HK40002758B

HK40002758B - Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with inlaid tensile elements and method of assembly

Info

Publication number: HK40002758B
Application number: HK19126333.4A
Authority: HK
Inventors: 阿德里安·梅厄
Original assignee: 耐克创新有限合伙公司
Priority date: 2014-09-30
Filing date: 2017-05-10
Publication date: 2022-09-09

Description

Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with inlaid tensile elements and method of assembly

This application is a divisional application filed on application No. 201510242711.4 entitled "article of footwear including a knitted component with inlaid tensile elements and method of assembly" filed on day 2015, 5, 13.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to an article of footwear, and in particular to an article of footwear incorporating a knitted component.

Background

Conventional articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper is secured to the sole structure and forms a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower area of the upper so as to be positioned between the upper and the ground. For example, in athletic footwear, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole often includes a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces to reduce stresses on the foot and leg during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. In addition, the midsole may include fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot. The outsole is secured to a lower surface of the midsole and provides a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure that is formed of a durable and wear-resistant material, such as rubber. The sole structure may also include a sockliner positioned within the void and proximate a lower surface of the foot to enhance footwear comfort.

The upper extends generally over instep and toe areas of the foot, along medial and lateral sides of the foot, under the foot, and around a heel area of the foot. In some articles of footwear, such as basketball footwear and boots, the upper may extend upward and around the ankle to provide support or protection to the ankle. Access to the void on the interior of the upper is typically provided by an ankle opening in the heel region of the footwear.

A variety of material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are conventionally utilized in manufacturing the upper. For example, in athletic footwear, the upper may have multiple layers that each include various joined material elements. By way of example, the material elements may be selected to impart stretch-resistance, wear-resistance, flexibility, air-permeability, compressibility, comfort, and moisture-absorption to various areas of the upper. To impart different properties to different areas of the upper, the material elements are often cut to the desired shape and then joined together, typically using stitching or an adhesive bond. In addition, material elements are often joined in layered configurations to impart multiple properties to the same region. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, the time and expense associated with transporting, stocking, cutting, and joining the material elements may also increase. Waste materials from the cutting and stitching processes also accumulate to a greater degree as the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases. In addition, uppers with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than uppers formed from fewer types and numbers of material elements. Accordingly, by reducing the number of material elements used for the upper, waste may be reduced while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, a knitted component is formed of unitary knit construction, wherein the knitted component includes a plurality of webbed areas (a plurality of webbed areas) including a plurality of courses formed from a first yarn. The mesh region is configured to move between a neutral position (neutral position) and an extended position. The webbed area is biased to move toward the neutral position and stretch toward the extended position in response to a force applied to the webbed area. The knitted component also includes a plurality of tubular rib structures adjacent the mesh region. The tubular rib structure includes a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn. The plurality of tubular rib structures include two coextensive overlapping knit layers and a central region that is substantially unsecured to form a hollow between the two knit layers.

In some embodiments, the knitted component is associated with a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction; wherein the plurality of mesh regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures extend along the longitudinal direction, wherein the plurality of mesh regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures are spaced apart in the transverse direction, and wherein the knitted component is configured to stretch in the transverse direction between a neutral position and a stretched position, the knitted component being biased toward the neutral position.

In some embodiments, the plurality of webbed areas and the plurality of tubular rib structures are arranged in an alternating manner throughout a majority of the knitted component.

In some embodiments, the knitted component further includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion include at least one common mesh region, and wherein a number of courses of the at least one mesh region forming the first portion is less than a number of courses of the at least one mesh region forming the second portion.

In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of tubular rib structures includes a tensile element disposed within the hollow between the two knit layers in the central unsecured region.

In some embodiments, the knitted component further comprises: the plurality of mesh regions including at least a first mesh region and a second mesh region; the plurality of tubular rib structures including at least a first tubular rib structure and a second tubular rib structure; wherein the first tubular rib structure comprises a first curved portion and a second curved portion, wherein the first curved portion and the second curved portion are connected along a first edge and the first curved portion and the second curved portion are connected along a second edge; wherein the first reticulated region is adjacent to the first edge of the first tubular rib structure; wherein the second reticulated region is adjacent to the second edge of the first tubular rib structure; wherein the second tubular rib structure comprises a third curved portion and a fourth curved portion, wherein the third curved portion and the fourth curved portion are connected along a third edge and the third curved portion and the fourth curved portion are connected along a fourth edge; and wherein the second reticulated region is adjacent to the third edge of the second tubular rib structure.

In some embodiments, the plurality of mesh areas includes one of a front side plain weave pattern and a back side plain weave pattern.

In another aspect, an article of footwear is disclosed that includes a sole and an upper attached to the sole. The upper includes a knitted component formed of unitary knit construction. The knitted component includes a plurality of mesh regions and a plurality of tubular rib structures. The plurality of webbed areas includes a plurality of courses formed from a first yarn. The tubular rib structure includes a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn. The tubular rib structure is disposed adjacent the mesh region. The plurality of tubular rib structures include two coextensive overlapping knit layers and a central region that is substantially unsecured to form a hollow between the two knit layers. The webbed area is configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position. The webbed area is biased to move toward the neutral position. The reticulated region is configured to stretch from a neutral position to an extended position in response to a force applied to the reticulated region.

In some embodiments, the first yarn and the second yarn are different; and wherein at least one course of one of the plurality of reticulated regions formed using the first yarn is connected to at least one course of one of the plurality of tubular rib structures formed using the second yarn.

In some embodiments, the upper further includes a vamp region and a medial side, wherein the plurality of mesh regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures arranged along the vamp region are aligned along a first direction and the plurality of mesh regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures arranged along the medial side are aligned along a second direction different from the first direction.

In some embodiments, the upper further includes a heel region, and the plurality of webbed areas and the plurality of tubular rib structures arranged along the heel region are aligned along a third direction that is different from the first direction and the second direction.

In some embodiments, the knitted component further includes a throat portion, a throat opening, a lower region, a first end, and a second end; wherein the plurality of mesh regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures of the lower region extend from the first end of the knitted component to the second end of the knitted component; and wherein the plurality of webbed areas and the plurality of tubular rib structures of the throat portion extend from the first end of the knitted component to an area along the throat opening of the knitted component.

In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of tubular rib structures of the lower region includes a tensile element disposed within the hollow between the two knit layers in the central unsecured region.

In some embodiments, the plurality of mesh regions includes a first mesh region and a second mesh region; wherein the first mesh region has a first width and the second mesh region has a second width, the first width being less than the second width.

In another aspect, a method of manufacturing a knitted component formed of unitary knit construction is disclosed. The method includes knitting a first plurality of courses to define a first webbed area of the knitted component. The knitted component is associated with a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. The first reticulated region is configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position. The first reticulated region is biased toward the neutral position. The first reticulated region is configured to stretch in a transverse direction toward an extended position of the first reticulated region in response to a force applied to the first reticulated region. The method of knitting the first plurality of courses includes extending the first plurality of courses along a longitudinal direction of the knitted component. The method also includes knitting a second plurality of courses to define a first tubular rib structure of the knitted component. At least one of the first plurality of courses is connected to at least one of the second plurality of courses to form a first mesh region and a first tubular structure of unitary knit construction. The method of knitting the second plurality of courses includes extending the second plurality of courses along a longitudinal direction of the knitted component.

In some embodiments, the step of knitting the second plurality of courses to define the first tubular rib structure further comprises: knitting two co-extending and overlapping knit layers; and providing a central region of said first tubular rib structure substantially unsecured to form a hollow between said two knit layers.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of embedding a tensile element within the hollow of the central region of the first tubular rib structure.

In some embodiments, knitting the first mesh region includes knitting the first mesh region using a first yarn; and wherein knitting the first tubular rib structure comprises knitting the first tubular structure using a second yarn, the second yarn being different from the first yarn.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises knitting a second mesh region, wherein the second mesh region is substantially similar to the first mesh region; and knitting a second tubular rib structure, wherein the second tubular rib structure is substantially similar to the first tubular rib structure; wherein the first tubular rib structure is disposed adjacent the first reticulated region in the transverse direction, the first reticulated region is disposed between the first tubular rib structure and the second tubular rib structure in the transverse direction, and the second tubular rib structure is disposed adjacent the second reticulated region in the transverse direction; and wherein the first mesh region, the first tubular rib structure, the second mesh region, and the second tubular rib structure are formed of unitary knit construction.

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

Drawings

The disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a knitted component, with the knitted component shown in a first position;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the knitted component of FIG. 1 shown in a second position;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a knitted component, with the knitted component shown in solid lines in a first position and the knitted component shown in phantom lines in a second position;

FIG. 4 is a cross-section of an embodiment of a knitted component taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a cross-section of an embodiment of a knitted component taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a cross section of an embodiment of a knitted component including a tensile element;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a knitted component including a tensile element;

FIG. 8 is a detailed view of an embodiment of a knitted component;

FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a knitting machine configured to manufacture a knitted component;

FIG. 10A is a schematic knit diagram of an embodiment of the knitted component in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10B is a schematic knit diagram of an embodiment of the knitted component in FIG. 1 including inlaid tensile elements;

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a method of making an embodiment of a knitted component, showing mesh regions being formed;

figure 12 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a method of making an embodiment of a knitted component, showing a tubular structure being formed;

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a method of making an embodiment of a knitted component in which a mesh region and a tubular rib structure have been added;

figure 14 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including a tensile element, in which a tubular structure is being formed;

fig. 15 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including a tensile element, in which a tubular structure is being formed and a cable is being incorporated into the tubular structure;

figure 16 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including a tensile element, in which a tubular structure is being formed;

figure 17 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including a tensile element in which tubular rib structures and mesh regions have been added;

FIG. 18 is an embodiment of a knitted component in a first position;

FIG. 19 is an embodiment of a knitted component in a second position;

FIG. 20 is a top view of an embodiment of an upper for an article of footwear including a knitted component;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a method of assembling an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a method of assembling an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a method of assembling an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a method of assembling an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component;

FIG. 25 is a lateral side isometric view of an article of footwear including an embodiment of a knitted component;

FIG. 26 is a medial side view of an article of footwear including an embodiment of a knitted component; and

FIG. 27 is a rear view of an article of footwear including an embodiment of a knitted component;

Detailed Description

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various concepts related to a knitted component and the manufacture of a knitted component. Although the knitted components may be used in a variety of products, an article of footwear incorporating one of the knitted components is disclosed below as an example. In addition to footwear, the knitted component may be used with other types of apparel (e.g., shirts, pants, socks, jackets, undergarments), athletic equipment (e.g., golf bags, baseball and football gloves, soccer ball restraint structures), containers (e.g., backpacks, bags), and seat covers for furniture (e.g., chairs, ottomans, car seats). Knitted components may also be used in bed coverings (e.g., sheets, blankets), table coverings, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. The knitted component may be used as technical fabrics for industrial purposes (including structures for automotive and aerospace applications), filtration materials, medical fabrics (e.g., bandages, swabs, implants), geotextiles for reinforcing embankments, agrotextiles for crop protection, and industrial apparel that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. Accordingly, the knitted components and other concepts disclosed herein may be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes.

Fig. 1 shows a knitted component 100 illustrated in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be provided with different structural portions that affect the properties and/or physical characteristics of knitted component 100. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of knitted component 100 may include a rib structure that provides strength and/or support to the knitted component. In some cases, the rib structure may be a hollow tube formed in knitted component 100 from coextensive and overlapping knit layers that are closed to form the tube. In other cases, the rib structure may include additional components disposed within the tube, as will be described in more detail below.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of knitted component 100 extending between the rib structures may be flexible, elastic, and resilient. More specifically, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 may resiliently stretch, deform, compress, bend, or otherwise move between a first position and a second position. Furthermore, knitted component 100 may be compressible and, in some embodiments, may return from a compressed state to a neutral position.

Figure 1 illustrates a first position of an embodiment of knitted component 100, and figure 2 illustrates a second position of the embodiment of knitted component 100. For purposes of clarity, fig. 3 shows knitted component 100 in two positions, with a first position shown in solid lines and a second position shown in phantom. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be biased to move toward the first position. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a force may be applied to knitted component 100 to move knitted component 100 to the second position. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may resiliently return and return to the first position when released. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be subjected to loads and, as a result, may compress or stretch. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may return to the first position in fig. 1 once the compressive load is reduced.

The resiliency and elasticity of knitted component 100 may provide benefits. For example, knitted component 100 may resiliently deform under load, providing cushioning against the load. Accordingly, once the load is reduced, knitted component 100 may return to its original position and may continue to provide cushioning, structural reinforcement, and support. Furthermore, the elasticity of knitted component 100 in portions between adjacent rib structures may allow the rib structures to be arranged in various directions on knitted component 100 by adjusting the degree or amount of stretch, as will be further described below.

In an exemplary embodiment, knitted component 100 may include a plurality of rib structures disposed on various portions of knitted component 100. These rib structures are configured as non-planar areas that may be arranged such that knitted component 100 has an undulating, wavy, or otherwise uneven appearance. In some embodiments, as knitted component 100 moves from the first position shown in fig. 1 toward the second position shown in fig. 2, knitted component 100 may become relatively flat in the second position. In one embodiment, the undulations of knitted component 100 may increase when moving back to the first position. In some embodiments, the undulations of knitted component 100 may increase the range of motion and stretchability of knitted component 100. Accordingly, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 may provide a high degree of damping or cushioning.

Referring now to fig. 1-7, knitted component 100 is depicted as being separated from an article of footwear. In some embodiments, a knitted component (e.g., knitted component 100) according to the present disclosure may be incorporated into an upper of an article of footwear. In an exemplary embodiment, the knitted component may form a majority of an upper of the article of footwear.

In various embodiments, knitted component 100 is formed of unitary knit construction. As used herein and in the claims, a knitted component (e.g., knitted component 100 or other knitted components described herein) is defined as being formed of a "unitary knit construction" when formed as a one-piece element by a knitting process. That is, the knitting process generally forms the various features and structures of knitted component 100 without requiring additional significant manufacturing steps or processes. Unitary knit constructions may be used to form knitted components having structures or elements that include one or more courses of yarn or other knit material connected such that the structures or elements include at least one common course (i.e., share a common yarn) and/or include substantially continuous courses between each of the structures or elements. With this arrangement, a one-piece element of unitary woven construction is provided.

Although portions of knitted component 100 may be joined to one another after the knitting process (e.g., edges of knitted component 100 joined together), knitted component 100 remains formed of unitary knit construction because it is formed as a one-piece knit element. In addition, knitted component 100 remains formed of unitary knit construction as other elements (e.g., laces, logos, trademarks, placards with instructions for use and material information, structural elements) are added after the knitting process.

In various embodiments, any suitable knitting process may be utilized to produce knitted component 100 formed of unitary knit construction, including, but not limited to, warp knitting processes or weft knitting processes, including flat knitting processes or circular knitting processes, or any other knitting process suitable for providing a knitted component. Examples of various configurations of knitted components and methods for forming knitted component 100 having unitary knit construction are disclosed in U.S. patent nos. 6,931,762 to Dua; and Dua et al, U.S. patent No. 7,347,011, the disclosures of each being incorporated by reference in their entirety. As will be described in greater detail, in an exemplary embodiment, a flat knitting process may be used to form knitted component 100.

For reference purposes, knitted component 100 is illustrated in fig. 1-7 with respect to a cartesian coordinate system. Specifically, a longitudinal direction 102, a transverse direction 104, and a thickness direction 106 of knitted component 100 are shown. However, knitted component 100 may be illustrated with respect to a radial coordinate system or other coordinate system.

As shown in fig. 1-3, some embodiments of knitted component 100 may include a front surface 108 and a back surface 110. Moreover, in various embodiments, knitted component 100 may include peripheral edge 114. Peripheral edge 114 may define a boundary of knitted component 100. In one embodiment, knitted component 100 may have a thickness visible along peripheral edge 114 that extends in thickness direction 106 between front surface 108 and back surface 110. In some embodiments, peripheral edge 114 of knitted component 100 may extend around the periphery of knitted component 100 and may be further subdivided into any number of sides depending on the configuration of the knitted component. For example, in one embodiment of knitted component 100, peripheral edge 114 may include four sides that define an approximately rectangular shape of knitted component 100 as shown in fig. 1-3.

More specifically, in some embodiments, as shown in fig. 1-3, peripheral edge 114 of knitted component 100 may be subdivided into a first edge 116, a second edge 118, a third edge 120, and a fourth edge 122. The first edge 116 and the second edge 118 may be spaced apart in the longitudinal direction 102. The third edge 120 and the fourth edge 122 may be spaced apart in the lateral direction 104. A third edge 120 may extend between the first edge 116 and the second edge 118, and a fourth edge 122 may also extend between the first edge 116 and the second edge 118. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be substantially rectangular. However, it should be understood that knitted component 100 may define any shape, including regular shapes and irregular (non-geometric) shapes, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In various embodiments, front surface 108 and/or rear surface 110 of knitted component 100 may be undulating, wavy, raised, undulating, corrugated, or otherwise uneven and non-planar. Any undulations may be intermittent or continuous. It should also be understood that in some embodiments, knitted component 100 may include a range of non-planar features or configurations. For example, knitted component 100 may include ribs, channels, peaks and valleys, undulations, steps, raised ridges and recessed channels, or other non-planar features formed by the knitted structure of knitted component 100. Such features may extend through knitted component 100 in any direction where they occur. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may include a plurality of tubular rib structures 126 and a plurality of webbed areas 128. For purposes of this description, the tubular rib structure 126 and the webbed areas 128 will be collectively referred to as "rib features".

In general, tubular rib structure 126 may be an area of knitted component 100 that is comprised of two or more coextensive and overlapping knit layers. The knit layer may be a portion of knitted component 100 formed by knitting a material, such as a wire, yarn, or cord. The two or more braided layers may be formed of unitary braided construction in a manner such that tubes or channels identified as tubular rib structures 126 are formed in braided component 100. While the sides or edges of the knit layers forming tubular rib structure 126 may be secured to other layers, the central region is generally unsecured to form a hollow between the two layers of knit material forming each knit layer. In some embodiments, a central region of tubular rib structure 126 may be configured such that another element (e.g., a tensile element) may be positioned between the two knit layers forming tubular rib structure 126 and through a hollow between the two knit layers forming tubular rib structure 126.

Knitted component 100 may include any suitable number of tubular rib structures 126. In some embodiments, two or more tubular rib structures 126 of knitted component 100 may have similar shapes and sizes to each other. In other embodiments, the shape and size of tubular rib structures 126 may vary throughout knitted component 100. In some implementations, the tubular rib structure 126 may be generally shaped as a cylinder. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular rib structure 126 may have an elongated cylindrical shape with a wider top portion associated with the front surface 108 and a narrower lower portion associated with the rear surface 110. In other embodiments, the tubular rib structure 126 may be shaped as a substantially circular or elliptical cylinder. The knitted component may include tubular rib structures 126 of different shapes.

Generally, webbed area 128 may be a connection between various elements and/or components of knitted component 100. Webbed area 128 is formed of unitary knit construction with the remainder of knitted component 100 and may be used to join the various portions together as a one-piece knit element. Knitted component 100 may include any suitable number of mesh regions 128. In various embodiments, webbed area 128 may be an area of knitted component 100 that includes one knit layer. In some embodiments, webbed area 128 may extend between one portion of knitted component and another portion of knitted component 100. In one embodiment, the reticulated region 128 may extend between one tubular rib structure and another tubular rib structure. In various embodiments, webbed area 128 may extend between one tubular rib structure and another portion of knitted component 100. In another embodiment, webbed area 128 may extend between one tubular rib structure and an edge of knitted component 100.

In some embodiments, the reticulated regions 128 may be disposed in an alternating manner between two or more tubular rib structures 126. In an exemplary embodiment, the webbed area 128 may extend between and connect two or more adjacent tubular rib structures 126. With this configuration, webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 are formed of unitary knit construction with knitted component 100.

Further, as shown in fig. 4 and 5, knitted component 100 may have a knit layer thickness 400 measured from some areas of front surface 108 to back surface 110. In some embodiments, knit layer thickness 400 may be substantially constant throughout knitted component 100. In other embodiments, braid thickness 400 may vary as some portions are thicker than others. It should be understood that in some embodiments, braid thickness 400 may be selected and controlled according to the diameter of the yarn used. In another embodiment, knit layer thickness 400 may also be controlled according to the denier of the yarn. Moreover, in other embodiments, knit layer thickness 400 may be controlled according to the stitch density within knitted component 100.

As mentioned, knitted component 100 may be resiliently flexible, compressible, and stretchable. As knitted component 100 stretches, webbed areas 128 and/or tubular rib structures 126 may bend, deform, or otherwise move. For example, in the first position of fig. 1 and 4, the reticulated region 128 may remain relatively compressed and compacted. In the second position of fig. 2 and 5, the webbed area 128 may be relatively more extended and stretched. In addition, stretching of webbed area 128 may result in stretching and flattening of knitted component 100. Further, in some embodiments, the tubular rib structures 126 may be compressed or extended.

In some embodiments, the first position of knitted component 100 shown in fig. 1 and 4 may also be referred to as an unstretched or neutral position. The second position represented in the embodiments of fig. 2 and 5 may also be referred to as a stretched or extended position.

If knitted component 100 is stretched to the second position, the resiliency and elasticity of knitted component 100 may allow knitted component 100 to recover and move back to the first position shown in figures 1 and 4 once the stretching force is removed. In other words, knitted component 100 may be biased toward the first position.

As shown in figure 3, in some embodiments, movement of knitted component 100 from a first position to a second position may cause knitted component 100 to stretch and elongate in lateral direction 104. More specifically, as shown in fig. 3, knitted component 100 may have a first width 300 measured along lateral direction 104 from third edge 120 to fourth edge 122 in a first position. In contrast, as shown in fig. 4, knitted component 100 may have a second width 302 that is longer than first width 300. It should be understood that knitted component 100 may have different widths as knitted component 100 is stretched. In some cases, first width 300 and/or second width 302 may each vary depending, in part, on the material comprising knitted component 100 and the amount of force applied.

As seen in fig. 3, knitted component 100 may also have an overall length 304 measured along longitudinal direction 102 between first edge 116 and second edge 118. In some implementations, the length 304 may remain substantially constant. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may exhibit some stretchability in longitudinal direction 102 such that length 304 is variable. In one embodiment, the reticulated regions 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 may be stretched in the longitudinal direction 102. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may stretch in response to a force along longitudinal direction 102 such that length 304 increases. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may exhibit a significantly higher degree of stretchability in lateral direction 104 than in longitudinal direction 102.

Additionally, knitted component 100 may have a body thickness that varies as knitted component 100 moves. Body thickness refers to the height of tubular rib structures 126 in thickness direction 106 in knitted component 100. For example, in some embodiments, the body thickness may change as the knitted component 100 stretches and compresses due to the change in curvature of the tubular rib structures 126. Specifically, as shown in fig. 3, knitted component 100 has a first body thickness 306 in a first position depicted in solid lines, and knitted component 100 has a second body thickness 308 in a second position depicted in dashed lines. In fig. 3, the first body thickness 306 is greater than the second body thickness 308.

In addition, different regions of knitted component 100 may have different body thicknesses. In various embodiments, a portion of knitted component 100 may have a greater body thickness than another portion of knitted component 100. In another embodiment, some of the tubular rib structures of knitted component 100 may experience greater stretch and have a body thickness that is less than the body thickness of other tubular rib structures in knitted component 100.

The webbed area 128 and the tubular rib structure 126 of knitted component 100 will now be discussed in greater detail. In some embodiments, the reticulated region 128 may be elongate and substantially straight, as shown in fig. 1-3. More specifically, the webbed areas 128 may extend longitudinally along respective web axes 130 (one of which is shown in fig. 1, as an example). The reticulated region 128 may include a first longitudinal end 134 and a second longitudinal end 136, as shown in fig. 2. Similarly, the tubular rib structures 126 may extend longitudinally along respective tube axes 132 (one of which is shown in fig. 1, as an example). The tubular rib structure 126 may include a first longitudinal end 138 and a second longitudinal end 140, as shown in fig. 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the mesh axis 130 and the tube axis 132 may be substantially straight and parallel to the longitudinal direction 102. In other embodiments, the mesh axis 130 and/or the tube axis 132 may be curved relative to the longitudinal direction 102. Also, in some embodiments, the reticulated regions 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 may not be parallel with respect to one another. In one embodiment, the tubular rib structure 126 may exhibit a greater curvature than the webbed area 128. In another embodiment, the reticulated region 128 may exhibit a greater curvature than the tubular rib structure 126.

Further, in some embodiments, as shown in fig. 2, the first longitudinal end 134 of the mesh region 128 may be disposed proximate to the first edge 116 of the knitted component 100 and the second longitudinal end 136 of the mesh region 128 may be disposed proximate to the second edge 118 of the knitted component 100. Likewise, a first longitudinal end 138 of the tubular rib structure 126 may be disposed proximate to the first edge 116 of the knitted component 100 and a second longitudinal end 140 of the tubular rib structure 126 may be disposed proximate to the second edge 118 of the knitted component.

Further, in some embodiments, first longitudinal end 134 of webbed area 128 and first longitudinal end 138 of tubular rib structure 126 may collectively define first edge 116 of knitted component 100. Similarly, in some embodiments, second longitudinal end 136 of webbed area 128 and second longitudinal end 140 of tubular rib structure 126 may collectively define second edge 118 of knitted component 100.

The reticulated region 128 may include a first reticulated region 142. In some embodiments, the first reticulated region 142 may be representative of the other reticulated region 128. Referring to fig. 1-5, in various embodiments, the first reticulated region 142 may be curved or may be relatively flat positioned along the transverse direction 104. In one embodiment, the first reticulated region 142 may be substantially planar. In other embodiments, the first reticulated region 142 may be curved or angled. In some embodiments, the first reticulated region 142 may be concave on the front surface 108. In other embodiments, the first reticulated region 142 may be convex on the front surface 108.

It should be understood that in some embodiments, webbed area 128 may stretch to a greater degree relative to other embodiments, which results in a generally flattened shape of knitted component 100. In these embodiments, the reticulated region 128 may comprise a relatively flatter shape than a dome shape.

In some embodiments, the mesh region 128 of the knitted component 100 may have a similar shape and size as the other mesh regions 128. In other embodiments, the shape and size of reticulated region 128 may vary throughout knitted component 100.

In various embodiments, the tubular rib structure 126 may include a first tubular structure 146. In some embodiments, the first tubular structure 146 may be representative of other tubular rib structures 126. In some embodiments, the first tubular structure 146 may have a tubular shape. When viewed in cross-section as shown in fig. 4 and 5, the tubular rib structure 126 may include a first curved portion 416 and a second curved portion 418. In an exemplary embodiment, the first curved portion 416 is disposed opposite the second curved portion 418 on the respective top and bottom of the tubular rib structure 126. In some embodiments, first curved portion 416 and second curved portion 418 may be braided together to define a tube forming tubular rib structure 126. In the embodiment of fig. 4 and 5, the first and second curved portions 416, 418 meet along the edges of the first transition 420 and also along the edges of the second transition 422, forming a channel or tube shape.

In some embodiments, first curved portion 416 may comprise a portion of front surface 108 of the knitted component. In some embodiments, second curved portion 418 may comprise a portion of rear surface 110 of knitted component 100. Together, the first curved portion 416 and the second curved portion 418 may comprise two sides of the first tubular structure 146. In various embodiments, first curved portion 416 may include one woven layer and second curved portion 418 may include another woven layer.

The various regions of the first tubular structure 146 may include different shapes. In various embodiments, the first curved portion 416 and the second curved portion 418 can move and change shape. In some embodiments, first curved portion 416 and/or second curved portion 418 may be relatively horizontal or flat. In other embodiments, first curved portion 416 and/or second curved portion 418 may be rounded or curved by different amounts.

In other embodiments, first curved portion 416 and/or second curved portion 418 may include curved regions of tubular rib structure 126. First curved portion 416 and/or second curved portion 418 may be curved or curved to a greater degree in some embodiments and curved or curved to a lesser degree in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the amount of courses of woven material forming first curved portion 416 and/or second curved portion 418 may be varied to vary the degree or amount of associated curvature of the respective first curved portion 416 and/or second curved portion 418. Further, the direction of the curvature of each of the first curved portion 416 and/or the second curved portion 418 may vary. In one embodiment, the first curved portion 416 and/or the second curved portion 418 may be configured such that the first tubular structure 146 may be convex on the front surface 108 and convex on the rear surface 110.

In various embodiments, the tubular rib structure 126 may define one or more hollow tubes. The hollow tube 112 may be a substantially unsecured region disposed between a first curved portion 416 and a second curved portion 418 of a tubular rib structure having the configuration of a channel or channel. In some embodiments, the first tubular structure 146 may comprise a generally cylindrical or oval shape with the hollow tube 112 extending throughout the length of the first tubular structure 146 in the longitudinal direction 102. In some embodiments, the hollow tubes 112 may form channels within the tubular rib structure 126 and may extend partially along the length of the tubular rib structure 126. In other embodiments, the hollow tube 112 may extend throughout the entire length of the tubular rib structure 126. In some embodiments, the diameter of one hollow tube may be different from the diameter of the other hollow tubes, as discussed further below.

In different embodiments, the reticulated regions 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 may be arranged in various configurations. As shown in fig. 4, the webbed areas 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 may be spaced apart relative to one another. For example, in some embodiments, the webbed areas 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 may be spaced apart in the transverse direction 104. Further, in some embodiments, webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 may be arranged in an alternating manner throughout knitted component 100. More specifically, as shown in fig. 1-5, the reticulated region 128 may include a first reticulated region 142 and a second reticulated region 144. Likewise, the tubular rib structure 126 may include a first tubular structure 146 and a second tubular structure 148. The first tubular structure 146 may be disposed between the first and second reticulated regions 142, 144 and may separate the first and second reticulated regions 142, 144. Further, the first reticulated region 142 may be disposed between the first tubular structure 146 and the second tubular structure 148 and may separate the first tubular structure 146 and the second tubular structure 148. In some embodiments, this alternating arrangement may repeat throughout knitted component 100 in lateral direction 104.

In some embodiments, such as those shown in fig. 4 and 5, knitted component 100 may also include a third tubular structure 432, a third mesh region 442, a fourth tubular structure 434, a fourth mesh region 444, a fifth tubular structure 436, a fifth mesh region 446, and a sixth tubular structure 438. Third tubular structure 432 may define third edge 120 of knitted component 100. Moving away from the third edge 120 in the transverse direction 104, a third reticulated region 442 is disposed adjacent the third tubular structure 432. Further, the fourth tubular structure 434 is disposed adjacent the third reticulated region 442, and the second reticulated region 144 is disposed adjacent the fourth tubular structure 434. As depicted, the first reticulated region 142 is disposed adjacent the second tubular structure 148, the first tubular structure 146 is disposed adjacent the first reticulated region 142, and the second reticulated region 144 is disposed adjacent the first tubular structure 146. Further, the second tubular structure 148 is disposed adjacent to a fourth reticulated region 444, and the fourth reticulated region 444 is disposed adjacent to a fifth tubular structure 436. The fifth tubular structure 436 is disposed adjacent the fifth reticulated region 446, and the fifth reticulated region 446 is disposed adjacent the sixth tubular structure 438. The sixth tubular structure 438 may define the fourth edge 122.

In some embodiments, the reticulated region 128 and the tubular rib structure 126 may be directly adjacent and attached to one another. More specifically, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 5, the first reticulated region 142 may be attached to the first tubular structure 146 at a first transition 420. The first reticulated region 142 is also attached to the second tubular structure 148 at a second transition 422. This arrangement may also be repeated among other adjacent pairs of reticulated regions and tubular rib structures.

In other embodiments, the arrangement of the reticulated regions and the tubular rib structures may be different. In one embodiment, two or more reticulated regions may be disposed adjacent to one another within the knitted component 100. In another embodiment, two or more tubular rib structures may be arranged adjacent to each other within knitted component 100. In some embodiments, the mesh region and/or the tubular rib structure may be disposed adjacent other portions of knitted component 100.

In various embodiments, the position of webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 may change as knitted component 100 is moved between the first position of fig. 1 and 4 and the second position of fig. 2 and 5. As shown in fig. 4, when knitted component 100 is in the first position, webbed area 128 may be in a compressed or unstretched position. In some embodiments, when knitted component 100 is in the first position, tubular rib structures 126 may similarly be in a compressed or unstretched position. In contrast, as shown in fig. 5, when knitted component 100 is in the second position, webbed area 128 may be in an extended or stretched position, and when knitted component 100 is in the second position, tubular rib structure 126 may similarly be in an extended or stretched position. The lateral width of the webbed area 128 may be smaller in the neutral position than in the extended position. Furthermore, as the body thickness changes from the first body thickness 306 to the second body thickness 308 as shown in fig. 3, as seen in fig. 4-5, the midpoints of the first curved portions 416 and the second curved portions 418 of the tubular rib structures 126 may be closer together in the stretched position than in the unstretched position. Similarly, as shown in fig. 4 and 5, in some embodiments, the first transition 420 may be closer to the second transition 422 in the relaxed or neutral position than in the extended or stretched position. This is due in part to the change in curvature of first curved portion 416 and second curved portion 418 about respective tube axes 132 as they move between the compacted and extended positions associated with the neutral or unstretched first position of knitted component 100 and the extended or stretched second position of knitted component 100. This can be seen when the first and second curved portions 416, 418 are moved closer to the imaginary reference plane 402 according to fig. 4-5.

In some embodiments, the arrangement of adjacent tubular rib structures 126 may be configured such that, when viewed from the top surface 108, the webbed areas 128 disposed between each pair of adjacent tubular rib structures 126 are at least partially obscured from visual observation in a neutral or unstretched position. That is, the first curved portions 416 of each adjacent tubular rib structure 126 may contact or be proximate to each other such that the underlying webbed area 128 is not visible in the unstretched position of knitted component 100. When a certain force is applied to knitted component 100 to move knitted component 100 from an unstretched position to a stretched position, the relative positions of webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 are moved away from a neutral position to an extended position, and the underlying webbed areas 128 may then be displayed for visual observation from top surface 108. In an exemplary embodiment, webbed areas 128 may be knitted using a type or color of yarn that contrasts with tubular rib structures 126 such that when knitted component 100 is moved from an unstretched position to a stretched position, the contrast of webbed areas 128 is displayed for visual observation from top surface 108.

In various embodiments, webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 may have different degrees of stretch when the knitted component is moved from an unstretched or neutral position to a stretched or extended position. For example, in fig. 4, the fifth reticulated region 446 has a width W1, and the first tubular structure 146 has a width W3. In fig. 5, the fifth reticulated region 446 has a width W2, and the first tubular structure 146 has a width W4. As knitted component 100 moves from the first position of fig. 4 to the second position of fig. 5, width W1 increases to width W2 and width W3 increases to width W4. In some embodiments, the cross-directional stretch that occurs along the webbed areas 128 may be greater than the stretch that occurs along the tubular rib structures 126. For example, in one embodiment, the percentage increase from width W1 to width W2 may be greater than the percentage increase from width W3 to width W4. In some embodiments, this difference may result from the particular configuration of tubular rib structure 126 in which the two woven layers (e.g., first curved portion 416 and second curved portion 418) are joined together (which may limit the amount of stretch). In other embodiments, this difference may be due to selected cords in the weave of the tubular rib structure 126, and/or the inclusion of other materials (such as tensile elements, as discussed further below) within the openings 112 of the tubular rib structure 126.

Further, in some embodiments, the webbed areas 128 and/or the tubular rib structures 126 may be biased toward the neutral position represented in fig. 1 and 4. In some embodiments, the reticulated regions 128 and tubular rib structures 126 may respond to a force by moving toward the extended or stretched position represented in fig. 2 and 5. Once the stretching force is reduced, the webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 can return to the neutral position shown in fig. 1 and 4. The resiliency of knitted component 100 and the bias provided by webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 may provide recovery of knitted component 100 back to the position of fig. 4 when the load is removed.

In various embodiments, knitted component 100 may be modified to limit the return from the stretched position to a more compact position. In some embodiments, this process is supported when knitted component 100 may include, at least in part, a fusible material. In one embodiment, the material may comprise a thermoplastic polymer material. Generally, thermoplastic polymer materials soften or melt when heated and return to a solid state when cooled. Although a wide range of thermoplastic polymer materials may be used in knitted component 100, examples of possible thermoplastic polymer materials include thermoplastic polyurethanes, polyamides, polyesters, polypropylenes, and polyolefins.

In some configurations, knitted component 100 may be formed entirely, substantially, or partially from one or more thermoplastic polymer materials. Advantages of forming knitted component 100 from a thermoplastic polymer material are uniform properties, ability to form thermal bonds, efficient manufacturing, elastomeric stretch, and relatively high stability or tensile strength. Each strand in knitted component 100 may be formed from a plurality of thermoplastic polymer materials, although a single thermoplastic polymer material may be used. Further, while each strand may be formed from a common thermoplastic polymer material, different strands may also be formed from different materials. As an example, some strands of knitted component 100 may be formed from a first type of thermoplastic polymer material, whereas other strands of knitted component 100 may be formed from a second type of thermoplastic polymer material, and additional strands of knitted component 100 may be formed from different materials.

Thermoplastic polymer materials can be selected to have various tensile and fusible properties, and the materials can be considered elastomeric. As a related problem, the thermoplastic polymer material used may be selected to have various recovery properties. That is, knitted component 100 may be shaped to return to an initial, neutral shape after stretching. However, in different embodiments, knitted component 100 may be shaped and/or treated such that different portions include different capabilities for stretching and recovery.

Knitted component 100 may be maintained in various neutral configurations due to different treatments of the materials forming knitted component 100. Knitted component 100 may be treated in some manner to inhibit return to the original position. The treatment may include chemical treatment, application of heat, alterations in manufacturing or materials, or other treatments. The materials used in the formation of knitted component 100 may influence the choice of processing. In one embodiment, the fusible material may be selected to allow the use of heat to maintain the stretched position. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more portions of knitted component 100 may remain in a stretched position in which the elastic recovery properties of the material are reduced.

Thus, in some embodiments, stretch in one or more regions may be maintained. In other words, regions of knitted component 100 may remain stretched relative to other regions even in the absence of a compressive load. In some embodiments, the degree of stretching in one region and the degree of stretching in another region may be different. Accordingly, the width of one area of knitted component 100 may also be different than the width of other areas of knitted component 100 that include the same number of rib features. Depending on the degree of stretch that is present, one section of knitted component 100 that includes a series of rib features may have an average width that is greater than an average width of another section of knitted component 100 that includes the same set of rib features. Accordingly, knitted component 100 may include different levels of stretch throughout the component that may be maintained even in the absence of a compressive load.

Further, it should be noted that as knitted component 100 stretches in various ways, the direction of the rib features may also change. This aspect will be discussed in more detail below with respect to articles containing knitted components.

In various embodiments, as shown in fig. 6-10, one or more tensile elements 600 may be incorporated into knitted component 100. Tensile element 600 may provide support to knitted component 100. In other words, tensile element 600 may allow knitted component 100 to resist deformation, stretching, or otherwise providing support to a wearer's foot during running, jumping, or other movements. The tensile elements may be arranged in such a manner to improve performance characteristics. The tensile elements may improve strength, support, and provide structural reinforcement.

In some embodiments, tensile element 600 may be incorporated, inlaid, or extended into one or more tubular rib structures during the overall braided construction of knitted component 100. In other words, tensile element 600 may be incorporated during the knitting process of knitted component 100. In one embodiment, tensile element 600 may extend through a tubular structure. In some embodiments, tensile element 600 may be located within the channel formed by first curved portion 416 and second curved portion 418 of the tubular rib structure.

In fig. 6, a cross-section of a portion of knitted component 100 is shown. A first tubular structure 602 and a second tubular structure 604 are depicted with a webbed area 606 disposed between the two tubular rib structures. Tensile element 600 may be inlaid during the unitary braided construction of knitted component 100 such that first cables 608 are disposed in channels of first tubular structure 602 and second cables 610 are disposed in channels of second tubular structure 604. The first cable 608 and the second cable 610 are shown independently of each other. However, in some embodiments, first cable 608 and second cable 610 may comprise a single, continuous length of cable.

Tensile element 600 may extend along one or more tubular rib structures, as shown in figure 7. In different embodiments, tensile element 600 may be disposed through knitted component 100 in a variety of configurations. Tensile element 600 may be present in some or all of the tubular rib structures. Tensile elements 600 may be arranged along knitted component 100 in various ways or at different intervals. In fig. 7, knitted component 100 is shown with tensile element 600 arranged along channels of one half of the depicted tubular rib structures (or three of the six tubular rib structures in this case). In the embodiment of fig. 7, a first cable 702, a second cable 704, and a third cable 706 are shown. The first cable 702 extends along the channel 714 of the first tubular structure 146, the second cable 704 extends along the channel 720 of the fourth tubular structure 434, and the third cable 706 extends along the channel 718 of the third tubular structure 432. It is important to note that although the first, second, and third cables 702, 704, 706 are depicted as being independent of one another, in some embodiments, the first, second, and third cables 702, 704, 706 may comprise a single, continuous length of cable. In other words, a single cable may emerge from the channel 714 of the first tubular structure 146 and return to the knitted component 100 by entering, for example, the channel 720 in the adjacent fourth tubular structure 434 and continue in this manner through any number of additional tubular rib structures.

In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may include tensile element 600 in fewer or more channels. In one embodiment, tensile element 600 may be disposed in tubular rib structures 126 that abut one another. In another embodiment, tensile element 600 may be present in a majority of tubular rib structures 126 or in all of tubular rib structures 126 of knitted component 100. In one embodiment, tensile elements 600 may be disposed in tubular rib structures 126 that are farther apart from one another. In another embodiment, tensile element 600 may appear in every other tubular structure 126 to form a staggered or alternating arrangement. Thus, tubular rib structures 126 that include tensile element 600 may be adjacent to tubular rib structures 126 that do not include tensile element 600. In other embodiments, the presence of tensile element 600 may be less regular. For example, there may be two or more tubular rib structures 126 that include tensile element 600, and these tubular rib structures 126 may be adjacent to one or more tubular rib structures 126 that do not include tensile element 600. Further, there may be one or more tubular rib structures 126 that include tensile element 600, and these tubular rib structures 126 may be adjacent to two or more tubular rib structures 126 that do not include tensile element 600. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may include tensile element 600 in one area of knitted component 100 and not include tensile element 600 in another area of knitted component 100. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may not include tensile element 600.

In various embodiments, tensile element 600 may be formed from a variety of materials. Tensile element 600 may comprise a variety of materials, including, for example, ropes, wires, bands, cables, yarns, ropes, filaments, or warps. In some embodiments, tensile element 600 may be formed from materials that may be used in a knitting machine or other device that forms knitted component 100. Tensile element 600 may be a generally elongated fiber or strand exhibiting a length that is substantially greater than a width and a thickness. Thus, suitable materials for tensile element 600 include various filaments, fibers, and yarns formed from rayon, nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, silk, cotton, carbon, glass, aramid (e.g., para-aramid and meta-aramid), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and liquid crystal polymers. The thickness of the tensile element may be greater than the yarns forming the knitted component. In some configurations, the tensile element may have a thickness that is substantially greater than the yarns of the knitted component. Although the cross-sectional shape of the tensile element may be circular, triangular, square, rectangular, oval, or irregular shapes may also be used. Further, the material forming the tensile element may include any of the materials used for the yarns within the knitted component, including but not limited to: cotton, spandex, polyester, rayon, wool, nylon, and other suitable materials. Although tensile elements 600 may have a cross-section in which width in lateral direction 104 and thickness direction 106 are substantially equal (e.g., a circular or square cross-section), some tensile elements may have a width that is slightly greater than their thickness (e.g., a rectangular, oval, or otherwise elongated cross-section).

In different embodiments, the size and length of tensile element 600 may vary. In some embodiments, tensile element 600 may extend through the length of one or more tubular rib structures. In other embodiments, tensile element 600 may extend only partially through the length of one or more tubular rib structures. In another embodiment, tensile element 600 may extend beyond the length of one or more tubular rib structures. In some embodiments, the first cable 702 may include a first length in some tubular rib structures and the second cable 704 may include a second length in other tubular rib structures. For example, in one embodiment, the first cable 702 may extend partially through the length of one or more tubular rib structures, the second cable 704 may extend through the entire length of another tubular structure, and the third cable 706 may extend beyond the length of the tubular structure.

In various embodiments, end portions of tensile element 600 may enter and/or exit first longitudinal ends 134 of the tubular rib structures and/or second longitudinal ends 136 of the tubular rib structures. Tensile element 600 may be adjusted in tension, length, friction, or other aspects. In some embodiments, the tensile element may be anchored at any point along its length to stabilize or inhibit movement of the tensile element. For example, in some cases, tensile element 600 may be anchored at one or more longitudinal ends to prevent its ends from being pulled beyond a specified point through one of the tubular rib structures. In other cases, a single tensile element may be looped through two or more tubular rib structures, which may prevent the tensile element from pulling beyond a certain point into the tubular rib structures.

In various embodiments, the resistance between tensile element 600 and the inner surface of tubular rib structure 126 may be adjustable. Friction may be altered by various configurations of tubular rib structures 126 and/or tensile element 600. This may allow tensile element 600 to move through the channel with different levels of tension or compression. Depending on the preferred level of stiffness, the amount of contact between the inner surface of the tubular rib structure 126 and the tensile element 600 may be adjusted.

It should be appreciated that in various embodiments, one or more alterations may be made to webbed area 128, tubular rib structure 126, or tensile element 600 in order to adjust the resistance between tensile element 600 and knitted component 100, including those described above. Some embodiments may allow other configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the diameter of the cable may be increased, while the lateral length of one or more braided layers of the tubular rib structure corresponding to the tensile element may be decreased. In another embodiment, the thickness of one or more woven layers may be reduced and/or the diameter of the tensile elements associated with those woven layers may be increased.

Referring now to fig. 8, a portion of knitted component 100 is shown in detail in a flattened configuration. As shown, knitted component 100 may include one or more yarns, cords, monofilaments, composite filaments or other cords that are knitted to define knitted component 100. Yarn 808 may be woven and stitched to define a plurality of consecutive courses 800 and a plurality of consecutive wales 802. In some embodiments, the rows 800 may extend generally in the longitudinal direction 102 and the wales 802 may extend generally in the lateral direction 104.

A representative portion of the webbed area 128 and a representative portion of the knit layer of the tubular rib structure 126 are also indicated in fig. 8. In this flattened configuration, the tubular rib structure 126 is shown in a two-dimensional state for illustrative purposes, and the three-dimensional configuration of the tubular rib structure 126 is shown in phantom. As shown, the plurality of courses 800 of knitted component 100 may include a plurality of web courses 806 defining webbed area 128. Also, as shown, the plurality of courses 800 of knitted component 100 may include a plurality of tube courses 804 that help define tubular rib structures 126. In some embodiments, the mesh rows 806 may extend in the same direction as the mesh axes 130, and the tube rows 804 may extend in the same direction as the tube axes 132 also mentioned in fig. 1 and 2.

The weave pattern of the webbed area 128 may be opposite the weave pattern of the tubular rib structure 126. For example, one or more portions of the tubular rib structure 126 can be woven using a plain face knit pattern and one or more portions of the mesh region 128 can be woven using a plain reverse knit pattern. In other embodiments, tubular rib structure 126 can be woven using a reverse plain stitch pattern, and mesh area 128 can be woven using a forward plain stitch pattern. It should be appreciated that the inherent bias provided by this type of weave pattern may cause, at least in part, biased curling, rolling, folding, or pinching behavior of the webbed areas 128 and the tubular rib structures 126. Also, it should be understood that in some embodiments, webbed areas 128 may be stitched in an opposing pattern from one woven layer of tubular rib structure 126.

In an exemplary embodiment, during the knitting process, the at least one tube course 804 may be connected to the at least one mesh course 806 by knitting so as to form a loop and close the tubular rib structure 126. For example, as shown in fig. 8, a first portion 850 of one tube course 804 forming the tubular rib structure 126 may be connected to an attachment portion 852 of one mesh course 806 by weaving. First portion 850 and attachment portion 852 may be connected by knitting with yarns across both the front bed and the back bed of the knitting machine to loop portions of each of tube course 804 and mesh course 806 with each other. With this arrangement, the tubular rib structure 126 can be moved from a generally flattened two-dimensional configuration to a raised three-dimensional configuration, as shown in fig. 1-7.

The reticulated region 128 may include any number of the web rows 806, and the tubular rib structure 126 may include any number of the tube rows 804. In the embodiment of fig. 8, the reticulated region 128 includes four rows of mesh 806, and the depicted braid of the tubular structure 126 includes four rows of tubes 804. However, the number of mesh rows 806 and tube rows 804 may be different from the embodiment of fig. 8. For example, in other embodiments, the mesh region 128 may include five to ten mesh courses 806, and the single knit layer of the tubular structure 126 may include five to ten tube courses 804. Also, the curvature of the webbed area 128 may be affected by the number of included webbing courses 806, and the curvature of the tubular thread structure 126 may be affected by the number of included tube courses 804. More specifically, by increasing the number of web courses 806, the width, curvature, and/or stretchability of the web region 128 may be increased. Likewise, by increasing the number of tube rows 804, the width and/or curvature of some or all of the tubular rib structures 126 may be increased. The number of web courses 806 within the reticulated region 128 may be selected to provide sufficient fabric to allow sufficient elasticity of the reticulated region 128. The number of tube courses 804 within the tubular structure 126 may be selected to provide sufficient fabric to allow some or all of the tubular structure 126 to be sufficiently crimped to form a hollow tube.

In some embodiments, the yarns 808 may be made of a material or otherwise configured to enhance the resiliency of the webbed areas 128 and the tubular rib structures 126. The yarns 808 may be made of any suitable material, such as cotton, elastane, polymeric materials, or a combination of two or more materials. Also, in some embodiments, the yarns 808 may be stretchable and elastic. As such, yarn 808 may stretch substantially in length and may be biased to return to its original, neutral length. In some embodiments, yarn 808 may be elastically stretched to increase in length from its neutral length by at least 25% without breaking. Further, in some embodiments, the yarn 808 may elastically increase in length by at least 50% from its neutral length. Further, in some embodiments, yarn 808 may elastically increase in length by at least 75% from its neutral length. Additionally, in some embodiments, the yarns 808 may elastically increase in length from their neutral length by at least 100%. Accordingly, the elasticity of yarn 808 may enhance the overall resiliency of knitted component 100.

Moreover, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be knitted using a plurality of different yarns. For example, in fig. 8, at least a portion of the webbed area 128 may be knitted using a first yarn 810 and at least a portion of the tubular structure 126 may be knitted using a second yarn 812. In some embodiments, first yarn 810 and second yarn 812 may differ in at least one characteristic. For example, the first yarn 810 and the second yarn 812 may differ in appearance, diameter, denier, elasticity, texture, or other characteristics. In some embodiments, the first yarn 810 and the second yarn 812 can differ in color. Thus, in some embodiments, when knitted component 100 is in the first position of fig. 1 and 4, first yarn 810 may be visible and second yarn 812 may be obscured when a viewer is looking at front surface 108. Second yarn 812 may then be revealed when knitted component 100 is stretched to the position of fig. 2 and 5. Accordingly, the appearance of knitted component 100 may change, and first yarn 810 and second yarn 812 may provide an aesthetically appealing, prominent visual contrast.

In another embodiment, the elasticity of first yarn 810 is greater than the elasticity of second yarn 812 in at least some portions of knitted component 100. This may result in one or more portions of knitted component 100 including webbed areas 128 may have a greater capacity for stretching than tubular rib structures 126.

Knitted component 100 may be manufactured using any suitable machines, instruments, and techniques. For example, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be automatically manufactured using a knitting machine (such as knitting machine 900 shown in fig. 9). Braiding machine 900 may be of any suitable type, such as a flat knitting machine. However, it should be understood that knitting machine 900 may be of another type without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 9, knitting machine 900 may include a front needle bed 902 having a plurality of front needles 904 and a back needle bed 906 having a plurality of back needles 908. The anterior needles 904 may be arranged in a common plane and the posterior needles 908 may be arranged in a different common plane that intersects the plane of the anterior needles 904. The front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 may be angled with respect to each other. In some embodiments, the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 may be angled such that they form a V-shaped bed. Knitting machine 900 may also include one or more feeders configured to move over front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906. In fig. 9, a first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912 are indicated. As the first feeder 910 moves, the first feeder 910 may deliver the first yarn 810 to the front needles 904 and/or the rear needles 908 for knitting the knitted component 100. As the second feeder 912 moves, the second feeder 912 may deliver the second yarn 812 to the front needles 904 and/or the rear needles 908.

A pair of rails including a front rail 920 and a back rail 922 may extend above and parallel to the intersection area of front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906. The rail may provide an attachment point for the feeder. Front rail 920 and rear rail 922 may each have two sides, each of which receives one or more feeders. As depicted, front rail 920 includes a first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912 on opposite sides, and back rail 922 includes a third feeder 914. Although two rails are depicted, additional configurations of braiding machine 900 may incorporate additional rails to provide attachment points for more feeders.

The feeder may move along front rail 920 and rear rail 922 to supply the yarn to the needles. As shown in fig. 9, the feeder is provided with yarn through a first spool 916 and/or a second spool 918. More particularly, the first yarn 810 extends from a first spool 916 to a first feeder 910 and the second yarn 812 extends from a second spool 918 to a second feeder 912. Although not depicted, additional spools may be used to provide yarn to the feeder in a substantially similar manner as the first and second spools 916, 918.

In some embodiments, the webbed area 128 may be formed using the front needles 904 of the front needle bed 902 or the back needles 908 of the back needle bed 906. The tubular rib structure may be formed using the needles of both the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906.

In some embodiments, an exemplary process for knitting tubular rib structures between continuous webbed areas 128 may be performed using knitting machine 900. Fig. 10A and 10B illustrate a representative weave or looping diagram of an exemplary weaving process for forming a tubular rib structure (e.g., tubular rib structure 126 of knitted component 100). In one embodiment represented in FIG. 10A, a mesh zone 128 can be formed from a first yarn 810 using the back needle bed 906, then a tubular rib structure 126 is formed from a second yarn 812 using the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902, and another mesh zone 128 is formed from the first yarn 810 using the back needle bed 906. The following discussion describes the knitting process schematically illustrated in fig. 10A-10B, and it should be understood that the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 referred to in this discussion are schematically illustrated in fig. 9.

Referring again to FIG. 10A, after the formation of the webbed area 128, courses extending between the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902 may be formed. Next, one or more courses may be knitted on front needle bed 902. For example, the course forming the first curved portion of the tubular rib structure 126 may be formed on the front needle bed 902 using the second yarn 812. Immediately after the final course 1000 on the front needle bed 902, the second yarn 812 forming the tubular rib structure 126 may be used to knit the course 1002 using the back needle bed 906. For example, the row 1002 may form a closed tubular rib structure 126 of the tubular rib structure 126 and form a second curved portion of the hollow channel. After the course 1002 completes the formation of the tubular rib structure 126, another course 1004 extending between the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902 may be formed that loops with the previous final course 1000 on the front needle bed 902 and the course 1002 on the back needle bed 906. By using stitches at the courses 1004 extending between the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902, the second yarn 812 forming the tubular rib structure 126 can be prepared to be associated with the further course forming the further webbed area 128 with the first yarn 810 using the back needle bed 906.

In this embodiment, the tubular rib structure 126 can be formed using one course woven on the back needle bed 906 and five courses woven on the front needle bed 902. With this configuration, an elongated cylindrical shape of the tubular rib structure 126 may be provided.

In other embodiments, a different number of courses may be knitted on one or both of the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 in order to change the shape and/or size of the tubular rib structure 126. In some cases, by increasing or decreasing the number of courses knitted on the back needle bed 906 and/or the front needle bed 902, the size of the tubular rib structure 126 may be enlarged or decreased accordingly. In other cases, the shape of the tubular rib structure 126 can be changed by increasing the number of courses knitted relative to one another on one of the back needle bed 906 or the front needle bed 902. For example, by increasing the number of courses knitted on back needle bed 906, the shape of tubular rib structure 126 may be changed to round the bends on back surface 110 of knitted component 100 to resemble the bends on front surface 108 of knitted component 100.

After the tubular rib structure 126 is completed, the process may then be repeated to form another reticulated region 128. Subsequently, additional mesh regions 128 may be added to knitted component 100 using back needle bed 906, and so on, until a complete knitted component 100 having the desired number of mesh regions 128 and tubular rib structures 126 is formed.

In other embodiments, formation of knitted component 100 may be similar, but require a transition in the needle beds used, for example, the process shown in fig. 10A and 10B may be performed using opposing needle beds such that webbed area 128 may be formed using front needle bed 902 and then the portion of knitted component 100 may be transferred from front needle bed 902 to back needle bed 906. The remaining steps shown in fig. 10A and 10B can be performed in the same order using a needle bed opposite to the illustrated needle bed. Other methods of using the individual needle beds of knitting machine 900 to form webbed areas 128 and tubular rib structures 126 will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the foregoing description.

In the exemplary process described with reference to fig. 10A, a hollow tubular rib structure 126 is formed. In other embodiments, the tensile elements may be inlaid within an unsecured central region of one or more of the tubular rib structures 126. Figure 10B illustrates an exemplary process for forming tubular rib structures 126 including inlaid tensile elements. As shown in fig. 10B, the process is substantially similar to the process for forming the hollow tubular rib structure 126 illustrated in fig. 10A. However, in the process of FIG. 10B, after the courses 1002 are formed on the back needle bed 906, the tensile element 600 is inlaid within a portion of the tubular rib structure 126. Tensile element 600 may be inlaid using a combination feeder and the associated inlay method described in U.S. patent application publication No. 2012/0234052, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

After tensile element 600 is inlaid within portions of tubular rib structure 126, additional courses 1004 may be knitted using second yarn 812 to complete the formation of tubular rib structure 126. With this configuration, tensile element 600 is contained within tubular rib structure 126 and is disposed through an unsecured central region extending along the length of tubular rib structure 126.

Fig. 11-17 also illustrate a process of knitting a knitted component 1100 having a plurality of mesh regions and a plurality of tubular rib structures. Figures 11-17 are merely exemplary representations of processes used to weave various portions of knitted component 1100. Additional steps or processes not shown herein may be utilized to form a complete knitted component to be incorporated into an upper for an article of footwear. Moreover, only a relatively small section of knitted component 1100 may be shown in the figures in order to better illustrate the knit structure of various portions of knitted component 1100. Moreover, the scale or proportions of the various elements of braiding machine 900 and braided component 1100 may be exaggerated to better illustrate the braiding process.

It should be understood that although knitted component 1100 is formed between front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906, for purposes of illustration, in fig. 11-17, knitted component 1100 is shown adjacent to front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906 to (a) be more visible during discussion of the knitting process, and (b) show the position of portions of the knitted component relative to each other and the needle beds. For purposes of clarity, the anterior and posterior needles are not depicted in fig. 11-17. Also, while one rail and a limited number of feeders are depicted, additional rails, feeders, and spools may be used. Accordingly, the general structure of knitting machine 900 is simplified for purposes of explaining the knitting process.

Referring to fig. 11, a portion of a knitting machine 900 is shown. In this embodiment, braiding machine 900 may include a first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912. In other embodiments, additional feeders may be used and may be located on the front or rear sides of front rail 920 and/or rear rail 922.

In fig. 11, a first yarn 810 passes from a spool (not shown) through a first feeder 910, and an end of the first yarn 810 extends outward from a dispensing tip (dispensing tip) at the end of the first feeder 910. Any type of yarn (e.g., filaments, threads, ropes, tapes, cables, warps, or ropes) may be passed through the first feeder 910. A second yarn 812 similarly passes through the second feeder 912 and extends outwardly from the dispensing tip. In some embodiments, first yarn 810 and second yarn 812 may be used to form portions of knitted component 1100.

In various embodiments, the weaving process may begin with the formation of a mesh region or tubular rib structure. Each mesh region or tubular rib structure may be referred to as a section of knitted component 1100. Completion of one reticulated region or tubular rib structure may be followed by formation of a second reticulated region or tubular rib structure. Multiple sections of knitted component 1100 may be formed in an alternating manner between webbed areas and tubular rib structures. This knitting process may continue until knitted component 1100 is fully formed.

In the embodiment of fig. 11, three sections of knitted component 1100 have been formed by knitting machine 900, including first tubular structure 1102, first mesh region 1104, and second tubular structure 1106. Further, the formation of the second mesh region 1108 is occurring on knitting machine 900. As described earlier, the webbed area may be knitted by either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906 of the knitting machine 900. First feeder 910 is positioned along unfinished fourth edge 122 of knitted component 1100. The first feeder 910 can feed the first yarn 810 to either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906. Either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906 can receive the first yarn 810 and form loops defining courses of the second mesh region 1108. Below the machine in the figures, knitted component 1100 as it is being formed is depicted in an isometric view.

In the subsequent illustration of fig. 12, four sections of knitted component 1100 have been formed by knitting machine 900, including first tubular rib structure 1102, first mesh region 1104, second tubular rib structure 1106, and second mesh region 1108. The formation of third tubular rib structure 1200 is being performed on knitting machine 900. As previously described, the tubular rib structure may be knitted by both the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 of the knitting machine 900. The first feeder 910 and the second feeder 912 are positioned proximate the unfinished fourth edge 122 of the knitted component 1100. The first feeder 910 can feed a first yarn 810 to either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906. In some embodiments, the front needle bed 902 may receive the first yarn 810 and form loops defining the courses of the first curved section 416 forming the third tubular rib structure 1200. In other embodiments, the back needle bed 906 may receive the first yarn 810 and form loops defining the courses of the first curved section 416 of the third tubular rib structure 1200. Below the machine in the figures, knitted component 1100 as it is being formed is depicted in an isometric view.

In various embodiments, various regions of the tubular rib structure may be formed by different elements of knitting machine 900. In an exemplary embodiment, the first curved section 416 can be formed by the front needle bed 902 and the second curved section 418 can be formed by the back needle bed 906 such that the first feeder 910 feeds the first yarn 810 to the front needle bed 902 and the second feeder 912 feeds the second yarn 812 to the back needle bed 906. In another embodiment, the first curved section 416 can be formed by the back needle bed 906 and the second curved section 418 can be formed by the front needle bed 902 such that the first feeder 910 feeds the first yarn 810 to the back needle bed 906 and the second feeder 912 feeds the second yarn 812 to the front needle bed 902.

Fig. 13 depicts the formation of a knitted component 1100 having eleven sections (including six tubular rib structures and five mesh regions). In an exemplary embodiment, each reticulated region is disposed between two adjacent tubular rib structures on either side of the reticulated region. The knitting process may continue and a desired amount of mesh area and tubular rib structures may be formed until knitted component 1100 is completed at a desired size. In addition, other known knitting processes and methods may be used to form various other portions of knitted component 1100.

In various embodiments, the knitting process may include incorporating one or more tensile elements within portions of knitted component 1100. Referring to fig. 14-17, an embodiment of a knitted component 1100 including a tensile element is depicted. In fig. 14, knitted component 1100 has been formed with eleven sections, including five complete tubular rib structures, five mesh regions, and a partially formed sixth tubular rib structure. Each complete tubular rib structure can be seen in this figure, including the tensile elements extending through the hollow unsecured central region of the tubular rib structure. As previously described, it should be understood that there may be various tensile element arrangements included in knitted component 1100. For example, in some embodiments, the tensile elements may be arranged through a selected number of the total number of tubular rib structures associated with the knitted component. With this configuration, additional support and stretch resistance may be selectively provided by the desired placement of the tensile element within the tubular rib structure.

Referring again to fig. 14, the formation of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 is in progress. As described earlier, the tubular rib structure may be knitted by both the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 of the knitting machine 900. A first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912 are positioned along the unfinished fourth edge 122 of the knitted component 1100. The second feeder 912 can feed a second yarn 812 to either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906. In some embodiments, the front needle bed 902 may receive the second yarn 812 and form loops defining the first curved section 416 of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In other embodiments, the back needle bed 906 can receive the second yarn 812 and form loops defining the first curved section 416 of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404.

Specifically, in one embodiment, the first bend 416 can be formed by the front needle bed 902 and the second bend 418 can be formed by the back needle bed 906 such that the second feeder 912 supplies the second yarn 812 to the front needle bed 902 and the second feeder 912 also supplies the second yarn 812 to the back needle bed 906. It should be appreciated that the selection of needle beds, feeders, and/or yarns used to form each portion of knitted component 1100 may vary. For example, in another embodiment, portions of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 can be formed using opposing needle beds as described above, such that the first curved section 416 can be formed by the back needle bed 906 and the second curved section 418 can be formed by the front needle bed 902. Further, in other embodiments, the same yarns used to form the webbed area may be similarly used to form the tubular rib structure such that the first feeder 910 feeds the first yarn 810 to the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 for forming the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. Below knitting machine 900, knitted component 1100 as it is being formed is depicted in an isometric view.

The first feeder 910 and the second feeder 912 may return to a starting position along the fourth edge 122 of the knitted component 1100 to begin forming a next course of a portion of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. Following this step, third feeder 914 supplies tensile elements 1500 to be inlaid within knitted component 1100, as shown in fig. 15. In some embodiments, third feeder 914 may move along front rail 920 or back rail 922 as third feeder 914 supplies and inlays tensile elements 1500 along the length of sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In various embodiments, first curved portion 416 and/or second curved portion 418 of sixth tubular rib structure 1404 may continue to form while tensile element 1500 is inlaid along an inner surface of sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In fig. 15, tensile element 1500 has been inlaid along the length of sixth tubular rib structure 1404.

In some embodiments, the first feeder 910 and the second feeder 912 may begin forming another course of a portion of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In fig. 16, the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 is completed by additional courses to completely form the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 and thereby enclose the tensile element 1500 within the interior of the hollow unsecured central area of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. Figure 17 depicts the formation of a knitted component 1100 including six tubular rib structures containing tensile elements separated by five mesh regions between each successive tubular rib structure. Further, it should be understood that tubular rib structures that do not include tensile elements may also be included. This process may continue, and a desired amount of webbed area and tubular rib structures with or without tensile elements may be formed until knitted component 1100 is completed.

Using this exemplary process for forming knitted component, the manufacture of knitted component 1100 may be efficient. Moreover, knitted component 1100 may be formed substantially without having to form a significant amount of scrap material.

As previously discussed, in various embodiments, one or more of the webbed areas and/or the tubular rib structures may be moved away from a compacted or neutral position toward a more extended or stretched position. Fig. 18 and 19 depict how a compressive load or force may deform a region of an embodiment of knitted component 1808. As previously described, under the influence of a compressive load, the rib feature, i.e., the series of alternating reticulated regions and tubular rib structures, may move away from the compacting position (see fig. 18) toward a more extended position (see fig. 19). In some embodiments, the rib feature may recover and return to the compacted position upon removal or reduction of the compressive load. It should be appreciated that knitted component 1808 may cushion, attenuate, or otherwise reduce the compression load due to this resiliency.

In fig. 18, a portion of an embodiment of knitted component 1808 is shown in a neutral position, similar to the embodiment of fig. 1. Several tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh regions 1800 are shown. Knitted component 1808 is at a first width 1806. In fig. 19, the same webbed areas 1800 and tubular rib structures 1802 are shown as webbed areas 1800 and tubular rib structures 1802 in response to a compressive load, and the knitted component is stretched to a second width 1900, similar to fig. 2. The first width 1806 is less than the second width 1900. In some embodiments, the webbed area 1800 may exhibit greater stretch than the tubular rib structure 1802. In one embodiment, some areas of knitted component 1808 may stretch farther than other areas depending on the amount of force applied and the location at which the force is applied. In fig. 19, there is greater stretch in the transverse direction 104 than in the longitudinal direction 102.

Moreover, in some embodiments, rib features may differ in size, structure, shape, and other characteristics along different regions of knitted component 1808. For example, in the embodiment of fig. 18 and 19, mesh regions of different widths are depicted in the knitted component 1808, including a first width 1810 and a second width 1804. The first width 1810 is greater than the second width 1804. The width of each mesh region may be determined during the knitting process by varying the number of courses knitted for each mesh region. For example, in embodiments where the first width 1810 is greater than the second width 1804, the greater width of the reticulated region may be attributed to the greater number of courses forming the reticulated region having the first width 1810. Similarly, the smaller width of the reticulated region may be attributed to the smaller number of courses forming the reticulated region having the second width 1804. In other embodiments, the width of webbed area 1800 and/or tubular rib structures 1802 may vary throughout knitted component 1808. The stretch and resiliency available in knitted component 1808 may be altered as the size of the rib features increases or decreases. For example, a region having a reticulated region 1800 that includes a larger width (e.g., first width 1810) may be more elastic and allow for more stretching relative to a reticulated region 1800 of a smaller width (e.g., second width 1804).

The knitted component may define and/or may be included in any suitable article. The knitted component may provide resiliency to the article. As such, in some embodiments, the article may be at least partially stretchable and elastic. Additionally, the article may provide cushioning to a user due to the inclusion of one or more segments of the knitted component.

In various embodiments, a knitted component may be used to form various components or elements for an article of footwear. An embodiment of an upper 2000 for an article of footwear is illustrated in fig. 20. Upper 2000 includes a knitted component 2002 that may include one or more features of the knitted component of fig. 1-8. Upper 2000 includes an irregular shape designed to allow upper 2000 to be assembled by a wrapping process described further below. In general, upper 2000 includes a first end 2004 and a second end 2006 representing two opposing sides along longitudinal direction 102, as well as a top edge 2010 and a bottom edge 2012. Upper 2000 additionally includes collar portion 2014, throat portion 2016, and lower area 2020. Collar portion 2014 may include a first side 2030 and a second side 2032 that generally represent opposite ends of collar portion 2014. Throat portion 2016 may terminate on one side at throat opening 2040. Lower region 2020 includes the portion of knitted component 2002 that is closer to bottom edge 2012, while throat portion 2016 includes the portion that is closer to top edge 2010. Lower region 2020 generally extends from first end 2004 to second end 2006, and throat portion 2016 generally extends from first end 2004 to throat opening 2040. Thus, in the embodiment of fig. 20, the rib features (i.e., the webbed areas and the tubular rib structures) disposed in lower region 2020 have a greater length in longitudinal direction 102 than the rib features disposed in throat portion 2016. In other words, the rib features disposed in lower region 2020 extend continuously from first end 2004 to second end 2006, and the rib features in throat portion 2016 extend continuously from first end 2004 to a region along throat opening 2040.

The knitted component 2002 also includes a first portion 2022, a second portion 2024, a third portion 2026, and a fourth portion 2028. The first portion 2022 extends from the first end 2004 to a first boundary 2034. The second portion 2024 extends from the first boundary 2034 to the second boundary 2036. The third portion 2026 extends from the second boundary 2036 to a third boundary 2038. The fourth portion 2028 continues from the third boundary 2038 to the second end 2006 of the knitted component 2002. In some embodiments, throat portion 2016 of knitted component 2002 may include a different number of tubular rib structures and/or webbed areas than the remaining areas of knitted component 2002. In some embodiments, one or more tensile elements 2018 may be included in upper 2000.

It should be understood that the first, second, and third boundaries 2034, 2036, 2038 are intended for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to demarcate precise regions of a component.

Fig. 21-24 illustrate an embodiment of an exemplary process for assembling an upper 2000 that incorporates a knitted component 2002 for use in an article of footwear. For reference purposes, various components associated with an article of footwear may also be associated with different areas of the foot. The components associated with an article of footwear may include an upper, a sole, a tongue, a lace, toe and/or heel counters, article forming members, or other various elements associated with the footwear. The article forming member may include, but is not limited to: a last, mold, foundation element, cast mold (cast), or other such device and/or article.

In fig. 21, upper 2000 is shown associated with article forming member 2100. Article forming member 2100, as well as other components associated with the footwear, may be divided into various regions that represent various regions of a finished article of footwear. In the embodiment of fig. 21-24, article forming member 2100 is divided into six general regions: forefoot region 2112, midfoot region 2102, vamp region (vamp region)2106, heel region 2104, sole region 2124, and ankle region 2114. Forefoot region 2112 generally includes portions of the footwear corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region 2102 generally includes portions of footwear or components that correspond with an arch area of the foot. Vamp region 2106 generally includes portions that cover the front and top of the foot, extending from the toes to the area of the foot connecting the ankle. The heel region 2104 generally corresponds with a rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Sole region 2124 generally includes an area corresponding with a sole of the foot. Sole region 2124 is generally associated with a ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear. The ankle region 2114 generally includes a portion of the footwear or component that corresponds with the ankle and the area of the ankle connecting the foot. Throat opening 2040 may be associated with ankle region 2114.

Directional adjectives are used throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments for consistency and convenience. The term forward direction ("forward") refers to a direction toward forefoot region 2112 or toward the toes when the article of footwear is worn on the foot. The term rearward direction ("rearwards") refers to a direction that extends toward heel region 2104 or toward the back of the foot when the article of footwear is worn on the foot. There may also be an upward direction and a downward direction corresponding to the opposite directions. The term upward direction ("upward") is the vertical direction moving from sole region 2124 toward the upper when viewing the article of footwear. The term downward direction ("downward") refers to a direction moving from the upper toward sole region 2124 when viewing the article of footwear.

Components associated with footwear, such as article forming member 2100, may also include a lateral side 2108 and a medial side 2110 that extend through each of forefoot region 2112, midfoot region 2102, and heel region 2104 and correspond with opposite sides of the article associated with the foot. More particularly, lateral side 2108 corresponds with a lateral area of the foot (i.e., a surface that faces away from the other foot), and medial side 2110 corresponds with a medial area of the foot (i.e., a surface that faces toward the other foot). In addition, components associated with the footwear may include a forward portion 2116. The forward portion 2116 includes an area forward of the heel region 2104.

It should be noted that the terms forefoot region 2112, midfoot region 2102, vamp region 2106, heel region 2104, sole region 2124, ankle region 2114, lateral side 2108, medial side 2110, and forward portion 2116 may apply to various individual components associated with footwear, such as an upper, a sole structure, an article of footwear, an article forming member, and/or an upper. It should be understood that forefoot region 2112, midfoot region 2102, vamp region 2106, heel region 2104, sole region 2124, ankle region 2114 and front portion 2116 are intended for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to demarcate precise areas of components. Likewise, medial side 2110 and lateral side 2108 are intended to generally represent two sides of a component, rather than precisely divide the component into two halves.

In some embodiments, article forming member 2100 may be used to facilitate assembly of an article. In other embodiments, a different base element or solid form may be used in the assembly process, most commonly including a last. In fig. 21, first end 2004 is removably attached to an underside of article forming member 2100 along forefoot region 2112 and partially along lateral side 2108 of midfoot region 2102. First portion 2022 of upper 2000 extends through article-forming member 2100 such that it completely covers vamp region 2106.

In fig. 22, upper 2000 is shown as it extends further over article forming member 2100. Second portion 2024 is placed on an area corresponding to medial side 2110 of article forming member 2100. A portion of bottom edge 2012 of upper 2000 is removably attached to the underside of article forming member 2100 along medial side 2110.

Following this step, upper 2000 is illustrated in fig. 23 as being wrapped around heel region 2104. Third portion 2026 has been placed along an area corresponding to heel region 2104 of article forming member 2100. A portion of bottom edge 2012 of upper 2000 is removably attached to an underside of article forming member 2100 along heel region 2104.

In the next step illustrated in fig. 24, upper 2000 is further wrapped such that fourth portion 2028 is placed around article forming member 2100 and along lateral side 2108. When fourth portion 2028 meets first portion 2022, throat opening 2040 may be formed, hidden in fig. 24 behind collar portion 2014. A portion of second side 2032 of collar portion 2014 may meet, join, or otherwise become associated with a portion of first side 2030 of collar portion 2014, covering throat opening 2040. Similarly, a portion of second end 2006 may meet, join, or otherwise become associated with a portion of first end 2004 of upper 2000. A portion of bottom edge 2012 of upper 2000 is removably attached to an underside of article forming member 2100 along lateral side 2108 of heel region 2104 and a portion of midfoot region 2102.

Fig. 25-27 illustrate an embodiment of an article of footwear ("footwear") 2512 that includes an assembled upper 2500 (including knitted component 2002 of fig. 20). In forming the article of footwear 2512, a sole structure ("sole") 2514 may be secured to the assembled upper 2500 along a sole region 2124 and may extend between the foot of the wearer and the ground when the footwear 2512 is worn. The sole 2514 may differ from the embodiment of fig. 25-27. In some embodiments, the sole 2514 may be a uniform one-piece member. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the sole 2514 may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and/or an insole. Also, the sole 2514 may include a ground engaging surface.

Assembled upper 2500 may define a void that receives a foot of a wearer. In other words, assembled upper 2500 may define an interior surface that defines a void. Assembled upper 2500 may at least partially enclose and enclose a wearer's foot when the wearer's foot is received within the void. Assembled upper 2500 may also include collar 2516 that may encircle ankle region 2114. Collar 2516 can include an opening configured to allow a wearer's foot to pass during insertion or removal of the foot from the void.

Assembled upper 2500, which incorporates the knitted component, may include various configurations of rib features, including differences in the direction, spacing, strands, size, and placement of the webbed areas and/or tubular rib structures. In some embodiments, the rib features may form a pattern of stripes or lines through the portion of the knitted component that follows the primary direction. In other embodiments, the direction of the rib features may be in one direction through a portion of assembled upper 2500 and in another direction through a different portion of assembled upper 2500. The rib features may be arranged in a direction along different areas of upper 2500 that helps provide improved structural reinforcement and resilience to footwear 2512 in each area.

Fig. 25-27 depict possible orientations of rib features along assembled upper 2500 in footwear 2512. It should be noted that in other embodiments, the rib features may be oriented differently than the embodiment of fig. 25-27. In the embodiment shown in fig. 25, five zones of assembled upper 2500 have been enlarged to illustrate the change in orientation and spacing of tubular rib structures 1802 and webbed areas 1800.

In first zone 2502, tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh areas 1800 are oriented at an angle as tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh areas 1800 extend from heel zone 2104 and move downward and generally diagonally along lateral side 2108 of footwear 2512 toward midfoot zone 2102. The width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 are substantially regular and substantially the same size.

In the second zone 2504, the tubular rib structures 1802 and the mesh areas 1800 are oriented at an angle as the tubular rib structures 1802 and the mesh areas 1800 extend from the heel zone 2104 and move downward and generally diagonally along the lateral side 2108 toward the second end 2006. In this case, although the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 are substantially regular, the webbed area 1800 is substantially narrower than the webbed area of the first zone 2502.

In third zone 2506, if a viewer views footwear 2512 from above, tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh regions 1800 continue forward and toward lateral side 2108 in a substantially diagonal manner as tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh regions 1800 extend along vamp region 2106 toward forefoot region 2112. In this case, the webbed area 1800 includes two different widths. The webbed area 1800 of the first width 1804 is substantially narrower than the webbed area 1800 of the second width 1810. Further, the tubular rib structure 1802 widens in an area adjacent to the webbed area 1800 of the first width 1804. In other embodiments, the tubular rib structure 1802 can maintain a substantially constant width while the webbed areas 1800 include areas of varying width. In some embodiments, tubular rib structure 1802 may vary in width in some areas of assembled upper 2500, while webbed area 1800 remains a substantially constant width in the same area.

In fourth region 2508, if a viewer views footwear 2512 from above, tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh regions 1800 continue forward and toward lateral side 2108 in a generally diagonal manner as tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh regions 1800 extend along vamp region 2106 toward forefoot region 2112. In this case, although the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 are substantially regular, the webbed area 1800 is substantially narrower than the tubular rib structure 1802. Further, it can be seen that the width of the tubular rib structures 1802 in the fourth zone 2508 is less than the width of the tubular rib structures 1802 in the first zone 2502.

In fifth region 2510, if a viewer views footwear 2512 from above, tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh regions 1800 continue forward and toward lateral side 2108 in a generally diagonal manner as tubular rib structures 1802 and mesh regions 1800 extend along vamp region 2106 toward forefoot region 2112. In this case, although the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 are substantially regular, the webbed area 1800 is narrow to the extent that it is not visible to a viewer. In this case, the mesh region 1800 may include only one or two rows of mesh. Thus, in some embodiments, the tubular rib structures 1802 may appear directly adjacent to one another.

In various embodiments, the arrangement of rib features associated with first zone 2502, second zone 2504, third zone 2506, fourth zone 2508, and fifth zone 2510 may include a specific direction that may support footwear 2512 and impart resiliency to footwear 2512. For example, the first zone 2502 and the second zone 2504 together depict an embodiment of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 corresponding to the fourth portion 2028 of the knitted component 2002. Accordingly, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the rib features included in fourth portion 2028 may be said to follow a direction associated with the "fourth direction". The term fourth direction as used throughout the specification and claims refers to the arrangement of the rib features in the assembled upper 2500 that are located rearward and upward relative to the location of the tubular rib structures arranged along the third boundary 2038 relative to the tubular rib structures arranged along the second end 2006.

Further, the third zone 2506, the fourth zone 2508, and the fifth zone 2510 together illustrate an embodiment of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the mesh region 1800 that correspond to the first portion 2022 of the knitted component 2002. Accordingly, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the rib features included in first portion 2022 may be said to follow a direction associated with the "first direction". The term first direction as used throughout the specification and claims refers to the arrangement of the rib features that are located forward and further toward the lateral side 2108 relative to the location of the tubular rib structures that are arranged along the first end 2004 (hidden behind the fourth portion 2028 and collar 2516 in fig. 25-27) in the assembled upper 2500. Further, it can be seen that the first direction of the rib features in the first portion 2022 is different from the fourth direction of the rib features in the fourth portion 2028. Of course, other portions may be associated with other directions that may be similar to or different from the first direction and/or the fourth direction.

In fig. 26, the four areas of assembled upper 2500 have been enlarged to illustrate the change in orientation and spacing of the tubular rib structures and webbed areas, as well as possible material differences. In sixth region 2600, tubular rib structures 1802 and webbed areas 1800 extend from forefoot region 2112 toward midfoot region 2102, oriented such that tubular rib structures 1802 and webbed areas 1800 extend in this area along a curve of medial side 2110 relatively parallel to a perimeter of sole 2514. The width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 are generally regular and of substantially the same size.

In seventh region 2602, tubular rib structures 1802 and web regions 1800 extend from midfoot region 2102 toward heel region 2104, oriented such that tubular rib structures 1802 and web regions 1800 extend along curves in this region along medial side 2110 relatively parallel to the perimeter of sole 2514. In this case, although the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the mesh region 1800 are substantially regular, the mesh region 1800 is substantially narrower than the mesh region 1800 of the sixth region 2600.

In eighth region 2604, tubular rib structure 1802 and webbed area 1800 extend in a rearward direction along medial side 2110 of heel region 2104, and are oriented along medial side 2110 in this area relative to a curve parallel to the perimeter of sole 2514. In this case, the webbed area 1800 includes two different widths. The webbed area 1800 having the first width 1804 is substantially wider than the webbed area 1800 having the second width 1810. Further, the tubular rib structure 1802 is wider in an area adjacent to the webbed area 1800 having the second width 1810. In other embodiments, the tubular rib structure 1802 can be maintained at a substantially constant width while the webbed area 1800 includes areas of varying width. In some embodiments, tubular rib structure 1802 may vary in width in some areas of assembled upper 2500, while webbed area 1800 remains a substantially constant width in the same area. In other embodiments, both the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 may vary in width in the same area.

In various embodiments, the arrangement of rib features associated with sixth region 2600, seventh region 2602, eighth region 2604, and ninth region 2606 may include specific directions in which footwear 2512 may be supported and resiliency imparted to footwear 2512. For example, the sixth region 2600, the seventh region 2602, and the eighth region 2604 depict embodiments of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 that correspond to the second portion 2024 of the knitted component 2002. Accordingly, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the rib features included in second portion 2024 may be said to follow a direction associated with the "second direction". The term second direction as used throughout the specification and claims refers to the arrangement of the rib features in the assembled upper 2500 that are located forward of the locations of the tubular rib structures arranged along first boundary 2034 relative to the tubular rib structures arranged along second boundary 2036.

In ninth region 2606, an area of collar portion 2014 is enlarged to depict one possible embodiment of the knit structure in this area. In some embodiments, collar portion 2014 may include rib features. In other embodiments, collar portion 2014 can include a woven material that does not include rib features. In one embodiment illustrated in fig. 26, collar portion 2014 includes mesh areas. In some embodiments, collar portion 2014 may facilitate securing footwear 2512 to the ankle of a wearer.

In fig. 27, two areas of assembled upper 2500 have been enlarged to illustrate the change in direction and spacing of the tubular rib structures and webbed areas, as well as possible material differences. In tenth zone 2700, tubular rib structure 1802 and webbed area 1800 extend from medial side 2110 toward lateral side 2108, and are oriented along a curve in heel region 2104 that is relatively parallel to the perimeter of sole 2514 in this area. In this case, the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the webbed area 1800 are substantially regular, while the webbed area 1800 is narrower than the tubular rib structure 1802.

In eleventh zone 2702, an area of collar portion 2014 is enlarged to depict one possible embodiment of the knit structure in this area. In some embodiments, collar portion 2014 can include a plurality of intermeshed loops defining a plurality of courses and wales. That is, the knit element may have a structure with a knit fabric of different textures and configurations. For example, in eleventh zone 2702, a knitted mesh portion 2704 and a knitted solid portion 2706 are present in collar portion 2014.

In various embodiments, the arrangement of rib features associated with tenth zone 2700 may include a particular direction in which footwear 2512 can be supported and give footwear 2512 resilience. For example, tenth zone 2700 depicts an embodiment of tubular rib structures 1802 and webbed areas 1800 that correspond to third portion 2026 of knitted component 2002. Accordingly, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the rib features included in third portion 2026 may be said to follow a direction associated with the "third direction. The term third direction as used throughout the specification and claims refers to an arrangement in which the tubular rib structures disposed along the second boundary 2036 in the assembled upper 2500 are located more toward the medial side 2110 than the location of the tubular rib structures disposed along the third boundary 2038 and in which the tubular rib structures are along the rib features of the heel region 2104 that are substantially parallel to the perimeter of the sole 2514.

The different directions of the rib features in different areas of article of footwear 2512 may provide enhanced support, stability, control, and durability for the wearer. The arrangement of the tubular rib structures and the webbed areas may promote better performance, flexibility and flexibility. Specifically, as a portion of the rib feature passes over vamp region 2106 extending from the perimeter of sole 2514 on lateral side 2108 and toward medial side 2110, the wearer may have additional support, structural reinforcement and cushioning as the foot moves from side to side. Because the rib feature resists deformation along lateral side 2108, lateral support is enhanced, allowing the wearer to perform better as he/she engages in various activities such as lateral cutting movement. The particular orientation of the rib feature may also provide better pronation control of the foot. This is due in part to the fact that knitted component 2002 included in assembled upper 2500 has a greater ability to stretch in lateral direction 104 than in longitudinal direction 102, as previously discussed.

Further, in embodiments where the knitted component includes one or more tensile elements disposed through the tubular rib structure (e.g., tensile element 2018 of knitted component 2002), the tensile element also provides support and resistance to stretching that follows the direction of the tensile element when the tensile element is disposed through the direction of the tubular rib structure. With this arrangement, the portion of knitted component 2002 that includes tensile elements 2018 may be configured to provide additional lateral support along lateral side 2108, allowing the wearer to perform better as he/she engages in various activities, such as lateral cutting movements. Further, in some embodiments, the selectivity of tensile elements 2018 in the particular tubular rib structure of knitted component 2002 may or may not allow for some degree of stretch or deformation in desired portions of the finished article of footwear.

The heel region 2104 is supported in a similar manner, with the rib features oriented parallel to the perimeter of the sole 2514. As a result, there is greater stability and control over the wearer during movement of the heel because the ability to stretch in the longitudinal direction 102 is limited relative to the stretch in the lateral direction 104 in this region. The wearer may also be provided with a higher degree of flexibility. For example, the rib features disposed in areas of assembled upper 2500 associated with bending of the foot in the arch and ball area (arch and ball area) are oriented in a manner that provides greater flexibility such that the wearer may experience better responsiveness and comfort during bending movements. The overall structural reinforcement applied to assembled upper 2500 may help provide both enhanced support and control, as well as greater stability during bending.

It should be understood that the embodiments in fig. 25-27 are for illustrative purposes only and that only one embodiment of an upper that includes a knitted component is depicted. In other embodiments, the shape, length, thickness, width, arrangement, orientation, and density of the rib features of assembled upper 2500 may vary.

Other articles may also include knitted component 100. For example, knitted component 100 may be included in a belt or other portion of an article of apparel. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may additionally be included in a belt for a bag or other container. In some embodiments, the container article can include one or more features similar to a duffel bag. In other embodiments, the container article may include features similar to a backpack or other container. The rib feature is resiliently deformable to allow the strap to lengthen from the container body under load. In some embodiments, the rib feature may attenuate cyclic loading. Also, the rib feature may deform under compression, for example, to allow the belt to conform to the user's body and/or to provide cushioning. Additional embodiments may include incorporating knitted component 100 into an article of apparel. It should be understood that the article of apparel may be of any suitable type, including a sports bra, shirt, headband, sock, or other article. The use of an article of apparel incorporating knitted component 100 may allow a wearer to experience improvements in balance, comfort, grip, support, and other features.

It should also be understood that knitted components of the types discussed herein may also be incorporated into other articles. For example, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be included in a rimmed hat, a skullcap, or a helmet. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be a padding for a rimmed hat, a skullcap, or a helmet. Thus, the resiliency of knitted component 100 may allow for a rimmed hat, a rimless hat, or a helmet to help conform the article to the head of the wearer. Knitted component 100 may also provide cushioning to the head of the wearer.

In summary, the knitted component of the present disclosure may be resilient and may deform under various types of loads. This resiliency can provide cushioning, for example, to make the article more comfortable to wear. This resiliency may also allow the article to stretch and recover back to the original width. Thus, in some embodiments, the knitted component may allow the article to conform to the wearer's body and/or attenuate loads. Furthermore, the knitted component may be efficiently manufactured and assembled.

While various embodiments of the disclosure have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims. As used in the claims, "any of … when referring to a preceding claim is intended to mean (i) any claim, or (ii) any combination of two or more claims that are referred to.

Claims

1. An article comprising a knitted component, the article comprising:

a first tubular rib structure and a second tubular rib structure; and

a reticulated region located between the first tubular rib structure and the second tubular rib structure, the reticulated region having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having a first width and the second portion having a second width, the first width being greater than the second width,

wherein the mesh region is formed at least in part by a first yarn,

wherein, in the neutral position, a portion of the front surface of the reticulated region is obscured from visual observation from a viewing angle, and

wherein, in the extended position, the portion of the front surface of the reticulated region is displayed for visual observation.

2. The article of claim 1, wherein the first tubular rib structure is formed at least in part from a second yarn, and wherein the first yarn and the second yarn differ in at least one characteristic.

3. The article of claim 1, wherein the first width of the reticulated region comprises a first number of courses, wherein the second width of the reticulated region comprises a second number of courses, and wherein the first number of courses is greater than the second number of courses.

4. The article of claim 1, wherein the first width stretches a first amount in response to a force applied to the article, wherein the second width stretches a second amount in response to a force applied to the article, and wherein the first amount is greater than the second amount.

5. The article of claim 1, wherein at least one of the webbed area and the first tubular rib structure is configured to stretch in response to a force applied to the article to move the webbed area from the neutral position to the extended position.

6. The article of claim 1, wherein a tensile element is positionable in at least one of the first tubular rib structure and the second tubular rib structure.

7. The article of claim 5, wherein the webbed areas are biased toward the neutral position.

8. An article comprising a knitted component, the article comprising:

a plurality of mesh regions including at least a first mesh region and a second mesh region,

wherein the plurality of reticulated regions are configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position in response to a force applied to the article, and wherein the plurality of reticulated regions are biased toward the neutral position; and

a first curved portion having a first edge and a second edge, the first edge being adjacent the first reticulated region and the second edge being adjacent the second reticulated region,

wherein the first curved portion is configured to move from an unstretched position to a stretched position in response to a force applied to the article, the unstretched position corresponding to the neutral position of the plurality of reticulated regions, and the stretched position corresponding to the extended position of the plurality of reticulated regions;

wherein in the neutral position a portion of the front surface of at least one reticulated region is obscured from visual observation from a viewing angle, and

wherein, in the extended position, the portion of the front surface is displayed for visual observation.

9. The article of claim 8, wherein the first curved portion is formed at least in part from a first yarn.

10. The article of claim 8, further comprising a second curved portion, wherein the first curved portion and the second curved portion are attached together to define a tube forming a tubular rib structure.

11. The article of claim 10, wherein the second curved portion is attached to the first curved portion at the first edge and the second edge.

12. The article of claim 10, wherein the first curved portion is formed from a first number of courses, wherein the second curved portion is formed from a second number of courses, and wherein the first number of courses is greater than the second number of courses.

13. The article of claim 10, further comprising:

a first midpoint of the first curved portion; and

a second midpoint of the second curved portion,

wherein the first midpoint is a first distance from the second midpoint when the first curved portion is in the unstretched position,

wherein the first midpoint is a second distance from the second midpoint when the first curved portion is in the stretched position, and

wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

14. The article of claim 10, wherein the second curved portion is configured to move from an unstretched position to a stretched position in response to a force applied to the article.

15. The article of claim 8, wherein the first curved portion comprises a first width and a second width, the first width being greater than the second width.

16. An article comprising a knitted component, the article comprising:

a plurality of webbing regions comprising a plurality of courses formed at least in part by a first yarn; and

a plurality of tubular structures positioned adjacent the mesh region, the plurality of tubular structures comprising a plurality of second courses formed at least in part by a second yarn,

wherein the first yarn and the second yarn differ in at least one characteristic,

wherein, in the neutral position, a first area of the front surface of the at least one reticulated region is obscured from visual observation from a first perspective; and is

Wherein, in an extended position, the first region of the front surface is displayed for visual observation from the first viewing angle.

17. The article of claim 16, wherein the at least one characteristic comprises at least one of color, diameter, denier, elasticity, and texture.

18. The article of claim 16, wherein the first yarn and the second yarn are different colors.

19. The article of claim 16, wherein the article is configured to stretch between the neutral position and the extended position in response to a force applied to the article, and wherein the article is biased toward the neutral position.

20. The article of claim 16, wherein a tensile element is positionable in at least one of the plurality of tubular structures.