ,  2322  as shown in  FIG. 36 . 
     It will also be appreciated that one opposing pair of the rollers  2303 ,  2306  can be drivingly rotated faster than another opposing pair of rollers  2304 ,  2307  such that the portion  2322  is pulled at a higher tension than the portion  2320 . Accordingly, the stitches in the portion  2322  can be more tightly formed than those of the portion  2320 . 
     Accordingly, the take-down assemblies disclosed herein can allow the knit component to be formed in a highly controlled manner. This can facilitate manufacture of a high quality, highly durable, and aesthetically pleasing knit component. 
     The present disclosure is discussed in detail above and in the accompanying figures with reference to a variety of configurations. The purpose served by the discussion, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the disclosure, not to limit the scope of the same. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the configurations described above without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, as defined by the appended claims.