Patent Description:
The sole structure is attached to a lower portion of the upper and is positioned between the upper and the ground. Generally, the sole structure may include an insole, a midsole, and an outsole. The insole is in close contact with the wearer's foot or sock, and provides a comfortable feel to the sole of the wearer's foot. The midsole generally attenuates impact or other stresses due to ground forces as the wearer is walking, running, jumping, or engaging in other activities. The outsole may be made of a durable and wear-resistant material, and it may carry a tread pattern to provide traction against the ground or playing surface. For some activities, the outsole may also use cleats, spikes, or other protrusions to engage the ground or playing surface and thus provide additional traction.

<CIT> discloses an article of footwear comprising a sole member with regional patterns.

The claimed invention is defined in appended independent claim <NUM>. Specific embodiments are defined in the appended dependent claims. In particular, the claimed invention relates to a sole structure including an outsole. The sole structure includes a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The heel region has a greater thickness than the forefoot region. Further, the heel region of the sole structure includes a first subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the first subset of auxetic apertures extends through the outsole. The auxetic apertures of the first subset are arranged in substantially the same orientation. As a non-limiting example, all the auxetic apertures of the first subset are arranged in substantially the same orientation. The forefoot region includes a second subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the second subset of auxetic apertures extends through the outsole. The auxetic aperture of the second subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation. As a non-limiting example, all the auxetic aperture of the second subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation. The orientation of the first subset of auxetic apertures is different than the orientation of the second subset of auxetic apertures. The article of footwear may be tuned using auxetic structures. With the auxetic structures, the ride, fit, and cushioning across the sole structure can be customized. Such customization is generally not possible when using a monolithic rubber or foam sole. The heel region is configured to absorb energy, while providing lateral stability. The midfoot region can be stiffer than the heel region and/or non-auxetic, because the foot exerts very little contact pressure at the midfoot portion when compared with the heel region. The forefoot region has enough firmness and structure to enable a good/firm push-off without needing to dig out of a mushy cushion. By manufacturing the presently disclosed sole structure, the heel and forefoot respond throughout a running stride can be customized, which is something that a monolithic sheet of rubber cannot do. Changing the orientation and depth of the apertures can alter how much the sole structure splays in different directions. For example, it may be desirable to provide extra heel cushioning, while also providing lateral heel support (since most people impact on the lateral side of the heel). Then, the midsole might be stiff, and the forefoot may have a different response.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the sole structure further includes a midsole coupled to the outsole. Each auxetic aperture in the first subset of auxetic apertures may extend at least partially into the midsole. Each auxetic aperture in the second subset of auxetic apertures may extend at least partially into the midsole, the first subset of auxetic apertures include a first aperture. The first aperture may have an aperture area in a substantially horizontal plane, and the aperture area changes in response to a compressive force.

According to the claimed invention, each auxetic aperture of the sole structure is surrounded by a plurality of auxetic members. Each auxetic member is joined to a neighboring auxetic member by a hinge portion. The width of a first hinge portion in the forefoot region is greater than the width of a second hinge portion in the heel region. The first aperture is a through-hole aperture.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first aperture comprises a substantially tri-star shape. As a non-limiting example, the first aperture may have a simple isotoxal star-shaped polygonal shape.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the sole structure is deformable between a first configuration and a second configuration, and the aperture area of the first aperture is larger in the second configuration relative to the first configuration.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the sole structure is configured to deform from the first configuration to the second configuration upon application of tension to the sole structure.

Further described herein is a sole structure including a first sole member and a second sole member. The first sole member is disposed beneath and adjacent to the second sole member. The sole structure includes a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The heel region includes a first subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the first subset of auxetic apertures extends through the thickness of the first sole member. As a non-limiting example, each auxetic aperture in the first subset of auxetic apertures extends through the entire thickness of the first sole member. The first subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation. The forefoot region includes a second subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the second subset of auxetic apertures extends through the thickness of the first sole member. As a non-limiting example, each auxetic aperture in the second subset of auxetic apertures extends through the entire thickness of the first sole member. The auxetic apertures of the second subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation. At least one auxetic aperture of the first subset of auxetic apertures is filled with a first material. As a non-limiting example, at least one of the auxetic aperture of the first subset of auxetic apertures is entirely filled with the first material. The first sole member comprises a second material. The first material is more elastic than the second material.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first sole member has a greater thickness in the heel region than in the forefoot region, the heel region includes a third subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the third subset of auxetic apertures extends at least partially through the thickness of the second sole member.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the auxetic apertures of the third subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation as the first subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the third subset of auxetic apertures is aligned in a substantially vertical direction with a corresponding auxetic aperture in the first subset of auxetic apertures.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the forefoot region includes a third subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the third subset of auxetic apertures extends at least partially through the thickness of the second sole member.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the third subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation as the second subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the third subset of apertures align in a vertical direction with a corresponding auxetic aperture in the second subset of auxetic apertures.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the third subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation as the first subset of auxetic apertures.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, each auxetic aperture of the third subset of auxetic apertures is a through-hole aperture.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the orientation of the first subset of auxetic apertures is different than the orientation of the second subset of auxetic apertures.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, each auxetic aperture of the sole structure is surrounded by a plurality of auxetic members. Each auxetic member is joined to a neighboring auxetic member by a hinge portion. The width of a first hinge portion in the forefoot region is greater than a width of a second hinge portion in the heel region.

There is further described herein a sole structure including a first sole member. The sole structure includes a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The heel region includes a first subset of auxetic apertures. Each auxetic aperture in the first subset of auxetic apertures extends through the thickness of the first sole member. The first subset of auxetic apertures are arranged in substantially the same orientation. The forefoot region includes a substantially smooth intermediate portion. The intermediate portion comprises a non-auxetic material.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the sole structure further includes a second sole member disposed beneath and adjacent the first sole member. The first sole member may be attached to the second sole member to produce the sole structure. The second sole member includes a second subset of auxetic apertures in the heel region. Each auxetic aperture in the second subset of auxetic apertures may be arranged in substantially the same orientation.

The orientation of the second subset of auxetic apertures in the second sole member may be substantially similar to the orientation of the first subset of auxetic apertures in the first sole member. Each auxetic aperture in the second subset of apertures may be aligned in a vertical direction with a corresponding auxetic aperture in the first subset of auxetic apertures.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the first aperture of the first subset of auxetic apertures in the first sole member may be filled with a material that is more elastic than the material comprising surrounding the first aperture.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose articles of footwear and a method of assembly of an article of footwear. Concepts associated with the footwear disclosed herein may be applied to a variety of athletic footwear types, including running shoes, basketball shoes, soccer shoes, baseball shoes, football shoes, and golf shoes, for example. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed herein apply to a wide variety of footwear types.

To assist and clarify the subsequent description of various embodiments, various terms are defined herein. For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments.

The term "longitudinal," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction extending a length of a component. For example, a longitudinal direction of an article of footwear extends between a forefoot region and a heel region of the article of footwear. The term "forward" is used to refer to the general direction in which the toes of a foot point, and the term "rearward" is used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., the direction in which the heel of the foot is facing.

The term "lateral direction," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a side-to-side direction extending a width of a component. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between a medial side and a lateral side of an article of footwear, with the lateral side of the article of footwear being the surface that faces away from the other foot, and the medial side being the surface that faces toward the other foot.

The term "side," as used in this specification and in the claims, refers to any portion of a component facing generally in a lateral, medial, forward, or rearward direction, as opposed to an upward or downward direction.

The term "vertical," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction generally perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in cases where a sole is planted flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction may extend from the ground surface upward. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may be applied to individual components of a sole. The term "upward" refers to the vertical direction heading away from a ground surface, while the term "downward" refers to the vertical direction heading toward the ground surface. Similarly, the terms "top," "upper," and other similar terms refer to the portion of an object substantially furthest from the ground in a vertical direction, and the terms "bottom," "lower," and other similar terms refer to the portion of an object substantially closest to the ground in a vertical direction.

The "interior" of a shoe refers to space that is occupied by a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. The "inner side" of a panel or other shoe element refers to the face of that panel or element that is (or will be) oriented toward the shoe's interior in a completed shoe. The "outer side" or "exterior" of an element refers to the face of that element that is (or will be) oriented away from the shoe's interior in the completed shoe. In some cases, the inner side of an element may have other elements between that inner side and the interior in the completed shoe. Similarly, an outer side of an element may have other elements between that outer side and the space external to the completed shoe. In addition, the term "proximal" refers to a direction that is nearer a center of a footwear component, or is closer toward a foot when the foot is inserted in the article as it is worn by a user. Likewise, the term "distal" refers to a relative position that is further away from a center of the footwear component or upper. Thus, the terms proximal and distal may be understood to provide generally opposing terms to describe the relative spatial position of a footwear layer.

Furthermore, throughout the following description, the various layers or components of a sole structure may be described with reference to a proximal side and a distal side. In embodiments in which the upper and/or the sole structure comprise multiple layers or components (as will be discussed further below), the proximal side will refer to the surface or side of the specified layer that faces toward the upper and/or faces toward the foot-receiving interior cavity formed in the article. In addition, the distal side will refer to a side of the layer that is opposite to the proximal side of the layer. In some cases, the distal side of a layer is associated with the outermost surface or side. Thus, a proximal side may be a side of a layer of the sole structure that is configured to face upward, toward a foot or a portion of an upper. A distal side may be a surface side of a layer of the sole structure that is configured to face toward a ground surface during use of the article.

For purposes of this disclosure, the foregoing directional terms, when used in reference to an article of footwear, shall refer to the article of footwear when sitting in an upright position, with the sole facing groundward, that is, as it would be positioned when worn by a wearer standing on a substantially level surface.

In addition, for purposes of this disclosure, the term "fixedly attached" shall refer to two components joined in a manner such that the components may not be readily separated (for example, without destroying one or both of the components). Exemplary modalities of fixed attachment may include joining with permanent adhesive, rivets, stitches, nails, staples, welding or other thermal bonding, or other joining techniques. In addition, two components may be "fixedly attached" by virtue of being integrally formed, for example, in a molding process.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term "removably attached" or "removably inserted" shall refer to the joining of two components or a component and an element in a manner such that the two components are secured together, but may be readily detached from one another. Examples of removable attachment mechanisms may include hook and loop fasteners, friction fit connections, interference fit connections, threaded connectors, cam-locking connectors, compression of one material with another, and other such readily detachable connectors.

<FIG> depicts an isometric exploded view of an article of footwear ("article") that includes an upper <NUM> and a sole structure <NUM>. In the current embodiment, article <NUM> is shown in the form of an athletic shoe, such as a running shoe. However, in other embodiments, sole structure <NUM> and components of sole structure <NUM> described herein may be used with any other kind of footwear including, but not limited to, hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes, sneakers, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, basketball shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes. Moreover, in some embodiments, article <NUM> may be configured for use with various kinds of non-sports-related footwear, including, but not limited to, slippers, sandals, high-heeled footwear, loafers as well as any other kinds of footwear.

As noted above, for consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this detailed description. Article <NUM> is divided into three general regions along a longitudinal axis <NUM>: a forefoot region <NUM>, a midfoot region <NUM>, and a heel region <NUM>. Forefoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of article <NUM> corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of article <NUM> corresponding with an arch area of the foot. Heel region <NUM> generally corresponds with rear portions of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM> are not intended to demarcate precise areas of article <NUM>. Rather, forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM> are intended to represent general relative areas of article <NUM> to aid in the following discussion. Since various features of article <NUM> extend beyond one region of article <NUM>, the terms forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM> apply not only to article <NUM> but also to the various features of article <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, for reference purposes, a lateral axis <NUM> of article <NUM>, and any components related to article <NUM>, may extend between a medial side <NUM> and a lateral side <NUM> of the foot. Additionally, in some embodiments, longitudinal axis <NUM> may extend from forefoot region <NUM> to heel region <NUM>. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may also be applied to individual components of an article of footwear, such as an upper and/or a sole member. In addition, a vertical axis <NUM> refers to the axis perpendicular to a horizontal surface defined by longitudinal axis <NUM> and lateral axis <NUM>.

As noted above, article <NUM> may include upper <NUM> and sole structure <NUM>. Generally, upper <NUM> may be any type of upper. In particular, upper <NUM> may have any design, shape, size, and/or color. For example, in embodiments where article <NUM> is a basketball shoe, upper <NUM> could be a high-top upper that is shaped to provide high support on an ankle. In embodiments where article <NUM> is a running shoe, upper <NUM> could be a low-top upper.

As shown in <FIG>, upper <NUM> may include one or more material elements (for example, meshes, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather), which may be joined to define an interior void configured to receive a foot of a wearer. The material elements may be selected and arranged to impart properties such as light weight, durability, air permeability, wear resistance, flexibility, and comfort. Upper <NUM> may define an opening <NUM> through which a foot of a wearer may be received into the interior void.

At least a portion of sole structure <NUM> may be fixedly attached to upper <NUM> (for example, with adhesive, stitching, welding, or other suitable techniques) and may have a configuration that extends between upper <NUM> and the ground. Sole structure <NUM> may include provisions for attenuating ground reaction forces (that is, cushioning and stabilizing the foot during vertical and horizontal loading). In addition, sole structure <NUM> may be configured to provide traction, impart stability, and control or limit various foot motions, such as pronation, supination, or other motions.

The term "sole structure," also referred to simply as "sole," herein shall refer to any combination that provides support for a wearer's foot and bears the surface that is in direct contact with the ground or playing surface, such as a single sole; a combination of an outsole and an inner sole; a combination of an outsole, a midsole and an inner sole, and a combination of an outer covering, an outsole, a midsole and/or an inner sole. In an exemplary embodiment, sole structure <NUM> comprises a midsole as well as an outer sole structure configured for contact with a ground surface.

In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured to provide traction for article <NUM>. In addition to providing traction, sole structure <NUM> may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure <NUM> may vary significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or nonconventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of sole structure <NUM> can be configured according to one or more types of ground surfaces on which sole structure <NUM> may be used.

For example, the disclosed concepts may be applicable to footwear configured for use on any of a variety of surfaces, including indoor surfaces or outdoor surfaces. The configuration of sole structure <NUM> may vary based on the properties and conditions of the surfaces on which article <NUM> is anticipated to be used. For example, sole structure <NUM> may vary depending on whether the surface is hard or soft. In addition, sole structure <NUM> may be tailored for use in wet or dry conditions.

In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured for a particularly specialized surface or condition. The proposed footwear upper construction may be applicable to any kind of footwear, such as basketball, soccer, football, and other athletic activities. Accordingly, in some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured to provide traction and stability on hard indoor surfaces (such as hardwood), soft, natural turf surfaces, or on hard, artificial turf surfaces. In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured for use on multiple different surfaces.

As will be discussed further below, in different embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may include different components. For example, sole structure <NUM> may include an outsole, a midsole, a cushioning layer, and/or an insole or sockliner. In addition, in some cases, sole structure <NUM> can include one or more cleat members or traction elements that are configured to increase traction with the ground's surface.

In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may include multiple components or layers, which may, individually or collectively, provide article <NUM> with a number of attributes, such as support, rigidity, flexibility, stability, cushioning, comfort, reduced weight, or other attributes. For purposes of this disclosure, a sole member or "layer" refers to a segment or portion of the sole structure that extends along a horizontal direction or is disposed within a substantially similar level of the sole structure. In other words, a layer can be a horizontally arranged section of the sole structure that can be disposed above, between, or below other adjacent layers of materials. Each layer can incorporate one or more portions of increased or decreased expansion properties relative to other layers in sole structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, a layer may comprise various structural features that enhance cushioning or support for a wearer. In other embodiments, a layer may comprise materials or a geometry configured to improve distribution of forces applied along the sole structure. Furthermore, a layer may include one or more protruding portions or projections that extend proximally (i.e., upward) or distally (i.e., downward) in some embodiments. In addition, a layer may include one or more apertures or recesses in some embodiments, as will be discussed further below.

For example, in some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may include a first sole member ("first member") <NUM> and a second sole member ("second member") <NUM>. In some cases, however, one or more of these components may be omitted, or there may be additional components comprising sole structure <NUM>. First member <NUM> and second member <NUM> will be discussed in further detail below.

In addition, in some embodiments, an insole may be disposed in the void defined by upper <NUM>. The insole may extend through each of forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM>, and between lateral side <NUM> and medial side <NUM> of article <NUM>. The insole may be formed of a deformable (for example, compressible) material, such as polyurethane foam, or other polymer foam materials. Accordingly, the insole may, by virtue of its compressibility, provide cushioning, and may also conform to the foot in order to provide comfort, support, and stability. However, other embodiments may not include an insole.

In different embodiments, first member <NUM> can comprise a midsole. As shown in <FIG>, first member <NUM> can be understood to comprise a midsole component that is disposed between upper <NUM> and second member <NUM>. In other embodiments, first member <NUM> may comprise another type of layer or component in sole structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, first member <NUM> may be fixedly attached to a lower area of upper <NUM>, for example, through stitching, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding (such as welding), or other techniques, or may be integral with upper <NUM>. First member <NUM> may be formed from any suitable material having the properties described above, according to the activity for which article <NUM> is intended. In some embodiments, first member <NUM> may include a foamed polymer material, such as polyurethane (PU), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), or any other suitable material that operates to attenuate ground reaction forces as sole structure <NUM> contacts the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities.

First member <NUM> and second member <NUM> may each extend through each of forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM>, and between lateral side <NUM> and medial side <NUM> of article <NUM>. In some embodiments, portions of first member <NUM> may be exposed or visible around the periphery of article <NUM>, when article <NUM> is assembled. In other embodiments, first member <NUM> may be completely covered by other elements, such as material layers from upper <NUM>.

In addition, in some embodiments, second member <NUM> can comprise an outsole component. In other embodiments, second member <NUM> may comprise another type of layer or component in sole structure <NUM>. In different embodiments, second member <NUM> could be manufactured from a variety of different materials. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to, rubber (e.g., carbon rubber or blown rubber), polymers, thermoplastics (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane), as well as possibly other materials. It will be understood that the type of materials for outsoles and midsole (or insole) components could be selected according to various factors including manufacturing requirements and desired performance characteristics. In an exemplary embodiment, suitable materials for outsoles and midsoles could be selected to ensure an outsole has a larger coefficient of friction than a midsole.

Furthermore, as shown in <FIG>, article <NUM> may include a tongue <NUM>, which may be provided near or along a throat opening leading to opening <NUM> of article <NUM>. In some embodiments, tongue <NUM> may be provided in or near an instep region of article <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, tongue <NUM> may be disposed along other portions of an article of footwear, or an article may not include a tongue.

Sole structure <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and as described further in detail below, has an auxetic structure. Articles of footwear having sole structures comprised of an auxetic structure are described in Cross, <CIT>, published on March <NUM>, <NUM> (previously <CIT>), and entitled "Auxetic Structures and Footwear with Soles Having Auxetic Structures" (herein referred to as the "Cross application"), as well as in Cross, <CIT>, published on September <NUM>, <NUM> (previously <CIT>), and entitled "Auxetic Sole with Dual Sided Recesses," Cross, <CIT> (previously <CIT>), and entitled "Auxetic Structures And Footwear With Soles Having Auxetic Structures," Cross, U. Patent Publication Number <CIT> (previously <CIT>), and entitled "Footwear Soles With Auxetic Material," Cross, U. Patent Publication Number <CIT> (previously <CIT>), and entitled "Auxetic Structures And Footwear With Soles Having Auxetic Structures," Cross, U. Patent Publication Number <CIT> (previously <CIT>), and entitled "Midsole Component and Outer Sole Members With Auxetic Structure," Cross, <CIT> (previously <CIT>), and entitled "Sole Structure With Holes Arranged in Auxetic Configuration", and <CIT> (previously Patent application number <CIT>), and entitled "Auxetic Sole With Upper Cabling".

In some embodiments, the various components of sole structure <NUM> may further be characterized as having outermost surfaces. Referring to <FIG>, it can be understood that first member <NUM> has a first proximal surface <NUM> and a first distal surface <NUM> that is opposite first proximal surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, first proximal surface <NUM> faces toward upper <NUM>, and first distal surface <NUM> faces toward second member <NUM>. Furthermore, first member <NUM> includes a first side surface <NUM> that is disposed or extends between first proximal surface <NUM> and first distal surface <NUM>. Similarly, in some embodiments, it can be understood that second member <NUM> has a second proximal surface <NUM> and a second distal surface <NUM> that is opposite second proximal surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, second proximal surface <NUM> faces toward second member <NUM>, and second distal surface <NUM> can face toward a ground surface. Furthermore, second member <NUM> includes a second side surface <NUM> that is disposed or extends between second proximal surface <NUM> and second distal surface <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the various components of sole structure <NUM> may be associated with a thickness. In some embodiments, a first thickness <NUM> may be characterized as the distance between first proximal surface <NUM> and first distal surface <NUM> of a portion of first member <NUM>. In some embodiments, first thickness <NUM> may be less than or equal to the height of first side surface <NUM>. Similarly, in some embodiments, a second thickness <NUM> may be characterized as the distance between second proximal surface <NUM> and second distal surface <NUM> of a portion of second member <NUM>. In some embodiments, second thickness <NUM> may be less than or equal to the height of second side surface <NUM>.

In some general embodiments, the thicknesses of each component (e.g., first thickness <NUM> and/or second thickness <NUM>) may be uniform as various portions or sections of the sole member have a uniform distance between the proximal surface and the distal surface. However, in some other embodiments, the thickness throughout the sole member may be variable, as some portions have greater distances between the proximal surface and the distal sole surface relative to other portions. The variable thickness may allow for differing degrees of flexibility for the sole member and sole structure <NUM> as a whole. Some examples of this variability will be discussed further below with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>. According to the claimed invention, the heel region of the sole structure has a greater thickness than the forefoot region.

According to the claimed invention, sole structure <NUM> includes provisions for permitting changes in the shape and/or size of first member <NUM> and/or second member <NUM>. According to the claimed invention, one or both of first member <NUM> and second member <NUM> include auxetic materials. For purposes of reference, it will be understood that auxetic materials have a negative Poisson's ratio, as described in the Cross application, such that when they are under tension in a first direction, their dimensions increase both in the first direction and in a second direction orthogonal or perpendicular to the first direction.

Embodiments can include provisions to facilitate expansion and/or adaptability of a sole structure during dynamic motions. In some embodiments, a sole structure may be configured with auxetic provisions. In particular, one or more layers or components of the sole structure may be capable of undergoing auxetic motions (e.g., expansion and/or contraction). Structures that expand in a direction orthogonal to the direction under tension, as well as in the direction under tension, are known as auxetic structures.

According to the claimed invention, one or more layers of sole structure <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures ("apertures") <NUM>. Apertures <NUM> can be arranged along forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and/or heel region <NUM> of first member <NUM> and/or second member <NUM> in some embodiments. However, in other embodiments, apertures <NUM> may be arranged in only particular regions of portions of sole structure <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, apertures <NUM> may only be formed along forefoot region <NUM> and heel region <NUM> in one embodiment.

Generally, apertures <NUM> can comprise various openings or holes arranged in a variety of orientations and in a variety of locations on or through first member <NUM> and/or second member <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, second member <NUM> may include apertures <NUM> that extend in a direction generally aligned with vertical axis <NUM> through second thickness <NUM> of second member <NUM>. In some embodiments, apertures <NUM> may be understood to begin from a distal end formed through second distal surface <NUM> and extend upward toward second proximal surface <NUM> to a proximal end. Thus, apertures <NUM> can include a series of openings (i.e., holes, gaps, or breaks) along an exterior surface of first layer <NUM> in some cases. In <FIG>, second distal surface <NUM> comprises one of the exterior surfaces in which the series of openings (shown in greater detail in <FIG> and <FIG> below) are formed. As will be discussed further below, in some embodiments, apertures <NUM> may extend from an initial opening associated with the distal end, through second thickness <NUM> of second member <NUM>, to form tunneled spaces, channels, or through-holes in the member.

In different embodiments, the apertures can comprise varying sizes and depths. In some embodiments, apertures <NUM> could include polygonal apertures. For example, one or more apertures <NUM> could have a polygonal cross-sectional shape (where the cross section is taken along a plane parallel with a horizontal surface of second member <NUM>). In other embodiments, however, each aperture could have any other geometry, including geometries with non-linear edges that connect adjacent vertices. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, apertures <NUM> in second member <NUM> appear as three-pointed stars (also referred to herein as triangular stars or as tri-stars), surrounded by a plurality of auxetic members or elements ("auxetic members") <NUM>. For example, one or more of the apertures <NUM> may have a simple isotoxal star-shaped polygonal shape. In this exemplary embodiment, auxetic members <NUM> are triangular. In other embodiments, the apertures may have other geometries and are surrounded by auxetic members having other geometries. For example, the auxetic members may be geometric features. The triangular features of auxetic members <NUM> shown in <FIG> are one example of such geometric features. Other examples of geometric features that might be used as auxetic members are quadrilateral features, trapezoidal features, pentagonal features, hexagonal features, octagonal features, oval features, and circular features.

Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, joints or hinge portions <NUM> extending between each of auxetic members <NUM> function as hinges, allowing the generally triangular auxetic members <NUM> to rotate as the sole member is placed under tension. In some embodiments, hinge portions <NUM> are adjacent to each of the vertices of apertures <NUM>. When a portion of the sole member is under tension, the hinge portions allow the portion of the sole under tension to expand both in the direction under tension and in the direction in the plane of the sole that is orthogonal to the direction under tension. Thus, in some embodiments, first member <NUM> and/or second member <NUM> may have an auxetic structure, as will be discussed below.

<FIG> depicts an isometric bottom view of an embodiment of article <NUM>. Second distal surface <NUM> and a portion of second side surface <NUM> of second member <NUM> can be seen in <FIG>. As noted above, one or more portions of sole structure <NUM> have an auxetic structure or comprise one or more types of an auxetic material <NUM>. In <FIG>, for purposes of reference, second member <NUM> includes a first auxetic portion <NUM>, a second auxetic portion <NUM>, and a distal intermediate portion <NUM>. Furthermore, it should be understood that the auxetic structures of second member <NUM> are not under tension, or are in a neutral state.

For purposes of clarity, the embodiments herein may discuss a subset of auxetic members <NUM> and their relative configuration. However, it will be understood that these particular members are only meant to be a representation, and the components of sole structure <NUM> can be comprised of many other members arranged in similar patterns. Moreover, in other embodiments, auxetic members <NUM> of sole structure <NUM> may generally be tiled in a regular pattern comprised of smaller sets of additional members that have a configuration substantially similar to auxetic members <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, auxetic material <NUM> comprising different portions of second member <NUM> can include a first group of auxetic members ("first group") <NUM> disposed in first auxetic portion <NUM> and a second group of auxetic members ("second group") <NUM> disposed in second auxetic portion <NUM>. The first group <NUM> and the second group <NUM> of auxetic members may alternatively be referred to as the first subset and the second subset, respectively.

As noted above, in some embodiments, the material of sole members that comprise various hinge portions <NUM> of an aperture also function as hinges. In one embodiment, adjacent portions of material, including one or more geometric portions (e.g., polygonal portions), may rotate about a hinge portion associated with a vertex of the aperture. Thus, portions or auxetic members <NUM> are connected by hinges. The angles associated with the vertices where hinging occurs may change as the structure contracts or expands. However, in some embodiments, one or more hinge portions <NUM> may not function as a hinge for corresponding sides or edges. For example, some of hinge portions <NUM> may be static such that the angle of the vertex remains approximately unchanged during auxetic expansion.

According to the claimed inventon, each group can include auxetic members <NUM> that vary in shape, size, and/or orientation. As shown in <FIG>, each of the hinge portions joining the auxetic members of first group <NUM> together is larger or wider than each of the hinge portions joining the auxetic members of second group <NUM>. For purposes of clarity, <FIG> also includes a first enlarged view <NUM> of a first aperture <NUM> and a second enlarged view <NUM> of a second aperture <NUM>. First aperture <NUM> is bounded in part by a first auxetic member <NUM> and a second auxetic member <NUM>, where first auxetic member <NUM> and second auxetic member <NUM> are joined by a first hinge portion <NUM>. Similarly, it can be seen that second aperture <NUM> is bounded in part by a third auxetic member <NUM> and a fourth auxetic member <NUM>, where third auxetic member <NUM> and fourth auxetic member <NUM> are joined by a second hinge portion <NUM>. It can be seen that first hinge portion <NUM> has a first width <NUM> and second hinge portion <NUM> has a second width <NUM>, where first width <NUM> is larger than second width <NUM>. In other words, the portions of the sole member that join the auxetic members in first group <NUM> are larger than the portions (i.e., vertices) of the sole member that join the auxetic members together in second group <NUM>. In some embodiments, the varying sizes of the hinge portions can affect the auxetic behavior of the auxetic portion. In some cases, a narrower hinge portion can increase the rate and/or degree of auxetic expansion, for example. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the portions of the sole member that join the auxetic members in first group <NUM> can be smaller relative to the portions (i.e., hinge portions) of the sole member that join the auxetic members together in second group <NUM> in some embodiments.

In addition, in different embodiments, the area associated with one aperture can be larger than an area associated with another aperture. For example, in <FIG>, first aperture <NUM> can be understood to have a first area in the neutral state, where the first area corresponds to a cross-sectional area of first aperture <NUM> taken along a plane substantially aligned with a horizontal axis (e.g., lateral axis <NUM> or longitudinal axis <NUM>). Similarly, second aperture <NUM> can be understood to have a second area in the neutral state, where the second area corresponds to a cross-sectional area of second aperture <NUM> taken along a plane substantially aligned with a horizontal axis (e.g., lateral axis <NUM> or longitudinal axis <NUM>). In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, the first area is greater than the second area. Thus, in some embodiments, the size or space of the apertures formed in first auxetic portion <NUM> in the neutral configuration can be larger than the apertures formed in second auxetic portion <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the apertures of second auxetic portion <NUM> may be larger than apertures of first auxetic portion <NUM>. In addition, in one embodiment, the apertures of first auxetic portion <NUM> and second auxetic portion <NUM> may be substantially similar in size.

In some embodiments, the larger neutral size of hinge portions <NUM> in first group <NUM> in the neutral state can be associated with a slower or smaller degree of expansion relative to second group <NUM>. In other words, by including differently sized apertures <NUM> and/or hinge portions <NUM> in different regions of the sole member, the type of auxetic behavior associated with the particular portion of the sole member can also be different relative to another portion.

Furthermore, in different embodiments, sole structure <NUM> can include other provisions for altering the primary direction(s) of auxetic expansion or for adjusting the auxetic behavior of different portions of the sole member. According to the claimed invention, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, first group <NUM> is arranged or positioned along a different orientation relative to second group <NUM>. In other words, the orientation of each of the "arms" and corresponding vertices of the apertures in first auxetic portion <NUM> differ from the orientation of each of the "arms" and corresponding vertices of the apertures in second auxetic portion <NUM>. For purposes of reference, arms <NUM> refer to the distinct, elongated, portions of the apertures that extend radially outward from a center point of the aperture. In some embodiments, arms <NUM> extend from a center point and taper to a rounded or pointed end. Referring to first enlarged view <NUM>, it can be seen that arms <NUM> of first aperture <NUM> are arranged such that a first arm <NUM> is oriented along a first axis <NUM>, a second arm <NUM> is oriented along a second axis <NUM>, and a third arm <NUM> is oriented along a third axis <NUM>. Furthermore, referring to second enlarged view <NUM>, it can be seen that arms <NUM> of second aperture <NUM> are arranged such that a fourth arm <NUM> is oriented along a fourth axis <NUM>, a fifth arm <NUM> is oriented along a fifth axis <NUM>, and a sixth arm <NUM> is oriented along a sixth axis <NUM>. In other words, for purposes of this description and claims, when two or more auxetic apertures are described as being arranged in the same or substantially similar orientation relative to one another, it can be understood that the orientation of each of the "arms" of a first aperture is aligned with the orientation of a corresponding arm in a second aperture. In contrast, two or more auxetic apertures are arranged in different orientations relative to each other when each of the "arms" of a first aperture is not aligned or is nonparallel to any arm of a second aperture.

For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the arms of first aperture <NUM> can differ in orientation from the arms of second aperture <NUM>. In one embodiment, each of the arms of first aperture <NUM> can be oriented differently than the arms of second aperture <NUM>. For example, in <FIG>, first axis <NUM> is nonparallel to each of fourth axis <NUM>, fifth axis <NUM>, and sixth axis <NUM>. Similarly, second axis <NUM> is nonparallel to each of fourth axis <NUM>, fifth axis <NUM>, and sixth axis <NUM>, and third axis <NUM> is nonparallel to each of each of fourth axis <NUM>, fifth axis <NUM>, and sixth axis <NUM>. According to the claimed invention, the orientation of the apertures of first auxetic portion <NUM> is substantially different from the orientation of the apertures of second auxetic portion <NUM>.

In contrast, the apertures formed in first auxetic portion <NUM> have a substantially similar orientation. Similarly, the apertures formed in second auxetic portion <NUM> have a substantially similar orientation. In some embodiments, by arranging the arms of the apertures of one portion of a sole member along a first orientation and arranging the arms of the apertures of another portion of the same sole member along a second, different orientation, the auxetic behavior of the two portions can be altered. For example, in one embodiment, first auxetic portion <NUM> can rotate and expand outward primarily along a first direction when under tension, while second auxetic portion <NUM> can rotate and expand outward primarily along a second, different direction when under tension. In addition, the differently oriented apertures in different regions of the sole member can provide a greater aesthetic value to a user.

In addition, in different embodiments, there may be portions of a sole member that do not include auxetic materials. For example, in <FIG>, distal intermediate portion <NUM> is a substantially continuous, or unbroken, region of second member <NUM>. Thus, in some embodiments, a sole member can include regions of auxetic material as well as regions that are non-auxetic. In <FIG>, there is a region of auxetic material in forefoot region <NUM> (first auxetic portion <NUM>) and a region of auxetic material in heel region <NUM> (second auxetic portion <NUM>). Extending between the two portions of auxetic material is distal intermediate portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, distal intermediate portion <NUM> can be considered solid relative to either of first auxetic portion <NUM> or second auxetic portion <NUM>. For example, distal intermediate portion <NUM> may not include any apertures or openings. Second proximal surface <NUM> (see <FIG>) of distal intermediate portion <NUM> and second distal surface <NUM> of distal intermediate portion <NUM> may be substantially smooth in some embodiments. In other words, there may be portions or regions of a sole member that are configured to exhibit auxetic behavior in response to tension, and there may also be portions or regions of the same sole member that are not configured to exhibit auxetic behavior in response to tension.

In some embodiments, distal intermediate portion <NUM> may be a separate, distinct piece or material that is joined (e.g., adhered or otherwise fixedly connected) to a portion of auxetic material <NUM> to form a single sole member. In <FIG>, it can be seen that a forward edge of distal intermediate portion <NUM> is disposed adjacent to and lies substantially flush against a rear edge of first auxetic portion <NUM> along a first boundary <NUM>. Similarly, in <FIG>, it can be seen that a rear edge of distal intermediate portion <NUM> is disposed adjacent to and lies substantially flush against a forward edge of second auxetic portion <NUM> along a second boundary <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, second member <NUM> can be a single or integral piece in which apertures are drilled or otherwise formed in different portions to create auxetically configured material while other areas remain substantially smooth. Furthermore, in different embodiments, distal intermediate portion <NUM> can be configured for cushioning - comprising foam, for example - or may be configured for stability or support and comprise carbon fiber or other relatively rigid materials.

In order to provide the reader with a greater understanding of some of the disclosed embodiments, <FIG> and <FIG> show schematically how the orientation of apertures <NUM> and/or the size of their surrounding hinge portions <NUM> can result in different types of auxetic behavior. In <FIG>, an isometric bottom view of article <NUM> is depicted. For purposes of clarity, only two portions of second distal surface <NUM> (in forefoot region <NUM> and heel region <NUM>) are shown. Furthermore, a third enlarged view <NUM> of the illustrated portion of forefoot region <NUM> and a fourth enlarged view <NUM> of the illustrated portion of heel region <NUM> are included.

In <FIG>, second member <NUM> is at rest or in the neutral state, where no external tension is being applied to sole structure <NUM>. First auxetic portion <NUM> and second auxetic portion <NUM> each have an initial set of dimensions. For example, first auxetic portion <NUM> has a first initial width <NUM> and a first initial length <NUM> during the initial (unstressed) state of <FIG>. Similarly, second auxetic portion <NUM> has a second initial width <NUM> and a second initial length <NUM> during the initial (unstressed) state of <FIG>.

In some embodiments, in the unstressed state, as discussed above, the auxetic material has apertures <NUM> surrounded by auxetic members <NUM> and hinge portions <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, apertures <NUM> are triangular star-shaped apertures, auxetic members <NUM> are generally triangular features. In addition, for purposes of this disclosure, openings <NUM> represent the interior of triangular star-shaped apertures <NUM>, where each opening is bounded by the vertices of the aperture. As best shown in the enlarged views, in one embodiment, openings <NUM> may be characterized as having a relatively small acute angle along each of the vertices when the auxetic material is not under tension.

Referring now to <FIG>, an illustration of the bi-directional expansion of second member <NUM> when it is under tension is depicted, producing an expanded state or stressed state for the sole structure. Thus, <FIG> and <FIG> can provide a comparison of two portions of an embodiment of second member <NUM> in its unstressed, initial state (shown in <FIG>) as well as in the expanded state, when tension is applied to sole structure <NUM>. In <FIG>, the application of tension to second member <NUM> rotates adjacent auxetic members <NUM>, which increases the relative spacing between adjacent auxetic members. In some embodiments, as seen in <FIG>, the relative spacing between adjoining auxetic members <NUM> (and thus the size of apertures <NUM>) increases with the application of tension. Because the increase in relative spacing occurs in all directions (due to the geometry of the original geometric pattern of apertures), this results in an expansion of the auxetic material along both the direction under tension, and along the direction orthogonal to the direction under tension.

Thus, in the expanded state or resultant state (seen in <FIG>), first auxetic portion <NUM> has an increased first resultant width <NUM> (relative to <FIG>) in the direction under tension and an increased first resultant length <NUM> (relative to <FIG>) in the direction that is orthogonal to the direction under tension. Similarly, second auxetic portion <NUM> has an increased second resultant width <NUM> (relative to <FIG>) in the direction under tension and an increased second resultant length <NUM> (relative to <FIG>) in the direction that is orthogonal to the direction under tension. It should be understood that the expansion of auxetic material <NUM> is not limited to expansion in the direction under tension.

In some embodiments, due to the different arrangement of first auxetic portion <NUM> relative to second auxetic portion <NUM>, there may be variations in the auxetic behavior of each portion of auxetic material <NUM>. In one embodiment, as shown in fifth enlarged view <NUM> of <FIG>, first auxetic portion <NUM> of second member <NUM> exhibits a first type of auxetic behavior ("first behavior"). In addition, as shown in sixth enlarged view <NUM>, second auxetic portion <NUM> of second member <NUM> exhibits a second type of auxetic behavior ("second behavior"). In some embodiments, the first behavior represents a smaller degree of expansion along the direction associated with width (i.e., less of an increase or change from first initial width <NUM> to first resultant width <NUM> relative to the larger increase or change between second initial width <NUM> to second resultant width <NUM>). Similarly, the first behavior represents a smaller degree of expansion along the direction associated with length (i.e., less of an increase or change from first initial length <NUM> to first resultant length <NUM> relative to the larger increase or change between second initial length <NUM> to second resultant length <NUM>). In contrast, the second behavior represents a larger degree of expansion along the directions associated with width and length relative to the first auxetic behavior. In some embodiments, the second auxetic behavior can be associated with a greater overall expansion of individual apertures within the sole structure. In other words, in some embodiments, the apertures of second auxetic portion <NUM> can expand or open up more (to a greater area) than the apertures of first auxetic portion <NUM>. Thus, it can be understood that in one embodiment, each of the apertures of second auxetic portion <NUM> may expand to a greater size (i.e., area or volume) than the apertures of first auxetic portion <NUM>.

In addition, in some embodiments, as noted earlier, the primary directions of expansion can differ depending on the orientation of the apertures. In <FIG>, for example, the application of tension results in expansion of first auxetic portion <NUM> mainly along a first direction <NUM> and a second direction <NUM>, and the application of tension results in expansion of second auxetic portion <NUM> mainly along a third direction <NUM> and a fourth direction <NUM>. In some embodiments, first direction <NUM> is different from either of third direction <NUM> and fourth direction <NUM>, and second direction <NUM> can also differ from either of third direction <NUM> and fourth direction <NUM>. In other embodiments, the directions (i.e., first direction <NUM>, second direction <NUM>, third direction <NUM>, and fourth direction <NUM>) can differ from what is depicted here.

Thus, in some embodiments, one or more layers of sole structure <NUM> of <FIG> can have two or more distinct portions of auxetic material that are associated with different types of auxetic behavior. It can also be noted that while expansion occurs in forefoot region <NUM> and heel region <NUM> in <FIG>, midfoot region <NUM> - where distal intermediate portion <NUM> is disposed - remains substantially static (i.e., does not expand significantly) and does not exhibit auxetic behavior.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, in different embodiments, an article of footwear can include provisions for coordinating and/or aligning the auxetic behavior of first member <NUM> with second member <NUM>. In <FIG>, an isometric exploded view of sole structure <NUM> is depicted, where first member <NUM> is disposed above second member <NUM>. First distal surface <NUM> of first member <NUM> is shown facing downward. Furthermore, similar to second member <NUM>, first member <NUM> includes two auxetic portions, comprising of a third auxetic portion <NUM> and a fourth auxetic portion <NUM>, as well as a proximal intermediate portion <NUM>. In different embodiments, proximal intermediate portion <NUM> can be configured for cushioning - comprising foam, for example - or may be configured for stability or support and comprise carbon fiber or other relatively rigid materials.

In some embodiments, third auxetic portion <NUM> and fourth auxetic portion <NUM> can each include apertures, auxetic portions, and hinge portions, where the features, properties, and/or structural characteristics of the apertures, auxetic portions, and hinge portions can be substantially similar to those discussed above with respect to second member <NUM>. Furthermore, the apertures, auxetic portions, and hinge portions of third auxetic portion <NUM> can be substantially similar in arrangement, shape, geometry, and configuration to those of first auxetic portion <NUM> in some embodiments. Similarly, in some embodiments, the apertures, auxetic portions, and hinge portions of fourth auxetic portion <NUM> can be substantially similar in arrangement, shape, geometry, and configuration to those of second auxetic portion <NUM>.

However, as shown in <FIG>, it should be understood that, in some embodiments, while apertures <NUM> formed in portions of second member <NUM> may be through-hole apertures, apertures <NUM> formed in portions of first member <NUM> may be blind-hole apertures. For purposes of this disclosure, a "through-hole" aperture refers to a type of aperture that includes a first open end along one surface side (e.g., a distal surface) and a second open end along a second, opposing surface side (e.g., a proximal surface). In other words, the aperture has a continuous, constant opening extending through the interior or thickness of the sole member, where each of the two ends of the aperture may match or correspond in dimension and shape with each other. For example, referring back to <FIG>, in second member <NUM>, the through-hole apertures extend through second thickness <NUM> and are associated with openings along both second proximal surface <NUM> and second distal surface <NUM>. In contrast, a "blind-hole" aperture includes a first open end formed along one surface side (i.e., either the distal surface or the proximal surface), extends partway through the thickness of the sole member, and ends at a second closed end bounded by the material of the sole member.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, when first member <NUM> and second member <NUM> are disposed against one another in an assembled sole structure <NUM>, some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in first auxetic portion <NUM> can align directly with some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in third auxetic portion <NUM>. Similarly, when first member <NUM> and second member <NUM> are disposed against one another in an assembled sole structure <NUM>, some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in second auxetic portion <NUM> can align directly with some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in fourth auxetic portion <NUM> in some embodiments. In other words, in some embodiments, an aperture can extend from second distal surface <NUM>, through second thickness <NUM> toward second proximal surface <NUM>, and continue to extend into first distal surface <NUM>, and through at least part of first thickness <NUM>, toward first proximal surface <NUM>. Thus, in one embodiment, a set of apertures can extend through second member <NUM> and at least partially through first member <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, there may be a first set of apertures ("first set") <NUM> extending through second member <NUM> and at least partially through first member <NUM> in forefoot region <NUM>, and there may be a second set of apertures ("second set") <NUM> extending through second member <NUM> and at least partially through first member <NUM> in heel region <NUM>.

In addition, in different embodiments, distal intermediate portion <NUM> and proximal intermediate portion <NUM> can also be substantially similar in their relative positions when first member <NUM> and second member <NUM> are assembled and disposed adjacent to one another. In other words, when first member <NUM> and second member <NUM> are disposed against one another in an assembled sole structure <NUM>, some or all of the material comprising each of distal intermediate portion <NUM> and proximal intermediate portion <NUM> can be aligned. Thus, in one embodiment, second proximal surface <NUM> (see <FIG>) of distal intermediate portion <NUM> can face toward and/or directly contact some or all of first distal surface <NUM> (see <FIG>) of proximal intermediate portion <NUM>.

In other embodiments, in contrast to the blind-hole apertures formed in first member <NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG>, a first member may include through-hole apertures. For example, referring to the cutaway views provided in <FIG>, an alternate first member <NUM> is depicted in which both third auxetic portion <NUM> and fourth auxetic portion <NUM> of alternate first member <NUM> include through-hole apertures. Thus, in some embodiments, when alternate first member <NUM> is disposed against second member <NUM> as described earlier (see <FIG> and <FIG>) in an assembled sole structure, some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in the first auxetic portion of the second member can align directly with some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in the third auxetic portion <NUM>. Similarly, in some embodiments, when alternate first member <NUM> and second member <NUM> (see <FIG>) are disposed against one another in an assembled sole structure, some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in the second auxetic portion of the second member can align directly with some or all of apertures <NUM> formed in fourth auxetic portion <NUM>. In other words, in some embodiments, an aperture can extend from the second distal surface of the second member, through the second thickness, toward the second proximal surface, and then continue by extending into first distal surface <NUM>, through the entirety of first thickness <NUM>, and ending in first proximal surface <NUM>. Thus, in one embodiment, a set of apertures can extend through the entire thickness of the second member as well as through the entire thickness of first member <NUM>.

In different embodiments, one or more layers of the sole structure can include provisions for varying the cushioning and/or expansion. In the embodiments shown herein, an auxetic structure, including the first member and the second member that include auxetic material, may generally be tensioned in the longitudinal direction or in the lateral direction. However, it should be understood that the configuration discussed in this application for auxetic structures comprised of geometric apertures surrounded by geometric portions provides a structure that can expand along any first direction along which tension is applied, as well as along a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. Moreover, it should be understood that the directions of expansion, namely the first direction and the second direction, may generally be tangential to a surface of the auxetic structure. In particular, the auxetic structures discussed here may generally not expand substantially in a vertical direction that is associated with a thickness of the auxetic structure. However, as a foot or other force compresses the sole structure, the thickness of the layer(s) can decrease in some embodiments. Furthermore, while auxetic expansion may not substantially occur in a direction aligned with vertical axis <NUM>, the thickness of the layer(s) can influence the type of auxetic behavior that occurs as the sole layer is tensioned.

For example, in some embodiments, the thickness associated with a layer of the sole structure can affect the manner in which the expansion of an auxetic portion occurs in the first direction and the second direction. Referring to <FIG>, it can be seen that in some embodiments, one auxetic portion can be substantially thicker than a second auxetic portion in the same sole layer. For example, an embodiment of a first member <NUM> is depicted in <FIG> in which third auxetic portion <NUM> includes a third thickness <NUM> and fourth auxetic portion <NUM> includes a fourth thickness <NUM>. In one embodiment, third thickness <NUM> is substantially smaller than that of fourth thickness <NUM>. In other embodiments, third thickness <NUM> can be larger than fourth thickness <NUM>, or third thickness <NUM> may be substantially similar to fourth thickness <NUM>. In some embodiments, third thickness can be thin enough such that third auxetic portion <NUM> may be configured as a two-dimensional material, in contrast to fourth auxetic portion <NUM>. The term "two-dimensional" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to any generally flat material exhibiting a length and width that are substantially greater than a thickness of the material. Although two-dimensional materials may have smooth or generally untextured surfaces, some two-dimensional materials will exhibit textures or other surface characteristics, such as dimpling, protrusions, ribs, or various patterns, for example.

In different embodiments, fourth auxetic portion <NUM> can provide greater cushioning to a user relative to third auxetic portion <NUM>. In addition, when a force is applied to first member <NUM>, third auxetic portion <NUM> may exhibit a greater degree of "splay out" or outward expansion compared to fourth auxetic portion <NUM>. In other words, because of the decreased thickness of third auxetic portion <NUM> compared to fourth auxetic portion <NUM>, the auxetic material comprising third auxetic portion <NUM> may move or rotate outward more readily.

In some embodiments, the sole structure may include additional provisions for adjusting or otherwise tuning the degree of auxetic expansion of the auxetic material in a sole member. For example, while apertures <NUM> in the figures above have been depicted as voids or hollow tunnels extending through a sole member, it should be understood that in other embodiments, one or more apertures may be at least partially filled or "plugged" with various materials. Referring to <FIG>, an auxetic segment <NUM> is illustrated. For purposes of clarity, only three apertures are shown in auxetic segment <NUM>. However, auxetic segment <NUM> may represent only a small region of a larger auxetic material.

In <FIG>, auxetic segment <NUM> has a fifth thickness <NUM>, and includes a first aperture <NUM>, a second aperture <NUM>, and a third aperture <NUM>. In some embodiments, each aperture in auxetic segment <NUM> may be generally similar in structure, geometry, and properties as the other apertures described earlier herein. In addition, one or more apertures can also include an interior portion. For purposes of this disclosure, an "interior portion" refers to any material that is disposed, filled, plugged, or otherwise arranged in an aperture such that the interior volume of the aperture that extends through at least a part of the thickness of the auxetic material is no longer hollow. In the cross section of <FIG>, first aperture <NUM> includes a filling comprised of a first interior portion <NUM>, and second aperture <NUM> includes a filling comprises of a second interior portion <NUM>. Third aperture <NUM> remains hollow to provide the reader with a contrasting example.

In some embodiments, the material comprising first interior portion <NUM> may be substantially similar to that of second interior portion <NUM>, or they may differ. For example, in some embodiments, first interior portion <NUM> can include a material with a first degree of elasticity, and second interior portion <NUM> can include a material with a second degree of elasticity, where the first degree is less than the second degree. In other words, the properties of the materials in either of first interior portion <NUM> or second interior portion <NUM> can be selected to provide additional functional or structural characteristics to the sole member. In one embodiment, the apertures may be filled with a material that increases the cushioning in the sole member. In another embodiment, the apertures may be filled with a material that is spongy or highly stretchy, allowing a high degree of expansion. In some other embodiments, the material selected can lessen or fine-tune the degree of expansion of the sole member in one or more regions of the sole member.

In <FIG>, one example of a sole member with apertures that have been "filled in" is illustrated. A second member <NUM> is shown with apertures <NUM> formed in both first auxetic portion <NUM> and second auxetic portion <NUM>. While both a third set of apertures ("third set") <NUM> in first auxetic portion <NUM> and a fourth set of apertures ("fourth set") <NUM> in second auxetic portion <NUM> comprise through-hole apertures, where an opening of each aperture is formed on both a distal surface and a proximal surface of second member <NUM>, it can be seen that fourth set <NUM> includes apertures that have interior portions of material, as described above with respect to <FIG>. In other words, while the apertures of third set <NUM> remain substantially hollow, the apertures of fourth set <NUM> are filled in with a material. In another embodiment, the apertures of third set <NUM> can be filled, while the apertures of fourth set <NUM> remain hollow. In other embodiments, both the apertures of third set <NUM> and the apertures of fourth set <NUM> can be filled. The materials comprising the interior portions of each aperture can be substantially similar in some embodiments, or they may differ. For example, in one embodiment where the apertures of third set <NUM> and the apertures of fourth set <NUM> are filled, the interior portions in third set <NUM> can differ from those of fourth set <NUM>, or may be substantially similar. Furthermore, in some embodiments, specific regions in an auxetic portion may include apertures that are filled, while other apertures in an adjacent region remain hollow. In addition, in some embodiments, specific regions in an auxetic portion may include apertures that are filled with a first material, while other apertures in an adjacent region are filled with a second, different material. It should be understood that while <FIG> depicts second member <NUM>, other embodiments may include a first member configured with interior portions as described herein.

Furthermore, in different embodiments, a sole structure can include additional variations of configurations described herein. In <FIG>, a third member <NUM> is illustrated in which a forward portion <NUM> includes a plate component and a rearward portion <NUM> includes an auxetic material. Thus, it can be understood that in some embodiments, a sole member can include a single portion that is configured to behave auxetically, joined to another non-auxetic portion. In other words, the embodiments disclosed herein may comprise only one auxetic portion. In other embodiments, there may be multiple, distinct auxetic portions. In one embodiment, distinct auxetic portions may be interspersed with non-auxetic portions (i.e., portions that are made of non-auxetic materials). For purposes of this description and the claims, a non-auxetic material is a material that contracts in directions orthogonal to the direction of applied tension. In other words, in contrast to auxetic material, a non-auxetic material possesses a positive Poisson's ratio. Thus, for example, a non-auxetic material can become thinner when stretched, or thicker when compressed.

In <FIG>, for purposes of illustration, a sequence of configurations for portions of the sole members is provided. As noted above with respect to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the geometry and arrangement of auxetic members <NUM> may provide auxetic properties to second member <NUM> when a force is applied. While the discussion below describes the effect on apertures <NUM> during auxetic expansion, it should be noted that auxetic members <NUM> may rotate about one or more vertices and their associated hinge portions <NUM> as a part of this process, such that the rotation of auxetic members <NUM> can allow differences in aperture size, shape, and angle to occur. Thus, the rotation of auxetic members <NUM> may at least in part facilitate the changes in second member <NUM>.

In <FIG>, a first configuration <NUM> is illustrated, where second member <NUM> is in the neutral state described with respect to <FIG>. A user <NUM> is depicted wearing article <NUM>, which includes second member <NUM>. Article <NUM> is in mid-air and is thus not experiencing any significant external tension or force. In <FIG>, first auxetic portion <NUM> has a first lateral width <NUM> and second auxetic portion <NUM> has a second lateral width <NUM>.

In <FIG>, user <NUM> has impacted the ground with article <NUM>, and second member <NUM> is being compressed in a second configuration <NUM>. As tension is applied to second member <NUM>, both first auxetic portion <NUM> and second auxetic portion <NUM> can exhibit auxetic behavior. In addition, as noted above with respect to <FIG>, the type of behavior for each portion can differ. In <FIG>, first auxetic portion <NUM> exhibits less "splay" or expansion relative to second auxetic portion <NUM>. In addition, in the expanded state of <FIG>, first auxetic portion <NUM> has a third lateral width <NUM> that is larger than first lateral width <NUM> in <FIG>, and second auxetic portion <NUM> has a fourth lateral width <NUM> that is larger than second lateral width <NUM> in <FIG>. However, it should be understood that while both portions undergo expansion, second auxetic portion <NUM> experiences a greater degree of expansion than first auxetic portion <NUM>. This can be due to the smaller widths of hinge portions <NUM> in some embodiments, and/or the difference in thickness between the portions of the sole member itself. In other embodiments, interior portions can be utilized to adjust or tune the degree or type of expansion, as described above.

In <FIG>, a third configuration <NUM> is illustrated, where first member <NUM> is in the neutral state. User <NUM> is depicted wearing article <NUM>, which includes first member <NUM>. Article <NUM> is in mid-air and is thus not experiencing any significant external tension or force. In <FIG>, third auxetic portion <NUM> has a first lateral width <NUM> and fourth auxetic portion <NUM> has a second lateral width <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A sole structure (<NUM>), comprising:
an outsole; and
wherein the sole structure (<NUM>) includes a forefoot region (<NUM>), a midfoot region (<NUM>), and a heel region (<NUM>);
wherein the heel region (<NUM>) has a greater thickness than the forefoot region (<NUM>);
wherein the heel region (<NUM>) includes a first subset of auxetic apertures, each auxetic aperture (<NUM>) of the first subset of auxetic apertures (<NUM>) extends through the outsole, and the auxetic apertures (<NUM>) of the first subset of auxetic apertures (<NUM>) are arranged in substantially the same orientation;
wherein the forefoot region (<NUM>) includes a second subset of auxetic apertures (<NUM>), each auxetic aperture (<NUM>) in the second subset of auxetic apertures (<NUM>) extends through the outsole, and the auxetic apertures (<NUM>) of the second subset of auxetic apertures (<NUM>) are arranged in substantially the same orientation;
wherein a first orientation of the first subset of auxetic apertures (<NUM>) is different than a second orientation of the second subset of auxetic apertures (<NUM>), and
wherein each auxetic aperture (<NUM>) of the sole structure (<NUM>) is surrounded by a plurality of auxetic members (<NUM>), wherein each auxetic member (<NUM>) is joined to a neighboring auxetic member (<NUM>) by a hinge portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), and wherein a first width (<NUM>) of a first hinge portion (<NUM>, <NUM>) in the forefoot region (<NUM>) is greater than a second width (<NUM>) of a second hinge portion (<NUM>, <NUM>) in the heel region (<NUM>).