Patent Description:
A conventional article of footwear generally includes two primary elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be secured to the sole structure and forms a void within the article of footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. The sole structure may be secured to a lower surface of the upper so as to be positioned between the upper and the ground. In some articles of athletic footwear, for example, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole may be formed from a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces to lessen stresses upon the foot and leg during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. The outsole may be secured to a lower surface of the midsole and forms a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure that is formed from a wear-resistant material.

The upper of the article of footwear generally extends at least over the instep and toe regions of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel region of the foot. Access to the void on the interior of the upper is generally provided by an ankle opening in a heel region of the article of footwear. A lacing system is often incorporated into the upper to adjust the fit of the upper, thereby facilitating entry and removal of the foot from the void within the upper. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends under the lacing system to enhance adjustability of the article of footwear, and the upper may incorporate a heel counter to limit movement of the heel.

<CIT> discloses a method for producing a shoe upper, and a shoe upper obtained by using the method for producing the shoe upper. The method may comprise tubular knitting an inner side knitted fabric section.

The objective technical problem to be solved may be considered to overcome or at least to reduce the disadvantages of the prior art. The problem is solved by the invention as set out in the appended set of claims, in particular, by the subject matter of claim <NUM>.

In one aspect, background knowledge useful for understanding the invention relates to a method for forming an article includes knitting a first portion of a knitted component, wherein the first portion may be configured to at least partially form a base portion of the article. The method further includes knitting a second portion of the knitted component, wherein the second portion may be configured to at least partially form a strap of the article. The strap may include a first edge secured to the base portion. The method may further include releasing the first edge of the strap from the base portion.

A pocket is located between the strap and the base portion. The pocket may be accessible from the first edge of the strap after the step of releasing the first edge of the strap from the base portion.

The first portion of the knitted component and the second portion of the knitted component may be knitted as an integral one-piece element.

The method may further include the step of knitting a third portion of the knitted component, wherein the third portion of the knitted component is secured to the first portion of the knitted component.

The first and second portions of the knitted component may be knitted on a first needle bed, and the third portion of the knitted component may be formed on a second needle bed.

The first portion of the knitted component may be knitted on a first needle bed, and the second portion of the knitted component may be knitted on a second needle bed.

The step of releasing the first edge of the strap from the base portion may include releasing a releasable yarn.

The releasable yarn may include a thermoplastic polymer material.

In another aspect, an upper for an article of footwear according to the subject matter of claim <NUM> includes a knitted component having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the knitted component at least partially forms a foot-receiving portion of the upper. The second portion of the knitted component at least partially forms a strap of the upper. The second portion including the strap includes a first edge and a second edge secured to the first portion of the knitted component. The second portion including the strap inlcudes a third edge that extends from the first edge to the second edge.

The strap may include a fourth edge that extends from the first edge to the second edge.

The third edge of the second portion extends from a lateral side of the upper to a medial side of the upper and over a throat area of the upper.

The first portion of the knitted component and the second portion of the knitted component are integral.

The knitted component may include a first layer including the first portion and a second layer including the second portion.

The knitted component may further include a third layer, where the first and second layers are formed on a first needle bed of a knitting machine and the third layer is formed on a second bed of the knitting machine.

The upper includes at least one tension element. The tension element is located in a pocket that is defined between the foot-receiving portion of the upper and the strap of the upper.

The tension element may be inserted within the knitted component, and slack of the tension element may be pulled into the pocket to form at least one loop.

The tension element may be associated with a fastening system, and the strap may cover at least a portion of the fastening system.

The fastening system may include a lace, and the strap may be configured to cover at least a portion of the lace.

The first edge is located on a medial side of the upper, and the second edge is located on a lateral side of the upper.

The strap may extend over a throat area of the upper.

In another aspect, an article of footwear is provided according to the subject matter of claim <NUM>. This article of footwear includes a knitted component with a first portion and a second portion, where a pocket is located between the first portion and the second portion. The first potion may have a releasable edge secured to the first portion and configured to release from the first portion. The releasable edge may have at least one releasable yarn.

The releasable yarn may be configured to react to a stimulus.

The releasable yarn may have a lower tensile strength than a second yarn of the knitted component;.

The knitted component may include a third portion, the third portion being secured to the first portion of the knitted component.

At least two of the first, second, and third portions of the knitted component may be substantially formed on one needle bed.

The article forms an upper for an article of footwear.

The second portion of the knitted component may include a second edge that is configured to remain permanently secured to the first portion of the knitted component.

In another aspect, background knowledge useful for understanding the invention relates to an article which may include a first knit layer, a second knit layer secured to the first knit layer, and a third knit layer secured to the first knit layer. At least two of the first, second, and third knit layers may be formed on a first needle bed of a knitting machine. The first, second, and third knit layers may be integral.

The first and second knit layers may be formed on the first needle bed, and the third knit layer may be formed on a second needle bed of the knitting machine.

The article may also include a fourth knit layer, the fourth knit layer being integral with the first, second, and third knit layers.

The fourth layer may be formed on the second needle bed of the knitting machine.

The first layer may at least partially form a base portion of the article, and the second layer may form a strap secured to the base such that a pocket is formed between the strap and the base.

The second knit layer may include at least one free edge.

The third layer may at least partially form the base.

In another aspect, background knowledge useful for understanding the invention relates to an upper for an article of footwear which may include a textile component having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the knitted component may at least partially form a foot-receiving portion of the upper. The second portion of the textile component may at least partially form a strap of the upper, where the strap includes a first edge and a second edge secured to the first portion of the knitted component. The strap may include a third edge that extends from the first edge to the second edge.

Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to uppers configured for use in an article of footwear and/or other articles, such as article of apparel. When referring to articles of footwear, the uppers may be used in connection with any type of footwear. Illustrative, non-limiting examples of articles of footwear include a basketball shoe, a biking shoe, a cross-training shoe, a global football (soccer) shoe, an American football shoe, a bowling shoe, a golf shoe, a hiking shoe, a ski or snowboarding boot, a tennis shoe, a running shoe, and a walking shoe. The uppers may also be incorporated into non-athletic shoes, such as dress shoes, loafers, and sandals.

With respect to <FIG>, an article of footwear <NUM> is generally depicted as comprising a sole <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> includes a lateral side <NUM>, a medial side <NUM>, and a heel region <NUM>. The area of the shoe where the sole <NUM> joins the outer edge of the upper <NUM> may be referred to as the biteline <NUM>. The upper <NUM> may be joined to the sole <NUM> in a fixed manner using any suitable technique, such as through the use of an adhesive, by sewing, etc..

In some versions, the sole <NUM> includes a midsole <NUM> and an outsole <NUM>. The article of footwear may additionally comprise a throat <NUM> and an ankle opening <NUM>, which is surrounded by a collar <NUM> and leads to a void <NUM>. The upper <NUM> may define at least a portion of the void <NUM> of the article of footwear that is configured to accommodate the foot of a person. The throat <NUM> is disposed in a mid-foot region <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. The mid-foot region <NUM> is generally a section of the upper <NUM> located between the heel region <NUM> and a toe portion <NUM>.

In <FIG>, a tongue <NUM> is disposed in the throat <NUM> of the article of footwear <NUM>, but the tongue <NUM> is an optional component, as is the lace <NUM>. Although the tongue <NUM> depicted in <FIG> is a traditional tongue, the tongue <NUM>, if included, may be any type of tongue, such as a gusseted tongue or a burrito tongue. If a tongue is not included, the lateral and medial sides of the throat <NUM> may be joined together, for example.

The upper <NUM> may be formed at least partially of a knitted component <NUM> (and, as depicted, the upper <NUM> may be substantially or entirely formed of the knitted component <NUM>). While the upper <NUM> is herein described as including the knitted component <NUM>, it alternatively or additionally could include a textile component formed by a process other than knitting (e.g., weaving). The knitted component <NUM> may be a single layer or multi-layer knitted component with a first side and a second side. The first side may define the outer surface of the upper <NUM> and the second side may define a surface facing the void <NUM> of the article of footwear.

The knitted component <NUM> may have two or more regions that exhibit different properties. For example, one region may be relatively elastic, and another region may be relatively inelastic. In one exemplary embodiment, for example, the throat area <NUM> shown in <FIG> may have a relatively high elasticity as compared to the rest of the upper <NUM>. These characteristics may be accomplished by selecting a particular single layer or multi-layer knit structure (e.g., a ribbed knit structure), by varying the size and tension of the knit structure, by using one or more yarns formed of a particular material (e.g., an elastic material such as spandex), by selecting yarns of a particular size (e.g., denier), or any suitable combination thereof. Advantageously, providing an upper <NUM> with a relatively elastic throat area <NUM> may be desirable when utilizing a fastening system in or adjacent to the throat area <NUM> to allow a user to adjust the fit of the upper <NUM> around the user's foot.

In some embodiments, the upper <NUM> may include a foot-receiving portion (herein referred to as "base portion <NUM>") and at least one strap extending from the base portion <NUM>, depicted as the strap <NUM> in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the strap <NUM> may extend from the medial side <NUM> of the upper <NUM> to the lateral side <NUM> of the upper <NUM>, though it is contemplated that the strap <NUM> may extend in any other direction. As shown, the strap <NUM> may include a first edge <NUM> which is secured to the base portion <NUM> in a vamp region on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper <NUM> (e.g., optionally near the biteline <NUM> as depicted in <FIG>). The strap <NUM> may extend over the throat area <NUM> of the upper <NUM> and to a second edge that is secured to the upper <NUM> on the medial side <NUM>. The second edge is blocked from view in <FIG> (see second edge <NUM> in <FIG>). As shown in the depicted embodiment, the third edge <NUM> and the fourth edge <NUM> may freely extend (i.e., extend in an unsecured manner with respect to the first portion <NUM>) along the length of the strap from the first edge <NUM> to the above-described second edge. While the strap <NUM> is shown as being generally rectangular and is described as having four edges, the strap <NUM> is not limited to any particular shape or any particular number of edges. Further, any number of the edges of the strap <NUM> may be secured to the base portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. In some configurations, for example, only one edge (e.g., the first edge <NUM>) may be secured such that the strap <NUM> includes a free end, which may allow a person to selectively wrap the strap <NUM> around his or her foot, ankle, and/or leg.

The upper <NUM> may be at least partially formed of (and in some cases fully formed of) the knitted component <NUM>. The knitted component <NUM> may include a first portion <NUM> at least partially forming the base portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> at least partially forming the strap <NUM>. The knitted component <NUM> may be formed as an integral one-piece element during a knitting process such that the base portion <NUM> and the strap <NUM> have knit structures that are integral and/or share at least one common yarn and/or course. That is, a single knitting process (e.g., on a knitting machine) may substantially form the knit structure of the first and second portions of the knitted component <NUM> without the need for significant post-knitting processes or steps. Advantageously, this may reduce or eliminate the need for post-knit formed seams associated with the upper <NUM>, which are typically associated with susceptibility for structural failure. Alternatively, the base portion <NUM> and the strap <NUM> may be formed separately (e.g., through two or more separate knitting processes) and then secured together by sewing, by using an adhesive, or by another suitable securing method.

The strap <NUM> may provide several advantages. For example, the strap <NUM> may be configured with a particular tension such that when the article of footwear is being worn, the tightness of the upper <NUM> in selected regions associated with the strap <NUM> is increased, which may produce a comfortable, secure fit and may be optimal for certain activities. The additional tightness provided by the strap <NUM> may reduce or eliminate the need for a separate fastening system (e.g., a system incorporating a lace) and/or may enhance the effectiveness of a fastening system. For example, the strap <NUM> may provide enough tension alone such that no traditional laces are necessary to provide a sufficiently tight fit. Traditional laces (or another fastening system) may still be included, and its effect may be amplified by the tension of the strap <NUM>.

For example, referring to <FIG>, a fastening system may include one or more tension elements <NUM> that may extend towards the throat area <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. The tension elements <NUM> may be inlaid within either the base portion <NUM> or the strap <NUM> (or both) during the knitting process of the knitted component <NUM>, though this is not necessary. In some embodiments, and as described in more detail below, the tension elements <NUM> may initially be located external to a pocket <NUM> formed by the strap <NUM> during at least one step of the manufacturing process of the upper <NUM> and then later maneuvered into the pocket <NUM> between the strap <NUM> and the base portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the tension elements <NUM> may be configured to interact with a lace <NUM> of the fastening system (and/or, for example, a strap, a ratchet system, or another suitable device for tightening and/or loosening the upper). The strap <NUM> may provide a cover over the lace <NUM>, which may be advantageous for a variety of reasons. For example, in a working environment, the strap <NUM> may provide protection of the lace <NUM> and may prevent the lace <NUM> from snagging on objects external to the article of footwear. In an athletic environment, for example, the strap <NUM> may cover the lace <NUM> to provide a smooth outer surface of the upper <NUM> and to prevent the fastening system from interfering with certain functions, such as kicking a soccer ball. These same advantages apply with respect to the tension elements <NUM>, which may be susceptible to snagging, may provide an uneven surface, etc. if not covered by the strap <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a knitted component <NUM>, which may be incorporated into an upper of an article of footwear as described above. As shown, the knitted component <NUM> may be formed as an integral one-piece element during a knitting process, such as a weft knitting process (e.g., with a flat knitting machine or circular knitting machine), a warp knitting process, or any other suitable knitting process. The knitted component <NUM> may have a first portion <NUM>, which may be configured to at least partially form a foot-receiving portion (e.g., base portion <NUM> of <FIG>) of an upper. The knitted component <NUM> may further comprise a second portion <NUM>, which may be configured to form at least a portion of a strap (e.g., strap <NUM> of <FIG>) of an upper. The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> may be formed as an integral one-piece element such that the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> share at least one common yarn.

As shown in <FIG>, the knitted component <NUM> may be formed as a multi-layer knitted component. <FIG> shows one embodiment of a knitted component <NUM> as it may appear after a knitting process. The knitted component may have a first knit layer forming the first portion <NUM> and a second knit layer forming the second portion <NUM>. A pocket <NUM> may be formed between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. The first and second knit layers may have different characteristics. For example, the second portion <NUM> may be more elastic than the first portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first layer may be substantially formed on a first needle bed (e.g., a back needle bed) of a flat knitting machine, while the second layer may be substantially formed on a second needle bed (e.g., a front needle bed) of a flat knitting machine.

In some embodiments, both the first and second layers may be formed on only one needle bed. This technique is illustrated in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, a knitting machine may have a series of needles <NUM> associated with a first needle bed and a series of needles <NUM> associated with a second needle bed. A portion of the first needles <NUM> may form the first layer <NUM>, and the remaining first needles <NUM> (which are unoccupied by the first layer <NUM>) may operate to form the second layer <NUM>. The result may be two layers that are approximately half-gauge when compared to a fabric utilizing all of the first needles <NUM>. Advantageously, this may allow at least one additional layer (and potentially multiple additional layers) to be formed separately on the second needle bed. For example, as depicted in <FIG>, at least one layer may additionally be formed on the needles <NUM> (here depicted as layers <NUM> and <NUM>). It is contemplated that more than two layers may be formed on a single needle bed. While in <FIG>, the layers are shown as unsecured, the edges of two of more of the layers may be secured in practice.

In one exemplary embodiment (referring back to <FIG>), a first needle bed of a flat knitting machine may form the first layer of the knitted component <NUM>, where the first layer corresponds to the first portion <NUM> (which as described herein may be configured to a form side of a base portion <NUM> (<FIG>) associated with the dorsal surface of the foot). In this embodiment, the second layer of the knitted component <NUM> may also be formed on the first needle bed of the flat knitting machine, where the second layer corresponds to the second portion <NUM> for forming the strap <NUM> (<FIG>). A third layer may be formed on the second needle bed, and may correspond to the side of the base portion <NUM> (<FIG>) associated with the plantar surface of the foot. Finally, a fourth layer, also associated with the plantar surface of the foot, may additionally be formed on the second needle bed. Advantageously, and referring to <FIG>, this may form a base portion <NUM> that substantially surrounds the void <NUM> of the article of footwear, which may advantageously provide a particularly comfortable and secure fit around a foot optimal for certain activities (like athletic activities). This advantage may alternatively be accomplished with only two layers. For example, a layer corresponding to the base portion <NUM> of the article of footwear may be large enough to be wrapped and shaped substantially around the void <NUM>. A similar (or identical) knitting process may also be used to form an article other than an upper (e.g., an article of apparel).

Referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the edges of the second portion <NUM> (e.g., edges <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>) may be secured to the first portion <NUM> during and immediately after the knitted component <NUM> is formed by a knitting process. In other words, the pocket <NUM> may be substantially inaccessible without penetrating the knit structure of either the first portion <NUM> or the second portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the knitted component <NUM> may include at least one yarn (here referred to as a "releasable yarn") that is configured to release the first portion <NUM> from the second portion <NUM> at one or more edges.

For example, as depicted in <FIG>, the first edge <NUM> and the second edge <NUM> may correspond to edges of a strap that are intended to be permanently secured to a base portion of an upper (for example, edge <NUM> as shown in <FIG>). On the other hand, at least one edge, and in this case the third edge <NUM> and fourth edge <NUM>, may be configured to be a free edge that has at least a section that freely extends along a length the strap (in a manner unsecured to a base portion). However, while it may be desirable for the third edge <NUM> and the fourth edge <NUM> to be free edges that are unsecured to the first portion <NUM> when the knitted component <NUM> is incorporated into the article of footwear in its finality, it may be advantageous for the third edge <NUM> and/or the fourth edge <NUM> to be secured to the first portion <NUM> during certain steps of the manufacturing process. For example, free edges may be susceptible to snagging on machinery used during the manufacturing process (including the knitting process). Further, because in some instances the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> may have different characteristics (e.g., different tension, stretchability, or resting length), keeping all of the edges of the second portion <NUM> secured to the first portion <NUM> may prevent unwanted deformation (e.g., bowing of the strap <NUM> away from the first portion <NUM>) of the knitted component during the manufacturing process, which may interrupt and/or complicate certain manufacturing steps.

Accordingly, certain edges, including the third edge <NUM> and the fourth edge <NUM> depicted in <FIG>, may include a releasable yarn. Herein, an edge will be said to "include" the releasable yarn when the releasable yarn forms a portion of the edge and/or when a releasable yarn is incorporated into the knit structure adjacent to the edge when the edge is in a secured and/or unsecured state. <FIG> depicts one configuration
of a releasable yarn <NUM>, which is included within the knitted component <NUM>. A releasable edge <NUM> of <FIG> may correspond with a releasable edge of a knitted component for incorporation into an upper, such as the edge <NUM> of <FIG>. For purposes of illustration, the knitted component <NUM> is shown with only one layer in <FIG>, but it should be appreciated that another layer may be provided, for example beneath second portion <NUM> (which may form a continued knit structure of the first portion <NUM>). Though only one releasable yarn <NUM> is shown, a series of any number of releasable yarns may be included. In some embodiments, the releasable edge <NUM> may not be visually apparent prior to its release.

The releasable yarn <NUM> may comprise a material that reacts in response to a stimulus (e.g., temperature, moisture, electrical current, or exposure to a certain chemical). The stimulus may weaken and/or dissolve the releasable yarn <NUM> such that the releasable edge <NUM> may be released from the first portion <NUM> of the knitted component <NUM> in a relatively easy and efficient manner. For example, the releasable yarn <NUM> may be formed substantially of a thermoplastic polymer material (e.g., a polyurethane, a polyamide, a polyolefin, and/or a nylon) that transitions from a solid state to a softened or liquid state when subjected to certain temperatures at or above its melting point and then transitions back to the solid state when cooled. When subjected to a relatively high temperature, the releasable yarn <NUM> may therefore be weakened such that the releasable edge <NUM> of the second portion <NUM> may be released from the first portion <NUM> with an application of a relatively low amount of tension in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>. The releasable yarn <NUM> may break or otherwise free the releasable edge <NUM> from the first portion <NUM> when subjected to this tension. Some of the thermoplastic polymer material may remain at the edge <NUM> and may then cool and harden to preserve the integrity of the edge <NUM> (and/or the area of the first portion <NUM> where the edge <NUM> was formerly secured).

In another version, the releasable yarn <NUM> may be made of a material that is soluble in water, such as a water-soluble synthetic polymer (e.g., polyvinyl alcohol). To release the releasable edge <NUM>, the releasable yarn <NUM> may be submerged in water or otherwise moisturized. The dissolution of the releasable yarn <NUM> may weaken it and/or remove its structure to the extent that the releasable edge <NUM> can be pulled away from the first portion <NUM> of the knitted component <NUM> with relatively low force. The releasable yarn <NUM> may be formed of a material that is soluble in a fluid besides water. Further, it is contemplated that the releasable yarn <NUM> is not configured to react to a stimulus, but alternatively or additionally it may simply be weaker (e.g. it may have a lower tensile strength measured as the maximum amount of tension that it can withstand before breaking) than the yarns <NUM> forming the first portion <NUM> and/or second portion <NUM> of the knitted component <NUM> such that the releasable yarn <NUM> breaks under a certain tension while the yarns <NUM> are sufficiently strong to remain intact under that same tension. The yarns <NUM> do not all need to be made of the same material (and may vary between portions of the knitted component <NUM> or different locations within the same portion). In exemplary versions,
the yarns <NUM> may be formed of polyester, but any other suitable material or a combination of suitable materials may be used.

<FIG> shows the knitted component <NUM> of <FIG>, where the third edge <NUM> and the fourth edge <NUM> of the second portion <NUM> have been released from the first portion <NUM> to become free edges, while the depicted first edge <NUM> and second edge <NUM> are still secured to the first portion <NUM>. The area <NUM> indicates the previous attachment of fourth edge <NUM>, but the area <NUM> may or may not be visually apparent in practice. Further, the strap <NUM> is depicted as being relatively loose with respect to the first portion <NUM>, but in practice it may be relatively taught. The resulting structure of the knitted component <NUM> may include a strap <NUM> extending from the first portion <NUM>. As shown, the strap <NUM> is shown as formed prior to the knitted component <NUM> being shaped into the shape of an upper, but the step of releasing a releasable edge may occur at any time during the manufacturing of an article of footwear. The first edge <NUM> and the second edge <NUM>, while still secured, are not ruled out from including a releasable yarn even if they are not intended to ever be released.

While herein, a strap of an upper is typically described as having two free edges, it is contemplated that the strap could have only one free edge (e.g., an edge with a section that is not secured to another portion) such that the pocket <NUM> beneath the strap <NUM> is generally accessible through only one side. For example, referring to
<FIG>, in an alternative embodiment, only the fourth edge <NUM> may be configured to be a releasable edge (and eventually a free edge), while the first edge <NUM>, the second edge <NUM>, and the third edge <NUM> may be intended to remain secured to the first portion <NUM> of the knitted component <NUM>. The resulting strap <NUM> and the first portion <NUM> may form a pocket that is generally accessible from (i.e., beneath) the fourth edge <NUM> once the fourth edge <NUM> is released. Further, in this embodiment and in some other embodiments, one or more additional point of access (e.g., openings or holes) to the pocket may be formed. For example, holes or openings may be formed in the strap <NUM> and/or the first portion <NUM>. Further, one or more of the edges <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be only partially releasable (e.g., a portion of the length of the edge is configured to be released from the first portion <NUM> while the remaining portion of the length is not).

Still referring to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the knitted component may include one or more yarns, strands, or other objects that are at least partially inlaid or otherwise inserted within the knit structure of the knitted component <NUM> during or after the knitting process, herein referred to as "tensile strands" (not shown). The tensile strands may be substantially inelastic so as to have a substantially fixed length. The tensile strands may extend through a plurality of courses of the knitted component or through a passage within the knitted component and may limit the stretch of the knitted component in at least one direction. For example, the tensile strands may extend through the first portion <NUM> of the knitted component <NUM> approximately from an area corresponding to a biteline of the associated upper to a throat area of the associated upper to thereby limit the stretch of the upper in the lateral direction.

Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, a yarn, strand, or other object may be inlaid vertically or otherwise vertically inserted within at least a portion of the knit structure of the knitted component <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, for example, two strands (herein depicted as the tension elements <NUM>) may be vertically inserted within or otherwise secured to at least a portion of the knitted component <NUM>. The attachment may be accomplished by inlaying the tension elements <NUM> during the knitting process (e.g., in the vertical direction with respect to the needle bed(s) of the knitting machine, though it is also contemplated that a horizontal inlaying procedure could be used), by feeding the tension elements <NUM> through the knit structure of the knitted component <NUM> after forming the knit structure of the knitted component <NUM>, by sewing, by using an adhesive, or by any other suitable attachment method. While not required, it may be advantageous to insert the tension elements <NUM> at or near an edge (such as the edge <NUM> and the edge <NUM>) such that the tension elements <NUM> can later be maneuvered into the pocket <NUM>, as described below.

In <FIG>, the tension elements <NUM> are depicted with a substantial amount of slack. The slack may be used to form one or more loops <NUM>. For simplicity of installation and efficiency, the loops <NUM> may extend outside of and away from the pocket <NUM> prior to the release of any releasable edges of the second portion <NUM> of the knitted component <NUM>. After at least one edge is released, as shown in <FIG>, the tension elements <NUM> may be more easily accessible from within the pocket <NUM>. Accordingly, as shown in <FIG>, the slack forming the loops <NUM> may be accessed from between the strap <NUM> and the first portion <NUM> (e.g., one may be capable of accessing the pocket <NUM> to pull on the slack portion <NUM>).

In some embodiments, and referring to <FIG>, it may be desirable to substantially maneuver most of or all of the slack of the tension elements <NUM> such that the loops <NUM> are located in the pocket <NUM>, as shown. Certain portions of the tension elements <NUM>, including the portions at the edges <NUM> and <NUM> and between the loops <NUM>, may be sewn or otherwise locked in place to thereby finalize the size of the loops <NUM>. Further, a portion of one of more of the loops <NUM> may be sewn or otherwise secured at a location beneath the strap <NUM>, such as at location <NUM>, which may be advantageous for ensuring that one or more of the loops <NUM> remain in a desired location and orientation during the manufacturing process and/or during use of the article of footwear. If the knitted component <NUM> is then used to form an upper of an article of footwear, the tension elements <NUM> may be incorporated into a system for tightening an upper of the article of footwear around the foot of a user, for example. This exemplary feature is shown by the tension elements <NUM> of <FIG>. In other embodiments, the knitted component <NUM> with the tension elements <NUM> may be configured for use in another function (e.g., to provide tension elements in an area of an article of apparel).

An upper (or other article) with a strap as described herein is not limited to any particular design. <FIG> shows five versions, not including tensioning elements unlike the claimed invention, of uppers for illustrative purposes, though any other suitable configuration that is not shown may also be used. Upper A, for example, shows a strap (depicted as shaded) that is orientated horizontally across the instep similar to the version described above with respect to <FIG>. As described above, a pocket is formed between the strap and a base portion of the upper, and the strap may have one or more free edges such that the pocket is accessible. Upper B similarly has a first strap that is oriented horizontally across the instep and also includes a second strap oriented horizontally across the instep. It is also contemplated that more than two straps may be included.

Upper C includes a strap that is similar to the strap of upper A, but the strap of upper C is biased towards the lateral side of the upper. The opposite (e.g., a strap that is biased towards the medial side of the upper) is also contemplated. Upper D includes a strap that extends from the side of the base portion within the void of the article of footwear. A pocket formed between in accordance with upper D may be accessible from inside the void. This may be advantageous where it is desirable to hold an object within or adjacent to the void (e.g., an object such as a device for counting steps). Upper E includes two straps that are oriented vertically on the medial and lateral sides of the upper, respectively. <FIG> is present for illustration purposes.

While the invention and the embodiments above generally focus on an upper for an article of footwear, the aspects described herein are also applicable to other devices, such as other wearable devices (herein referred to as "apparel"). For example, referring to <FIG>, the aspects described above may be applied to a sleeve that may be worn around the arm of a person. In other applications, the
aspects described herein may be applied to other articles of apparel, including shirts, pants, socks, footwear, jackets and other outerwear, briefs and other undergarments, hats and other headwear, and the like. It is also contemplated that the above described aspects could be applied to any other object incorporating a knitted component or other textile component.

The sleeve <NUM> of <FIG> may be partially or substantially formed of a knitted component <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> may include a void <NUM> configured for receiving the arm of a person. A base portion <NUM> of the sleeve <NUM>, which may be substantially formed of the knitted component <NUM>, may include an inherent elasticity (e.g., with a ribbed knit structure) such that it comfortably and securely fits around the arm of the person. The sleeve <NUM> may further include a strap <NUM> that extends from the base portion <NUM> (similar to as described above with respect to the strap <NUM> of <FIG>). The strap <NUM> may be integral with the base portion <NUM>. The strap <NUM> may include a free edge <NUM> such that a pocket <NUM> is formed between the strap <NUM> and the base portion <NUM>. In other versions
the strap <NUM> may include more than one free edge or zero free edges. The pocket <NUM> may be configured to hold an object, such as a cellular phone, a music player, a wallet, money, or the like.

As described above, the free edge <NUM> may initially be a releasable edge secured to the base portion <NUM> at some point during the manufacturing process (such as immediately after a knitting process, if applicable). This may be advantageous for preventing snagging of the edge <NUM> and/or preventing warping of the sleeve <NUM> during the manufacturing process, for example. Other edges, such as the depicted edge <NUM>, may remain secured to the base portion <NUM> throughout the manufacturing process and the life of the product. More than one releasable edge (or no releasable edges) is also contemplated.

The knitted component <NUM> of the sleeve <NUM> may be formed on a knitting machine. In one version, the knitted component <NUM> is formed on two needle beds of a flat knitting machine. Referring to <FIG>, the sleeve <NUM> may include three knit layers. A first knit layer <NUM> may form a first section of the base portion <NUM> and may be formed on certain needles of a first needle bed. A second knit layer <NUM> (associated with the strap <NUM>) may be formed on other needles of the first needle bed (as described above with respect to <FIG>). A third layer <NUM>, which may form a second section of the base portion <NUM>, may be formed on a second needle bed. The first knit layer <NUM> and the third knit layer <NUM> may be secured at their edges (e.g., along the depicted centerline) to thereby form the base portion <NUM>. Each of the knit layers may have different characteristic. For example, the knit structure, size and tension yarns used, the material and size of the yarns used, or any combination thereof may vary between the layers. In one particular example, it may be desirable for the strap <NUM> to be relatively elastic when compared to the base portion <NUM> (e.g., when the strap <NUM> is configured to stretch to allow an object to be inserted into an associated pocket <NUM>), so the second knit layer <NUM> may be made with a knit structure and/or a material associated with high elasticity.

In other versions, additional layers may be provided. For example, it is
contemplated that additional straps may be provided to thereby form additional pockets. Accordingly, it is contemplated that a fourth layer may be formed on the second needle bed to form a second strap and pocket associated with the third knit layer <NUM> of <FIG>.

All of the structures and methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While this invention may be embodied in many different forms, specific aspects of the invention are described herein. The present disclosure is an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the particular aspects illustrated. In addition, unless expressly stated to the contrary, use of the term "a" is intended to include "at least one" or "one or more. " For example, "a yarn" is intended to include "at least one yarn" or "one or more yarns.

Claim 1:
An upper (<NUM>) for an article of footwear (<NUM>), the upper comprising:
a knitted component (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) having a first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) integrally formed with a second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
wherein the first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the knitted component (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) at least partially forms a foot-receiving base portion (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>),
wherein the second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the knitted component (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) at least partially forms a strap (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>),
wherein the first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) share at least one common yarn at a first edge (<NUM>) on a medial side (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>) and at a second edge (<NUM>, <NUM>) on a lateral side (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>), and
wherein a third edge (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extends from the first edge (<NUM>) over a throat area (<NUM>) to the second edge (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>), wherein the upper (<NUM>) comprises a pocket (<NUM>), defined between the foot-receiving base portion (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>) and the
strap (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>), for receiving at least one tension element (<NUM>, <NUM>),
characterised in that the upper (<NUM>) further comprises at least one tension element (<NUM>, <NUM>) located in the pocket (<NUM>) defined between the foot-receiving base portion (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>) and the strap (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>).