DE102023209160A1 - Shoe upper for a shoe with knitted functional elements - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a shoe upper (2) for a shoe, the shoe upper (2) comprising: an inner layer (10) arranged near a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn; an outer layer (30) arranged outside with respect to the inner layer (10) when the shoe is worn; wherein the inner layer (10) comprises a knitted portion (20) comprising one or more knitted functional elements (25), the outer layer (30) at least partially covering the one or more knitted functional elements (25).

Description

1. Technical area

The present disclosure relates to a shoe upper for a shoe. The shoe upper comprises an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein the inner layer comprises a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements.

The present disclosure also relates to a corresponding shoe, in particular a sports shoe, wherein the shoe comprises such a shoe upper and a sole, wherein the shoe upper is attached to the sole.

2. State of the art

Shoes and shoe uppers are well known and have various purposes and applications. For example, they can be designed to provide specific benefits for sports applications, daily work, leisure, or the like. Especially in sports applications, shoe uppers have the potential to provide advantageous performance features, thus enhancing the wearer's overall performance during a sporting activity.

Generally, a shoe upper for a shoe provides coverage for a wearer's foot, with the shoe upper comfortably accommodating and securely positioning the wearer's foot with respect to the shoe sole. Additionally, the shoe upper may have a configuration that protects the foot, providing stability, yet still allowing some flexibility. Further, the shoe upper may have a configuration that provides ventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing perspiration. It is evident that the manufacturing of shoe uppers for shoes is becoming increasingly difficult as the requirements for shoe uppers in terms of functional properties become more demanding.

A particular concern inherent in shoe uppers for footwear is the provision of elements that enable improved functional properties such as stretch and/or the provision of stability. In this context, the following exemplary prior art documents may be mentioned.

The document US 7 637 032 B2 refers to articles of footwear comprising a textile shoe upper having an outer surface of knitted textile material, the outer surface comprising a region of stability ribs and a second non-ribbed region. The region(s) of stability ribs may be located, for example: along a lateral midfoot side of the shoe upper; along a forefoot portion of the shoe upper; and/or along a medial midfoot side of the shoe upper. Other articles of footwear comprise a shoe upper having outer and inner textile elements seamlessly joined at the foot-receiving opening of the shoe upper. The outer surface of this shoe upper may also include one or more regions of stability structures. The seamless textile engagement techniques can provide a smooth, non-bulky, and breathable joint that does not require thick layers of textile material in contact with or adjacent to the wearer's foot.

The document US 9 986 781 B2 relates to an article of footwear and a method of making the article of footwear. The article of footwear may comprise a shoe upper and a sole structure. The shoe upper comprises a textile element having edges joined together to define at least a portion of a cavity for receiving a foot. The textile element may also have a first region and a second region of unitary construction with varying stitch configurations. The shoe upper may also comprise longitudinal ribs extending along the lateral and/or medial sides of the shoe upper. Various warp knitting or weft knitting processes may be used to form the textile element.

The document US 10 834 989 B relates to an article of footwear and a method of making the article of footwear. The article of footwear may comprise a shoe upper and a sole structure. The shoe upper comprises a textile element having edges joined together to define at least a portion of a cavity for receiving a foot. The textile element may also have a first region and a second region of unitary construction with varying stitch configurations. The shoe upper may also comprise longitudinal ribs extending along the lateral and/or medial sides of the shoe upper. Various warp knitting or weft knitting processes, including circular knitting, may be used to form the textile element.

The document US 10 669 654 B2 refers to a shoe upper for an article of footwear, wherein the shoe upper may comprise a knit element, a collar region configured to form an ankle opening, and a cuff in the collar region. The cuff may be formed at least partially by the knit element and may include a ribbed knit structure of the knit element. In another aspect, a shoe upper for an article of footwear may include a knit element having a first region, the first region including a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The first side may be formed from at least 30% more material than the second side, such that the first region is configured to curve convexly away from the first side.

Further state of the art is in US 11 166 517 B2 , US 2019 / 0 208 862 A1 , US 11 122 850 B2 , US 6 931 762 B1 , US 10 745 834 B2 , US 11 608 575 B2 , US 8 973 410 B1 , US 10 342 289 B2 and US 11 166 516 B2 revealed.

While such known footwear articles or shoe uppers for shoes claim improvements over the previously known state of the art, the proposed solutions still have some shortcomings when it comes to providing stability, stretch, and generally improving certain functionalities of the shoe upper for a shoe without compromising other functionalities. This is particularly disadvantageous in sports applications.

Furthermore, prior art shoe upper manufacturing processes are typically very complex and labor-intensive, requiring, for example, multiple different components and/or manufacturing steps. Furthermore, the production of different shoe upper sizes often results in increased manufacturing costs.

Therefore, it can be summarized that the known solutions still do not lead to optimal results. Therefore, there is still room for improvement.

Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved shoe upper for a shoe that at least partially overcomes the deficiencies of the prior art. In particular, functional properties of the shoe upper, such as stretchability, the provision of stability, and/or comfort, should be improved without compromising other properties. A general goal is to reduce the costs of providing such a shoe upper for a shoe.

3. Summary of the invention

The above objects are at least partially achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are subject matter of the dependent claims, and other suitable aspects of the present invention are described by the overall disclosure of the present application.

In one aspect, the objects are achieved by a shoe upper for a shoe, the shoe upper comprising: an inner layer arranged near a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn; an outer layer arranged outwardly with respect to the inner layer when the shoe is worn; wherein the inner layer comprises a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements, the outer layer at least partially covering the one or more knitted functional elements.

In this way, the present disclosure provides an improved shoe upper for a shoe. The one or more knitted functional elements have the advantage of imparting functional properties to the shoe upper in a flexible manner without compromising other properties (e.g., comfort or the like). Furthermore, openings and/or cavities may not be required in the shoe upper to accommodate additional and/or separate functional elements. This is due to the fact that the knitted functional elements are encompassed by the knitted portion.

Furthermore, the proposed knitted functional elements do not cause significant discomfort to the wearer when the shoe is worn. Such discomfort may occur in prior art solutions, for example, due to thick and/or rigid elements or the like. Furthermore, in prior art solutions, any functional elements could lead to disruptive friction surfaces on the wearer's foot. According to the present disclosure, this can be avoided due to the arrangement of the inner layer, the knitted portion, the one or more knitted functional elements, and the outer layer.

It is particularly advantageous that the one or more knitted functional elements can facilitate the stretching of the shoe upper as part of a functional property. For example, this can provide compensation for changes in the length of the foot during walking.

The inner layer comprises a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements. This has the further advantage that the one or more knitted functional elements are closer to the wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. Being "closer to the foot" can best be understood in comparison to the outer layer, which is farther from the foot than the inner layer. Because the one or more knitted functional elements are closer to the foot, the one or more knitted functional elements can provide a closer and/or more direct interaction with the wearer's foot. For example, the one or more knitted functional elements could provide a specific anatomical fit. If the one or more knitted functional elements were on the outer layer of the upper, as is the case in some prior art solutions, the interaction would be less direct and therefore could not be controlled in an improved manner. Overall, the knitted portion of the inner layer of the shoe upper can serve to provide advantageous functional properties in an improved manner.

The outer layer, which is positioned on the outside with respect to the inner layer, can provide a certain range of motion that could be beneficial during sporting activities.

The "inner layer" as used herein can be understood as the layer that is closer to the wearer's foot than the "outer layer." In other words, as seen from outside the shoe upper when the shoe is worn, the layered structure is such that the outer layer comes first, followed by the inner layer. It is possible for the shoe upper to comprise further layers. For example, the shoe upper may comprise one or more other layers that are even closer to the wearer's foot than the inner layer. Furthermore, the shoe upper may comprise one or more other layers arranged between the outer layer and the inner layer. In addition, the shoe upper may comprise one or more other layers that are further outward than the outer layer. Furthermore, it is understood that the outer layer may comprise one or more knitted functional elements and/or one or more non-knitted functional elements, i.e., functional elements that are not necessarily knitted. Furthermore, the inner layer may also comprise one or more non-knitted functional elements.

The knitted "portion" encompassed by the inner layer may have any spatial dimension, e.g., length, width, height, surface area, and/or the like. The portion may be an integral part of the inner layer. The portion may be as large as the inner layer. In other words, the portion may occupy the entire inner layer. Alternatively, the knitted portion may occupy a rather small portion of the inner layer. It is noted that the size of the knitted portion may not be particularly relevant to the benefits of the one or more knitted functional elements described herein to be applicable. Furthermore, the size of the knitted portion may depend on the specific application of the shoe. For example, different sizes may be advantageous for different types of sporting activities. Furthermore, the knitted portion encompassed by the inner layer may be located anywhere on the inner layer, such as a midfoot region, in particular an instep region, a medial side region, a lateral side region, a heel region, and/or a toe region of the inner layer.

The one or more "knitted functional elements" may refer to specific features, components, or parts integrated into the inner layer. The functional elements may enhance functional properties of the shoe upper. Functional properties, as used herein, may refer to one or more of the following non-exhaustive list: stretch, stability, securing, cushioning, padding, any type of performance property, comfort, breathability, reinforcement, moisture absorption, climate adaptability, elasticity, durability, and/or suitability. The functional properties may be particularly designed to benefit specific athletic activities. As implied by the term "elements," the one or more knitted functional elements may be recognizable as such elements and may be distinguishable from the rest of the knitted portion of the inner layer. This may apply in any case, i.e., even if the one or more knitted functional elements may be integrally formed with the knitted portion. The one or more knitted functional elements are of course understood to provide greater control of the functional properties compared to a knitted fabric, a knitted section, a knitted layer and/or the like as such.

The outer layer "covers" the one or more knitted functional elements at least partially. This can be understood in such a way that the one or more knitted functional elements cannot be directly visible from outside the upper part if the shoe is worn. In other words, the outer layer may be at least partially arranged on the one or more knitted functional elements, as seen from outside the shoe upper when the shoe is worn. It may nevertheless be possible that the one or more knitted functional elements could be grasped, for example by touching or the like. Furthermore, they can be sensed and therefore recognized by a person skilled in the art from the outside, since the one or more functional elements may provide for the outer layer to at least partially bulge.

The "wearer" can be any type of human capable of wearing a shoe. The term "wearer" can be used synonymously with the terms "user," "athlete," "human," or the like. It is understood that when the disclosure refers to a wearer of the shoe, this means that the wearer wears the shoe as well as the shoe upper for the shoe.

The term "knitted" may refer to any suitable knitting technique. In the context of the present disclosure, weft knitting or warp knitting may be used. It may be possible to employ single-thread warp knitting techniques. As described in more detail elsewhere herein, the shoe upper may be knitted on a circular knitting machine, preferably a small circular knitting machine. However, it is also possible to knit the shoe upper on a flat knitting machine or a large circular knitting machine.

It is preferred that the inner layer is a knitted inner layer. It is further preferred that the outer layer is a knitted outer layer. Furthermore, it is preferred that the inner layer and the outer layer are knitted in a unitary knit construction. It is particularly preferred that the shoe upper is a knitted shoe upper. The shoe upper may be knitted in a unitary knit construction.

The shoe upper for a shoe described herein may be particularly useful in conjunction with and/or when applied to an athletic shoe, such as a running shoe or the like. However, it should be noted that the shoe upper could be used with any type of footwear, including, but not limited to, soccer shoes, hiking shoes, sneakers, basketball shoes, rugby shoes, baseball shoes, golf shoes, tennis shoes, and cross-training shoes. Furthermore, the shoe upper may be used in conjunction with shoes for any type of athletic activity. The term athletic activity is understood to include one or more and/or any combination of at least the following non-exhaustive list: aerobics, athletic exercises, running, hiking, climbing, group fitness classes, walking, cycling, yoga, soccer, tennis, football, basketball, workout, volleyball, gymnastics, weightlifting, cross-training, baseball, softball, rugby, field hockey, wrestling, squash, track and field (such as sprinting, long jump, high jump), and cross-country skiing.

Nevertheless, it has been found that the advantages of the knitted functional elements described herein are particularly pronounced when applied to a shoe upper for a shoe, such as a shoe used during a sporting activity.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are one or more elongated functional elements.

This has the advantage of providing the shoe upper with a more specific fit. The elongated functional elements can be adjusted more appropriately to provide an improved fit, at least partially around the wearer's foot. This can help ensure better support, stretch, stability, and comfort. Furthermore, the foot can be more appropriately secured in place. Furthermore, functional properties such as stability and/or stretch can be better controlled due to the elongated shape of the elongated functional elements.

The elongated shape can also provide better air circulation in the shoe upper. For example, a gap can be provided near the elongated functional elements, which could act as an air channel.

The term "elongate" means that there may be a dimension along one axis of the one or more functional elements that may be greater than one, and preferably both, dimensions along the remaining axes, where the remaining axes may be substantially perpendicular to the one axis. It is understood that when dimensions are described herein, manufacturing tolerances must usually be taken into account. Although not always explicitly expressed (e.g., using the term "substantially"), it is understood that the elements, parts, units, shapes, and/or the like described herein include such manufacturing tolerances. Thus, the dimensions described herein may vary slightly.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements define one or more projections.

This allows for deeper control of the stretch and/or stability of the shoe upper. Furthermore, the protrusions can provide a certain distance between the inner layer and the outer layer.

The projections refer to something that extends from an environment, such as the knitted portion of the inner layer (also referred to as outward facing).

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more projections extend from the inner layer by at least 0.2 mm, preferably at least 0.4 mm, more preferably at least 0.6 mm, more preferably at least 0.8 mm, more preferably at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 1.2 mm, more preferably at least 1.4 mm, more preferably at least 1.6 mm, more preferably at least 1.8 mm, most preferably at least 2 mm and/or by at most 8 mm, preferably at most 6 mm, more preferably at most 5 mm, more preferably at most 4 mm, more preferably at most 3 mm, more preferably at most 2.8 mm, most preferably at most 2.5 mm.

The protrusion should not extend from the inner layer by an excessive amount, as this may impair the natural feel of the shoe upper on a wearer's foot. Furthermore, this could result in excessive shoe weight. Additionally or alternatively, the protrusions should not extend from the inner layer by an excessive amount, as this may impair the desired benefits in providing functional properties for the shoe upper. The inventors have succeeded in achieving an optimal compromise between these opposing requirements, with the one or more protrusions extending here by the specified amount.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more projections have the shape of at least one of a rib, a ridge, a sipe, or a fin.

This further contributes to the above advantages, as an improved anatomical stabilizing fit can be provided by the one or more protrusions. The shapes are particularly suitable for providing an improved fit to the wearer's foot while allowing for stretch. Therefore, they enable an adaptive fit.

A rib can be understood as a raised, curved, and/or inclined element. This can, for example, contribute to exerting slight pressure on the wearer, thus indicating a certain degree of stability to the wearer. Furthermore, it could provide a slight sense of awareness for the wearer. However, it should be noted that the rib is designed to avoid excessively uncomfortable pressure on the wearer.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are arranged on a side of the inner layer that faces away from a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn, such that the one or more functional elements are arranged substantially between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In this way, the one or more functional elements can create a gap between the inner layer and the outer layer. This can facilitate air circulation, resulting in improved breathability. This can reduce the build-up of moisture in the shoe upper, which can be caused, for example, by rain, puddles, and/or sweat. The reduction in the build-up of moisture is highly appreciated by wearers. For example, it can reduce a breeding ground for bacteria and/or fungi. Furthermore, less moisture also leads to less friction between the foot and the shoe upper, which reduces the formation of blisters and also reduces any irritation. Furthermore, odor can be improved. This, in turn, increases user acceptance and provides a more durable shoe upper, as fewer wash cycles may be required.

The one or more functional elements can be discretely disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. This provides better distribution of the one or more functional elements and can prevent the formation of disruptive surfaces that could otherwise be distracting to the wearer.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are arranged on a side of the inner layer that faces a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn.

This may have the advantage of allowing an even closer interaction of the one or more functional elements with the wearer's foot. Thus, the imparting of functional properties may be improved. Furthermore, a gap could then be formed on the side of the inner layer facing the wearer's foot. The same advantages as described in the previous embodiment with regard to breathability, moisture, and the like apply to a greater extent.

The above two embodiments are understood to mean that one or more of the one or more functional elements may be arranged on a side of the inner layer facing away from a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn, such that one or more of the one or more functional elements are arranged substantially between the inner layer and the outer layer, while others of the one or more functional elements may be arranged on a side of the inner layer facing a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are additionally or alternatively arranged on the outer layer of the shoe upper for the shoe. For example, the one or more functional elements may be arranged on a side of the outer layer facing away from a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. Furthermore, the one or more functional elements may additionally or alternatively be arranged on a side of the outer layer facing toward a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn, such that the one or more functional elements are arranged substantially between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements define the shape of a fan on at least one of a lateral side region and a medial side region of the shoe upper.

This allows for better control of the stretch of the shoe upper and/or better control of the provision of stability. In particular, the shape of the fan can be adapted to follow a specific shape of the wearer's foot. This allows the shape of the fan to mimic a natural pattern of the wearer's foot.

When reference is made herein to the one or more functional elements defining the shape of a fan, it is understood that not necessarily a single functional element can define such a shape. Rather, the majority and/or substantially all of the one or more functional elements taken together define such a shape. Thus, any space between two adjacent functional elements can be encompassed by the shape of a fan defined by the one or more functional elements.

It is understood that the one or more functional elements may, for example, define the shape of two separate compartments. For example, a first group of one or more functional elements may define the shape of a first compartment. Furthermore, a second group of one or more functional elements may define the shape of a second compartment. The shape of the first compartment and the shape of the second compartment may be substantially the same, similar, or different. The shape of the first compartment may be arranged on a lateral side region of the shoe upper. The shape of the second compartment may be arranged on a medial side region of the shoe upper. This enhances the provision of functional properties at dedicated locations of the shoe upper, e.g., locations where stability and/or stretch is desired according to specific use cases. As a result, these functional properties can be imparted at dedicated locations on the wearer's foot.

The "shape of a fan" is understood to include a series of curved and/or straight functional elements, each of which could be considered to have a similar shape to a blade (e.g., a fan blade). The series of functional elements may, in one example, be arranged in a substantially circular segment around a central hub. The central hub may be located near a span region. The circular segment may have any angular segment, for example, an angular segment with an angle β of approximately 0 to 180°. Preferably, the substantially circular segment of the shape of the fan may comprise an angular segment with an angle β in the range of 10° to 160°, more preferably 20° to 140°, more preferably 30° to 130°, more preferably 40° to 120°, more preferably 50° to 110°, more preferably 60° to 100°, most preferably 70° to 95°.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure each of the one or more functional elements is arranged at an angle with respect to an adjacent functional element.

Any angle relative to an adjacent functional element is possible. This angle depends on the shoe's intended use case. An angle of 0° means that the functional elements are essentially parallel to each other. This angle serves the purpose of imparting functional properties to specific areas of the wearer's foot and facilitates the control of these functional properties in a more advanced manner, depending on the shoe's intended use case.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the knitted portion is located at a midfoot region of the shoe upper, in particular a region extending from an instep region to a sole region of the shoe upper.

The midfoot area and the area extending from the instep to the sole area of the shoe upper prove to be particularly relevant during athletic activities. Therefore, this design has the advantage of providing stretch and/or stability in these particularly relevant areas.

This embodiment can also be understood such that the knitted portion substantially occupies a midfoot region of the shoe upper, in particular the region from an instep region to a sole region of the shoe upper. The sole region of the shoe upper, as used herein, can typically be arranged near the bite line of the shoe upper. It is understood that the one or more functional elements may not be provided on the underside of the inner layer, although such an arrangement is encompassed by the present disclosure.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, each of the one or more functional elements has an elongated axis which is directed substantially from an instep region to a medial side region and/or lateral side region of the shoe upper.

This facilitates that the functional elements are arranged in a suitable orientation to further support the wearer and/or provide the functional properties for the shoe upper.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are spaced apart from one another by at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 10 mm and/or by at most 50 mm, preferably at most 40 mm, more preferably at most 30 mm, more preferably at most 25 mm, more preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at most 18 mm, most preferably at most 15 mm.

A larger spacing of the one or more functional elements facilitates the provision of a more natural feel. A smaller spacing of the one or more functional elements offers the possibility of providing dedicated stretch and/or stability. With the spacing proposed here, the inventors have found an optimal compromise between these opposing requirements.

It is understood that the spacing of the one or more functional elements may vary along a length of the one or more functional elements. For example, the spacing may be smaller in an instep region of the shoe upper. Additionally or alternatively, the spacing may be larger near a bite line of the shoe upper.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the inner layer comprises a further portion, preferably a further knitted portion, wherein the further portion does not comprise a functional element, wherein the knitted portion and the further portion preferably enclose the entire inner layer.

It is understood that the knitted portion and the further portion may be formed as a single piece, in particular, they may be knitted as a single piece. For example, no seam would be necessary to connect the knitted portion and the further portion of the inner layer.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are configured such that the shoe upper can be stretched in a first direction.

Such stretching can have the advantage of allowing the inner layer to adapt to any change in size imparted by the movements performed by the wearer of the shoe. It may be desirable to provide such stretch in only one direction, as this allows the shape of the shoe upper to be controlled in essentially all other directions. The first direction could be any direction, depending on the shoe's intended use case.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are configured such that the shoe upper can be stretched in the first direction up to a threshold value, beyond which the one or more functional elements are configured to counteract further stretching of the stretched shoe upper in the first direction.

This embodiment can be useful in shoes for sporting activities. For example, it can provide a certain level of security, as the shoe upper can secure the wearer's foot even under severe conditions, e.g., when strong forces act on the shoe upper. In one example, the counteracting can be understood as the one or more functional elements substantially preventing stretching of the stretched shoe upper in the first direction. In other examples, the one or more functional elements can substantially lock the stretched shoe upper in the first direction.

As described elsewhere herein, the first direction along which the shoe upper can be stretched up to a threshold value, beyond which the one or more functional elements are configured to resist further stretching of the stretched shoe upper, is preferably the course direction. However, in an alternative example, the one or more functional elements may prevent the shoe upper from stretching in the course direction. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more functional elements may be configured to enable stretching of the shoe upper in the wale direction. As described elsewhere, enabling stretching and resisting by means of the one or more functional elements could be achieved by employing a combination of one or more functional elements and one or more yarns, in particular fusible yarns, in the remainder of the knitted portion.

As understood, the inner layer and/or the outer layer are normally subject to small ranges of stretching and/or movement. Therefore, it cannot be ruled out that, although the one or more functional elements may counteract further stretching of the stretched shoe upper in the first direction, a slight stretching of the stretched shoe upper in the first direction may still be noticeable. This may depend on the application of the shoe and/or the forces acting on the shoe upper, particularly in the first direction.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are configured such that the shoe upper can be stretched in a second direction that differs from the first direction by an amount that is less than a stretch in the first direction up to the threshold value, wherein the one or more functional elements are preferably configured to counteract a stretch of the shoe upper in the second direction.

This further improves the control of functional properties. For example, the shape of the shoe upper could be substantially maintained in the second direction, which could provide a more secure fit to the foot.

Overall, the above three embodiments have the advantage of providing an anatomical stabilizing fit with the additional ability to compensate for size changes, such as the length of the foot when walking.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the first direction is substantially parallel to the direction of a stitch course of the knitted portion, wherein the second direction is preferably substantially parallel to the direction of a stitch wale of the knitted portion.

Therefore, in one example, the stretch in the direction of the course (first direction) may be greater compared to the stretch in the direction of the wale (second direction).

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are configured to at least partially bulge the outer layer.

This can have the advantage that the one or more functional elements can be grasped from outside the shoe. The bulging of the outer layer can be understood as meaning that the one or more Functional elements provide an embossed structure.

In some examples, one or more films could be applied to the outer layer. This can provide reinforcement, sealing, and/or the like. It should be understood that these films do not significantly affect the embossed structure, as the one or more functional elements bulge the outer layer. In other words, the one or more functional elements substantially retain their shape and thereby their functional properties.

In other examples, the outer layer may comprise fusible yarns. After heat treatment, such fusible yarns may melt to form a foil-like surface on the outer layer. The one or more functional elements of the knitted portion of the inner layer may still be captured by the embossed effect provided on the foil-like surface of the outer layer.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements extend over the entire length of a stitch row of the knitted portion, wherein the stitch row is preferably arranged to pass through an instep region and a medial side region and/or lateral side region near a sole region of the shoe upper.

This facilitates the provision of one or more functional elements that are quite long and uninterrupted. Therefore, functional properties can be imparted over a greater length. Furthermore, the control of these properties can be improved.

The position of the one or more functional elements depends on the application of the shoe. For example, the one or more functional elements in the midfoot region have been found to be particularly useful to prevent twisting and provide stability to the wearer's foot. This may be desirable for running. In other athletic activities, the one or more functional elements should be located primarily on the medial lateral region (for example, in a medial forefoot region and/or a medial heel region) to provide abrasion resistance and/or durability. This could be important, for example, if the shoe is subject to sliding movements. This may be desirable for tennis and/or athletic activities where similar impacts are expected.

In one example, the one or more functional elements extend over the entire length of a stitch row of the knitted portion, wherein the stitch row is preferably arranged to pass through an instep region and a medial side region and/or lateral side region near the bite line of the shoe upper.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements comprise one or more sections, each section extending over a length of a course of the knitted portion of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, most preferably at least 50% and/or of at most 80%, preferably at most 70%, more preferably at most 60% of the total length of the course of the knitted portion, wherein the course of the knitted portion is preferably arranged to pass through an instep region and a medial side region and/or lateral side region in the vicinity of a sole region of the shoe upper.

With this embodiment, the one or more sections can provide greater flexibility in imparting desired functional properties to dedicated areas of the wearer's foot. Therefore, control over the functional properties can also be increased.

One or more sections should not be too short and/or too long. The lengths specified here allow for an optimal balance between different requirements.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are knitted integrally with the knitted portion.

This facilitates the manufacturing process by reducing the number of required manufacturing steps. Furthermore, the number of components of the shoe upper can be reduced (e.g., compared to cases where the one or more functional elements are separate elements). It could be conceivable for the one or more functional elements to replace any type of component used in the prior art, such as reinforcement elements, foam, cords, tape, and/or the like, since the one or more functional elements can provide similar functionality. This can make the entire manufacturing process quite cost-effective.

Furthermore, user acceptance may be improved because there are no additional distracting components, elements, and/or parts on the knitted portion of the inner layer. Furthermore, the provision of seams on the knitted portion, the inner layer, or even the shoe upper may not be necessary if the one or more functional elements are knitted integrally with the knitted portion.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are formed by stitches that differ from the stitches of the remaining part of the knitted portion, wherein the one or more functional elements are preferably formed by tuck stitches.

The use of different stitches on one or more functional elements has the advantage of giving these functional elements specific functional properties compared to the rest of the knitted section.

Tuck stitches make it possible to provide one or more functional elements that can retain essentially any shape, for example, a three-dimensional shape. This can be the case even after multiple uses of the shoe upper. This can be achieved by finely interlocking tuck stitches that help maintain the shape of the one or more functional elements.

The use of tuck stitches, as used here, provides a fairly simplified way to create any type of three-dimensional shape in the knitted portion of the inner layer. A tuck stitch has the advantage of increasing the bulk of a fabric, which is useful for providing functional properties.

As an alternative to tuck stitches, stitches could be left hanging on individual needles during the knitting process (e.g., by inserting floats, which are long strands of yarn running across the back of the fabric). This could create a collection of material, potentially resulting in a three-dimensional shape, such as a raised surface. This can be similar to the provision of tuck stitches.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements are formed by tuck stitches which comprise at least 1, preferably at least 2, more preferably at least 3, more preferably at least 4, more preferably at least 5, more preferably at least 6, more preferably at least 7, most preferably at least 8 rows of stitches and/or at most 25, preferably at most 20, more preferably at most 18, more preferably at most 16, most preferably at most 15 rows of stitches.

Increasing the number of courses (i.e., rows) of tuck stitches facilitates the accumulation of material. This allows, for example, the height of one or more functional elements to be increased. This allows for improved control of the functional properties to be imparted. The number of courses depends on the specific application of the shoe, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

Increasing the number of stitch rows can also increase the weight of the knitted material. A lower number of stitch rows may be desirable, for example, in certain areas of the shoe upper where less pronounced functional properties are desired.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors believed that the number of meshes described herein provides an optimal compromise between these conflicting requirements.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements comprise one or more of an elastic yarn, a fusible yarn, in particular a fusible yarn with a low melting temperature, a polyester yarn, a bulky yarn, a silicone yarn, wherein the one or more functional elements preferably consist of one or more of an elastic yarn, a fusible yarn, in particular a fusible yarn with a low melting temperature, a polyester yarn, a bulky yarn, a silicone yarn, a monofilament yarn.

This facilitates the provision of one or more functional elements with a specific property according to the shoe's application. For example, if elastic yarns are used, the extensibility can be improved. Furthermore, if fusible yarns are used (e.g., fusible yarns with a low melting temperature / TPU yarns), rigid functional elements can be provided. Due to their rigidity, these rigid functional elements cannot They stretch considerably and could be useful for providing a fairly elastic shoe upper. Furthermore, when high-resistance yarns are used, abrasion-resistant functional elements can be provided. Examples of high-resistance yarns can be: (high-tenacity) polyester yarns, nylon yarns, aramid yarns, polyethylene yarns, acrylic yarns, viscose rayon yarns. Furthermore, when bulky or lofty yarns are used, more pronounced functional elements, such as functional elements with greater heights, can be provided. This can provide a more pronounced three-dimensional effect.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the outer layer covers substantially all of the one or more functional elements of the knitted portion, wherein the outer layer preferably covers the inner layer.

This has the advantage that the one or more functional elements cannot be directly visible from the outside. Therefore, the appearance of the shoe upper can be improved. Furthermore, the one or more functional elements can be protected from environmental influences. For example, the outer layer could be made of yarns that offer greater durability and/or greater wear resistance than the inner layer in order to protect the inner layer. The inner layer could be inserted with yarns to impart the desired functional properties without necessarily requiring yarns that offer high durability and/or high wear resistance.

The outer layer covering the inner layer has the advantage of improving the entire manufacturing process.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the outer layer comprises one or more of a polyester yarn, a blended yarn, a fusible yarn, particularly a low-melting-temperature fusible yarn. Furthermore, a moisture-absorbing yarn may be used.

A yarn can be a continuous strand of fibers, filaments, or materials that are twisted or spun together to form a long, continuous thread-like structure.

It should be noted that all yarns described herein can also be used for the inner layer.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the outer layer does not comprise a functional element.

This can be advantageous in cases where sufficient stability and/or stretch and/or any type of functional property can already be provided by the inner layer. This simplifies the outer layer's construction, thus requiring less manufacturing effort.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the inner layer and the outer layer are seamlessly connected to each other, preferably at a foot receiving opening of the shoe upper.

This has the advantage that the inner layer and the outer layer can be knitted together uniformly at the foot-receiving opening. This eliminates the need for a visible seam. However, if desired, a seam or seam-like structure could be provided. It should be noted that the foot-receiving opening of the shoe upper can be understood as a collar area of the shoe upper.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the inner layer and the outer layer form a two-layer arrangement.

This two-layer arrangement can also be referred to as a sock-in-sock construction. This allows the outer layer to envelop the inner layer.

The production of the shoe upper after knitting the inner layer and the outer layer is described in the detailed part of the description.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the shoe upper is produced on a flat knitting machine or on a circular knitting machine, preferably on a circular knitting machine.

It may also be possible to use a small circular knitting machine. The machine can have one, two, or even more than two needle beds.

Circular knitting machines can have the advantage of providing a tubular construction without the need for one or more seams. Circular knitting machines are typically more flexible than flat knitting machines. faster, making them more suitable for mass production.

Flat knitting machines can offer the advantage of being able to produce a wide range of fabric types. Furthermore, flat knitting machines can offer the advantage of providing a specific, tailored fit.

When reference is made herein to the shoe upper being produced on a flat knitting machine or a circular knitting machine, this means that the inner layer as well as the outer layer are produced on such a knitting machine.

In a preferred embodiment of the shoe upper according to the present disclosure, the one or more functional elements each define a substantially closed shape.

A closed shape means that the one or more functional elements cannot have any openings or the like. Such openings can be present, for example, in eyelets or the like. In one example, the one or more functional elements do not have a through-hole.

In a further aspect of the present disclosure, the objects are achieved by a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, the shoe comprising: a shoe upper according to one of the embodiments described herein; and a sole attached to the knitted shoe upper.

It is understood that the technical features shown or described for the shoe upper, as well as the advantages and improvements over the prior art, are equally applicable to the shoe, in particular the sports shoe. The same applies vice versa.

4. Short description of the characters

• 1: zeigt ein beispielhaftes Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 2: zeigt ein beispielhaftes Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 3: zeigt ein beispielhaftes Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 4: zeigt ein beispielhaftes schematisches Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 5A: zeigt ein beispielhaftes schematisches Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 5B: zeigt ein beispielhaftes schematisches Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 5C: zeigt ein beispielhaftes schematisches Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 5D: zeigt ein beispielhaftes schematisches Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 5E: zeigt ein beispielhaftes schematisches Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 5F: zeigt ein beispielhaftes schematisches Schuhoberteil für einen Schuh gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 6A: zeigt eine beispielhafte Stricksequenz, um einen gestrickten Abschnitt zu erzeugen, der ein oder mehrere gestrickte Funktionselemente gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung umfasst.
• 6B: zeigt eine beispielhafte Stricksequenz, um einen gestrickten Abschnitt zu erzeugen, der ein oder mehrere gestrickte Funktionselemente gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung umfasst.
• 6C: zeigt eine beispielhafte Stricksequenz, um einen gestrickten Abschnitt zu erzeugen, der ein oder mehrere gestrickte Funktionselemente gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung umfasst.
• 6D: zeigt eine beispielhafte Stricksequenz, um einen gestrickten Abschnitt zu erzeugen, der ein oder mehrere gestrickte Funktionselemente gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung umfasst.
• 6E: zeigt eine beispielhafte Stricksequenz, um einen gestrickten Abschnitt zu erzeugen, der ein oder mehrere gestrickte Funktionselemente gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung umfasst.

The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the following figures:

• 1 : shows an exemplary shoe upper for a shoe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 2 : shows an exemplary shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 3 : shows an exemplary shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 4 : shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 5A : shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 5B : shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 5C : shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 5D : shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 5E : shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 5F : shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 6A : shows an exemplary knitting sequence to produce a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 6B : shows an exemplary knitting sequence to produce a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 6C : shows an exemplary knitting sequence to produce a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 6D : shows an exemplary knitting sequence to produce a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 6E : shows an exemplary knitting sequence to produce a knitted portion comprising one or more knitted functional elements according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

5. Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

In the following, only a few possible embodiments of the invention are described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and a variety of other embodiments are applicable without departing from the scope of the invention. The illustrated embodiments can be modified and combined with one another in various ways, and compatible and certain features can be omitted whenever they appear unnecessary. In particular, the disclosed embodiments can be modified by combining certain features of one embodiment with one or more features of another embodiment.

It should be understood that not all features of the described aspects/embodiments need to be present to realize the technical advantages provided by the present disclosure, which is defined by the subject matter of the claims. The disclosed aspects/embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one aspect/embodiment with one or more features of another aspect/embodiment. In particular, those skilled in the art will understand that features and/or functional elements of one aspect/embodiment may be combined with technically compatible features and/or functional elements of another aspect/embodiment of the present disclosure, as the resulting combination falls within the definition of the present disclosure.

While the following embodiments are described primarily with reference to a shoe upper for a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure according to the invention can equally be applied in a variety of different technical fields and/or applications.

Throughout the present figures and description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For clarity and conciseness, certain aspects of components or steps of certain embodiments are illustrated without undue detail, which details would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings herein and/or which details would obscure an understanding of more relevant aspects of the embodiments.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art and/or to avoid redundancies, reference is also made to the explanations in the preceding sections, which also apply to the following detailed description. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, not all features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and/or steps are expressly indicated by reference numerals. This applies in particular if those skilled in the art recognize that such features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and/or steps are present in plural. An example of this may be the knitted functional elements.

Definitions

Unless otherwise specified, the term "substantial" or "substantially" as used herein may be understood to mean to a large or significant extent, or largely or substantially. In particular, manufacturing tolerances are encompassed by this term.

The term "and/or" is merely an association relationship describing associated objects and represents that three relationships can exist. For example, A and/or B can represent three conditions: i.e., independent existence of A, existence of both A and B, and independent existence of B. Furthermore, the character "/" in the disclosure typically represents that previous and next associated objects form an "or" relationship.

For brevity, the one or more "knitted functional elements" are sometimes referred to herein as one or more "functional elements." If non-knitted functional elements are meant, this is explicitly stated.

The term “bite line” as used in the present disclosure may refer to a line along the intersection of the shoe upper and a shoe sole.

The term "course" as used in the present disclosure may refer to a predominantly horizontal series of needle loops (in an upright fabric, such as a knit) made by adjacent needles during the same knitting cycle. In some cases, the term course may be used synonymously with the term row.

The term “waist” as used in the present disclosure may refer to a predominantly vertical column of interlocking needle loops generally formed by the same needle knitting on successive the (not necessarily all) knitting cycles. A wale can begin as soon as an empty needle begins knitting.

The term "tuck stitch," as used in the present disclosure, may refer to the formation of a stitch when a needle already holding a stitch picks up another stitch. This additional stitch is tucked behind the held stitch. Fabrics with tuck stitches may have reduced elasticity in the wale direction but increased elasticity in the course direction. This may be because the tuck stitches essentially pull the held stitches downward, causing them to spread out.

Description of the characters

Fig. 1 shows an exemplary shoe upper 2 for a shoe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The shoe upper 2 comprises an inner layer 10 (in 1 not shown, but in 3 indicated), which is arranged near a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. The shoe upper 2 also comprises an outer layer 30, which is arranged outside with respect to the inner layer 10 when the shoe is worn. The inner layer 10 comprises a knitted portion 20 (in 1 indicated, however, the knitted section 20 is in 1 covered by the outer layer 30), which comprises one or more knitted functional elements 25 (in 1 indicated, however, one or more knitted functional elements 25 are covered by the outer layer 30. The outer layer 30 at least partially covers the one or more knitted functional elements 25.

As from 1 As can be seen, the one or more functional elements 25 are one or more elongated functional elements 25. In particular, the one or more functional elements 25 define one or more protrusions 25. The one or more protrusions 25 may extend from the inner layer 10 by at least 0.2 mm and/or by at most 8 mm. The one or more protrusions 25 have the shape of at least one of a rib, a ridge, a slat, or a fin. This is to be understood that each of the one or more protrusions 25 individually has such a shape. Individual ones of the one or more protrusions 25 may, of course, have a different shape. In other words, it may not be necessary for all of the one or more protrusions 25 to have the same shape.

The one or more functional elements 25 of 1 are arranged on a side of the inner layer 10 that faces away from a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. Thus, the one or more functional elements 25 are arranged substantially between the inner layer 10 and the outer layer 30. As shown in 1 As can be seen, the one or more functional elements 25 are arranged discretely on the inner layer 10 and between the outer layer 20 and the inner layer 10.

Alternatively or additionally, the one or more functional elements 25 may be arranged on a side of the inner layer 10 that faces a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn.

The knitted section 20 (the knitted section 20 is in 1 covered by the outer layer 30) is located at a midfoot region 8 of the shoe upper 2, in particular a region extending from an instep region 7 to a sole region 8 of the shoe upper 2. As in 1 As can be seen, the knitted section 20 and the one or more functional elements 25 end at the sole region 8, which is arranged near the bite line of the shoe upper 2.

In addition, each of the one or more functional elements 25 has an elongated axis extending substantially from a span region 7 to a medial side region 5 (as best shown in 4 can be seen) and/or lateral side area 6 of the shoe upper 2.

Furthermore, the one or more functional elements 25 are spaced apart from each other by at least 1 mm and/or by at most 50 mm.

Still further, the inner layer 10 comprises a further section 40 (in 1 stated, however, the further section 40 is in 1 covered by the outer layer 30), preferably a further knitted section 40. The further section 40 does not comprise a functional element. Furthermore, the knitted section 20 and the further section 40 preferably enclose the entire inner layer 10.

Furthermore, the one or more functional elements 25 are configured to at least partially bulge the outer layer 30 of the shoe upper 2. This is shown in 1 This is evident from the projections with an elongated and rib-like shape. As a result, the one or more functional elements 25 are indirectly visible due to the three-dimensional elevation.

As in 1 shown, the one or more functional elements 25 may extend over the entire length of a stitch row of the knitted section 30. In 1 The stitch row may be arranged to pass through an instep region 7 and a lateral side region 6 near a sole region 8 (i.e., near a bite line of the shoe upper 2) of the shoe upper 2. Likewise, the stitch row may be arranged to pass through an instep region 7 and a medial side region 5 of the shoe upper 2. Of course, the stitch row could also pass through an instep region 7 and a medial side region 5 and a lateral side region 6 of the shoe upper 2.

As can be understood, the extent, position, and/or arrangement of the one or more functional elements 25 depends on the application of the shoe, as different requirements exist. Depending on the extent, position, and/or arrangement of the one or more functional elements 25, different advantages can be achieved. These different advantages are highlighted, for example, by the different requirements for running (twisting in the midfoot region should be prevented and stability should be provided) and tennis (e.g., abrasion resistance and/or durability on a medial lateral region should be provided because the shoe can slide), as described.

The one or more functional elements 25 may comprise one or more sections (as best shown in the knitting sequence in 6E can be seen), each section extending over a length of a course of the knitted section 20 of at least 10% and/or of at most 80% of the total length of the course of the knitted section 20. As previously mentioned, the course of the knitted section 20 could be arranged such that it is separated by a tensioning region 7 and a medial side region 5 (as best shown in 4 can be seen) and/or lateral side region 7 near a sole region 8 (ie near a bite line of the shoe upper 2) of the shoe upper 2.

The one or more functional elements 25 may be knitted integrally with the knitted portion 20. This can significantly reduce manufacturing costs since essentially no separate parts, such as reinforcement elements, foam, cords, and/or the like, would need to be provided.

As further stated in 1 As shown, the outer layer 30 covers substantially all of the one or more functional elements 25 of the knitted portion 20. Furthermore, the outer layer 30 may cover the inner layer 10.

As in 1 As shown, the outer layer 30 may not include a knitted functional element 25 such as the knitted portion 20 of the inner layer 10. This may be the case because sufficient stability, stretch, and/or any type of functional property could already be provided by the inner layer 10.

As can additionally be derived from the knitting sequences described below, the one or more functional elements 25 can each define a substantially closed shape.

It should be noted that whenever a part, feature, layer, element, and/or the like is described in the present disclosure as "knitted," this may allow one to derive the distinguishable characteristic of being formed from interlocking loops of yarn or thread. These loops are also referred to as stitches and may be formed from one or more yarns or threads. Compared to other types of fabric, such as woven fabric, knitted fabric may have the advantage of including a certain degree of stretchability, allowing the shoe upper to optimally adapt to the shape of the foot and provide the wearer with the necessary support.

2 shows an exemplary shoe upper 2 for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 3 shows an exemplary shoe upper 2 for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. These embodiments are similar to all other embodiments described herein and may include one or more of the features described in connection with the other embodiments. For brevity, only additional features are described.

In 2 One or more films 31 are applied to the outer layer 30. This provides reinforcement, sealing and/or the like. As can be seen from 2 As can be seen, the one or more foils 31 are flush with the outer layer 30, and these foils 31 do not substantially affect an embossed structure provided by the one or more functional elements 25 that bulge the outer layer 30. As a result, the one or more functional elements 25 substantially retain their shape and can still impart their advantageous functional properties to the shoe upper.

As in 3 As shown, the outer layer 30 may alternatively or additionally comprise fusible yarns. After heat treatment, such yarns may melt to form a foil-like surface 31 on the outer layer 30. Also in this example, the one or more functional elements 25 on the inner layer 10 may still be captured by the embossed effect provided on the foil-like surface 31 of the outer layer 30.

4 shows an exemplary schematic shoe upper 2 for a shoe according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. This embodiment is similar to and applicable to all other embodiments described herein, and only additional features are described for brevity.

As can be seen, the one or more functional elements 25 define the shape of a fan on a medial side region 5 of the shoe upper 2. It is well understood that the one or more functional elements 25 define the shape of a fan on the lateral side region 6 of the shoe upper 2 (as shown, for example, in 1 , 2 and 3 indicated). It is also possible for the one or more functional elements 25 to define two separate compartments, for example one on the medial side region 5 of the shoe upper 2 and one on the lateral side region 6 of the shoe upper 2.

Still further, each of the one or more functional elements 25 is arranged at an angle α with respect to an adjacent functional element 25. This is indicated by way of example by the two dashed lines drawn on the two functional elements 25 on the right side of 4 are placed.

Furthermore, as in 4 shown, the one or more functional elements 25 defining the shape of a fan may be arranged in a substantially circular segment around a central hub. The circular segment may comprise any angular segment having an angle β of any suitable size. For example, the circular segment may comprise an angular segment having an angle β of about 0 to 180°, as described elsewhere herein. The angle β is exemplified in 4 indicated by the two dashed lines placed on the knitted functional element 25 on the rightmost side and the knitted functional element 25 on the leftmost side. The substantially circular segment of the fan shape may have an angular segment with an angle β in the range from 10° to 160°, more preferably from 20° to 140°, more preferably from 30° to 130°, more preferably from 40° to 120°, more preferably from 50° to 110°, more preferably from 60° to 100°, most preferably from 70° to 95°. In the particular example in 4 the angle may be approximately 85° to 87°, in particular 86°. However, it is understood that any type of angle β may be encompassed by the present disclosure and the angle β is not limited to the example of 4 which merely serves to illustrate the angle β.

The one or more functional elements 25 can be configured to allow stretching of the shoe upper 2 in a first direction X (as shown by way of example in 4 indicated by the dashed line of the fourth knitted functional element 25 seen from the left). Such stretching of the shoe upper 2 in a first direction X can be provided up to a threshold value, beyond which the one or more functional elements 25 are configured to counteract further stretching of the stretched shoe upper 2 in the first direction X. Furthermore, the one or more functional elements 25 can be configured to enable stretching of the shoe upper 2 in a second direction Y (as exemplified in 4 indicated by the dot-dash line of the fourth knitted functional element 25 as seen from the left), which differs from the first direction X by an amount less than stretching in the first direction X up to the threshold value. Preferably, the one or more functional elements 25 are configured to counteract stretching of the shoe upper 2 in the second direction Y. The first direction X may be substantially parallel to the direction of a course of the knitted portion 10, and the second direction Y may be substantially parallel to the direction of a wale of the knitted portion 10.

It is noted that the knitted portion 20 may include any number of functional elements 25. For example, the knitted portion 20 may include at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more functional elements and/or at most 50, 40, 30, 20, 15, 10 or fewer functional elements 25.

As noted elsewhere herein, the size of the knitted portion 20 may not be particularly relevant to the benefits of the one or more knitted functional elements 25 described herein being applicable. The knitted portion 20 may occupy substantially the entire inner layer 10. In other examples, the knitted portion 20 may occupy a portion that is at most at least 95%, preferably at most 90%, more preferably at most 80%, more preferably at most 70%, more preferably at most 60%, more preferably at most 50%, more preferably at most 40% of the entire inner layer 10, and/or the knitted portion 20 may occupy a portion which is at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40% of the entire inner layer 10.

5A , 5B , 5C , 5D , 5E and 5F show exemplary schematic shoe uppers 2 for a shoe according to further embodiments of the present disclosure. The illustrated embodiments are similar to and applicable to all other embodiments described here, and for the sake of brevity, not all features of the above embodiments are repeated. Furthermore, when a region of a shoe upper 2, such as a medial side region 5 of the shoe upper 2, a lateral side region 6 of the shoe upper 2, an instep region 7 of the shoe upper 2, and/or a midfoot region 8 of the shoe upper 2, is described as comprising the one or more functional elements 25, it may well be the case that another region of the shoe upper 2 may additionally or alternatively comprise this one or more functional elements 25. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity, not all functional elements 25 are indicated by reference numerals.

5A is an embodiment of a shoe upper 2 shown in three different perspectives. The 5A The shoe upper 2 shown may be particularly useful when used in sporting activities such as tennis and/or similar sporting activities where similar loads are expected.

The picture above in 5A shows the shoe upper 2 from a lateral side view 6. The image in the middle of 5A shows the shoe upper 2 from a top view. The picture below in 5A shows the shoe upper 2 from a medial side view 5. The shoe upper 2 comprises an inner layer (not shown) comprising a knitted portion 20 (not shown) comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25. In the image above in 5A the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are shown arranged in a toe region 4 and a lateral side region 6. The one or more knitted functional elements 25 are not arranged in a heel region 30. Furthermore, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are not arranged in an instep region 7 of the shoe upper 2 and/or the one or more knitted functional elements 25 cannot extend to the instep region 7 of the shoe upper. As can be seen from the image in the middle of 5A As can be seen, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are arranged in a toe area 4, a medial side area 5 and a lateral side area 6 of the shoe upper 2. As can be seen from the picture below in 5A As can be seen, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are arranged in a toe region 4, a medial side region 5 and the one or more knitted functional elements 25 extend to a heel region 30. Furthermore, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 extend to the instep region 7 of the shoe upper 2. Thus, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 cover substantially an entire medial side region 5 of the shoe upper 2.

As in 5A As shown, the one or more functional elements 25 are located primarily on the medial side region 5 to provide abrasion resistance and/or durability. This could be important, for example, if the shoe is subject to sliding movements. This may be desirable for tennis and/or other sports activities where similar loads are expected.

As in 5A As shown, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are arranged substantially continuously. Furthermore, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 may be arranged substantially equidistant with respect to one another. However, it is also possible to arrange the one or more knitted functional elements 25 in one or more groups, wherein at least one of the one or more groups comprises one or more knitted functional elements 25 that are substantially discontinuous. Furthermore, any two of the knitted functional elements 25 may be provided with a distance other than a distance between two other knitted functional elements 25. Furthermore, a distance may be provided between the one or more groups. It is understood that no knitted functional elements 25 may be provided at such a distance (as in 5C , 5D and 5E shown).

In the embodiment of 5A High resistance yarns, as described elsewhere herein, are used to knit the knitted functional elements 25. This has the advantage that abrasion-resistant functional elements 25 can be provided, which can reduce the wear caused by the external environment. Non-exhaustive examples of useful sports applications of such a shoe upper 2 may be tennis, badminton, basketball, handball, fencing, or the like. In particular, sliding and/or pulling zones may be provided on the shoe upper 2, which guide the foot 1 (in 5F (shown) of a wearer without locking foot movement. Furthermore, the shoe upper 2 can be prevented from wearing out when in intensive contact with a court surface or an opponent during a sporting activity.

5B is an embodiment of a shoe upper 2 shown in three different perspectives. The 5B The shoe upper 2 shown may be particularly useful when used in sporting activities such as basketball and/or similar sporting activities where similar loads are expected.

The picture above in 5B shows the shoe upper 2 from a lateral side view 6. The image in the middle of 5B shows the shoe upper 2 from a top view. The picture below in 5B shows the shoe upper 2 from a medial side view 5. The embodiment of 5B is the one from 5A similar and only differences are described. As can be seen, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are arranged in a toe area 4, in a medial side area 5 and in a lateral side area 6. In comparison to 5A the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are arranged on both, ie the medial side region 5 and the lateral side region 6, almost up to the heel region 30 of the shoe upper 2. As shown in the picture in the middle of 5B As can be seen, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are substantially symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane arranged parallel to an axis from heel 30 to toe 4 of the shoe upper 2.

5C shows two different embodiments of a shoe upper 2. One embodiment is shown on the left side of 5C shown in two pictures and another embodiment is on the right side of 5C shown in two images. The upper image in each of the two embodiments shows the shoe upper 2 in a state of maximum expansion. The lower image in each of the two embodiments shows the shoe upper 2 in a state of maximum compression. This is indicated by the dashed lines in the lower image of each of the two embodiments, which resemble the shape of the shoe upper 2 before compression.

In each embodiment, the shoe upper 2 comprises an inner layer (not shown) comprising a knitted portion 20 (not shown) comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25. In each embodiment of 5C the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are shown arranged in a region at least from an instep region 7 to a sole region of the shoe upper 2. Furthermore, as in the embodiment on the right side of 5C As shown, the one or more functional elements 25 are arranged in a first group in a midfoot region of the shoe upper 2. In addition, the one or more functional elements 25 are arranged in a second group in a region from the heel 30 to a region near the Achilles tendon.

The first group and the second group, or generally any groups described herein, may, in combination, provide additional functional improvements. For example, the groups may form a network of one or more knitted functional elements 25 that work together to provide a desired effect and/or functionality. For example, the groups may be provided with an interaction line between the groups, which could help achieve additional functionality. For example, the interaction line could be provided with more stiffness or more elasticity. Thus, the groups in combination may contribute to greater functionality than the sum of each individual group alone.

As shown in the embodiment on the left side of 5C As shown, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are arranged at least in a region from an instep region 7 to a sole region of the shoe upper 2 (as in the embodiment on the right side of 5C ). As a result, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 can be distributed substantially over the midfoot region of the shoe upper 2. It is pointed out that with such an arrangement of the one or more knitted functional elements 25 in both embodiments of 5C a good balance can be found between two contradictory requirements: On the one hand, sufficient freedom of movement of the forefoot area in relation to the rearfoot area of the shoe upper 2 can be achieved. This also facilitates the torsional capability of the shoe upper 2. On the other hand, sufficient restriction of movement and/or stabilization of the midfoot area of the shoe upper 2 can be achieved.

In the embodiment of 5C elastic yarns, as described elsewhere herein described, is used to knit the knitted functional elements 25. This has the advantage that a firm, form-fitting shoe upper can be provided. This can be particularly useful when combined with a laceless construction. A further advantage is that the foot can be secured during dynamic movements. Non-exhaustive examples of useful sports applications of such a shoe upper 2 can be football, rugby, running, training, or the like. An additional advantage is that the shoe upper 2 can provide a compression fit and that it is suitable for sports activities that involve longer durations. 5D is an embodiment of a shoe upper 2 shown in three different perspectives. The image above in 5D shows the shoe upper 2 from a medial side view 5. The image in the middle of 5D shows the shoe upper 2 from a top view. The picture below in 5D shows the shoe upper 2 from a lateral side view 6.

The shoe upper 2 comprises an inner layer (not shown) comprising a knitted portion 20 (not shown) comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25. As can be seen, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 can be provided at different areas of the shoe upper 2. As can be seen in particular from the image in the middle of 5D can be derived, there are two groups of one or more knitted functional elements 25. One group of one or more knitted functional elements 25 is arranged in an instep region 7 of the shoe upper 2. Another group of one or more knitted functional elements 25 is arranged in a region near the Achilles tendon. The heel region 30 near a sole of the shoe upper 2 can be free of one or more knitted functional elements 25.

In the embodiment of 5D Bulky yarns, as described elsewhere herein, are used to knit the knitted functional elements 25. This has the advantage that the volume of the functional elements 25 can be increased. This can provide comfortable padding in the collar and U-neck area of the shoe upper 2. This can, for example, reduce lacing pressure. Non-exhaustive examples of useful sports applications for such a shoe upper 2 can be any type of court sport. Instead of using a full foam padding piece, the incorporation of bulky yarns can enable sweat absorption and faster drying, which reduces the additional weight of the shoe when saturated. This can be useful for any sport, such as tennis, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions (e.g., high temperature, humidity, or the like). Furthermore, the shoe upper 2 can have the advantage of being able to provide insulation for outdoor activities.

5E is an embodiment of a shoe upper 2 shown in three different perspectives. The image above in 5E shows the shoe upper 2 from a medial side view 5. The image in the middle of 5E shows the shoe upper 2 from a top view. The picture below in 5E shows the shoe upper 2 from a lateral side view 5. The embodiment of 5E is the one from 5D and only differences are described. As can be seen, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 in a tensioning area 7 are similar to the embodiment of 5D The one or more knitted functional elements 25 can be arranged in a first group, which is arranged in the instep region 7 of the shoe upper 2. This first group can have a pointed shape, viewed from a heel region 30 to a toe region 4 of the shoe upper 2. Furthermore, one or more knitted functional elements 25 can be arranged in a second group, which is arranged in an ankle region 3 of the shoe upper 2.

5F is an embodiment of a shoe upper 2 shown in perspective in the middle part on the right side. Furthermore, the lower image and the two upper images of 5F an arrangement of one or more functional elements 25 relative to a foot 1 of a wearer in three different perspectives. The shoe upper 2 comprises an inner layer (not shown) comprising a knitted portion 20 (not shown) comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25. As can be seen, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 are arranged in at least one overall side region of the shoe upper 2. Furthermore, the one or more knitted functional elements 25 enclose a sole region of the shoe upper 2, as in the lower image and the two upper images of 5F In the embodiment of 5F Fusible yarns, as described elsewhere herein, are used to knit the knitted functional elements 25. This has the advantage of using a fairly elastic yarn that exhibits reduced or almost no stretch. This provides stability, which is useful for many sports applications, for example, sports applications that include side cuts. The shoe upper 2 provides a secure fit for the foot 1. This improves stability, which is particularly useful for court sports as well as various which is useful for other sports applications such as fencing, wrestling and/or training.

In any of the embodiments described herein, the shoe upper 2 can be produced on a flat knitting machine or a circular knitting machine. A distinction can be made between flat knitting machines and circular knitting machines. In flat knitting machines, a thread guide guides the thread back and forth along a row of needles. In a circular knitting machine, the needles are arranged in a circle, and the thread is fed accordingly in a circular motion along one or more circular rows (also referred to herein as courses) of needles, which can be positioned on a cylinder.

The use of a small circular knitting machine has the advantage that the shoe upper 2 for a shoe can be largely or entirely produced directly with the correct size and shape, thus eliminating the need for any further cutting step. However, as described elsewhere herein, it is also possible to produce the shoe upper 2 on a flat knitting machine or a large circular knitting machine. If a large circular knitting machine is used, the shoe upper 2 can be cut out of a tubular textile after the textile has been produced by the machine.

It should be noted that small circular knitting machines can differ from large circular knitting machines in terms of their size, capacity, and/or the type of products they produce. A person skilled in the art can easily distinguish a small circular knitting machine from a large circular knitting machine.

Small circular knitting machines are typically compact and have a smaller diameter than large circular knitting machines. Such small circular knitting machines can be useful for producing tubular fabrics such as socks, gloves, hats, or the like. Large circular knitting machines can be larger and can be used to produce wide fabrics. In some examples, large circular knitting machines can have a larger number of needles. This facilitates the production of wider fabrics.

It should be noted that the inner layer 10 and/or the outer layer 30 may comprise a single-layer fabric or a double-layer fabric. The double-layer fabric can be achieved using a double-bed knitting machine. This machine has two needle beds, allowing two layers of fabric to be knitted simultaneously. The layers of the double-layer fabric can be joined together using specific stitch patterns, creating a stable and cohesive fabric without visible seams on either side. Such a double-layer fabric can be provided by flat knitting machines as well as by circular knitting machines. When the double-layer fabric is viewed from the side, the needles of the two rows of needles may, for example, be positioned opposite each other at a substantially right angle. This can enable the production of more elaborate structures or fabrics. The use of two rows of needles can enable the production of a single-layer or a double-layer knitted fabric.

In the embodiments described herein, the manufacture of the shoe upper 2 (in particular the manufacture of the shoe upper 2 after knitting the inner layer 10 (in 3 specified) and the outer layer 30) can be as follows: The outer layer 30 is placed over the inner layer 10. Alternatively, the inner layer 10 is inserted into the outer layer 30. Subsequently, both layers are joined at their respective free ends. Such joining can be carried out, for example, by joining, sewing, welding, or gluing. The outer layer 30 and the inner layer 10 can, after knitting, have the shape of an elongated hollow knitted structure, such as a cylinder. This allows them to comprise openings at their respective free ends, which are also closed by joining the free ends. The openings are preferably joined in a longitudinal direction at the bottom of the layers 10, 30, so that the seam joining the free ends can be completely concealed by a sole of the shoe. This means that the free ends can no longer be recognized as “free ends” by joining after joining.

6A shows an exemplary knitting sequence for producing a knitted portion 20 comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This knitting sequence is applicable to all other embodiments described herein and may be used in addition to or alternatively to any other knitting sequence described herein. 6A also shows the course direction C and the wale direction W, which is also 6B , 6C , 6D and 6E applies.

As generally described here, the one or more functional elements 25 may be formed by stitches 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, 22h (collectively referred to as 22a - 22h) that differ from the stitches 21a, 21b (by way of example only two of these in 6A indicated) of the remaining part of the knitted section 20. Preferably, the one or more functional elements 25 are formed by tuck stitches 22a - 22h.

The one or more functional elements 25 can be formed by tuck stitches 22a - 22h, which comprise at least one, preferably at least two, preferably at least three, preferably at least four, preferably at least five, preferably at least six, preferably at least seven, preferably at least eight stitch rows and/or at most 25, preferably at most 20, preferably at most 18, preferably at most 16, preferably at most 15 stitch rows. In 6A A first set 22, comprising 8 rows of tuck stitches 22a - 22h, and a second set 22', comprising 8 rows of tuck stitches 22a - 22h, are specified. The first set 22 and the second set 22', when combined, form a knitted functional element 25.

Increasing the number of rows of tuck stitches can increase the height of a functional element 25. Furthermore, the stiffness provided by the functional element 25 can also be increased. Furthermore, with a larger number of rows of tuck stitches, more material is collected. This is helpful for creating the shapes of the one or more functional elements 25 and thereby imparting functional properties.

The row of normal stitches 21b can reduce the load and/or tension on the knitting machine's needles. This can prevent the needles from breaking. Furthermore, it can relax the knitting structure. This is especially helpful between two sets 22, 22' of rows of tuck stitches. As shown in 1 However, as shown, this could also be used at the limit of a set 22, as in 6A indicated by the row of normal stitches 21a.

6B shows an exemplary knitting sequence for producing a knitted portion 20 comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. This knitting sequence is applicable to all other embodiments described herein and may be used in addition to or alternatively to any other knitting sequence described herein.

According to the knitting sequence of 6B a functional element 25 comprises four sets 22, 22', 22'', 22''', each comprising four rows of tuck stitches 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, which are indicated. Each of the four sets 22, 22', 22'', 22''' is separated from an adjacent set by a row of normal stitches 21b, 21c, 21d. The same advantages as in 6A set out in relation to the row of normal stitches 21b, apply to the row of normal stitches 21b, 21c, 21d in 6B .

This knitting sequence provides an increased width of the functional element 25 by providing multiple sets of rows of tuck stitches. This creates an increased surface area of the functional element 25. This allows the upper surface of the functional element 25 to be made wider. This, in turn, can increase the width of the functional element 25. This could, for example, be made wider than 1 cm and as described elsewhere herein.

6C shows an exemplary knitting sequence for producing a knitted portion 20 comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. This knitting sequence is applicable to all other embodiments described herein and may be used in addition to or alternatively to any other knitting sequence described herein.

According to the knitting sequence of 6C The functional element 25 comprises two sets 22, 22', each comprising four rows of tuck stitches 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d. Each of the two sets 22, 22' is separated from an adjacent set 22, 22' by a row of normal stitches 21b. The same advantages as in 6A with respect to the row of normal stitches 21b, the following apply to the row of normal stitches 21b in 6D .

In 6C the placement of the stitch row of the tuck stitches of the first set 22 and the second set 22' relative to each other has been changed to achieve a special visual effect. In particular, small discrete sections of functional elements 25 are provided in the stitch row direction C. These discrete sections of the functional elements 25 are separated by a gap (indicated by the letter "g" in 6C shown) and/or an interruption in the wale direction W.

This can contribute to the overall appearance of the functional element 25. This allows various visual effects can be achieved by the functional element 25.

6D shows an exemplary knitting sequence for producing a knitted portion 20 comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. This knitting sequence is applicable to all other embodiments described herein and may be used in addition to or alternatively to any other knitting sequence described herein.

According to the knitting sequence of 6D The functional element 25 comprises two sets 22, 22', each comprising four rows of tuck stitches 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d. Each of the two sets 22, 22' is separated from an adjacent set 22, 22' by a row of normal stitches 21b. The same advantages as in 6A with respect to the course of normal stitches 21b, the following apply to the course of normal stitches 21b in 6D .

Each of the two sets 22, 22' extends across the entire width of the fabric. This can represent a long, uninterrupted functional element 25. In other words, the functional element 25 extends over the entire length of a stitch row of the knitted section 20.

6E shows an exemplary knitting sequence for producing a knitted portion 20 comprising one or more knitted functional elements 25 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. This knitting sequence is applicable to all other embodiments described herein and may be used in addition to or alternatively to any other knitting sequence described herein.

According to the knitting sequence of 6E The functional element 25 comprises several sections. Each section comprises two sets 22, 22', each comprising four courses of tuck stitches 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d (for the sake of clarity only, the courses of tuck stitches are not provided with reference numerals, but will be apparent to a person skilled in the art upon viewing any of the preceding figures). Each of the two sets 22, 22' of each section is separated from an adjacent set 22, 22' by a course of normal stitches 21b. The same advantages as in 6A with respect to the row of normal stitches 21a, the following apply to the row of normal stitches 21b in 6D .

The multiple sections are arranged in a staggered manner. This allows for the functional properties to be tailored to the desired needs of the shoe's intended use case.

Although the description of the 6A until 6E partially refers to a functional element 25, the same features and advantages apply to any of the remaining one or more functional elements 25.

In any of the embodiments described herein, the one or more functional elements 25 may comprise one or more of an elastic yarn, a fusible yarn, particularly a low melt temperature fusible yarn, a polyester yarn, a bulky yarn, a silicone yarn. Some other exemplary types of yarns consistent with the present disclosure that may be used for the inner layer 10, the knitted portion 20, the one or more functional elements 25, the outer layer 30, and/or the further portion 40 of the inner layer 10 are the following: fusible yarn, particularly low melt temperature fusible yarn, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) yarn, reflective yarn, water-resistant/repellent yarn, waterproof yarn, high-strength yarn, abrasion-resistant yarn, durable yarn, shrink-resistant yarn, recycled yarn, natural fiber yarn (e.g., wool and cotton), hybrid yarn, antimicrobial (antibacterial) yarn such as copper, zinc, silver, elastic yarn, UV-resistant yarn, bio-based yarn, textured yarn, cellulosic yarn, regenerated yarn such as cupro and modal yarns, which are high-strength cellulosic fiber yarns, and/or a monofilament yarn.

The yarns according to the present disclosure may comprise natural fibers, synthetic fibers, and/or blends. The yarn may be spun from natural fibers such as cotton, wool, silk, linen, hemp, and jute. Each type of natural fiber can impart its own unique properties to the yarn, resulting in fabrics with different textures, softness, warmth, and breathability. The yarn may also be made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and rayon. These fibers can be produced using chemical processes and can provide specific properties such as durability, moisture absorption capabilities, and colorfastness. The yarn may be made from a blend of different fibers that combine the desirable properties of each material. For example, a yarn could be a blend of cotton and polyester to provide both softness and strength. The yarns according to the present disclosure have various thicknesses and/or weights, often categorized by the number of layers (strands) and the thickness of the individual fibers or filaments. The weight of the yarn can affect the drape, density, and appearance of the resulting fabric.

It should be noted that the above embodiments and/or examples may be combined with other aspects as described herein, and details of the embodiments and/or examples may also be omitted, as understood by those skilled in the art. The scope of protection is determined by the claims and is not limited by the embodiments and/or examples disclosed in the above figures.

6. List of reference symbols used

1

Foot of a carrier

2

Shoe upper

3

Ankle area of the shoe upper

4

Toe area of the shoe upper

5

medial side area of the shoe upper

6

lateral side area of the shoe upper

7

Instep area of the shoe upper

8

Midfoot area of the shoe upper

9

Sole area of the shoe upper

10

inner layer

20

knitted section of the inner layer

21a, 21b

Row of normal stitches

22, 22'

Set of catch stitches

22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, 22h

Row of shed stitches

25

knitted functional element

30

Outer layer

31

Foil/foil-like surface

40

further section of the inner layer

α

Angle between two functional elements

X

first direction

Y

second direction

C

Stitch course direction

W

wale direction

G

Gap in wale direction

QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

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Claims (32)

A shoe upper (2) for a shoe, the shoe upper (2) comprising: an inner layer (10) disposed proximate a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn; an outer layer (30) disposed externally with respect to the inner layer (10) when the shoe is worn; wherein the inner layer (10) comprises a knitted portion (20) comprising one or more knitted functional elements (25), wherein the outer layer (30) at least partially covers the one or more knitted functional elements (25). Shoe upper (2) after Claim 1 , wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are one or more elongated functional elements (25). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) define one or more projections. Shoe upper (2) after Claim 3 , wherein the one or more projections extend from the inner layer (10) by at least 0.2 mm, preferably at least 0.4 mm, preferably at least 0.6 mm, preferably at least 0.8 mm, preferably at least 1 mm, preferably at least 1.2 mm, preferably at least 1.4 mm, preferably at least 1.6 mm, preferably at least 1.8 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, and/or by at most 8 mm, preferably at most 6 mm, preferably at most 5 mm, preferably at most 4 mm, preferably at most 3 mm, preferably at most 2.8 mm, preferably at most 2.5 mm. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the Claims 3 or 4 wherein the one or more projections are in the form of at least one of a rib, a ridge, a slat, or a fin. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are arranged on a side of the inner layer (10) which faces away from a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn, so that the one or more functional elements (25) are arranged substantially between the inner layer (10) and the outer layer (30). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are arranged on a side of the inner layer (10) which faces a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) define the shape of a fan on at least one of a lateral side region (6) and a medial side region (5) of the shoe upper (2). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the one or more functional elements (25) is arranged at an angle (α) with respect to an adjacent functional element (25). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the knitted portion (20) is located in a midfoot region of the shoe upper (2), in particular a region extending from an instep region (7) to a sole region (9) of the shoe upper (2). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the one or more functional elements (25) has an elongated axis which is directed substantially from an instep region (7) to a medial side region (5) and/or lateral side region (6) of the shoe upper (2). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are spaced apart from one another by at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, preferably at least 3 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, preferably at least 10 mm, and/or by at most 50 mm, preferably at most 40 mm, preferably at most 30 mm, preferably at most 25 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, preferably at most 18 mm, preferably at most 15 mm. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner layer (10) comprises a further section (40), preferably a further knitted section (40), wherein the further section (40) does not comprise a functional element (25), wherein the knitted section (20) and the further section (40) preferably enclose the entire inner layer (10). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are configured that the shoe upper (2) can be stretched in a first direction (X). Shoe upper (2) after Claim 14 , wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are configured such that the shoe upper (2) can be stretched in the first direction (X) up to a threshold value, beyond which the one or more functional elements (25) are configured such that they counteract further stretching of the stretched shoe upper (2) in the first direction (X). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the Claims 14 or 15 , wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are configured such that the shoe upper (2) can be stretched in a second direction (Y) which is different from the first direction (X) by an amount which is less than a stretching in the first direction (X) up to the threshold value, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are preferably configured such that they counteract a stretching of the shoe upper (2) in the second direction (Y). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the Claims 14 until 16 , wherein the first direction (X) is substantially parallel to the direction (C) of a stitch row of the knitted portion (20), wherein the second direction (Y) is preferably substantially parallel to the direction (W) of a stitch wale of the knitted portion (20). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are configured to at least partially bulge the outer layer (30). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) extend over the entire length of a stitch row of the knitted portion (20), wherein the stitch row is preferably arranged such that it runs through an instep region (7) and a medial side region (5) and/or lateral side region (6) in the vicinity of a sole region (9) of the shoe upper (2). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) comprise one or more sections, wherein each section extends over a length of a stitch row of the knitted portion (20) of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, and/or of at most 80%, preferably at most 70%, preferably at most 60% of the total length of the stitch row of the knitted portion (20), wherein the stitch row of the knitted portion (20) is preferably arranged such that it runs through an instep region (7) and a medial side region (5) and/or lateral side region (6) in the vicinity of a sole region (9) of the shoe upper (2). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are knitted in one piece with the knitted section (20). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are formed by stitches (22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, 22h) which differ from the stitches (21a, 21b, 21c, 21d) of the remaining part of the knitted section (20), wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are preferably formed by tuck stitches (22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, 22h). Shoe upper (2) after Claim 22 , wherein the one or more functional elements (25) are formed by tuck stitches (22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, 22h) which comprise at least 1, preferably at least 2, preferably at least 3, preferably at least 4, preferably at least 5, preferably at least 6, preferably at least 7, preferably at least 8 rows of stitches (21a-d, 22a-h), and/or at most 25, preferably at most 20, preferably at most 18, preferably at most 16, preferably at most 15 rows of stitches (21a-d, 22a-h). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) comprise one or more of an elastic yarn, a fusible yarn, in particular a fusible yarn with a low melting temperature, a polyester yarn, a bulky yarn, a silicone yarn, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) preferably consist of one or more of an elastic yarn, a fusible yarn, in particular a fusible yarn with a low melting temperature, a polyester yarn, a bulky yarn, a silicone yarn. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer layer covers substantially all of the one or more functional elements (25) of the knitted portion (20), wherein the outer layer (30) preferably covers the inner layer (10). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer layer (30) comprises one or more of a polyester yarn, a blended yarn, a fusible yarn, in particular a fusible yarn with a low melting temperature, a monofilament yarn. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer layer (30) does not comprise a functional element (25). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner layer (10) and the outer layer (30) are seamlessly connected to one another, preferably at a foot receiving opening of the shoe upper (2). Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner layer (10) and the outer layer (30) form a two-layer arrangement. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shoe upper (2) is produced on a flat knitting machine or on a circular knitting machine, preferably on a circular knitting machine. Shoe upper (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more functional elements (25) each define a substantially closed shape. Shoe, in particular sports shoe, the shoe comprising: a shoe upper (2) according to one of the Claims 1 until 31 ; and a sole attached to the shoe upper (2).

Images