Patent Description:
Sole structures generally include a layered arrangement extending between a ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides abrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface. The outsole may be formed from rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well as enhance traction with the ground surface. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be partially formed from a polymer foam material that compresses resiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces. The midsole may additionally or alternatively incorporate a fluid-filled bladder to increase durability of the sole structure, as well as to provide cushioning to the foot by compressing resiliently under an applied load to attenuate ground-reaction forces. Sole structures may also include a comfort-enhancing insole or a sockliner located within a void proximate to the bottom portion of the upper and a strobel attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner.

Midsoles employing fluid-filled bladders typically include a bladder formed from two barrier layers of polymer material that are sealed or bonded together. The fluid-filled bladders are pressurized with a fluid such as air, and may incorporate tensile members within the bladder to retain the shape of the bladder when compressed resiliently under applied loads, such as during athletic movements. Generally, bladders are designed with an emphasis on balancing support for the foot and cushioning characteristics that relate to responsiveness as the bladder resiliently compresses under an applied load
Document <CIT> describes a sole structure includes a heel region, a forefoot region, and a midfoot region disposed between the heel and forefoot regions. The sole structure also includes a first fluid-filled segment disposed within the forefoot region and includes a first portion extending continuously from a medial side of the sole structure to a lateral side of the sole structure. The sole structure also includes a second fluid-filled segment disposed between the heel region and the first fluid-filled segment and includes a first portion extending continuously between the medial side and the lateral side. The sole structure also includes a third fluid-filled segment disposed between the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid- filled segment and includes a first portion extending along one of the medial side and the lateral side and a second portion extending from the first portion toward the other one of the medial side and the lateral side. Document <CIT> describes an article of footwear comprising a sole structure having a bladder element that includes multiple cushioning components. Each cushioning component includes an enclosed fluid-filled cavity. The cushioning components may include a first cushioning component and a second cushioning component. The first cushioning component has a single central opening extending completely therethrough, and a continuous fluid-filled cavity surrounding the central opening. The second cushioning component has multiple connecting features positioned inward of an outer periphery of the second cushioning component. The connecting features connect a first side of the second cushioning component to a second side of the second cushioning component opposite the first side.

Particular embodiments of the claimed invention are defined by the dependent claims.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an article of footwear <NUM> includes an upper <NUM>, a midsole <NUM> attached to the upper <NUM>, and an outsole <NUM> extending between the midsole <NUM> and a ground surface. The article of footwear <NUM> may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region <NUM>, a mid-foot region <NUM>, and a heel region <NUM>. The forefoot region <NUM> may correspond with toes and joints connecting metatarsal bones with phalanx bones of a foot. The mid-foot region <NUM> may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel region <NUM> may correspond with rear portions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone. The footwear <NUM> may include lateral and medial sides <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, corresponding with opposite sides of the footwear <NUM> and extending through the regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

The upper <NUM> includes interior surfaces that define an interior void <NUM> configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the midsole <NUM>. The upper <NUM> may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form the interior void <NUM>. Suitable materials of the upper may include, but are not limited to, mesh, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials may be selected and located to impart properties of durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

In some examples, the upper <NUM> includes a strobel <NUM> having a bottom surface <NUM> opposing the midsole <NUM> and an opposing top surface defining a footbed <NUM> of the interior void <NUM>. Stitching or adhesives may secure the strobel <NUM> to the upper <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the footbed <NUM> may be contoured to conform to a profile of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot. Optionally, the upper <NUM> may also incorporate additional layers such as an insole <NUM> or sockliner that may be disposed upon the strobel <NUM> and reside within the interior void <NUM> of the upper <NUM> to receive a plantar surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the article of footwear <NUM>. An ankle opening <NUM> in the heel region <NUM> may provide access to the interior void <NUM>. For example, the ankle opening <NUM> may receive a foot to secure the foot within the void <NUM> and facilitate entry and removal of the foot from and to the interior void <NUM>.

In some examples, one or more fasteners <NUM> extend along the upper <NUM> to adjust a fit of the interior void <NUM> around the foot and to accommodate entry and removal of the foot therefrom. The upper <NUM> may include apertures <NUM> such as eyelets and/or other engagement features such as fabric or mesh loops that receive the fasteners <NUM>. The fasteners <NUM> may include laces, straps, cords, hook-and-loop, or any other suitable type of fastener. The upper <NUM> may include a tongue portion <NUM> that extends between the interior void <NUM> and the fasteners <NUM>.

As shown <FIG>, the midsole <NUM> includes a bladder <NUM> defined by an upper barrier layer <NUM> (hereinafter `upper layer <NUM>') and a lower barrier layer <NUM> (hereinafter `lower layer <NUM>'). The upper layer <NUM> and the lower layer <NUM> define barrier layers for the bladder <NUM> by joining together and bonding at a plurality of discrete locations during a molding or thermoforming process to form a flange <NUM> extending around the periphery of the midsole <NUM> and a web area <NUM> extending between the lateral and medial sides <NUM> and <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>. The flange <NUM> and the web area <NUM> are disposed proximate to the upper <NUM> and, thus, are recessed relative to a ground-engaging surface <NUM> of the outsole <NUM>.

The upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> opposes and attaches (e.g., joins and bonds) to the bottom surface <NUM> of the strobel <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. Additionally, the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> may be contoured to conform to a profile of the bottom surface of the foot to provide cushioning and support for the foot. The upper layer <NUM> may be formed from one or more polymer materials during a molding process or a thermoforming process and include an outer peripheral edge that extends upward upon an outer periphery of the upper <NUM>. The lower layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> is disposed on an opposite side of the bladder <NUM> than the upper layer <NUM>. The lower layer <NUM> may include an outer peripheral edge that extends upward toward the upper <NUM> and bonds with the outer peripheral edge of the upper layer <NUM> to form the flange <NUM>. As with the upper layer <NUM>, the lower layer <NUM> may be formed from the same or different materials as the upper layer <NUM> during the molding or thermoforming process.

In some implementations, the upper and lower layers <NUM>, <NUM> are formed by respective mold portions each defining various surfaces for forming depressions and pinched surfaces corresponding to locations where the flange <NUM> and/or the web area <NUM> are formed when the lower layer <NUM> and the upper layer <NUM> join and bond together. In some implementations, adhesive bonding joins the upper layer <NUM> and the lower layer <NUM> to form the flange <NUM> and the web area <NUM>. In other implementations, the upper layer <NUM> and the lower layer <NUM> are joined to form the flange <NUM> and the web area <NUM> by thermal bonding. In some examples, one or both of the upper and lower layers <NUM>, <NUM> are heated to a temperature that facilitates shaping and melding. In some examples, the layers <NUM>, <NUM> are heated prior to being located between their respective molds. In other examples, the mold may be heated to raise the temperature of the layers <NUM>, <NUM>. In some implementations, a molding process used to form the bladder <NUM> incorporates vacuum ports within mold portions to remove air such that the upper and lower layers <NUM>, <NUM> are drawn into contact with respective mold portions. In other implementations, fluids such as air may be injected into areas between the upper and lower layers <NUM>, <NUM> such that pressure differentials cause the layers <NUM>, <NUM> to engage with surfaces of their respective mold portions.

In some implementations, the midsole <NUM> may include a polymer foam layer (not shown) disposed between the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. Thus, the optional foam layer of the midsole <NUM> is operative as an intermediate layer to indirectly attach the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> to the upper <NUM> by joining the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> to the upper <NUM> and/or to the bottom surface <NUM> of the strobel <NUM>. As such, the optional foam layer further joins the lower layer <NUM> to the outsole <NUM>, thereby securing the midsole <NUM> and the outsole <NUM> to the upper <NUM>. Moreover, the foam layer of the footwear <NUM> may also reduce the extent to which the upper layer <NUM> extends onto the peripheral surfaces of the upper <NUM> and, therefore, increases durability of the footwear <NUM> by reducing the possibility of the upper layer <NUM> detaching from the upper <NUM> over extended use of the footwear <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the bladder <NUM> includes one or more chambers <NUM>, <NUM>. In the illustrated example, a first chamber <NUM> extends from the mid-foot region <NUM> to a toe portion of the forefoot region <NUM> and a second chamber <NUM> extends through the heel region <NUM>. The second chamber <NUM> is fluidly coupled to the first chamber <NUM> by a conduit 220c, as described in greater detail below.

The chambers <NUM>, <NUM> are each defined by a plurality of segments 218a-218n, which are fluidly coupled to each other by one or more conduits 220a-220d. In some implementations, the lower layer <NUM> defines a geometry (e.g., thicknesses, width, and lengths) of the plurality of segments 218a-218n and the conduits 220a-220d. The lower layer <NUM> and the upper layer <NUM> may join and bond together in a plurality of discrete areas between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> to form portions of the web area <NUM> that bound and separate each segment 218a-218n and conduit 220a-220d. Thus, each segment 218a-218n and conduit 220a-220d is associated with an area of the bladder <NUM> where the upper and lower layers <NUM>, <NUM> are not joined together and, thus, are separated from one another to form respective voids.

The flange <NUM> and web area <NUM> may cooperate to bound and extend around each of the segments 218a-218n to contain the fluid (e.g., air) within the segments 218a-218n. In some examples, regions of the web area <NUM> are bounded entirely by segments 218a-218n and/or conduits 220a-220d while other regions of the web area <NUM> are bounded by a combination of segments 218a-218n and/or conduits 220a-220d along one of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>, and the flange <NUM> along the other of the lateral side <NUM> or the medial side <NUM>. In some configurations, regions of the web area <NUM> define flexion zones to facilitate flexing of the footwear <NUM> as the midsole <NUM> rolls along the ground surface. As shown in <FIG>, no portion of the web area <NUM> extends continuously between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, each segment 218a-218n and conduit 220a-220d may define a substantially tubular cross-sectional shape and a thickness that extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the midsole <NUM> between the upper layer <NUM> and the lower layer <NUM>. As such, the thickness of each segment 218a-218n is defined by a distance the lower layer <NUM> protrudes away from the upper layer <NUM> in a direction away from the upper <NUM>. At least two of the segments 218a-218n may define different thicknesses. For example, one or more segments 218j-<NUM> disposed in the heel region <NUM> may be associated with greater thicknesses than thicknesses associated one or more segments 218a-218i disposed in the forefoot region <NUM> or the mid-foot region <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a thickness of the midsole <NUM> gradually decreases from the heel region <NUM> to the forefoot region <NUM> to provide a greater degree of cushioning for absorbing ground-reaction forces of greater magnitude that initially occur in the heel region <NUM> and lessen as the forefoot region <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> rolls for engagement with the ground surface.

Each of the segments 218a-218n and the conduits 220a-220d may be filled with a pressurized fluid (i.e., gas, liquid) to provide cushioning and stability for the foot during use of the footwear <NUM>. In some implementations, compressibility of a first portion of the plurality of segments 218a-218n of the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> under an applied load provides a responsive-type cushioning, while a second portion of the segments 218a-218n of the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to provide a soft-type cushioning under an applied load. Accordingly, the segments 218a-218n of the bladder <NUM> may cooperate to provide gradient cushioning to the article of footwear <NUM> that changes as the applied load changes (i.e., the greater the load, the more the segments 218a-218n are compressed and, thus, the more responsive the footwear <NUM> performs).

In other implementations, one or more cushioning materials (none shown), such as polymer foam and/or particulate matter, are enclosed by one or more of the segments 218a-218n in place of, or in addition to, the pressurized fluid to provide cushioning for the foot. In these implementations, the cushioning materials may provide one or more of the segments 218a-218n with cushioning properties different from the segments 218a-218n filled with the pressurized fluid. For example, the cushioning materials may be more or less responsive or provide greater impact absorption than the pressurized fluid.

In some implementations, an overmold portion extends over a portion of the bladder <NUM> to provide increased durability and resiliency for the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> when under applied loads. The overmold portion may extend over the forefoot region <NUM>, the mid-foot region <NUM>, and/or the heel region <NUM> by attaching to the lower layer <NUM> to provide increased durability and resiliency for the bladder <NUM> where the separation distance between the lower layer <NUM> and the upper layer <NUM> is greater, or to provide increased thickness in specific areas of the bladder <NUM>, such as the heel region <NUM>. In some examples the overmold portion is bonded to the lower layer <NUM> and includes at least one of a different thickness, a different hardness, and a different material than the lower layer <NUM>. The overmold portion may limited to only areas of the lower layer <NUM> that partially define the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> residing in the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and, therefore, the overmold portion may be absent from the flange <NUM> and web area <NUM>. Accordingly, the overmold portion may partially define a plurality of the segments 218a-218n.

The outsole <NUM> attaches to and conforms in shape with the midsole <NUM>. In some examples, the outsole <NUM> includes the ground-engaging surface <NUM> and an opposite inner surface <NUM> that attaches to regions of the lower layer <NUM> that define the segments 218a-218n. Accordingly, the outsole <NUM> may include a plurality of segments each defining a shape that conforms to the shape of a respective segments 218a-<NUM>, whereby the outsole <NUM> is absent in regions between the segments 218a-<NUM> to thereby expose the flange <NUM> and web area <NUM> of the bladder <NUM>. The outsole <NUM> generally provides abrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface and may be formed from one or more materials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well as enhance traction with the ground surface. For example, rubber may form at least a portion of the outsole <NUM>.

The ground-engaging surface <NUM> may define a plurality of contact pads <NUM> and serrations <NUM> that protrude from the ground-engaging surface <NUM> in a direction away from the upper <NUM>. The contact pads <NUM> each define a substantially planar portion of the ground-engaging surface, and are spaced intermittently along the segments 218a-<NUM>. Particularly, one of the contact pads <NUM> may be disposed at each intersection of adjacent ones of the segments 218a-<NUM>, such that a first portion of one of the contact pads <NUM> extends along a first one of the segments 218a-<NUM> and a second portion of the one of the contact pads <NUM> extends along a second one of the segment 218a-<NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the contact pads <NUM> may extend along the lengths of fluid-filled segments 218a-<NUM> to impart traction and stability in the mid-foot and forefoot regions <NUM> and <NUM>. There serrations <NUM> include a plurality of protrusions spaced evenly along the ground-engaging surface <NUM> of the outsole <NUM> to provided added traction. Particularly, the serrations <NUM> are configured to engage a soft ground surface to improve traction.

In the illustrated example, the outsole <NUM> is formed as the overmold portion, as described above. Accordingly, the outsole <NUM> may be formed integrally with the lower layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> using an overmolding process. In other examples the outsole <NUM> may be formed separately from the lower layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> and adhesively bonded to the lower layer <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the geometry and configuration of bladder <NUM> is shown with reference to bottom perspective views of the footwear <NUM>. As described above, the bladder <NUM> includes a first chamber <NUM> and a second chamber <NUM> having a plurality of segments 218a-218n and conduits 220a-220d defining a fluid network. At least one of the segments 218a-218n may have a different length than the other segments 218a-218n. As described above, the segments 218a-218n are formed in areas of the midsole <NUM> where the upper layer <NUM> and the lower layer <NUM> are separated and spaced apart from one another to define respective voids for enclosing the pressurized fluid and/or cushioning material. As such, the flange <NUM> and the web area <NUM> correspond to areas of the bladder <NUM> where the upper layer <NUM> and the lower layer <NUM> are joined and bonded, and cooperate to bound and define a perimeter of each segment 218a-218n to thereby seal the pressurized fluid therein. Accordingly, the segments 218a-218n may be disposed within corresponding ones of the regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> and may be spaced apart from one another by the web area <NUM>. In other words, the one or more segments 218a-218n may cooperate to bound corresponding regions of the web area <NUM>.

In some implementations, at least two of the segments 218a-218n extend along the lateral side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> while at least two other segments 218a-218n extend along the medial side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>. Moreover, some of the segments 218a-218n extend between the lateral side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> and the medial side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>. For instance, at least one segment 218a-218n may extend from one of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM> to the other one of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the segments 218a-218n extends from one of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM> to a distal end <NUM> that terminates at a location between the medial side <NUM> and the lateral side <NUM>. Here, the distal end(s) <NUM> may taper in a direction toward the upper <NUM> (i.e., the lower layer <NUM> tapers toward the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> so the thickness of the segment 218a-218n decreases along a direction towards the distal end <NUM>).

In some implementations, the segments 218a-218n are in fluid communication with one another, either directly or via conduits <NUM>, to form a unitary pressure system for the bladder <NUM>. The unitary pressure system directs the fluid through the segments 218a-218n when under an applied load as the segments 218a-218n compress or expand to provide cushioning, as well as stability and support, by attenuating ground-reaction forces especially during forward running movements of the footwear <NUM>. Optionally, one or more of the segments 218a-218n may be fluidly isolated from the other segments 218a-218n so that at least one of the segments 218a-218n can be pressurized differently.

In some configurations, at least two adjacent segments 218a-218n are connected to one another at a bend <NUM> or turn, whereby each of the segments connected by the corresponding bend <NUM> extend in different directions from one another. Each bend <NUM> is associated with an internal radius extending toward the periphery of the midsole <NUM>. In some examples, the radius of each bend <NUM> is at least <NUM>. Moreover, each bend <NUM> is disposed proximate to the periphery of the midsole <NUM> on an opposite side of the respective segment 218a-218n than the flange <NUM>. By positioning the bends <NUM> on opposite sides of the segments 218a-218n than the flange <NUM>, collapsing by the segments 218a-218n is restricted during directional shifts between loads applied to the midsole <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in some examples, the first chamber <NUM> includes a plurality of segments 218a-<NUM> and conduits 220a-220b extending from the forefoot region <NUM> into the mid-foot region <NUM>. A first segment 218a extends along the medial side <NUM> in the forefoot region <NUM>. A second segment 218b extends towards the lateral side <NUM> from a first end of the first segment 218a and a third segment 218c extends towards the lateral side <NUM> from a second end of the first segment 218a. The second segment 218b and the third segment 218c each terminate at distal ends 222b, 222c disposed between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. The second segment 218b and the third segment 218c diverge from each other in a direction from the medial side <NUM> to the lateral side <NUM>.

A fourth segment 218d extends along the lateral side of the midsole <NUM> in the forefoot region <NUM>. A fifth segment 218e extends towards the medial side <NUM> from a first end of the fourth segment 218d in the forefoot region <NUM>, and a sixth segment 218f extends towards the lateral side <NUM> from an opposing second end of the fourth segment 218d in the mid-foot region <NUM>. Each of the fifth segment 218e and the sixth segment 218f terminate at distal ends 222e, 222f disposed between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. The fifth segment 218e extends between the second segment 218b and the third segment 218c, while the third segment 218c extends between the fifth segment 218e and the sixth segment 218f. The fifth segment 218e diverges from the sixth segment 218f in a direction from the medial side <NUM> to the lateral side <NUM>. Further, the fifth segment 218e is adjacent and extends substantially parallel to the third segment 218c, as shown in <FIG>.

Referring still to <FIG>, a seventh segment <NUM> extends around a toe portion of the forefoot region <NUM>, from a first end at the medial side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> to a second end at the lateral side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>. An eighth segment <NUM> extends from the second end of the seventh segment <NUM> towards the lateral side <NUM>, and terminates at a distal end <NUM> between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. The distal end <NUM> of the eighth segment <NUM> extends between the second segment 218b and the fifth segment 218e.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the second chamber <NUM> includes a ninth segment 218i disposed within the forefoot region <NUM> and extending from the medial side <NUM> towards the lateral side <NUM>. The ninth segment 218i terminates at a distal end 222i intermediate the medial side <NUM> and the lateral side <NUM>, and extends between the third segment 218c and the sixth segment 218f of the first chamber <NUM>.

The second chamber <NUM> further includes a tenth segment 218j having a first portion extending from the ninth segment 218i on the medial side <NUM> in the forefoot region <NUM> to the lateral side <NUM> in the heel region <NUM>, and a second portion extending along the lateral side <NUM> of the heel region <NUM>. Accordingly, the first portion of the tenth segment 218j traverses the mid-foot region <NUM> at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the midsole <NUM>. An eleventh segment <NUM> extends along the medial side <NUM> in the heel region <NUM>, and includes a first end fluidly coupled to the first portion of the tenth segment 218j by a conduit 220d. A twelfth segment <NUM> of the second chamber <NUM> extends around the heel region <NUM> from the tenth segment 2018j on the lateral side <NUM> to the eleventh segment <NUM> on the medial side <NUM>. The twelfth segment <NUM> may be fluidly coupled to each of the tenth segment 218j and the eleventh segment <NUM>.

The second chamber <NUM> further includes a pair of anchor segments <NUM>, 218n extending transversely to the longitudinal axis L. For example, a first anchor segment <NUM> extends from the tenth segment 218j and/or the twelfth segment <NUM> along the lateral side <NUM> towards the medial, and terminates at a distal end <NUM> between the tenth segment 218j and the eleventh segment <NUM>. Similarly, a second anchor segment 218n extends from the eleventh segment <NUM> along the medial side <NUM> towards the medial side lateral side <NUM>, and terminates at a distal end 222n between the eleventh segment <NUM> and the tenth segment 218j. The second anchor segment 218n and the first anchor segment <NUM> extend along substantially parallel axes 30p, 30q, at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis L, as shown in <FIG>.

As provided above, each of the segments <NUM>-218o of the second chamber <NUM> may be filled with a pressurized fluid to impart desirable properties of cushioning and responsiveness. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more of the segments 218a-218n may include a cushioning material (none shown) to provide different cushioning characteristics from the pressurized fluid. For example, the tenth segment 218o may include a polymer foam cushioning material to increase absorption of an initial impact of the footwear <NUM> with the ground surface.

As shown in <FIG>, the segments 218a-<NUM> of the first and second chambers <NUM>, <NUM> upon which the outsole <NUM> is formed may include necked regions <NUM> disposed intermediate the contact pads <NUM>. The necked regions <NUM> define areas of the segments 218a-<NUM> having a decreased thickness such that the ground-engaging surface <NUM> is recessed from the ground surface. As shown in <FIG>, the necked regions <NUM> of the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> include the serrations <NUM> and are configured to provide secondary engagement with the ground surface with the bladder <NUM> is compressed into the ground surface.

In some examples, the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i each extend generally along a direction from the lateral side <NUM> to the medial side <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the third segment 218c and the fifth segment 218e extend in parallel along a first direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L, while the second segment 218b and the eighth segment <NUM> extend in parallel along a second direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L. Accordingly, the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i are configured to compress in succession as the outsole <NUM> rolls for engagement with the ground surface while the footwear <NUM> is performing a running movement to provide cushioning for the foot. The web area <NUM> may separate the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i from one another such that the web area <NUM> defines a flexion zone extending from the forefoot region <NUM> through the mid-foot region <NUM>. The transverse arrangement of the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i with respect to the longitudinal axis L, as well as the web area <NUM> separating the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i allow the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i to compress under an applied load to provide cushioning for the forefoot by attenuating ground-reaction forces during running movements, while simultaneously dampening oscillation by the foot while the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i are under compression.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> the distal ends <NUM> include a compound taper, wherein both the thickness T and a width of the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i, <NUM>, 218n decrease along a direction towards the distal end <NUM>. The tapered distal ends <NUM> operate as an anchor point for the respective segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i, <NUM>, 218n as well as an anchor point for the bladder <NUM> as a whole, for retaining the shape thereof when loads such as shear forces are applied thereto.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the first chamber <NUM> includes a first conduit 220a fluidly coupling the first end of the seventh segment <NUM> to the first end of the first segment 218a along the medial side <NUM>. A second conduit 220b fluidly couples the second end of the seventh segment <NUM> to the first end of the fourth segment 218d along the lateral side <NUM>. Accordingly, all of the segments 218a-<NUM> of the first chamber <NUM> are in fluid communication with each other, either directly or indirectly. Likewise, the second end of the first segment 218a is fluidly coupled to the first end of the tenth segment 218j by a third conduit 220c along the medial side <NUM>, thereby fluidly coupling the first chamber <NUM> to the second chamber <NUM>. As discussed above, the conduit 220d fluidly couples a first end of the eleventh segment <NUM> to an intermediate portion of the tenth segment 218j adjacent the medial side <NUM>. Conduits <NUM> may be provided in alternative or additional arrangements to the conduits 220a-220c. For example, conduits may be included in areas of the bladder <NUM> between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a cross-sectional view taken along line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing the midsole <NUM> in the forefoot region <NUM> with the insole <NUM>, the strobel <NUM> of the upper <NUM>, and the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> arranged in the layered configuration as described above with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. As provided above, the peripheral edges of the lower layer <NUM> may extend upward toward the upper <NUM> and join with the peripheral edges of the upper layer <NUM> to form the flange <NUM> along the medial side <NUM> and the lateral side <NUM>. The lower layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> may also extend toward the upper <NUM> and join with the upper layer <NUM> to form a region of the web area <NUM> that extends between and separates the segments 218a, 218e. For instance, the segment 218a extending along the medial side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> is bounded by the web area <NUM> and the flange <NUM> formed at the medial side <NUM>, while the segment 218e extending from the segment 218a at the lateral side <NUM> toward the medial side <NUM> is bounded by the web area <NUM> and the flange <NUM> formed at the lateral side <NUM>. The distal end 222e of the segment 218e tapers in the direction toward the upper <NUM> and terminates at the web area <NUM> formed at the location between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. The section line of <FIG> (see <FIG>) is taken through one of the necked regions <NUM> of the first segment 218a, wherein the thickness of the first segment 218a is reduced and the ground-engaging surface <NUM> of the first segment 218a is spaced apart from the ground surface.

The outsole <NUM> attaches to and conforms in shape with each of the segments 218a, 218d, 218e. In some examples, the contact pad <NUM> extends from the outsole <NUM> in a direction away from the upper <NUM> and along respective lengths of the segments 218a, 218c, 218d to provide increased traction with the ground surface.

<FIG> provides a cross-sectional view taken along line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing the midsole <NUM> in the forefoot region <NUM> with the insole <NUM>, the strobel <NUM> of the upper <NUM>, and the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> arranged in the layered configuration as described above with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. The peripheral edges of the lower layer <NUM> may extend upward toward the upper <NUM> and join with the peripheral edges of the upper layer <NUM> to form the flange <NUM> along the medial side <NUM> and the lateral side <NUM>. The lower layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> may also extend toward the upper <NUM> and join with the upper layer <NUM> to form a region of the web area <NUM> that extends between and separates the segments 218d, 218i. For instance, the segment 218d extending along the lateral side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> is bounded by the web area <NUM> and the flange <NUM> formed at the lateral side <NUM>, while the segment 218f extending from the segment 218j at the medial side <NUM> toward the lateral side <NUM> is bounded by the web area <NUM> and the flange <NUM> formed at the medial side <NUM>. The distal end 222i of the segment 218f tapers in the direction toward the upper <NUM> and terminates at the web area <NUM> formed at the location between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. The section line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> (see <FIG>) is taken through one of the necked regions <NUM> of the fourth segment 218d, wherein the thickness of the fourth segment 218d is reduced and the ground-engaging surface <NUM> of the fourth segment 218d is spaced apart from the ground surface.

The outsole <NUM> attaches to and conforms in shape with each of the segments 218d, 218i, 218j. In some examples, the contact pad <NUM> extends from the outsole <NUM> in a direction away from the upper <NUM> and along respective lengths of the segments 218d, 218i, 218j to provide increased traction with the ground surface.

<FIG> provides a cross-sectional view taken along line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing the midsole <NUM> in the heel region <NUM> with the insole <NUM>, the strobel <NUM>, and the upper layer <NUM> of the bladder <NUM> arranged in the layered configuration as described above with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. The peripheral edges of the lower layer <NUM> may extend upward toward the upper <NUM> and join with the peripheral edges of the upper layer <NUM> to form the flange <NUM> along the medial side <NUM> and the lateral side <NUM>. Relative to the view of <FIG>, the lower layer <NUM> protrudes away from the upper layer <NUM> in a direction away from the upper <NUM> to define the tenth segment 218j along the lateral side <NUM>, the eleventh segment <NUM> along the medial side <NUM>, and the first anchor segment <NUM> of the second chamber <NUM>. The section line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> (see <FIG>) is taken through one of the necked regions <NUM> of the tenth segment 218j, wherein the thickness of the tenth segment 218j is reduced and the ground-engaging surface <NUM> of the tenth segment 218j is spaced apart from the ground surface.

<FIG> provides a cross-sectional view taken along line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> showing the midsole <NUM> and outsole <NUM> extending through the heel region <NUM>, the mid-foot region <NUM>, and the forefoot region <NUM>. As described above with reference to the footwear <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>, the outsole <NUM> attaches to portions of the lower layer <NUM> in regions where the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> protrude away from the upper <NUM> to provide increased durability and resiliency for the bladder <NUM> in the heel region <NUM>, the mid-foot region <NUM>, and the forefoot region <NUM>. Moreover, the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>-j, <NUM>-n extend between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. The web area <NUM> may separate and extend between the segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>-j, <NUM>-n relative to the view of <FIG>. In some examples, the segments 218a-218i extend into the forefoot region <NUM> and are associated with a smaller thickness than segments 218j-<NUM> in the heel region <NUM> and/or mid-foot region <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a bottom perspective view of the segments 218a, 218b, 218d, 218e, <NUM>, <NUM> fluidly connected to one another and disposed within the forefoot region <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>. In some examples, the segments 218b, 218e, <NUM> extend between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM> to the distal ends 222b, 222e, <NUM> that terminate at a location between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. The distal ends 222b, 222e, <NUM> may taper in a direction toward the upper <NUM>. The tapering by the distal end 222b, 222e, <NUM> of the segments 218b, 218e, <NUM> may function as an anchor point for the segments 218b, 218e, <NUM> when under an applied load.

<FIG> provides a bottom perspective view of the segments 218j-218n fluidly connected to one another and disposed within the heel region <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>. In some examples, the segments <NUM>, 218n extend between the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM> to the distal ends <NUM>, 222n that terminate at a location between the tenth segment 218j and the eleventh segment <NUM>. The distal ends <NUM>, 222n may taper in a direction toward the upper <NUM>. The tapering by the distal ends <NUM>, 222n of the segments <NUM>, 218n may function as an anchor point for the segments 218j, <NUM> when under an applied load.

<FIG> provides a bottom perspective view of the article of footwear <NUM> of <FIG> showing a plurality of cushioning support vectors 30a-<NUM> defined by the segments 218a-<NUM>. More particularly, a longitudinal axis of each of the segments 218a-<NUM> define respective ones of the cushioning support vectors 30a-<NUM>. Applied loads associated with directions parallel to a cushioning support vector cause the one or more corresponding segments to substantially retain their shape without collapsing to provide support and stability for the foot in those regions. On the other hand, applied loads associated with directions transverse to a cushioning support vector cause the one or more corresponding segments to compress and collapse to provide cushioning for the foot in those regions by attenuating the ground-reaction force associated with the applied load. Longitudinal cushioning support vectors 30a, 30d, <NUM>, 30j<NUM> may extend in a direction along the longitudinal axis L of the midsole <NUM> while lateral cushioning support vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i extend transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the midsole <NUM>. For instance, the lateral cushioning support vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i may define angles within <NUM> degrees (<NUM>°) from perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis L of the midsole <NUM>. The seventh, tenth, and twelfth segments <NUM>, 218j, <NUM> each define compound cushioning support vectors <NUM><NUM>,<NUM>, 30j<NUM>, <NUM><NUM>,<NUM>, whereby the angled and/or curved segments <NUM>, 218j, <NUM> provide a degree of responsive support along both the longitudinal and lateral directions of the midsole <NUM>.

During forward movements, such as walking or running movements, loads applied to the midsole <NUM> are associated with a direction parallel to the longitudinal cushioning support vectors 30a, 30d, <NUM>, 30j<NUM> to cause the respective segments 218a, 218d, <NUM>, 218j to be under shear force, thereby causing the respective segments 218a, 218d, <NUM>, 218j to retain their shape (e.g., not compress) and provide support and stability as the outsole rolls for engagement with the ground surface through the heel region <NUM> and the mid-foot region <NUM>. The web area <NUM> extending between the segments 218a, 218d, <NUM>, 218j reduces torsional forces from acting upon the segments 218a, 218d, <NUM>, 218j when under an applied load to thereby dampen oscillations by the foot while providing gradient responsive-type cushioning.

During lateral movements, such as shifting or cutting movements, loads applied to the midsole <NUM> are associated with a direction transverse and generally perpendicular to longitudinal cushioning support vectors 30a, 30d, <NUM>, 30j<NUM>. Thus, the segments 218a, <NUM> defining one of the vectors 30a, <NUM> will compress to provide cushioning for the medial side of the foot when the applied load is in a direction toward the medial side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>, while the segments 218d, 218j defining the other vectors 30d, 30j will compress to provide cushioning for the lateral side of the foot when the applied load is in a direction toward the lateral side <NUM> of the midsole <NUM>.

In some implementations, a series of lateral cushioning support vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i are disposed within the mid-foot <NUM> and forefoot region <NUM> and extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the midsole <NUM>. During forward movements, such as walking or running movements, loads applied to the midsole <NUM> are associated with a direction transverse to the lateral cushioning support vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i. Thus, the respective segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i defining respective ones of the vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i successively compress and collapse to provide cushioning for the metatarsal region of the foot through push off from the ground-surface. The direction of the vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i relative to the direction of the applied load as well as a length of the respective segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i dictates how the segments will compress for attenuating the ground-reaction force.

During lateral movements, such as shifting or cutting movements, loads applied to the midsole <NUM> are associated with a direction generally parallel or only slightly transverse to the lateral cushioning support vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i to cause the respective segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i to be under shear force, thereby causing the respective segments 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f, <NUM>, 218i to retain the their shape (e.g., not compress or slightly compress) and provide support and stability for the metatarsal region of the foot responsive to the footwear <NUM> performing a lateral movement.

As provided above, the midsole <NUM> further defines a series of compound cushioning support vectors <NUM><NUM>,<NUM>, 30j<NUM>, <NUM><NUM>,<NUM>, which are each configured to provide a degree of both longitudinal cushioning and responsiveness and lateral cushioning and responsiveness, thereby supplementing the lateral cushioning support vectors 30b, 30c, 30e, 30f, <NUM>, 30i and the longitudinal cushioning support vectors 30a, 30d, <NUM>, 30j<NUM>.

The segments 218a-218n associated with the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> may cooperate to enhance the functionality and cushioning characteristics that a conventional midsole provides, while simultaneously providing increased stability and support for the foot by dampening oscillations of the foot that occur in response to a ground-reaction force during use of the footwear <NUM>. For instance, an applied load to the midsole <NUM> during forward movements, such as walking or running movements, may cause some of the segments 218a-218n to compress to provide cushioning for the foot by attenuating the ground-reaction force, while other segments 218a-218n may retain their shape to impart stability and support characteristics that dampen foot oscillations relative to the footwear <NUM> responsive to the initial impact of the ground-reaction force.

Moreover, one or more of the segments 218a-218n may interact with the web area <NUM> within different regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the midsole <NUM> to provide isolated areas of responsive-type cushioning. For example, the segments 218j-<NUM> within the heel region <NUM> may bound a respective portion of the web area <NUM> to provide responsive-type cushioning in the heel region <NUM> by causing the segments 218j-<NUM> around the perimeter of the heel region <NUM> to absorb the initial impact of a ground-reaction force by creating a trampoline effect as the segments 218j-<NUM> compress in succession, and thereby provide a gradient responsive-type cushioning in the heel region <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A sole structure for an article of footwear (<NUM>) having an upper (<NUM>), the sole structure comprising:
a heel region (<NUM>);
a forefoot region (<NUM>);
a midfoot region (<NUM>) disposed between the heel region (<NUM>) and the forefoot region (<NUM>); and
a chamber (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a first barrier layer (<NUM>) cooperating with a second barrier layer (<NUM>) to define a first segment (<NUM>) extending along a medial side (<NUM>) of the sole structure within the heel region (<NUM>), a second segment (218j) extending from the medial side (<NUM>) in the forefoot region (<NUM>) to a lateral side (<NUM>) in the heel region (<NUM>) and along a lateral side (<NUM>) of the sole structure within the heel region (<NUM>), a third segment (<NUM>, 218n) extending from one of the first segment (<NUM>) and the second segment (218j) towards the other of the first segment (<NUM>) and the second segment (218j), terminating at a distal end (<NUM>, 222n) between the first segment (<NUM>) and the second segment (218j), and including a thickness and a width that decrease along a direction toward the distal end (<NUM>, 222n), and a web area (<NUM>) disposed between and connecting the first segment (<NUM>) and the second segment (218j), the first barrier layer (<NUM>) being attached to the second barrier layer (<NUM>) within the web area (<NUM>).