Patent Description:
An article of footwear (also referred to herein as "the article" or "the footwear") typically includes two main components: a sole structure and an upper. The sole structure is configured for supporting the wearer's foot and providing cushioning between the wearer's foot and the ground. The upper is coupled to the sole structure and is configured for securing the wearer's foot to the sole structure.

<CIT> describes an article with tensioning system including driven tensioning members.

The systems and methods described herein, and individual components thereof, should not be construed as being limited to the particular uses or systems described herein in any way. Instead, this disclosure is directed toward all novel and non-obvious features and aspects of the various disclosed embodiments, alone and in various combinations and subcombinations with one another. For example, any features or aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be used in various combinations and subcombinations with one another, as will be recognized by an ordinarily skilled artisan in the relevant field(s) in view of the information disclosed herein. In addition, the disclosed systems, methods, and components thereof are not limited to any specific aspect or feature or combinations thereof, nor do the disclosed things and methods require that any one or more specific advantages be present or problems be solved.

As used in this application, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, the term "includes" means "comprises. " Further, the terms "coupled" or "secured" encompass mechanical and chemical couplings, as well as other practical ways of coupling or linking items together, and do not exclude the presence of intermediate elements between the coupled items unless otherwise indicated, such as by referring to elements, or surfaces thereof, being "directly" coupled or secured. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "and/or" means any one item or combination of items in the phrase.

As used herein, the term "exemplary" means serving as a non-limiting example, instance, or illustration. As used herein, the terms "e.g.," and "for example," introduce a list of one or more non-limiting embodiments, examples, instances, and/or illustrations.

Although the operations of some of the disclosed methods are described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that this manner of description encompasses rearrangement, unless a particular ordering is required by specific language set forth below. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not depict the various ways in which the disclosed things and methods can be used in conjunction with other things and methods. Additionally, the description sometimes uses terms like "provide" and "produce" to describe the disclosed methods. These terms are high-level descriptions of the actual operations that are performed. The actual operations that correspond to these terms will vary depending on the particular implementation and are readily discernible by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

As used herein, the directional terms (e.g., "upper" and "lower") generally correspond to the orientation of an article of footwear or sole assembly as it is configured to be worn by a wearer. For example, an "upwardly-facing surface" and/or an "upper surface" of a sole assembly refers to the surface oriented in the "superior" anatomical direction (i.e., toward the head of a wearer) when the article of footwear is being worn by the wearer. Similarly, the directional terms "downwardly" and/or "lower" refer to the anatomical direction "inferior" (i.e., toward the ground and away from the head of the wearer). "Front" means "anterior" (e.g., towards the toes), and "rear" means "posterior" (e.g., towards the heel). "Medial" means "toward the midline of the body," and "lateral" means "away from the midline of the body. " "Longitudinal axis" refers to a centerline of the article from the heel to toe. Similarly, a "longitudinal length" refers to a length of the article along the longitudinal axis and a "longitudinal direction" refers to a direction along the longitudinal axis.

As used herein, the term "sole structure" refers to any combination of materials 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, for example, 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 an inner sole.

As used herein, the terms "attached" and "coupled" generally mean physically connected or linked, which includes items that are directly attached/coupled and items that are attached/coupled with intermediate elements between the attached/coupled items, unless specifically stated to the contrary.

As used herein, the terms "fixedly attached" and "fixedly coupled" refer to two components joined in a manner such that the components may not be readily separated from one another without destroying and/or damaging one or both of the components. Exemplary modalities of fixed attachment may include joining with permanent adhesive, stitches, welding or other thermal bonding, and/or other joining techniques. In addition, two components may be "fixedly attached" or "fixedly coupled" by virtue of being integrally formed, for example, in a molding process. In contrast, the terms "temporarily attached," "temporarily coupled," or "temporarily fixed," refer to two components joined in a manner such that the components can be readily separated from one another to return to their separate, discrete forms without destroying and/or damaging either component. Exemplary modalities of temporary attachment may include removable stitches or other temporary joining techniques.

As used herein, the terms "articles of footwear" or "articles" mean any type of footwear, including, for example, casual shoes, walking shoes, sneakers, tennis shoes, running shoes, soccer shoes, football shoes, rugby shoes, basketball shoes, baseball shoes, boots, sandals, etc..

Although the figures may illustrate an article of footwear intended for use on only one foot (e.g., a right foot) of a wearer, one skilled in the art and having the benefit of this disclosure will recognize that a corresponding article of footwear for the other foot (e.g., a left foot) would be a mirror image of the right article of footwear.

Unless explained otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure, suitable methods and materials are described below. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. Other features of the disclosure are apparent from the detailed description, abstract, and drawings.

The subject matter of the claimed invention is defined in the appended set of claims.

An article of footwear typically includes two main components: a sole structure and an upper. The sole structure is configured for supporting the wearer's foot and providing cushioning between the wearer's foot and the ground. The upper is coupled to the sole structure and forms a foot-receiving cavity. The upper is configured for securing the wearer's foot to the sole structure and/or can protect the wearer's foot.

For example, <FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>, according to one embodiment. The article of footwear <NUM> can also be referred to as "the article <NUM>" or "the footwear <NUM>. " <FIG> depicts a perspective view of the footwear <NUM>. <FIG> depicts an elevation view of a lateral side of the footwear <NUM>. <FIG> depicts an elevation view of a medial side of the footwear <NUM>. <FIG> depicts a cross-sectional view of the footwear <NUM>, taken along the line <NUM>-<NUM> as depicted in <FIG>. <FIG> depicts a bottom plan view of the footwear <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> is coupled to and extends from the sole structure <NUM> so as to form a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be widened to make it easier for a wearer to insert their foot into the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. The foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can also be tightened to secure the wearer's foot within the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. In some embodiments, the upper <NUM> can comprise stretchable material to allow the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> to widen while the wearer is inserting their foot into the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. In some embodiments, the footwear <NUM> can comprise a closure system to accommodate widening and/or tightening of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. Exemplary closure systems include laces, straps, bands, cables, cords, ratcheting mechanisms, hook-and-loop, etc..

The footwear <NUM> may be divided into one or more portions (which may also be referred to as "zones" or "regions"). For example, referring to <FIG>, the portions can include a forefoot portion <NUM>, a midfoot portion <NUM>, and a heel portion <NUM>. The forefoot portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> can correspond to anterior portions of a foot, including toes and joints connecting metatarsal bones with phalanx bones of the foot. The midfoot portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> can correspond with an arch area of the foot. The heel portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> can correspond with posterior portions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone.

The footwear <NUM> can also be divided into a lateral side <NUM> and a medial side <NUM>, both of which extend through the forefoot portion <NUM>, the midfoot portion <NUM>, and the heel portion <NUM>. For example, <FIG> depicts the lateral side <NUM> of the footwear <NUM>, and <FIG> depicts the medial side <NUM> of the footwear <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the sole structure <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> comprises a midsole <NUM> and an outsole <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the midsole <NUM> and the outsole <NUM> are formed as separate components that are fixedly coupled together. This can be accomplished in various ways, including with adhesive, fasteners, stitching, and/or other means for fastening. In other embodiments, the midsole <NUM> and the outsole <NUM> can be integrally formed as a unitary component.

The midsole <NUM> of the sole structure <NUM> is configured to be positioned under the wearer's foot. As such, the midsole <NUM> can, for example, be configured to provide cushioning and support. The midsole <NUM> can be configured to flex and/or elastically deform as wearer's foot applies pressure upon the midsole <NUM> and/or as the footwear <NUM> impacts a ground surface. In some embodiments, the midsole <NUM> can comprise relatively flexible foam material.

The outsole <NUM> of the sole structure <NUM> is configured to be positioned between the midsole <NUM> and the ground surface. Accordingly, the outsole <NUM> can, for example, be configured to provide increased traction and/or to protect the midsole <NUM>. In some embodiments, the outsole <NUM> can comprise various traction elements (e.g., nubs, ribs, cleats, lugs, patterns, etc.) configured for engaging one or more types of ground surfaces. In some embodiments, the outsole <NUM> can comprise a flexible polymeric material (e.g., rubber).

In some embodiments, the sole structure <NUM> can also comprise one or more additional components. For example, the sole structure <NUM> can include one or more cushioning elements (e.g., a fluid-filled capsule such as an airbag) and/or foam member (e.g., a foam pad).

Referring to <FIG>, the upper <NUM> comprises a throat portion <NUM> separating the lateral side of the upper <NUM> and the medial side of the upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> also comprises a tongue <NUM> disposed at least partially within the throat portion <NUM>. In other embodiments, the upper <NUM> can be formed without a throat portion and/or a tongue.

The upper <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> can be formed of various materials. For example, the upper <NUM> can be formed of one or more of the following materials: textiles, foam, leather, polymers, and/or synthetic leather. In some embodiments, the upper <NUM> can be formed as a single, unitary component (e.g., by knitting or molding). In other embodiments, the upper <NUM> can comprise a plurality of components that are coupled together (e.g., by stitching, adhesive, fasteners, etc.).

The upper <NUM> can be fixedly coupled to the sole structure <NUM> in various ways. For example, as depicted in <FIG>, the upper <NUM> is attached (e.g., stitched) to a strobel <NUM>, and the strobel <NUM> is attached to the midsole <NUM> (e.g., with an adhesive). In other embodiments, the strobel can be omitted, and the upper <NUM> can be attached to a component of the sole structure <NUM>. In some such embodiments, the upper <NUM> can be attached to the midsole <NUM> and/or a cushioning element (e.g., an airbag) of the sole structure <NUM> via adhesive, stitching, and/or other means for coupling.

As depicted, the footwear <NUM> further comprises a sockliner <NUM> (which may also be referred to as "an insole"). The sockliner <NUM> is configured to be positioned directly underfoot and is configured to cushion and/or support the wearer's foot. The sockliner <NUM> can comprise various materials including textile, leather, foam, and/or other types of materials.

The footwear <NUM> can be configured in one or more sizes (e.g., U. women's size <NUM>-<NUM>) and/or widths (e.g., A, B, C, D, E, EE, and/or EEE). The footwear <NUM> can also be also be configured in other sizing conventions (e.g., UK, EUR, cm etc.) and/or sizes (e.g., U. men's size <NUM>-<NUM>).

Under normal circumstances, the dimensions of a wearer's feet can change throughout the day and/or over the course of an activity. Such changes in dimensions can include slight swelling (i.e., expansion) of the feet. Typical footwear can accommodate slight variation in the dimensions of the wearer's feet. In some circumstances, however, the dimensions of the wearer's feet may change relatively more drastically. These circumstances may include pregnancy, growth, injury, and/or other circumstances or conditions that result in changes in the dimensions of a person's feet. Such circumstances may result in the dimensions of a wearer's feet changing beyond the tolerance afforded by a single size of footwear. Thus, a person experiencing these circumstances or conditions may be required to purchase and/or frequently change sizes of footwear. This can be particularly problematic during circumstances in which a person's feet change sizes relatively quickly (e.g., throughout the day and/or during a pregnancy).

Unlike typical footwear, the dimensions of the articles of footwear disclosed herein can adjust and/or or be adjusted to account for relatively large changes and/or fluctuation in the dimensions of a wearer's feet. Accordingly, the disclosed footwear can, for example, improve comfort. It can also reduce the need for multiple sizes and/or increase the range of feet that can be accommodated by a single size of footwear.

<FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>, according to one embodiment. The footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and the footwear comprises a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be adjusted by moving the upper <NUM> between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration. <FIG> depicts the upper <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the upper <NUM> in the expanded configuration. The volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> is greater when the upper <NUM> is in the expanded configuration than when the upper <NUM> is in the compressed configuration.

Referring to <FIG>, the upper <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> comprises an expandable panel <NUM> disposed between and coupled to a first portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. The first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> generally divide the upper <NUM> in an inferior/superior direction (e.g., down/up as depicted), with the first portion <NUM> being disposed superior relative to the second portion <NUM>. In this manner, the expanded configuration of the upper <NUM> primarily increases the height (e.g., up/down as depicted) of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>, though the length (e.g., left/right as depicted) and/or the width (e.g., into/out of the page as depicted) of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> may also increase at least slightly.

The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM> are coupled together by an adjustable closure mechanism (e.g., a zipper). The closure mechanism is movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. When the closure mechanism is in a closed configuration (<FIG>), the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM> are held adjacent to each other by the closure mechanism. Also, the expandable panel <NUM> is hidden in the closed configuration. When the closure mechanism is in an open configuration (<FIG>), the closure mechanism releases the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM> from each other such that they can separate. The expandable panel <NUM> is exposed when the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> separate.

Separating the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> expands the upper <NUM>, which expands the dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> of the footwear <NUM>. The dimensions of the first portion <NUM>, the second portion <NUM>, and/or expandable panel <NUM> can be selected to determine the dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> in the compressed configuration and/or the expanded configuration. For example, configuring the upper <NUM> with a relatively wide expandable panel provides greater expansion of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> from the compressed configuration to the expanded configuration than when the upper <NUM> is configured with a relative narrow expandable panel.

In some embodiments, the expandable panel <NUM> can be formed of a material comprising one or more of the same or similar properties (e.g., stretchabilily) as the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. In other embodiments, the expandable panel <NUM> can be formed of a material comprising one or more different properties than the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. For example, the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> can be formed of a relatively less stretchy material than the expandable panel <NUM>. As another example, the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> can be formed of a relatively more stretchy material than the expandable panel <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the closure mechanism comprises a zipper with a slider <NUM>, a first plurality of teeth <NUM>, and a second plurality of teeth <NUM>. The first plurality of teeth <NUM> is coupled to the first portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM>, and the second plurality of teeth <NUM> is coupled to the second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. The slider <NUM> is movably coupled to the teeth <NUM>, <NUM>. The slider <NUM> is configured to move the teeth <NUM>, <NUM> to an engaged state as the slider <NUM> passes over the teeth <NUM>, <NUM> in a first direction and to move the teeth <NUM>, <NUM> to a disengaged state as the slider passes over the teeth <NUM>, <NUM> in a second direction. For example, <FIG> depicts the slider <NUM> on a lateral side of the upper <NUM>, which corresponds to the engaged state of the teeth <NUM>, <NUM> and the compressed configuration of the upper <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the slider <NUM> (hidden from view) on a medial side of the upper <NUM>, which corresponds to the disengaged sate of the teeth <NUM>, <NUM> and the expanded configuration of the upper <NUM>.

Various other types of zipper mechanisms can also be used. For example, a zipper comprising a slider and a plurality of rails (as opposed to teeth) on which the slider is adjustable coupled can be used.

In lieu of or in additional to a zipper, various other types of closure mechanism can be used to selectively couple the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper together. For example, the closure mechanism can include one or more hook-and-loop fasteners, snap buttons, magnets, and/or other mechanism adapted selectively couple the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper together.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM> are directly coupled together (e.g., integrally formed) at the heel portion of the upper <NUM>. In other embodiments, the first section and the second section can be discrete components that are not directly coupled together, as further described below.

The expandable panel can be positioned at various other locations on the upper relative to the location of the expandable panel <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment. For example, in some embodiments, the expandable panel can be positioned farther in the inferior direction (e.g., toward the sole structure) or farther in the superior direction (e.g., away from the sole structure) than the expandable panel <NUM> depicted in the illustrated embodiment. Additionally or alternatively, the expandable panel can extend over a greater or lesser portion of the upper than the expandable panel <NUM> depicted in the illustrated embodiment. For example, in some embodiments, the expandable panel can be disposed on only one side (e.g., a lateral side) of the upper.

The footwear <NUM> allows a wearer to selectively adjust the dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> as desired. For example, a wearer can position the upper <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> in the compressed configuration (e.g., at the beginning of a pregnancy). As the wearer's foot expands (e.g., later in pregnancy), the wearer can move the upper <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> from the compressed configuration to the expanded configuration. As such, the footwear <NUM> provides adjustability that can accommodate changes to the wearer's foot that is beyond the adjustability of typical footwear.

<FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>, according to another embodiment. The footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and the footwear comprises a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be adjusted by moving the upper <NUM> between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration. <FIG> depicts the upper <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the upper <NUM> in the expanded configuration. The volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> is less when the upper <NUM> is in the compressed configuration than when the upper <NUM> is in the expanded configuration.

The footwear <NUM> is configured generally similar to the footwear <NUM> in that it comprises an expandable panel <NUM> (<FIG>) disposed between a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. The first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> divide the upper <NUM> in an inferior/superior direction (i.e., down/up as depicted), with the first portion <NUM> being disposed superior relative to the second portion <NUM>. In this manner, the expanded configuration of the upper <NUM> primarily increases the height (e.g., up/down as depicted) of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>, though the length (e.g., left/right as depicted) and/or the width (e.g., into/out of the page as depicted) of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> may also increase at least slightly.

One difference between the footwear <NUM> and the footwear <NUM> is that the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> are not coupled directly together and that the expandable panel <NUM> and a closure mechanism (e.g., a zipper <NUM>) extend around the entire upper <NUM>. This can, for example, allow the upper <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> to expand relatively more uniformly around the entire footwear <NUM>, whereas the upper <NUM> tends to pivot or splay apart at the heel portion of the footwear <NUM> where the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM> join.

As noted above, the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM> are coupled together by the adjustable closure mechanism (e.g., the zipper <NUM>). The closure mechanism is movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. When the closure mechanism is in a closed configuration (<FIG>), the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM> are held adjacent to each other by the closure mechanism. Also, the expandable panel <NUM> is hidden in the closed configuration. When the closure mechanism is in an open configuration (<FIG>), the closure mechanism releases the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM> from each other such that they can separate. The expandable panel <NUM> is exposed when the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> separate.

The expandable panel can be positioned at various other locations on the upper relative to the location the expandable panel <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment. For example, in some embodiments, the expandable panel can be positioned farther in the inferior direction (e.g., toward the sole structure) or farther in the superior direction (e.g., away from the sole structure) than the expandable panel <NUM> depicted in the illustrated embodiment.

<FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>, according to yet another embodiment. The footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and the footwear comprises a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be adjusted by moving the upper <NUM> between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration. <FIG> depicts the upper <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the upper <NUM> in the expanded configuration. The volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> is greater when the upper <NUM> is in the expanded configuration than when the upper <NUM> is in the compressed configuration.

The footwear <NUM> is configured generally similar to the footwear <NUM> in that it comprises an expandable panel <NUM> (<FIG>) disposed between a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. One difference between the footwear <NUM> and the footwear <NUM> is that the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> are oriented in the anterior/posterior direction, with the first portion <NUM> being disposed anterior relative to the second portion <NUM>. In this manner, the expanded configuration of the upper <NUM> primarily increases the length of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>, though the width of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> may also increase at least slightly (e.g., at the location of the expandable panel <NUM>).

The first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM> are coupled together by an adjustable closure mechanism (e.g., a zipper <NUM>). The closure mechanism is movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. When the closure mechanism is in a closed configuration (<FIG>), the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM> are held adjacent to each other by the closure mechanism. Also, the expandable panel <NUM> is hidden in the closed configuration. When the closure mechanism is in an open configuration (<FIG>), the closure mechanism releases the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper <NUM> from each other such that they can separate. The expandable panel <NUM> is exposed when the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> separate.

The expandable panel can be positioned at various other locations on the upper relative to the location of the expandable panel <NUM> that is depicted in the illustrated embodiment. For example, in some embodiments, the expandable panel can be positioned at locations farther in the anterior direction (e.g., toward the toe) or farther in the posterior direction (e.g., toward the heel) than the expandable panel <NUM> depicted in the illustrated embodiment. Additionally or alternatively, the expandable panel can extend over a greater or lesser portion of the upper than the expandable panel <NUM> depicted in the illustrated embodiment. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the expandable panel <NUM> extends along the entire inferior/superior height of the upper <NUM> (i.e., from an inferior position where the upper meets the sole structure (which can also be referred to as "the bite line") to the superior edge of the upper <NUM>). In other embodiments, the expandable panel can extend along only a portion of the height of the upper (e.g., from the superior edge of the upper <NUM> to an intermediate location between the superior edge and the sole structure <NUM>).

<FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>, according to yet another embodiment. The footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and the footwear comprises a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be adjusted by moving the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM> between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration. The width of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> is greater when the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM> are in the expanded configuration than when the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM> are in the compressed configuration. As a result, the footwear <NUM> can accommodate a larger foot in the expanded configuration than in the compressed configuration.

<FIG> depicts a forefoot portion of the upper <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the forefoot portion of the upper <NUM> in the expanded configuration. <FIG> depicts a heel portion of the upper <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the heel portion of the upper <NUM> in the expanded configuration. <FIG> depicts the sole structure <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the sole structure <NUM> in the expanded configuration.

As depicted in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the footwear <NUM> comprises an expandable panel <NUM> disposed between a lateral side portion <NUM> and a medial side portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM>. The expandable panel <NUM> extends from a forefoot portion of the upper <NUM> adjacent to the tongue to a toe portion of the upper, continues from the toe portion of the sole structure <NUM> to the heel portion of the sole structure, and continues to the collar of the upper. In some embodiments, the expandable panel <NUM> can extend over the tongue of the footwear.

The lateral side portion <NUM> and the medial side portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> can be selectively coupled together by a closure mechanism (e.g., a zipper <NUM>). The closure mechanism can be moved between a closed state (e.g., <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>) and an open state (e.g., <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>). With the closure mechanism in the closed state, the zipper <NUM> retains a medial edge of the lateral side portion <NUM> adjacent to a lateral edge of the medial side portion <NUM>. In the closed state, the expandable panel <NUM> collapses and is concealed. With the closure mechanism in the open state, the lateral side portion <NUM> and the medial side portion <NUM> can move away from each other, thereby exposing the expandable panel <NUM>. In the open state, the width (i.e., medial/lateral) dimension of the footwear <NUM> increases by the exposed width of the expandable panel <NUM>. Thus, the volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> increases when the footwear is in the expanded configuration. In this manner, the footwear <NUM> can accommodate a relatively broad range of foot widths by adjusting the footwear between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration.

The expandable panel <NUM> can comprise various widths. For example, configuring the footwear <NUM> with a relatively wide expandable panel <NUM> allows for a greater change in width between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration.

In some embodiments, the expandable panel <NUM> can comprise bias and/or the footwear <NUM> can comprise one or more biasing members (e.g., springs, bands, etc.) configured to bias the footwear <NUM> to the expanded configuration. In other words, the width of the footwear <NUM> is essentially binary (i.e., fully expanded or fully compressed). In such embodiments, the zipper <NUM> can provide sufficient opposing force to overcome the bias and therefore can retain the footwear <NUM> in the compressed configuration.

In other embodiments, the expandable panel <NUM> can comprise bias and/or the footwear <NUM> can comprise one or more biasing members (e.g., springs, bands, etc.) configured to bias the footwear <NUM> to the compressed configuration. In such embodiments, the wearer's foot can provide sufficient opposing force to overcome the bias and therefore can retain the footwear <NUM> in the expanded configuration. This configuration can, for example, allow the footwear <NUM> to adjust to various intermediate widths of the wearer's foot between a minimum width (i.e., the width when the zipper <NUM> is in the closed state) and a maximum width (i.e., the width when the zipper <NUM> is in the open state and the expandable panel <NUM> is fully expanded). In other words, the width of the footwear <NUM> is non-binary. The intermediate widths occur when the zipper <NUM> is in the open state and the expandable panel <NUM> is expanded somewhat but is not fully expanded. The biasing force toward the compressed state can be low enough that the footwear does not put so much pressure on the sides of the wearer's foot that the footwear is uncomfortable and can be high enough that the footwear fits snugly against the sides of the wearer's foot.

In the illustrated embodiment, the expandable panel <NUM> evenly bisects the lateral side portion <NUM> and the medial side portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> in the width dimension. In other embodiments, the expandable panel can be offset toward the lateral side or the medial side so that the lateral and medial side portions <NUM>, <NUM> are unevenly divided.

<FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>, according to yet another embodiment. The footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and the footwear comprises a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be adjusted by moving the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM> between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration. The length of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> is greater when the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM> are in the expanded configuration than when the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM> are in the compressed configuration. As such, the footwear <NUM> can accommodate a larger foot in the expanded configuration that in the compressed configuration.

<FIG> depicts a lateral side portion of the footwear <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the lateral side portion of the footwear <NUM> in the expanded configuration. <FIG> depicts the sole structure <NUM> in the compressed configuration, and <FIG> depicts the sole structure <NUM> in the expanded configuration.

As depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the footwear <NUM> comprises an expandable panel <NUM> disposed between an anterior portion <NUM> (or front portion) and a posterior portion <NUM> (or back portion) of the footwear <NUM>. The expandable panel <NUM> extends from a superior-most edge of a lateral side of the upper <NUM>, across the sole structure <NUM>, and to a superior-most edge of a medial side of the upper <NUM>.

The anterior portion <NUM> and the posterior portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> can be selectively coupled together by a closure mechanism (e.g., a zipper <NUM>). The closure mechanism can be moved between a closed state (e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>) and an open state (e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>). With the closure mechanism in the closed state, the zipper <NUM> retains a posterior edge of the anterior portion <NUM> adjacent to an anterior edge of the posterior portion <NUM>. In the closed state, the expandable panel <NUM> collapses and is concealed. With the closure mechanism in the open state, the anterior portion <NUM> and the posterior portion <NUM> can move away from each other, thereby exposing the expandable panel <NUM>. In the open state, the length (i.e., anterior/posterior) dimension of the footwear <NUM> increases by the exposed width of the expandable panel <NUM>. Thus, the volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> increases when the footwear is in the expanded configuration. In this manner, the footwear <NUM> can accommodate a relatively broad range of foot lengths by adjusting the footwear <NUM> between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration.

The expandable panel <NUM> can comprise various lengths. For example, configuring the footwear <NUM> with a relatively wide expandable panel <NUM> allows for a greater change in length between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration.

In some embodiments, the expandable panel <NUM> can comprise bias and/or the footwear <NUM> can comprise one or more biasing members (e.g., springs, bands, etc.) configured to bias the footwear <NUM> to the expanded configuration. In other words, the length of the footwear <NUM> is essentially binary (i.e., fully expanded or fully compressed). In such embodiments, the zipper <NUM> can provide sufficient opposing force to overcome the bias and therefore can retain the footwear <NUM> in the compressed configuration.

In other embodiments, the expandable panel <NUM> can comprise bias and/or the footwear <NUM> can comprise one or more biasing members (e.g., springs, bands, etc.) configured to bias the footwear <NUM> to the compressed configuration. In such embodiments, the wearer's foot can provide sufficient opposing force to overcome the bias and therefore can retain the footwear <NUM> in the expanded configuration. This configuration can, for example, allow the footwear <NUM> to adjust to various intermediate lengths of the wearer's foot between a minimum length (i.e., the length when the zipper <NUM> is in the closed state) and a maximum length (i.e., the length when the zipper <NUM> is in the open state and the expandable panel <NUM> is fully expanded). In other words, the length of the footwear <NUM> is non-binary. The intermediate lengths occur when the zipper <NUM> is in the open state and the expandable panel <NUM> is expanded to some extent but not fully expanded. The biasing force toward the compressed state can be low enough that the footwear does not put so much pressure on the wearer's toes or heel that the footwear is uncomfortable and can be high enough that the footwear fits snugly against the wearer's foot.

In the illustrated embodiment, the expandable panel <NUM> essentially bisects the anterior portion <NUM> and the posterior portion <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> evenly in the length dimension. In other embodiments, the expandable panel can be offset in the anterior direction or the posterior dimension such that the anterior and posterior portions <NUM>, <NUM> are unevenly divided.

It should be noted that in embodiments not belonging to the claimed invention a sole structure can comprise a recessed channel configured for receiving an expandable panel and/or closure mechanism. The recessed channel can, for example, prevent (or reduce the likelihood of) the closure mechanism from contacting the ground surface during use. This can help prevent the closure mechanism from becoming damaged.

<FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>. The footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and the footwear <NUM> comprises a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be adjusted by moving the upper <NUM> between a compressed configuration (<FIG>) and an expanded configuration (<FIG>). The volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> is greater when the upper <NUM> is in the expanded configuration than when the upper <NUM> is in the compressed configuration. Accordingly, the footwear <NUM> can accommodate a larger foot in the expanded configuration than in the compressed configuration.

To allow for expansion, the upper <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> comprises a gusset <NUM>. The footwear <NUM> also comprises a cord <NUM> (or strand) that is coupled to the upper <NUM> and/or the gusset <NUM>. The cord <NUM> can be tensioned to collapse the gusset <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. The cord <NUM> can be slackened to allow the gusset <NUM> to expand, as depicted in <FIG>.

In some embodiments (not according to the claimed invention), the gusset <NUM> is integrally formed with the upper <NUM>. This can be accomplished, for example, by forming the upper <NUM> and the gusset <NUM> from a knitted or a woven material. The cord <NUM> can also be integrally formed with the upper <NUM> and/or the gusset <NUM> in some embodiments. According to the claimed invention, the gusset <NUM> and the upper <NUM> are formed as separate components, and the upper <NUM> comprises an expandable opening in which the gusset <NUM> is disposed. In such embodiments, the upper <NUM> and the gusset <NUM> can be coupled together in various ways (e.g., stitching, adhesive, fasteners, and/or other means for coupling). The cord <NUM> can also be formed as a separate component from the upper <NUM> and/or the gusset <NUM>. In such embodiments, the cord <NUM> can be coupled to the upper <NUM> and/or the gusset in various ways (e.g., eyelets, fasteners, etc.).

In particular implementations, the gusset <NUM> can be configured so as to fold or lay in an organized manner in the compressed configuration and/or the expanded configuration. For example, the gusset <NUM> can comprise folds, pleats, and/or can be shape-set. This can, for example, reduce bunching of the gusset <NUM>, thereby improving comfort and/or appearance of the footwear <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the footwear <NUM> can comprise a locking member <NUM> configured to selectively secure the cord <NUM> relative to the upper <NUM> and/or the gusset <NUM>. In this manner, the locking member <NUM> allows the wearer to adjust the tension in the cord <NUM> and/or the expansion of the gusset <NUM> and then secure the configuration by restricting relative movement between the cord <NUM>, the gusset <NUM>, and/or the upper <NUM>. In some examples, the locking member <NUM> can be a cord lock.

In some embodiments, the upper <NUM> can be biased to the expanded configuration. In other embodiments, the upper <NUM> can be biased to the compressed configuration. This can be accomplished, for example, by shape-setting the material of the upper <NUM> and/or the gusset <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the gusset <NUM> is disposed on a lateral side portion of the footwear <NUM>. In other embodiments, the gusset can be disposed on a medial side portion of the footwear. The gusset can also be oriented in various ways so as to adjust the height, width, and/or length of the upper.

The gusset <NUM> comprises a generally elliptical shape in the expanded configuration.

<FIG> depict an article of footwear <NUM>. The footwear <NUM> comprises a sole structure <NUM>, an upper <NUM>, and an adjustment mechanism. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and the footwear <NUM> comprises a foot-receiving cavity <NUM> between the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> can be adjusted by via the adjustment mechanism between a compressed configuration (<FIG>) and an expanded configuration (<FIG>). The volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> is greater in the expanded configuration than the compressed configuration. Accordingly, the footwear <NUM> can accommodate a larger foot in the expanded configuration than in the compressed configuration.

The adjustment mechanism of the footwear <NUM> comprises a cable <NUM> and a plurality of cable guides <NUM>. The cable guides <NUM> are secured to the upper <NUM> and/or the sole structure <NUM>. The cable guides <NUM> can be configured for engaging the cable <NUM> and for allowing the cable <NUM> to move with low friction relative to the cable guides. For example, the cable guides <NUM> can be eyelets, hooks, posts, and/or other type of member which the cable <NUM> can adjustably move through and/or around.

The cable <NUM> is fixedly coupled at one end to the cable guides <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the cable <NUM> is fixedly coupled to the right-most cable guide. In this manner, the right-most cable guide <NUM> can be referred to as "an anchor. " The cable <NUM> extends between the cable guides <NUM> and a lace member <NUM> in an undulating or zig-zag pattern. In other embodiments, the cable guides <NUM> and/or the cable <NUM> can be configured in various other patterns. The cable <NUM> is interconnected with the lace member <NUM>, and the cable <NUM> is movable relative to the lace member <NUM> and the cable guides <NUM> (except the right-most cable guide). As such, adjusting tension in the cable <NUM> also adjusts tension in the lace member <NUM>, and vice versa. In this manner, the cable <NUM> and/or lace member <NUM> can be used to adjust the dimensions of the upper <NUM> and the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. For example, <FIG> depicts a first configuration (i.e., a compressed configuration) in which the cable <NUM> is relatively taut. This draws the lace member <NUM> downwardly and thereby compresses the upper and reduces the volume of the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. In some instances, the upper <NUM> at least slightly gathers or bunches up as a result of the compression applied to the upper <NUM> via the cable <NUM>. As desired, a wearer can slacken the cable <NUM>, which allows the upper <NUM> and the foot-receiving cavity to expand. Accordingly, the footwear <NUM> can accommodate feet of various dimensions and can allow a wearer to adjust the footwear as their foot changes (e.g., throughout the day and/or over the course of a pregnancy.

In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism of the footwear <NUM> can also comprise a locking mechanism configured for securing the cable <NUM> relative to the cable guides <NUM>, which thereby secures the upper <NUM> in a desired configuration (e.g., expanded and/or compressed). For example, the locking mechanism can comprise a cord lock. In some embodiments, one or more of the cable guides <NUM> (e.g., the left-most cable guide as illustrated) can comprise a locking mechanism. In this manner, the left-most cable guide <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated) can be referred to as "a lock. " Additionally or alternatively, a locking mechanism can be a structure configured to secure the "tail" of the cable <NUM> to the upper <NUM>. For example, the tail of the cable can comprise a hook configured for engaging the upper <NUM> (and/or some structure coupled to the upper such as eyelets or loops). In other embodiments, the cable can be releasably and/or adjustably coupled to the upper in various other ways (e.g., magnets, snap buttons, etc.).

In some instances, the footwear can comprise a plurality of adjustment mechanisms with cables and cable guides.

Any feature(s) of any example(s) disclosed herein can be combined with or isolated from any feature(s) of any example(s) disclosed herein, unless otherwise stated. For example, in some embodiments, an article of footwear can comprise a plurality of expandable panels, including one or more expandable panels in the upper and/or one or more expandable panels in the sole structure. As one example, any feature of the footwear <NUM> can be combined with the footwear <NUM>, or vice versa. As another example, any feature of the footwear <NUM> can be combined with the footwear <NUM>, or vice versa. As yet another example, any feature of the footwear <NUM> can be combined with the footwear <NUM>, or vice versa.

Claim 1:
An article of footwear (<NUM>) comprising:
a sole structure (<NUM>); and
an upper (<NUM>) coupled to the sole structure (<NUM>) so as to form a foot-receiving cavity (<NUM>) therebetween, wherein the upper (<NUM>) comprises a gusset (<NUM>), wherein the gusset (<NUM>) is movable between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein one or more dimensions of the foot-receiving cavity (<NUM>) are larger when the gusset (<NUM>) is in the expanded configuration than when the gusset (<NUM>) is in the compressed configuration,
wherein the gusset (<NUM>) and the upper (<NUM>) are formed as separate components, and the upper (<NUM>) comprises an expandable opening in which the gusset <NUM> is disposed,
wherein the gusset (<NUM>) is disposed either on a medial side of the article of footwear (<NUM>) or a lateral side of the article of footwear (<NUM>),
wherein the gusset (<NUM>) comprises a generally elliptical shape in the expanded configuration,
wherein the article of footwear (<NUM>) further comprises a cord (<NUM>) that is coupled to the upper (<NUM>) and/or the gusset (<NUM>), and
wherein the cord (<NUM>) is suitable to be tensioned to collapse the gusset (<NUM>), and the cord (<NUM>) is suitable to be slackened to allow the gusset (<NUM>) to expand.