Article of Footwear Having a Display System

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/461,475, filed on Apr. 24, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

The present disclosure relates generally to an article of footwear including a display system.

Many conventional shoes or other articles of footwear generally comprise an upper and a sole attached to a lower end of the upper. Conventional shoes further include an internal space, i.e., a void or cavity, which is created by interior surfaces of the upper and sole, that receives a foot of a user before securing the shoe to the foot. The sole is attached to a lower surface or boundary of the upper and is positioned between the upper and the ground. As a result, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user when the shoe is being worn. In some instances, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and a top portion. The outsole may provide traction to a bottom surface of the sole, and the midsole may be attached to an inner surface of the outsole, and may provide cushioning or added stability to the sole. For example, a sole may include a particular foam material that may increase stability at one or more desired locations along the sole, or a foam material that may reduce stress or impact energy on the foot or leg when a user is running, walking, or engaged in another activity. The sole may also include additional components, such as plates, embedded with the sole to increase the overall stiffness of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

The upper generally extends upward from the sole and defines an interior cavity that completely or partially encases a foot. In most cases, the upper extends over the instep and toe regions of the foot, and across medial and lateral sides thereof. Many articles of footwear may also include a tongue that extends across the instep region to bridge a gap between edges of medial and lateral sides of the upper, which define an opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be disposed below a lacing system and between medial and lateral sides of the upper, to allow for adjustment of shoe tightness. The tongue may further be manipulatable by a user to permit entry or exit of a foot from the internal space or cavity. In addition, the lacing system may allow a user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or the sole, thereby allowing the upper to accommodate a wide variety of foot types having varying sizes and shapes.

The upper of many shoes may comprise a wide variety of materials, which may be utilized to form the upper and chosen for use based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper may also include portions comprising varying materials specific to a particular area of the upper. For example, added stability may be desirable at a front of the upper or adjacent a heel region to provide a higher degree of resistance or rigidity. In contrast, other portions of a shoe may include a soft woven textile to provide an area with stretch-resistance, flexibility, air-permeability, or moisture-wicking properties.

However, in many cases, articles of footwear are provided with materials provided for visual communication and aesthetic purposes. For example, articles of footwear may be provided with reflective materials for improving visibility of a user. There is a continuing need for articles of footwear with materials provided for visual communication and aesthetic purposes.

An article of footwear, as described herein, may have various configurations. The article of footwear may have an upper and a sole structure connected to the upper.

In some aspects, a display system for an article of footwear includes a display device that includes an optoelectronic display, a control module that is configured to communicate with the display device, and a power source. The display device is connected to a cable fastening system. The cable fastening system is configured to provide an electrical signal to the display device and is configured to tighten the article of footwear.

In some aspects, an article of footwear includes an upper attached to a sole structure and a first display device disposed on the upper within a forefoot region of the footwear and a second display device disposed on the upper within a heel region of the footwear. The first display device and the second display device include an optoelectronic display.

In some aspects, a display system for an article of footwear includes a display device that is visible from an exterior of the article of footwear, a power source that is configured to be removably attached to the article of footwear, and a control unit that is configured to be operable from the exterior of the article of footwear. The display device is electrically connected to the control unit and the display device includes electrophoretic ink. The display device includes an electrical contact disposed along a periphery of an upper.

Other aspects of the article of footwear, including features and advantages thereof, will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the figures and detailed description herein. Therefore, all such aspects of the article of footwear are intended to be included in the detailed description and this summary.

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or configurations of a shoe and a sole structure. Although embodiments of a shoe or sole structure are disclosed with reference to a sports shoe, such as a running shoe, tennis shoe, basketball shoe, etc., concepts associated with embodiments of the shoe or the sole structure may be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes, and track cleats, for example. Concepts of the shoe or the sole structure may also be applied to articles of footwear that are considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and heels. In addition to footwear, particular concepts described herein may also be applied and incorporated in other types of apparel or other athletic equipment, including helmets, padding or protective pads, shin guards, and gloves. Even further, particular concepts described herein may be incorporated in cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Accordingly, concepts described herein may be utilized in a variety of products.

The term “about,” as used herein, refers to variation in the numerical quantity that may occur, for example, through typical measuring and manufacturing procedures used for articles of footwear or other articles of manufacture that may include embodiments of the disclosure herein; through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of the ingredients used to make the compositions or mixtures or carry out the methods; and the like. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” refer to a range of values±5% of the numeric value that the term precedes.

The present disclosure is directed to an article of footwear and/or specific components of the article of footwear, such as an upper and/or a sole or sole structure. The upper may comprise a knitted component, a woven textile, and/or a non-woven textile. The knitted component may be made by knitting of yarn, the woven textile by weaving of yarn, and the non-woven textile by manufacture of a unitary non-woven web. Knitted textiles include textiles formed by way of warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and/or other suitable knitting operations. The knit textile may have a plain knit structure, a mesh knit structure, and/or a rib knit structure, for example. Woven textiles include, but are not limited to, textiles formed by way of any of the numerous weave forms, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weaves, and/or double cloth weaves, for example. Non-woven textiles include textiles made by air-laid and/or spun-laid methods, for example. The upper may comprise a variety of materials, such as a first yarn, a second yarn, and/or a third yarn, which may have varying properties or varying visual characteristics.

depict an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwearincluding an upperand a sole structure. The upperis attached to the sole structureand together define an interior cavity(see) into which a foot may be inserted. For reference, the article of footweardefines a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region(see). The forefoot regiongenerally corresponds with portions of the article of footwearthat encase portions of the foot that includes the toes, the ball of the foot, and joints connecting the metatarsals with the toes or phalanges. The midfoot regionis proximate and adjoining the forefoot region, and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwearthat encase the arch of the foot, along with the bridge of the foot. The heel regionis proximate and adjoining the midfoot regionand generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwearthat encase rear portions of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus bone, the ankle, and/or the Achilles tendon.

Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple elements, e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather, which are joined through bonding or stitching at a seam. In some embodiments, the upperof the article of footwearis formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, a knitted component may incorporate various types of yarn that may provide different properties to an upper. For example, one area of the uppermay be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, and another area of the uppermay be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. Using this configuration, properties of the uppermay vary throughout the upperby selecting specific yarns for different areas of the upper.

With reference to the material(s) that comprise the upper, the specific properties that a particular type of yarn will impart to an area of a knitted component may at least partially depend upon the materials that form the various filaments and fibers of the yarn. For example, cotton may provide a soft effect, biodegradability, or a natural aesthetic to a knitted material. Elastane and stretch polyester may each provide a knitted component with a desired elasticity and recovery. Rayon may provide a high luster and moisture absorbent material, wool may provide a material with an increased moisture absorbance, nylon may be a durable material that is abrasion-resistant, and polyester may provide a hydrophobic, durable material.

Other aspects of a knitted component may also be varied to affect the properties of the knitted component and provide desired attributes. For example, a yarn forming a knitted component may include monofilament yarn or multifilament yarn, or the yarn may include filaments that are each formed of two or more different materials. In addition, a knitted component may be formed using a particular knitting process to impart an area of a knitted component with particular properties. Accordingly, both the materials forming the yarn and other aspects of the yarn may be selected to impart a variety of properties to particular areas of the upper.

In some embodiments, an elasticity of a knit structure may be measured based on comparing a width or length of the knit structure in a first, non-stretched state to a width or length of the knit structure in a second, stretched state after the knit structure has a force applied to the knit structure in a lateral direction. In further embodiments, the uppermay also include additional structural elements. For example, in some embodiments, a heel plate or cover (not shown) may be provided on the heel regionto provide added support to a heel of a user. In some instances, other elements, e.g., plastic material, logos, trademarks, etc., may also be applied and fixed to an exterior surface using glue or a thermoforming process. In some embodiments, the properties associated with the upper, e.g., a stitch type, a yarn type, or characteristics associated with different stitch types or yarn types, such as elasticity, aesthetic appearance, thickness, air permeability, or scuff-resistance, may be varied.

Referring again to, the sole structureis connected or secured to the upperand extends between a foot of a user and the ground when the article of footwearis worn by the user. The sole structuremay include one or more components, which may include an outsole, a midsole, a heel, a vamp, and/or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, a sole structure may include an outsole that provides structural integrity to the sole structure, along with providing traction for a user, a midsole that provides a cushioning system, and an insole that provides support for an arch of a user. In addition, the insole may be a strobel board, a forefoot board, a lasting board, etc., or a combination thereof, and the insole may be provided between the upperand the sole structure, or the insole may be provided as part of the upper.

Furthermore, the insole can be positioned within the interior cavityof the upper, which can be in direct contact with a user's foot while an article of footwearis being worn. Moreover, the uppermay also include a liner (not shown) that can increase comfort, for example, by reducing friction between the foot of the user and the upper, the sole, the insole, or the like, and/or by providing moisture wicking properties. The liner may line the entirety of the interior cavityor only a portion thereof. In some embodiments, a binding (not shown) may surround an opening of the interior cavityto secure the liner to the upperand/or to provide an aesthetic element on the article of footwear.

Referring to, the article of footwearalso defines a lateral sideand a medial side. When a user is wearing the shoes, the lateral sidecorresponds with an outside-facing portion of the article of footwearwhile the medial sidecorresponds with an inside-facing portion of the article of footwear. As such, the article of footwearhas opposing lateral sidesand medial sides. The medial sideand the lateral sideadjoin one another along a longitudinal central plane or axisof the article of footwear, which is coplanar with the longitudinal axis L of. As will be further discussed herein, the longitudinal central plane or axismay demarcate a central, intermediate axis between the medial sideand the lateral sideof the article of footwear. Put differently, the longitudinal plane or axismay extend between a rear, proximal endof the article of footwearand a front, distal endof the article of footwearand may continuously define a middle of an insole, the sole structure, and/or the upperof the article of footwear, i.e., the longitudinal plane or axisis a straight axis extending through the rear, proximal endof the heel regionto the front, distal endof the forefoot region.

Unless otherwise specified, and referring to, the article of footwearmay be defined by the forefoot region, the midfoot region, and the heel region. The forefoot regionmay generally correspond with portions of the article of footwearthat encase portions of a footthat include the toes or phalanges, the ball of the foot, and one or more of the jointsthat connect the metatarsalsof the footwith the toes or phalanges. The midfoot regionis proximate and adjoins the forefoot region. The midfoot regiongenerally corresponds with portions of the article of footwearthat encase an arch of a foot, along with a bridge of the foot. The heel regionis proximate to the midfoot regionand adjoins the midfoot region. The heel regiongenerally corresponds with portions of the article of footwearthat encase rear portions of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus bone, the ankle (not shown), and/or the Achilles tendon (not shown).

Still referring to, the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, the medial side, and the lateral sideare intended to define boundaries or areas of the article of footwear. To that end, the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, the medial side, and the lateral sidegenerally characterize sections of the article of footwear. Certain aspects of the disclosure may refer to portions or elements that are coextensive with one or more of the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, the medial side, and/or the lateral side. Further, both the upperand the sole structuremay be characterized as having portions within the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, and/or along the medial sideand/or the lateral side. Therefore, the upperand the sole structure, and/or individual portions of the upperand the sole structure, may include portions thereof that are disposed within the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, and/or along the medial sideand/or the lateral side.

Still referring to, the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, the medial side, and the lateral sideare shown in detail. The forefoot regionextends from a toe endto a widest portionof the article of footwear. The widest portionis defined or measured along a first linethat is perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal axisthat extends from a distal portion of the toe endto a distal portion of a heel end, which is opposite the toe end. The midfoot regionextends from the widest portionto a thinnest portionof the article of footwear. The thinnest portionof the article of footwearis defined as the thinnest portion of the article of footwearmeasured across a second linethat is perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal axis. The heel regionextends from the thinnest portionto the heel endof the article of footwear.

It should be understood that numerous modifications may be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description, and individual components thereof, may be incorporated into numerous articles of footwear. Accordingly, aspects of the article of footwearand components thereof, may be described with reference to general areas or portions of the article of footwear, with an understanding the boundaries of the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, the medial side, and/or the lateral sideas described herein may vary between articles of footwear. However, aspects of the article of footwearand individual components thereof, may also be described with reference to exact areas or portions of the article of footwearand the scope of the appended claims herein may incorporate the limitations associated with these boundaries of the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, the medial side, and/or the lateral sidediscussed herein.

Still referring to, the medial sidebegins at the distal, toe endand bows outward along an inner side of the article of footwearalong the forefoot regiontoward the midfoot region. The medial sidereaches the first line, at which point the medial sidebows inward, toward the central, longitudinal axis. The medial sideextends from the first line, i.e., the widest portion, toward the second line, i.e., the thinnest portion, at which point the medial sideenters into the midfoot region, i.e., upon crossing the first line. Once reaching the second line, the medial sidebows outward, away from the longitudinal, central axis, at which point the medial sideextends into the heel region, i.e., upon crossing the second line. The medial sidethen bows outward and then inward toward the heel end, and terminates at a point where the medial sidemeets the longitudinal, central axis.

The lateral sidealso begins at the distal, toe endand bows outward along an outer side of the article of footwearalong the forefoot regiontoward the midfoot region. The lateral sidereaches the first line, at which point the lateral sidebows inward, toward the longitudinal, central axis. The lateral sideextends from the first line, i.e., the widest portion, toward the second line, i.e., the thinnest portion, at which point the lateral sideenters into the midfoot region, i.e., upon crossing the first line. Once reaching the second line, the lateral sidebows outward, away from the longitudinal, central axis, at which point the lateral sideextends into the heel region, i.e., upon crossing the second line. The lateral sidethen bows outward and then inward toward the heel end, and terminates at a point where the lateral sidemeets the longitudinal, central axis.

Still referring to, the upperextends along the lateral sideand the medial side, and across the forefoot region, the midfoot region, and the heel regionto house and enclose a foot of a user. When fully assembled, the upperalso includes an interior surfaceand an exterior surface. The interior surfacefaces inward and generally defines the interior cavity, and the exterior surfaceof the upperfaces outward and generally defines an outer perimeter or boundary of the upper. The upperalso includes an openingthat is at least partially located in the heel regionof the article of footwear, which provides access to the interior cavityand through which a foot may be inserted and removed. In some embodiments, the uppermay also include an instep regionthat extends from the openingin the heel regionover an area corresponding to an instep of a foot to an area proximate the forefoot region. The instep regionmay comprise an area similar to where a tongueof the present embodiment is disposed. In some embodiments, the upperdoes not include the tongue, i.e., the upperis tongueless.

In the illustrated embodiment, the sole structureincludes a midsoleand an outsole(see). The outsolemay define a bottom end or bottom surfaceof the sole structureacross the heel region, the midfoot region, and the forefoot region. Further, the outsolemay be a ground-engaging portion or include a ground-engaging surface of the sole structureand may be opposite of the insole thereof. As illustrated in, the bottom surfaceof the outsolemay include a tread patternthat can include a variety of shapes and configurations. The outsolemay be formed from one or more materials to impart durability, wear-resistance, abrasion resistance, or traction to the sole structure. In some embodiments, the outsolemay be formed from any kind of elastomer material, e.g., rubber, including thermoset elastomers or thermoplastic elastomers, or a thermoplastic material, e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some embodiments, the outsolemay define a shore A hardness up to 95. In addition, the outsolemay be manufactured by a process involving injection molding, vulcanization, printing layer by layer, i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods, and the like.

Still referring to, the midsolemay be individually constructed from a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), for example, and/or an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or a similar type of material. In other embodiments, the midsolemay be an EVA-Solid-Sponge (“ESS”) material, an EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE Foam), polyurethane, polyether, an olefin block copolymer, organosheets, a thermoplastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic polyurethane, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or a supercritical foam. The midsolemay be a single polymeric material or may be a blend of materials, such as an EVA copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and/or an olefin block copolymer. One example of a PEBA material is PEBAX®. In some embodiments, the midsoleis manufactured by a process involving injection molding, vulcanization, printing layer by layer, i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods, and the like.

In embodiments where the midsoleis formed from a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may comprise micropore foams or particle foams, such as a TPU, EVA, PEBAX®, or mixtures thereof, manufactured using a process that is performed within an autoclave, an injection molding apparatus, or any sufficiently heated/pressurized container that can process the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO, N, or mixtures thereof) with a material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof) that is preferably molten. During an exemplary process, a solution of supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized container, after which the pressure within the container is released, such that the molecules of the supercritical fluid rapidly convert to gas to form small pockets within the material and cause the material to expand into a foam. In further embodiments, the midsolemay be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, an injection machine, a pellet expansion process, a cold foaming process, a compression molding technique, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the midsolemay be formed using a process that involves an initial foaming step in which supercritical gas is used to foam a material and then compression molded or die cut to a particular shape.

Examples of visual display technologies may be optoelectronic displays that include, but are not limited to: electrochemical transistor based visual display technologies, LCD panel technologies, LED screen technologies, fiber optic technologies, electrochromographic materials (including photonic lattices or crystals), electronic paper technologies (including electrophoretic ink technologies, electrowetting technologies and electrofluidic technologies), electroluminescent strips, as well as other visual display technologies. In some embodiments, visual display portions can be associated with electronic paper technologies using electrophoretic ink. Several examples are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,535,624; 7,528,822; 7,420,549; 7,167,155; 7,201,952; 6,987,603; 6,922,276; 6,864,875, 6,639,578, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In some embodiments, visual display portions can be associated with flexible electronic paper technologies using electrophoretic ink which retain a visual display after removal of applied power. Examples are disclosed in any of the following: U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,502,788, 7,944,597, 7,675,672, 7,195,170, and 6,936,190, the entirety of each being hereby incorporated by reference. In some embodiments, visual display portions can be associated with electronically controllable visually dynamic textiles or flexible substrates as are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication Number 2003/0224155, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Turning to, an embodiment of an article of footwearincludes an upperattached to a sole structure, a display deviceattached to the upper, and a circuit. In this embodiment, elements that are shared with—i.e., that are structurally and/or functionally identical to—elements present in the first embodiment of the footwearare represented by equivalent reference numerals. The circuitcomprises a control unitand a power sourcethat are configured to communicate with the display devicevia conductive leads. In some embodiments, the circuitis disposed or retained within the sole structure. For example, the power sourcemay be embedded within or disposed between layers of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the control unitis embedded within or disposed between layers of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the conductive leadsmay extend along the sole structure, between and through the layers of the sole structure, and into contact with or along the upper. Further, the display devicemay include an electrical contactdisposed along a peripheryof the upper, e.g., an edge or boundary where the upperand the sole structureare joined together. In some embodiments, the entire peripheryfunctions as the electrical contact. In some embodiments, a portion or discrete segments of the periphery function as the electrical contact. In some embodiments, the electrical contactis attached between the upperand the sole structure, separately and spaced apart from the periphery.

The power sourcemay be a storage cell, such as, e.g., a battery or a capacitor. The power sourcemay be rechargeable via a mechanical connection port (not shown) that is accessible externally on the sole structure, such as, e.g., a USB or USB-C, Apple Lightning®, or any other suitable interface. In some embodiments, the power sourcemay be rechargeable wirelessly, without the use of any port, by proximity to a wireless charging pad or mat. The power sourcemay be a Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd), Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion), lead acid, or the like. In some embodiments, the power sourceincludes a piezoelectric device that is configured to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy for powering or controlling the display device. In some embodiments, the power sourceincludes a plurality of storage cells and/or piezoelectric devices. In some embodiments, the power sourceis removably attached to the sole structureof the footwear, such that the power sourcemay be removed, e.g., through an opening in the sole structureor the upper. In some embodiments, the power sourceis electrically connected to a charging port that is selectively covered by a tab located at a heel end of the footwear.

The control unitis provided to control the display device. For example, the control unitmay be configured to send signals in the form of current changes and/or voltage changes to the display device. In some embodiments, the control unitis a switch or a switch matrix that can selectively intervene between the power sourceand the display device. In some embodiments, the control unitis configured for binary operation, such that the display devicemay either receive power or may not receive power from the power source. In some embodiments, the control unitis capable of modulation, such that the display devicemay receive a full amount of power, a minimum amount of power, and one or more intermediate levels of power therebetween from the power source. In some embodiments, the control unitis configured for selective control of portions of the display device, such that portions of the display devicemay receive power while other portions of the display devicemay not receive power. To that end, the control unitmay be a central processing unit (CPU), or a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible circuit board, or the like. In some embodiments, a plurality of control units are provided for selective control of the display deviceor portions of the display device.

The control unitmay receive inputs from at least one input device. The input devicemay be any suitable type of sensor or actuator for communicating with the control unitto selectively control the display device. In some embodiments, the input deviceis a touch-activated sensor along which a user's finger can slide or tap to control the display device. Touch-activated sensors of various types are contemplated, including a capacitive touch slide sensor, a capacitive touch tap sensor, a resistive touch slide sensor, or a resistive touch tap sensor. In some embodiments, the input devicemay be a vibration sensor that is configured to detect vibration frequencies caused by kinetic motion of the footwearor applied to the footwear. Vibration sensors of various types are contemplated, including strain gauges, accelerometers, gyroscopes, or the like. In some embodiments, the input deviceis a microphone, such that sound waves of various frequencies may be detected for control of the display devicevia the control unit. For example, the input devicemay be capable of voice-activation by which the user can dictate “on” or “off” for controlling the display device. In some embodiments, the input deviceis not provided on the footwearand, instead, the input deviceis a user's smartphone, tablet, laptop, smartwatch or wearable electronic, special-purpose computer or device, or the like. For example, the user may access a mobile application via a smartphone for communication over a wireless communication network with the control unit. In such embodiments, the control unitincludes a wireless transceiver operating over a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth® connection, an RFID or NFC connection, or the like. The user may control the display deviceon the footwearwirelessly via the mobile application on the smartphone.

The display devicemay be provided as part of the upperin various configurations. In some embodiments, the display devicemay be provided as a discrete panel or segment that is applied to a portion of the upper. In some embodiments, the display deviceis permanently attached to the upperby, e.g., adhesive, fastening, welding, knitting or weaving, molding, or the like. In some embodiments, the display deviceis removably attached to the upperby, e.g., fasteners, magnetic elements, adhesive, or the like.

The display devicemay include an optoelectronic display technology, such as, e.g., electrophoretic ink. That is, the display devicemay incorporate electronic paper technologies, including flexible electronic paper technologies, that provide an optoelectronic display while maintaining the comfort, durability, and lightweight properties of the upper. In some embodiments, the display deviceincludes a substrate in the form of a thin film transistor (TFT), which is preferably a flexible TFT, which is a field-effect transistor configured to function as a switch for portions or segments of the display device. In some embodiments, display devicemay comprise rigid portions or segments that include a rigid TFT. In some embodiments, the substrate is comprised of an organic TFT made from organic semiconducting compounds. In a preferred embodiment, the display deviceis passively operated, in that the display deviceonly draws power when changing a visual characteristic, e.g., color, and no power is drawn to sustain the visual characteristic on the display device. In some embodiments, the visual characteristic is a color, a luminous intensity, a resolution, a gloss, and the like. In some embodiments, the display deviceis configured to display a static image, animation, text, symbols, logos, or the like. In some embodiments, the display deviceis provided with a surface treatment, such as, e.g., an anti-glare treatment or coating, a moisture barrier, a scratch barrier or other protective coatings, and the like.

As illustrated in, the display devicemay be disposed along the entire upperfrom the toe endto the heel endand across the medial sideto the lateral side (see). In some embodiments, the display deviceis disposed within the forefoot region, the midfoot region, and the heel regionand along one of the medial sideor the lateral side. In some embodiments, the display deviceis disposed within one of the forefoot region, the midfoot region, or the heel region. In some embodiments, the display deviceis disposed within two of the forefoot region, the midfoot region, or the heel region. For example, the display devicemay extend continuously from the forefoot regionto the midfoot region. In some embodiments, the display deviceat least partially conceals an exterior layer of the upper.

With reference to, another embodiment of an article of footwearincludes an upperthat is attached to a sole structure, a first display devicethat is disposed on the upperwithin the forefoot regionof the footwear, and a second display devicethat is disposed on the upperwithin the heel regionof the footwear. Further, the footwearincludes a circuitcomprising a power source, a control unit, and conductive leadsextending therebetween. It will be appreciated that the power sourcemay be similar to the power sourceof the footwearof. In this embodiment, elements that are shared with—i.e., that are structurally and/or functionally identical to—elements present in the first embodiment of the footwearare represented by equivalent reference numerals. Further, the control unitmay be similar to the control unitof the footwearof. The first display deviceis electrically coupled to a first electrical contactand the second display deviceis electrically coupled to a second electrical contact. In the illustrated embodiment, the first electrical contactis disposed along a peripheryin the forefoot regionand the second electrical contactis disposed along the peripherywithin the heel region. In particular, the second electrical contactand the second display deviceare disposed on the heel endof the footwear.

The first display devicedefines a first surface area SAand the second display devicedefines a second surface area SA. In some embodiments, the first surface area SAof the first display deviceis greater than the second surface area SAof the second display device. It will be appreciated that, often, surface area is proportional to power drawn for operation, i.e., to display light of any type and intensity, such that a greater surface area requires a greater amount of power. Accordingly, the first display devicemay draw a greater amount of power than the second display device. It is contemplated that the first surface area SAof the first display devicemay be smaller than the second surface area SAof the second display device, such that the first display devicedraws less power than the second display device.

The circuitmay further comprise an input device, such as the input deviceof the footwearof. It is contemplated that the first display deviceand the second display devicemay be selectively controlled or operated in response to a single input device. Alternatively, first and second input devices may be provided for the first display deviceand the second display device, respectively. In some embodiments, the first electrical contactis in direct communication with the control unit, such that the control unitis capable of sending signals to the first electrical contact in the form of a current change or voltage change. In this way, the control unitmay be configured to control the first display device. In some embodiments, the second electrical contactis directly connected to the power source, such that the second electrical contactreceives power from the power sourcewithout intervention from the control unit. Accordingly, the second display devicemay be powered or controlled independently of the first display device. In some instances, the control unitincludes multiple control units dedicated to each display device. In some embodiments, the first display deviceand the second display deviceare both connected to the control unit, such that the control unitis configured to simultaneously operate both the first and second display devices,.

The first display deviceand second display devicemay include an optoelectronic display technology, such as, e.g., electrophoretic ink. That is, the first display deviceand the second display devicemay incorporate electronic paper technologies, including flexible electronic paper technologies, that provide optoelectronic displays while maintaining the comfort, durability, and lightweight properties of the upper. In some embodiments, the first display deviceand the second display deviceinclude a substrate in the form of a thin film transistor (TFT), which is preferably a flexible TFT, which is a field-effect transistor configured to function as a switch for each of the first display deviceand the second display device. In some embodiments, the substrate may be a rigid TFT. In some embodiments, the substrate is comprised of an organic TFT made from organic semiconducting compounds. In a preferred embodiment, the first display deviceand the second display deviceare passively operated, in that the first display deviceand the second display deviceonly draw power when changing a visual characteristic, e.g., color, and no power is drawn to sustain the visual characteristic on the first display deviceand the second display device. In some embodiments, the visual characteristic is a color, a luminous intensity, a resolution, a gloss, and the like. In some embodiments, the first display deviceand the second display deviceare configured to display a static image, animation, text, symbols, logos, or the like. In some embodiments, the first display deviceand the second display deviceare provided with a surface treatment, such as, e.g., an anti-glare treatment or coating, a moisture barrier, a scratch barrier or other protective coatings, and the like.

Referring to, an embodiment of an article of footwearincludes an upperattached to a sole structure, a cable fastening system, a wrapapplied to the upperand connected to the cable fastening system, and a circuitin communication with the wrap. In this embodiment, elements that are shared with—i.e., that are structurally and/or functionally identical to-elements present in the first embodiment of the footwearare represented by equivalent reference numerals. The wrapmay include a display devicecomprising an optoelectronic display, such as electrophoretic ink. Further, the uppermay include a base layerwith peripheral edgesthat are attached to the sole structureof the footwear. In the illustrated embodiment, the wrapis disposed across the forefoot regionbetween the medial sideand the lateral sideof the footwear. In some embodiments, the wrapis attached to the sole structure, such that the wrapis separated from and encloses or covers a portion of the upper. In other embodiments, the wrapis provided as part of the upperand encloses or covers a portion of the upper. In some embodiments, the wrapis removable and/or capable of being relocated along the footwear. In some embodiments, the wrapis permanently fastened to or integrated with the footwear. In some embodiments, the wrapextends continuously along the medial sidefrom the forefoot regionto the heel region. In other embodiments, the wrapextends discretely within the forefoot region, the heel region, or the midfoot region, or combinations thereof. The wrapcan be interrupted by portions of the sole structureand/or design elements, logos, or the like. In some embodiments, the wrapextends across the heel endof the footwear. In some embodiments, the wrapextends along or across the toe endof the footwear. In some embodiments, the cable fastening systemis configured to provide an electrical signal to the wrap. The cable fastening systemis configured to tighten the article of footwear. In some embodiments, the cable fastening systemincludes at least one cableincluding a layer, fiber, or core (not shown) made of electrically conductive material for operatively coupling the wrapand the circuit.

In some embodiments, the display deviceof the wrapincludes a plurality of panelsconnected to one another along a substrate. The panels,may each incorporate electronic paper technologies, including flexible electronic paper technologies, that provide an optoelectronic display while maintaining the comfort, durability, and lightweight properties of the upper. In some embodiments, the substrate may be a thin film transistor (TFT), which is preferably a flexible TFT, which is a field-effect transistor configured to function as a switch for each of the panels,In some embodiments, display devicemay comprise rigid panels that include a rigid TFT. In some embodiments, the substrate is comprised of an organic TFT made from organic semiconducting compounds. The display deviceis electrically connected to the circuit, which includes a power sourceand a control unitconnected via conductive leads. It will be appreciated that the power sourcemay be similar to the power sourceof the footwearof. Further, the control unitmay be similar to the control unitof the footwearof. In a preferred embodiment, the display deviceis passively operated, in that the panelsonly draw power from the power sourcewhen the display devicechanges a visual characteristic, e.g., color, and no power is drawn to sustain the visual characteristic on the display device. A visual characteristic of the display device is configured to change by actuation of the cable fastening systemto tighten the footwear.

With reference to, the panelseach define a surface area that is different from one another, such that the power draw for each of the panels,is different from one another. Alternatively, the panels,may each define identical surface areas, such that the power draw for each of the panels,is identical to one another. In a preferred embodiment, the panels,are passively operated, in that the display deviceonly draws power when changing a visual characteristic, e.g., color, and no power is drawn to sustain the visual characteristic on the display device. In some embodiments, the visual characteristic is a color, a luminous intensity, a resolution, a gloss, and the like. In some embodiments, the panels,are configured to display a static image, animation, text, symbols, logos, or the like. In some embodiments, the panelsare provided with a surface treatment, such as, e.g., an anti-glare treatment or coating, a moisture barrier, a scratch barrier or other protective coatings, and the like. The circuitmay further comprise an input device, such as the input deviceof the footwearof. It is contemplated that each panelmay be selectively controlled or operated in response to a single input device. Alternatively, individual input devices may be provided for panels,respectively.