18675028. KNITTED COMPONENTS HAVING SELF SUPPORTIVE HEEL simplified abstract (Nike, Inc.)
Contents
KNITTED COMPONENTS HAVING SELF SUPPORTIVE HEEL
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Kevin S. Dewillie of Portland OR (US)
Scott R. Kamrowski of Tigard OR (US)
KNITTED COMPONENTS HAVING SELF SUPPORTIVE HEEL - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18675028 titled 'KNITTED COMPONENTS HAVING SELF SUPPORTIVE HEEL
In one aspect of the disclosure, a knitted component may have different regions such as a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a rearfoot region, with varying levels of stretch in each region.
- The rearfoot region includes a first zone with a lower level of stretch and an elongate portion extending towards the upper heel region.
- Adjacent to the first zone is a second zone with a higher level of stretch, covering the calcaneus region and extending into the medial and lateral parts of the component.
Potential Applications: - This technology could be used in the design of athletic footwear to provide targeted support and flexibility in different areas of the foot. - Medical applications could include orthopedic devices that offer customized comfort and stability based on the specific needs of the wearer.
Problems Solved: - Addressing the need for footwear that offers varying levels of stretch and support in different regions of the foot. - Providing a solution for creating knitted components that conform to the anatomy of the foot for improved comfort and performance.
Benefits: - Enhanced comfort and performance for athletes and individuals with specific foot conditions. - Customizable design options for footwear manufacturers to cater to different consumer needs.
Commercial Applications: - The technology could be utilized by athletic shoe companies to create innovative and customizable footwear for athletes. - Medical device manufacturers could incorporate this technology into orthopedic products for improved patient comfort and support.
Questions about the technology: 1. How does the varying stretch levels in different regions of the knitted component benefit the wearer? 2. What are the potential cost implications of incorporating this technology into footwear design?
Original Abstract Submitted
In one aspect of the disclosure, a knitted component may have a medial part, a lateral part, a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a rearfoot region. The rearfoot region may include a first zone having a first level of stretch and extending from a lower region of one of the medial part and the lateral part toward an upper heel region. The first zone may have an elongate portion. The knitted component may include a second zone adjacent the first zone and having a second level of stretch greater than the first level of stretch. The second zone may extend into the medial part and the lateral part and may substantially cover a calcaneus region.
