CN108433232B

CN108433232B - Multicolor sole system

Info

Publication number: CN108433232B
Application number: CN201810153921.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 马克·C·米内尔; 艾米丽·B·谢弗
Original assignee: Nike Inc
Current assignee: Nike Inc
Priority date: 2013-03-08
Filing date: 2014-03-07
Publication date: 2021-06-01
Anticipated expiration: 2034-03-07
Also published as: CN105101828B; CN108433232A; JP6556635B2; WO2014138573A3; EP2964042B1; TW201446165A; KR20150123914A; EP2964042A2; CN105101828A; US20140250720A1; TWI526165B; WO2014138573A2; JP2016509887A

Abstract

The present invention relates to a multi-colored sole system including a bladder member and an outsole member, wherein a first bladder portion is aligned with a first bladder portion such that a first color of the first bladder portion is aligned with a first color of a first outsole portion, a second color of a second bladder portion is aligned with a second color of a second outsole portion, and a first color and a second color of a third bladder portion are aligned with a first color and a second color of a third outsole portion, respectively; and wherein the first color and the second color mix to form a bladder transition zone in the third bladder portion and cooperate to form an outsole transition zone in the third outsole portion, the bladder transition zone being aligned with the outsole transition zone. The present invention allows for providing a multi-colored sole system.

Description

Multicolor sole system

The application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application with the application date of 2014, 3, 7, the application number of 201480013073.2 and the name of 'multicolor sole system'.

Technical Field

This embodiment relates generally to articles of footwear, and more particularly to articles of footwear having a sole system.

Background

Articles of footwear generally include two primary components: an upper system and a sole system. The upper is typically formed from multiple material components (e.g., textiles, polymer sheets, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. More specifically, the upper forms a structure that extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area of the foot. The upper may also incorporate a lacing system to adjust the fit of the footwear and allow a foot to be inserted into and removed from the void within the upper.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, a sole system for an article of footwear includes a bladder member including an outer barrier layer and an interior cavity filled with a fluid. The sole system also includes an outsole member that includes an outer surface for contacting a ground surface and an inner surface in contact with the bladder member. The bladder member includes a first bladder portion of the outer barrier and a second bladder portion of the outer barrier, and the outsole member includes a first outsole portion and a second outsole portion. The first bladder portion includes a first dye corresponding to a first color and the second bladder portion includes a second dye corresponding to a second color, the second color being substantially different from the first color. The first outsole portion is made of a rubber material having a first color and the second outsole portion is made of a rubber material having a second color.

In another aspect, a sole system for an article of footwear includes: a balloon member including an outer barrier and an inner lumen, the inner lumen filled with a fluid. The sole system also includes a midsole member adapted to face the bladder member, wherein the midsole member is disposed farther from a ground-contacting surface of the sole system than the bladder member. The bladder member includes a first bladder portion of the outer barrier and a second bladder portion of the outer barrier. The midsole member includes a first midsole portion and a second midsole portion. The first bladder portion includes a first dye corresponding to a first color and the second bladder portion includes a second dye corresponding to a second color, the second color being different from the first color. The first midsole portion includes an outer coating having a first color and the second midsole portion includes an outer coating having a second color.

In another aspect, a sole system for an article of footwear includes: a balloon member comprising an outer barrier and an inner lumen, the inner lumen filled with a fluid; a midsole member including an inner surface in contact with the first surface of the bladder member; and an outsole member including an outer surface for contacting the ground surface and an inner surface in contact with the second surface of the bladder member. The bladder member includes at least one dye that provides color to the bladder member. The midsole member includes at least one coating that provides a color to the midsole member. Additionally, at least a portion of the bladder member, at least a portion of the midsole member, and at least a portion of the outsole member have matching colors.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be or 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

Embodiments may 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 embodiments. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a sole system;

FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded isometric view of an embodiment of a sole system;

FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a sole system;

FIG. 4 is a schematic bottom view of an embodiment of a sole system;

FIG. 5 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a top surface of a bladder member of a sole system incorporating an insert;

FIG. 6 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a bottom surface of a bladder member of a sole system incorporating an insert;

FIG. 7 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a bladder member;

FIG. 8 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a midsole member and a bladder member;

FIG. 9 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a sole system including an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the sole system;

FIG. 10 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a process for dyeing a capsular member;

FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of another embodiment of a sole system;

FIG. 12 is a schematic bottom view of an embodiment of a sole system;

FIG. 13 is a schematic side view of another embodiment of a sole system; and

figure 14 is a schematic bottom view of an embodiment of a sole system.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 and 2 show schematic isometric views of embodiments of a sole system 100. For purposes of illustration, sole system 100 is shown in isolation from other components of an article of footwear. However, it should be understood that sole system 100 may be used as the sole of a variety of different types of footwear, including, but not limited to: hiking shoes, soccer shoes, football shoes, athletic shoes, running shoes, cross-training shoes, football shoes, basketball shoes, baseball shoes, and other types of shoes. Further, in some embodiments, sole system 100 may be configured for use with various types of non-athletic related footwear, including, but not limited to: slippers, sandals, high-heeled footwear, sandals, and other types of footwear.

Referring to fig. 1, for reference purposes, sole system 100 may be divided into a forefoot portion 10, a midfoot portion 12, and a heel portion 14. Forefoot portion 10 may be generally associated with the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region 12 may be generally associated with the arch of the foot. Similarly, heel portion 14 may be generally associated with the heel of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Additionally, sole system 100 may include lateral side 16 and medial side 18. In particular, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may be opposite sides of sole system 100. In addition, both lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may extend through forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12, and heel portion 14.

It should be understood that forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12, and heel portion 14 are for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to define the precise areas of sole system 100. Similarly, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 are intended to generally represent both sides of the article, rather than precisely defining sole system 100 in two halves.

Directional adjectives are used throughout the detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments for consistency and convenience. The term "longitudinal," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction extending along a length of a sole system. In some cases, the longitudinal direction may extend from a forefoot portion of the sole system to a heel portion of the sole system. Also, the term "lateral" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction extending along a width of a sole system. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between the medial side and the lateral side of the sole system. Furthermore, the term "vertical" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction generally perpendicular to the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, the vertical direction may extend upward from the ground surface when the sole system is placed flat on the ground surface. Additionally, the term "proximal end" refers to a portion of the sole system that is proximate to a portion of the foot when the article of footwear is worn. Similarly, the term "distal end" refers to a portion of the sole system that is distal from a portion of the foot when the article of footwear is worn. It should be understood that each of these directional adjectives may be used to describe a single component of a sole system, such as an outsole member, a midsole member, a bladder member, and possibly other components of a sole system.

Sole system 100 may provide multiple functions for an associated article of footwear. In some embodiments, sole system 100 may be configured to provide traction/grip to article 100. In addition to providing traction/traction, sole system 100 may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole system 100 varies significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of sole system 100 may be configured according to one or more types of ground for which sole system 100 is intended. Examples of the ground include, but are not limited to: natural turf, artificial turf, mud, and other surfaces.

When part of an article of footwear, sole system 100 may be secured to an upper and may extend between the foot and the ground when the article of footwear is worn. In different embodiments, sole system 100 may include different components. For example, sole system 100 may include an outsole, a midsole, and/or an insole. In some cases, one or more of these components may be optional. Certain components of an exemplary embodiment of sole system 100 are discussed below.

Fig. 3 illustrates a schematic side view of the sole system 100. Although figure 3 illustrates lateral side 16 of sole system 100, it should be understood that medial side 18 may be substantially similar to lateral side 16 in some embodiments. Fig. 4 illustrates a bottom view of the sole system 100.

Referring now to fig. 1-4, embodiments of sole system 100 may include a number of components that facilitate features including traction/grip/traction, cushioning, support, energy return, and possibly other features. In some embodiments, sole system 100 may include at least three separate components or members: outsole member 140, bladder member 160, and midsole member 180.

In some embodiments, outsole member 140 includes an inner surface 142 and an outer surface 144. Outer surface 144 may be a ground-contacting surface, i.e., may be configured to contact the ground when the article of footwear is in use. To facilitate traction/traction, in some embodiments, outsole member 140 may include a plurality of traction elements 146. The plurality of traction elements 146 may include raised features integrally formed with the outer surface 144, or otherwise attached to the outer surface 144. In embodiments, the plurality of traction elements 146 may be configured in any number of traction elements and may be arranged in any pattern or configuration.

Other embodiments of outsole member 140 may or may not include traction elements. In other embodiments, for example, outsole member 140 may have a substantially flat or smooth ground-contacting surface. In still other embodiments, outsole member 140 may include other surface features and/or textures to enhance traction/grip/traction with the ground surface. Moreover, in some other embodiments, outsole member 140 may be configured with additional traction/grip/traction enhancement features, such as a single cleat member that may be configured to penetrate into a ground surface (such as grass, dirt, turf, etc.).

Some embodiments of outsole member 140 may include means for increasing flexibility. In some embodiments, outsole member 140 may include a plurality of grooves 149, which plurality of grooves 149 may serve to enhance flexibility. In some cases, portions of the underlying balloon member 160 (discussed below) may be viewable through the plurality of slots 149.

The bladder member 160 may include an outer barrier layer 162 defining an inner lumen 164 (see fig. 9). In some embodiments, the inner lumen 164 may be filled with a fluid comprising a liquid or a gas, and the outer barrier 162 may be substantially fluid impermeable. As one example, the inner cavity 164 may be filled with air and the outer barrier 162 may be substantially air impermeable. According to such a configuration, bladder member 160 acts as a cushioning element to enhance the comfort, support, and possibly energy return characteristics of sole system 100.

In some embodiments, the balloon member may be configured to have one or more internal structures. Such internal structures may be enclosed within an outer barrier layer. Such a structure may enhance the material properties of the bladder member, for example, by increasing the strength of the bladder member, by increasing the cushioning properties, and/or by helping to maintain a predetermined geometry of the bladder member. Exemplary internal structures include, but are not limited to: structures comprising fibers, structures comprising plastics, and possibly other types of structures.

Referring now to fig. 3, some embodiments of the bladder member 160 may include an internal support structure 168 (see fig. 3). The internal support structure 168 may extend throughout the entire length of the bladder member 160. In some instances, the internal support structure 168 can include a first set of columnar structures 170 and a second set of columnar structures 172, the first and second sets of

columnar structures

170 and 172 connected by a substantially mid-sole portion 174 of the internal support structure 168. Additionally, first set of columnar structures 170, medial portion 174, and second set of columnar structures 172 may be associated with forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12, and heel portion 14, respectively, of bladder member 160 (and of sole system 100).

Fig. 5 and 6 illustrate schematic isometric views of two sides of bladder member 160. Fig. 7 illustrates another isometric view of bladder member 160. Referring to fig. 5-7, bladder member 160 may include a first surface 176 and a second surface 178 connected by a sidewall surface 179. In some embodiments, first surface 176 and second surface 178 may be configured with various surface features. For example, in some embodiments, first surface 176 and second surface 178 may include forefoot recess 510. In some embodiments, the forefoot recess 510 may correspond with portions of the material that have been joined together to create or otherwise accommodate the first set of columnar structures 170 (see fig. 3). In a similar manner, first surface 176 and second surface 178 may include heel recess 512. In some embodiments, heel recess 512 may correspond with portions of material that have been joined together to create or otherwise accommodate second set of columnar structures 172.

Some embodiments may further include means for reinforcing selected portions of the bladder member 160. As shown in fig. 5 and 6, bladder member 160 may be configured to receive first heel insert member 520 and second heel insert member 522. Specifically, first heel insert member 520 may be configured with a ridged projection 530, the ridged projection 530 fitting into heel recess 512 on first surface 176. Similarly, second heel insert member 522 may be configured with a ridge protrusion 532, which ridge protrusion 532 fits into heel recess 512 on second surface 178. Each insert may also include a smooth outwardly facing surface along the first and

second surfaces

176, 178. In particular, first heel insert member 520 includes a smooth, outwardly facing surface 560 (shown in FIG. 8) and second heel insert member 522 includes a smooth, outwardly facing surface 562 (shown in FIG. 7). This may increase the stability of heel portion 14 and may also allow for variations in heel stiffness or other characteristics.

Referring now to fig. 1-4, the midsole member 180 may include an inner surface 182 (see fig. 8) and an outer surface 184. In some embodiments, outer surface 184 may face the inner sole. In other embodiments, exterior surface 184 may be associated with portions of an upper and/or an insert.

The material properties or characteristics of the midsole member 180 may vary. In some cases, the midsole member 180 may be substantially compressible. In other cases, however, the midsole member 180 may be substantially incompressible. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the material properties of the midsole member 180 may be selected to achieve the desired support and cushioning for the foot.

As seen in fig. 1-4, outsole member 140, bladder member 160, and midsole member 180 may be assembled in a stacked configuration to form sole system 100. In particular, inner surface 142 of outsole member 140 may face second surface 178 of bladder member 160. Also, an inner surface 182 of the midsole member 180 may face the first surface 176 of the bladder member 160. Thus, as seen in the figures, the bladder member 160 may be disposed between the outsole member 140 and the midsole member 180. Further, each member is stacked such that the outsole member 140 is disposed distal to the bladder member 160, while both the outsole member 140 and the bladder member 160 are disposed distal to the midsole member 180.

Fig. 8 illustrates a schematic isometric view of the midsole member 180 and the bladder member 160, and referring to fig. 7, in some embodiments, the midsole member 180 may be shaped to mate with the first surface 176 of the bladder member 160 in a manner that prevents unwanted slippage or other movement between the midsole member 180 and the bladder member 160. In some embodiments, the inner surface 182 of the midsole member 180 may be shaped to mate with surface features of the first surface 176 of the bladder member 160. For example, the inner surface 182 may include a raised central portion 702 and a forefoot ridge 704, and the central portion 702 and forefoot ridge 704 may fit within corresponding central recess 706 and forefoot recess 510, respectively, of the bladder member 160.

The dimensions of one or more components may vary from one embodiment to another. In some embodiments, one or more members of sole system 100 may be full length members. In an exemplary embodiment, outsole member 140, bladder member 160, and midsole member 180 may be full length members that extend from rear heel 14 to forefoot 10 of sole system 100. In other embodiments, one or more members of sole system 100 may be partial-length members. As one example, in alternative embodiments, bladder member 160 may extend only throughout the rear heel 14 and midfoot 12 of sole system 100, and may not be present at forefoot 10 of sole system 100.

In various embodiments, the material composition of each member may vary. Outsole member 140 may be made of any material known in the art for making an outsole. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to: natural rubber, synthetic rubber, polyurethane, dual density polyurethane, leather, synthetic leather, latex, and possibly other materials. One exemplary material is a peroxide cured rubber.

The midsole member 180 may similarly be made of any material known in the art for use in making midsoles. Exemplary materials include any of the above-described materials for the outsole, as well as possibly other materials including various types of foam materials. One exemplary material for making the midsole member 180 is a foam material, such as Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam.

Bladder member 160 may be made of any material or combination of materials. The materials useful for forming one or more layers of the bladder may vary. In some cases, the bladder member 160 may be made of a rigid to semi-rigid material. In other cases, the bladder member 160 may be made of a substantially flexible material. The bladder member 160 may be made of a variety of materials in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the bladder member 160 may be made of a substantially flexible and resilient material configured to deform due to the force of a fluid. In some cases, the bladder member 160 may be made of a plastic material. Examples of plastic materials that may be used include high density polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene, thermoplastic materials, elastomeric materials, and any other type of plastic material including combinations of various materials. In embodiments where thermoplastic polymers are used for the bladder, a variety of thermoplastic polymer materials may be used for the bladder, including polyurethane, polyester polyurethane, polyether polyurethane. Another suitable material for the bladder is a film formed from alternating layers of thermoplastic polyurethane and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, as disclosed in U.S. patent nos. 5,713,141 and 5,952,065 to Mitchell et al, which are incorporated herein by reference. The bladder may also be formed of a flexible microlayer membrane that includes alternating layers of a gas barrier material and an elastomeric material, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,082,025 and 6,127,026 to Bonk et al, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, a wide variety of thermoplastic urethanes can be used, such as PELLETHANE, a product of Dow chemical company; ELASTOLLAN, a product of BASF corporation; and ESTANE, a product of B.F Goodrich, all of which are ester or ether based products. Other thermoplastic urethanes based on polyesters, polyethers, polycaprolactones and polycarbonate macrogels may also be used, as well as various nitrogen barrier materials. Additional suitable materials are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,183,156 and 4,219,945 to Rudy, hereby incorporated by reference. Additional suitable materials include thermoplastic films comprising crystalline materials, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,936,029 and 5,042,176 to Rudy, which are incorporated herein by reference, and polyurethanes comprising polyester polyols, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,013,340, 6,203,868 and 6, 6,321,465 to Bonk et al, which are also incorporated herein by reference. In one embodiment, the bladder member 160 may include one or more layers of thermoplastic urethane (TPU).

The material used for the one or more insert members may vary. In some embodiments, the insert member (including first heel insert member 522 and/or second heel insert member 524) may be made of any material known in the art used in making inserts, including but not limited to: rubber, plastic, foam, and possibly other materials. An exemplary material is Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam.

Embodiments can provide a sole system in multiple colors. In particular, the sole system may have a multi-colored design, pattern, or visual appearance with different portions of the sole system having different colors. Further, in some embodiments, different portions of the sole system have different colors. Further, in some embodiments, the sole system may be colored such that a gradual transition occurs between two different portions having two different colors.

For purposes of illustration, various types of shading (or stippling) are utilized in the figures to indicate exemplary variations in color across the sole system 100. Thus, for example, similarly shaded/stippled portions or regions may be associated with a common color. Similarly, portions or regions having different shading/stippling may be associated with different colors.

In various embodiments, each member may have one or more colors. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, each component has two or more colors. In particular, sole system 100 is provided with an overall color scheme in which each portion has a first color 101 along forefoot portion 10 and a second color 103 along heel portion 14. The first color 101 may be substantially different from the second color 103. As one possible example, the first color 101 may be blue and the second color 103 may be yellow. Further, first color 101 transitions to second color 103 approximately at midfoot region 12. In an exemplary embodiment, the color along sole system 100 may gradually change from blue (associated with forefoot portion 10) to green (associated with midfoot portion 12) to yellow (associated with heel portion 14).

Although the embodiments depict a particular color scheme, it should be understood that other embodiments may utilize any other color scheme. As another example, the sole system may include any number of different portions having different colors. Further, the colored regions may include any pattern, graphic, or other design.

Referring now to fig. 1-4, an overall multi-color scheme for sole system 100 may be achieved by coloring each component of sole system 100 in a corresponding manner. In some embodiments, each member may comprise at least two different coloured portions. Outsole member 140 may include first and

second outsole portions

141 and 143 having first and

second colors

101 and 103, respectively. In some embodiments, first outsole portion 141 and second outsole portion 143 may be similarly associated with forefoot portion 10 and heel portion 14, respectively, of sole system 100. The bladder member 160 may include first and

second bladder portions

161 and 163 having first and

second colors

101 and 103, respectively. In some embodiments, first bladder portion 161 and second bladder portion 163 of bladder member 160 may be associated with forefoot portion 10 and rear heel portion 14 of sole system 100, respectively. Midsole member 180 may include a first midsole portion 181 and a second midsole portion 183 having a first color 101 and a second layer, respectively. In some embodiments, first midsole portion 181 and second midsole portion 183 may be associated with forefoot portion 10 and heel portion 14, respectively, of sole system 100.

For ease of illustration and clarity, the first color 101 and the second color 103 are only marked on the bladder member 160 in the figures. However, as noted above, outsole member 140 and midsole member 180 also have portions with first color 101 and second color 103, which are identified by different shading/stippling.

Further, each member may include a portion that provides a transition between the first color 101 and the second color 103. In some embodiments, third outsole portion 145 of outsole member 140 extends between first outsole portion 141 and second outsole portion 143, and may include one or more colors (including a range of colors or a gradient of colors) that smoothly transition between first color 101 and second color 103. In a similar manner, the third bladder portion 165 of the bladder member 160 extends between the first bladder portion 161 and the second bladder portion 163, and may include one or more colors that smoothly transition between the first color 101 and the second color 103. In a similar manner, the third midsole portion 185 of the midsole member 180 extends between the first and

second midsole portions

181, 183 and may include one or more colors that smoothly transition between the first and

second colors

101, 103. In some embodiments, the third outsole portion 145, the third bladder portion 165, and the third midsole portion 185 include a mixture of the first color 101 and the second color 103.

Embodiments may use different coloring conventions to provide colors on different components or members of sole system 100. For example, some components or members of sole system 100 may use a dye that is bonded to a surface of a base material. Other components or members may include coatings, films, or other colored layers that are overlaid on a base material to provide coloration (e.g., paint, colored film, colored resin, etc.). Still other embodiments may use materials having a predetermined color.

Fig. 9 shows a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of the sole member 100, including an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the sole system 100. Referring now to fig. 9, each of outsole member 140, bladder member 160, and midsole member 180 may be associated with different kinds of coloring prescriptions. As previously discussed, outsole member 140 may comprise a substantially single piece of material (such as rubber). In some embodiments, the color of the outsole member 140 can be determined by the color of the material used in forming the outsole member 140. In some embodiments, a transparent material, such as transparent rubber, may be mixed with a colorant during the molding process to create a colored rubber outsole. Thus, in some embodiments, the color of portions of outsole member 140 may be determined during the molding process or the forming process. In such embodiments, no additional coatings, films, or skins to provide color are added to the outsole member 140 after the molding or forming process.

Bladder member 160, as discussed above, may be colored using one or more dyes. In some embodiments, the dye used to color the bladder member 160 may be directly bonded to the outer barrier layer 162. Details of possible methods for dyeing the balloon member 160 are discussed in further detail below.

In some embodiments, to provide coloration to midsole member 180, an outer coating may be used that includes pigments or other colorants. In this exemplary embodiment, the midsole member 180 is shown having an inner core 902 and an outer coating 904 providing the desired color. In some embodiments, for example, inner core 902 may comprise a foam material while outer coating 904 may be a paint coating.

Some embodiments may also include provisions for matching the one or more insert members to the balloon member in color. For example, as seen in fig. 5 and 6, first insert member 520 and second insert member 522 may have a substantially similar color as rear heel 14 of bladder member 160. In other embodiments, however, first insert member 520 and/or second insert member 522 may have any other color. By varying the coloration of first insert member 520 and/or second insert member 522, the color of the interior portion of bladder member 160 may be varied. For example, in some embodiments, first insert member 520 and second insert member 522 may be partially visible from within the interior of bladder member 160. Thus, changing the color of first insert member 520 and/or second insert member 522 may result in a change in color that is visible from within bladder member 160 (i.e., through outer barrier layer 162).

Fig. 10 illustrates a schematic view of a process for dyeing a capsular member according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the capsular member 1002 includes a front portion 1010 and a back portion 1012. The rear portion 1012 has been dyed by dipping the capsular member 1002 into a first dyeing vat 1020 filled with a first dye 1032 for a predetermined period of time. Here, the rear portion 1012 is dyed a first color 1001. Next, the front portion 1010 is dyed the second color 1003 by immersing the front portion 1010 of the capsular member 1002 into a second dyeing tank 1022 filled with a second dye 1030 for a predetermined period of time.

Embodiments may use a variety of different methods, procedures, and systems for dyeing a bladder member or any other component of a sole system. Any of the methods, procedures, systems and staining materials disclosed in the following references may be used in embodiments: U.S. patent No.7,611,547 issued at 3.11.2009 by Bracken et al and entitled "air bag Dyeing Compositions and Processes" (Airbag Dyeing Compositions and procedures), and U.S. patent application publication No. entitled "system and method for coloring an article" (attorney docket No.51-3252) by Schoborg, filed at 8.3.2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Coloring portions of bladder member 160 with a dye may help maintain uniformity of colored portions, such as plurality of grooves 149, visible through openings in outsole member 140. In particular, the coloration provided by the dye may be more abrasion resistant than paint or other coatings, particularly at portions of the bladder member 160 exposed to the ground surface through the plurality of slots 149.

Various methods for forming outsole members of diverse colors may be used. In some embodiments, the outsole member may be formed by molding one or more preformed blanks. To form an outsole member having two different colors, different colored blanks may be used in forming the different components. In addition, in some embodiments, two different colorants may be added to the forming material during the molding process to form a portion having a predetermined color. In addition, to form a section having a range of colors, including a range of colors transitioning between two sections of different colors, a plurality of smaller blanks can be placed side-by-side, or stacked, to achieve a desired color gradient.

To achieve different visual effects, the outsole member may be made of materials having different transparencies. In some embodiments, portions of the outsole member may be made of substantially transparent rubber. In other embodiments, portions of the outsole member may be made of substantially translucent rubber. In still other embodiments, portions of the outsole member can be made of substantially opaque rubber. Furthermore, both transparent and opaque portions may be colored to achieve the desired multi-colored visual effect described above.

Embodiments may have different color schemes, including color schemes that gradually change between two or more colors, as well as color schemes that transition sharply. Fig. 11 and 12 illustrate schematic views of another embodiment of a sole system 1100, the another embodiment of the sole system 1100 including an outsole member 1140, a bladder member 1160 and a midsole member 1180. Here, each component has a first color 1101 at a first portion 1102 of the sole system 1100 and a second color 1103 at a second portion 1104 of the sole system 1100. However, in this configuration, the color changes sharply at interface region 1190 of sole system 1100 rather than transitioning smoothly. Fig. 13 and 14 illustrate a schematic view of another embodiment of a sole system 1300, the another embodiment of the sole system 1300 including an outsole member 1340, a bladder member 1360, and a midsole member 1380. Here, each member has a first color 1301 at a first portion 1302 of the sole system 1300 and a second color 1303 at a second portion 1304 of the sole system 1300. In addition, there is a gradual color change or a gradual color gradient at the transition region 1390. In particular, the color of each member gradually changes from the first color 1301 to the second color 1303 in an approximately continuous manner.

While various embodiments 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 described embodiments. Accordingly, the described embodiments are not to be taken in a limiting sense, except in light of the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

The following corresponds to the original claims of the parent application:

1. a sole system for an article of footwear, the sole system comprising:

a balloon member comprising an outer barrier and an inner lumen, the inner lumen filled with a fluid;

an outsole member including an outer surface for contacting a ground surface and an inner surface in contact with the bladder member;

the bladder member includes a first bladder portion of the outer barrier layer and a second bladder portion of the outer barrier layer;

the outsole member includes a first outsole portion and a second outsole portion;

wherein the first bladder portion includes a first dye corresponding to a first color, and wherein the second bladder portion includes a second dye corresponding to a second color, the second color being substantially different from the first color; and

wherein the first outsole portion is made of a rubber material having the first color, and wherein the second outsole portion is made of a rubber material having the second color.

2. The sole system of claim 1, wherein the outer barrier layer of the bladder member comprises a thermoplastic material.

3. The sole system of item 1 or item 2, wherein the first bladder portion and the first outsole portion are disposed in a forefoot of the sole system.

4. The sole system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the second bladder portion and the second outsole portion are disposed in a heel portion of the sole system.

5. The sole system of any of claims 1-4, wherein a middle bladder portion of the outer barrier layer of the bladder member is disposed between the first bladder portion and the second bladder portion, and wherein the middle bladder portion includes a third color that is substantially different from the first color and the second color.

6. The sole system of any of claims 1-5, wherein a medial outsole portion of the outsole member is disposed between the first outsole portion and the second outsole portion, and wherein the medial outsole portion is made of a material having the third color.

7. A sole system for an article of footwear, the sole system comprising:

a midsole member adapted to face the bladder member, wherein the midsole member is disposed farther from a ground-contacting surface of the sole system than the bladder member;

the midsole member includes a first midsole portion and a second midsole portion;

wherein the first bladder portion includes a first dye corresponding to a first color, and wherein the second bladder portion includes a second dye corresponding to a second color, the second color being different from the first color; and

wherein the first midsole portion includes an outer coating having the first color, and wherein the second midsole portion includes an outer coating having the second color.

8. The sole system of item 7, wherein the outer coating is a paint coating.

9. The sole system of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the bladder member includes an insert member that is assemblable with the bladder member.

10. The sole system of any of claims 7-9, wherein the insert member has a color corresponding to a portion of the bladder member.

11. The sole system of any of claims 7-10, wherein the sole system comprises an outsole member, and wherein the outsole member comprises a first outsole portion having the first color and a second outsole portion having the second color.

12. The sole system of any of claims 7-11, wherein the first midsole portion is vertically disposed on the first bladder portion.

13. The sole system of any of claims 7-12, wherein the first bladder portion is vertically disposed on the first outsole portion.

14. A sole system for an article of footwear, the sole system comprising:

a midsole member including an inner surface in contact with the first surface of the bladder member;

an outsole member including an outer surface for contacting a ground surface and an inner surface in contact with the second surface of the bladder member;

wherein the balloon member comprises at least one dye that provides color to the balloon member;

wherein the midsole member comprises at least one coating that provides a color to the midsole member; and

wherein at least a portion of the bladder member, at least a portion of the midsole member, and at least a portion of the outsole member have matching colors.

15. The sole system of claim 14, wherein the dye is bonded to the outer barrier layer of the bladder member.

16. The sole system of item 14 or item 15, wherein the midsole member includes a core covered by an outer coating, and wherein the core and the outer coating have substantially different colors.

17. The sole system of any of claims 14 to 16, wherein at least two different colors are visible along the sole system.

18. The sole system of any of claims 14 to 17, wherein at least three different colors are visible along the sole system.

19. The sole system of any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the color of the sole system varies from a forefoot portion of the sole system to a heel portion of the sole system.

20. The sole system of any of claims 14-19, wherein the color of the sole system changes gradually from the forefoot portion to the heel portion.

Claims

1. A sole system for an article of footwear, comprising:

a bladder member including an outer barrier layer and an interior cavity, the interior cavity being filled with a fluid, the outer barrier layer extending from a rear heel portion of the article of footwear to a forefoot portion of the article of footwear and including a bladder sidewall extending around a periphery of the bladder member and exposed in use of the article of footwear; and

an outsole member including an outer surface for contacting a ground surface, an inner surface in contact with the bladder member, and an outsole sidewall extending between the ground surface and the inner surface and disposed adjacent the bladder sidewall;

the bladder member including a first bladder portion of the outer barrier layer having a first dye corresponding to a first color, and a second bladder portion of the outer barrier layer having a second dye corresponding to a second color that is substantially different from the first color, and a third bladder portion of the outer barrier layer disposed between the first and second bladder portions and having the first dye corresponding to the first color and the second dye corresponding to the second color, the first and second dyes being mixed to color the bladder sidewall at the third bladder portion;

the outsole member includes a first outsole portion having the first color, a second outsole portion having the second color, and a third outsole portion having a mixture of the first color and the second color;

wherein the first bladder portion is aligned with the first bladder portion to align the first color of the first bladder portion with the first color of the first outer sole portion, the second color of the second bladder portion with the second color of the second outer sole portion, and the first and second colors of the third bladder portion are aligned with the first and second colors of the third outer sole portion, respectively; and

wherein the first color and the second color mix to form a bladder transition zone in the third bladder portion and cooperate to form an outsole transition zone in the third outsole portion, the bladder transition zone being aligned with the outsole transition zone,

wherein the first bladder portion and the first outsole portion are disposed in a forefoot portion of the sole system, and the second bladder portion and the second outsole portion are disposed in a heel portion of the sole system.

2. The sole system according to claim 1, wherein the outer barrier layer of the bladder member includes a thermoplastic material.

3. The sole system of any of claims 1-2, wherein the bladder transition zone and the outsole transition zone are from the first color to the second color in a substantially continuous manner.

4. The sole system of any of claims 1-2, further comprising:

a midsole member facing the bladder member and disposed farther from an outer surface of the outsole member than the bladder member;

the midsole member includes a first midsole portion having the first color, a second midsole portion having the second color, and a third midsole portion having a mixture of the first color and the second color;

wherein the first midsole portion is aligned with the first bladder portion to align the first color of the first bladder portion with the first color of the first midsole portion, to align the second color of the second bladder portion with the second color of the second midsole portion, and to align the first color and the second color of the third bladder portion with the first color and the second color of the third midsole portion, respectively; and

wherein the first color and the second color mix to form a midsole transition zone in the third midsole portion, the bladder transition zone being aligned with the midsole transition zone.

5. The sole system according to claim 4, wherein the first color and the second color are applied to an outer surface of a sidewall of the midsole.

6. The sole system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the bladder member includes an insert member that is assemblable with the bladder member.

7. The sole system according to claim 6, wherein the insert member has a color corresponding with a portion of the bladder member.

8. The sole system according to claim 4, wherein the first midsole portion is vertically disposed on the first bladder portion.