U.S. patent application number 14/755339 was filed with the patent office on 2017-01-05 for elastomeric tape with enhanced stretch characteristics.
The applicant listed for this patent is NIKE, Inc. Invention is credited to Andrew Gosse, Lindsey V.J. Martin.
Application Number | 20170002234 14/755339 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56507818 |
Filed Date | 2017-01-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170002234 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Martin; Lindsey V.J. ; et
al. |
January 5, 2017 |
ELASTOMERIC TAPE WITH ENHANCED STRETCH CHARACTERISTICS
Abstract
An elastomeric tape having a shape configuration that provides
an enhanced longitudinal stretch characteristic is provided herein.
The exemplary tape comprises a first surface, a second surface
opposite the first surface, a first side and a second side opposite
the first side where the first side comprises a series of
alternating peaks and troughs and the second side comprises a
series of alternating peaks and troughs.
Inventors: |
Martin; Lindsey V.J.;
(Portland, OR) ; Gosse; Andrew; (West Linn,
OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NIKE, Inc |
Beaverton |
OR |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
56507818 |
Appl. No.: |
14/755339 |
Filed: |
June 30, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C09J 7/20 20180101; A41D
2300/50 20130101; C09J 7/203 20180101; B26D 3/10 20130101; C09J
2301/16 20200801; A41D 27/24 20130101; B29C 65/74 20130101 |
International
Class: |
C09J 7/02 20060101
C09J007/02; B29C 65/74 20060101 B29C065/74; B26D 3/10 20060101
B26D003/10 |
Claims
1. An elastomeric tape having one or more of an enhanced stretch
characteristic along a longitudinal axis of the elastomeric tape,
the elastomeric tape comprising: a first surface; a second surface
opposite the first surface; a first side having a shape
configuration comprising a first series of alternating peaks and
troughs; and a second side having a shape configuration comprising
a second series of alternating peaks and troughs.
2. The elastomeric tape of claim 1, wherein a peak on the second
side is aligned across a width of the elastomeric tape with a
trough on the first side, and a trough on the second side is
aligned across the width of the elastomeric tape with a peak on the
first side.
3. The elastomeric tape of claim 1, wherein the width of the
elastomeric tape taken between a first peak on the first side and a
first peak on the second side comprises one of 10 mm, 15 mm, 18 mm,
20 mm, 27 mm, or 30 mm.
4. The elastomeric tape of claim 1, wherein a distance between a
first peak on the first side and a second, adjacent peak on the
first side comprises one of 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 16 mm, 18 mm, or
20 mm.
5. The elastomeric tape of claim 4, wherein a distance between a
first peak on the second side and a second, adjacent peak on the
second side comprises one of 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 16 mm, 18 mm, or
20 mm.
6. The elastomeric tape of claim 5, wherein the distance between
the first peak on the first side and the second, adjacent peak on
the first side is the same as the distance between the first peak
on the second side and the second, adjacent peak on the second
side.
7. The elastomeric tape of claim 1, wherein a tolerance of the
elastomeric tape taken between a first trough on the first side and
a first trough on the second side comprises one of 3 mm, 5 mm, 5.5
mm, or 8 mm.
8. The elastomeric tape of claim 1, wherein the peaks and the
troughs of the first and second sides are pointed at their
apexes.
9. The elastomeric tape of claim 1, wherein the peaks and the
troughs of the first and second sides are rounded at their
apexes.
10. The elastomeric tape of claim 1, wherein an adhesive is
deposited on the second surface of the elastomeric tape.
11. A method of manufacturing an elastomeric tape having an
enhanced mechanical stretch characteristic, the method comprising:
providing an elastomeric tape having a first surface, a second
surface opposite the first surface, a first side, and a second
side, wherein the first side and the second side are linear and are
in parallel alignment with each other; and cutting the elastomeric
tape such that the first side has a shape configuration comprising
a first series of alternating peaks and troughs and the second side
has a shape configuration comprising a second series of alternating
peaks and troughs.
12. The method of manufacture of claim 11, wherein the elastomeric
tape is cut such that such that a peak on the second side is
aligned across a width of the elastomeric tape with a trough on the
first side and a trough on the second side is aligned across the
width of the elastomeric tape with a peak on the first side.
13. The method of manufacture of claim 12, wherein prior to being
cut, the elastomeric tape stretches to a first degree in response
to a fixed stretch force, and wherein subsequent to being cut, the
elastomeric tape stretches to a second degree in response to the
fixed stretch force, wherein the second degree of stretch is
greater than the first degree of stretch.
14. The method of manufacturing of claim 11, further comprising
subsequent to cutting the elastomeric tape, positioning the tape
within a tape dispenser.
15. The method of manufacture of claim 14, further comprising:
applying at least a portion of the cut elastomeric tape to one or
more seams or one or more hems of an article using the tape
dispenser; and activating the portion of the cut elastomeric tape
such that the portion of the cut elastomeric tape is adhered to the
one or more seams or the one or more hems.
16. The method of manufacture of claim 15, wherein the elastomeric
tape is activated using at least one of heat, light, ultrasound,
mechanical pressure, or a chemical process.
17. An article having an elastomeric tape that provides an enhanced
mechanical stretch characteristic at one or more seams or hems of
the article, the article comprising: a first panel of material; a
second panel of material, where the second panel of material abuts
the first panel of material at least one seam; and an elastomeric
tape used to affix the first panel of material to the second panel
of material at the at least one seam, the elastomeric tape having a
shape configuration comprising: a first surface; a second surface
opposite the first surface, wherein the second surface is affixed
to the first panel and the second panel at the seam; a first side
having a shape configuration comprising a first series of
alternating peaks and troughs; and a second side having a shape
configuration comprising a second series of alternating peaks and
troughs on the second side.
18. The article of claim 17, wherein the at least one seam is
curved, and wherein an entirety of the second surface of the
elastomeric tape is adherent to the at least one seam throughout
the seam's length.
19. The article of claim 17, wherein the article further comprises
one or more hem lines and wherein the elastomeric tape is used to
reinforce the one or more hem lines.
20. The article of claim 18, wherein the article comprises one of a
shoe, an apparel item for an upper torso of a wearer, or an apparel
item for a lower torso of the wearer.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an elastomeric tape used,
for example, to reinforce and/or bond seams or hems of an article,
where the elastomeric tape has a shape configuration that imparts
an enhanced stretch characteristic to the tape and to the seams
once affixed.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Traditional elastomeric tapes used, for example, to affix
seams or hems of an article and/or to reinforce an already-affixed
seam or hem generally have a shape configuration comprising a top
surface, a bottom surface, a first side, and a second side opposite
the first side where the first and second sides are linear and are
in parallel alignment with each other. Although these types of
tapes may exhibit some degree of stretch along their longitudinal
axes due to their material composition, the degree of stretch is
typically limited. Because of the limited longitudinal stretch
characteristics of traditional tapes, the seams on which the tapes
are used generally exhibit low stretch characteristics. For seams
located on, for example, an article of apparel, this may result in
wearer discomfort when the wearer moves or is donning or doffing
the apparel item. Moreover, when a tension force is applied to the
seam of the article that exceeds the limited degree of stretch of
the tape, the tape may break and/or become unaffixed from the seam
with a resultant loss in seam integrity.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter,
nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of
the claimed subject matter. The present invention is defined by the
claims.
[0004] At a high level, aspects herein are directed towards an
exemplary elastomeric tape having an enhanced stretch
characteristic along a longitudinal axis of the tape in response to
a stretch force. The enhanced stretch characteristic is due to the
shape configuration of the tape as well as the inherent stretch
characteristics of the material used to form the tape. In general,
the tape comprises a first surface and a second surface opposite
the first surface. Continuing, the tape has a first side having a
shape configuration comprising a first series of alternating peaks
and troughs, and a second side opposite the first side where the
second side has a second series of alternating peaks and troughs.
To impart the enhanced stretch characteristic, the tape may be
configured such that a peak on the first side is aligned across the
width of the tape with a trough on the second side, and a trough on
the first side is aligned across the width of the tape with a peak
on the second side.
[0005] Continuing, by having the shape configuration as described,
the exemplary elastomeric tape may longitudinally stretch to a
greater degree in response to a stretch force as compared to
elastomeric tapes having linear sides in parallel alignment. This
is because the shape configuration described herein provides a
longer linear distance that "rotates" or translates into the axis
of stretch to provide additional length to the tape. Thus, when the
elastomeric tape described herein is used to bond and/or reinforce
an article seam or an article hem, the seam or hem is able to
undergo a greater degree of stretch along its longitudinal axis
while still maintaining the integrity of the tape. This not only
improves the usability of the article but also allows seam and/or
hem integrity to be maintained under higher degrees of mechanical
stretch as compared to seams or hems bonded or reinforced with
traditional seam tapes. Moreover, when the article is in the form
of an apparel item, wearer comfort is improved due to the greater
degree of stretch at the seams and/or hems.
[0006] Aspects herein further relate to a method of manufacturing
an elastomeric tape having enhanced stretch characteristic. The
method may comprise providing an elastomeric tape having a first
surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, a first side,
and a second side opposite the first side where the first side and
the second side are linear and are in parallel alignment with each
other. The elastomeric tape is then cut using, for example, a die
cutter having two complementary die cutting wheels such that the
first side has a shape configuration comprising a first series of
alternating peaks and troughs and the second side has a shape
configuration comprising a second series of alternating peaks and
troughs. In an exemplary aspect, the tape may be cut such that a
peak on the first side of the tape is aligned across the width of
the tape with a trough on the second side of the tape, and a trough
on the first side of the tape is aligned across the width of the
tape with a peak on the second side.
[0007] The method may further comprise, for instance, rolling the
cut tape onto a roller, using the roller to apply the cut
elastomeric tape to one or more hems or seams of an article and
activating the tape such that it is adhered to the one or more hems
or seams. The activation of the tape may be through a heat process,
a chemical process, light, ultrasound, mechanical pressure, and the
like.
[0008] Aspects may also relate to an article having an elastomeric
tape that provides enhanced stretch characteristic at one or more
seams and/or hems of the article. The article may be in the form
of, for instance, an article of apparel for an upper or a lower
torso of a wearer, a backpack, a duffel bag, a purse, a shoe, and
the like. With respect to seams, the article may comprise at least
a first panel of material and a second panel of material where the
second panel abuts the first panel at one or seams. In exemplary
aspects, the seams and/or hems may be straight, curved, or
irregular. In exemplary aspects the article may further comprise
the elastomeric tape having the shape configuration described
herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Examples of the present invention are described in detail
below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1A illustrates a plan view of an exemplary
configuration for an exemplary elastomeric tape in a non-stretched
state in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0011] FIG. 1B illustrates a plan view of the exemplary
configuration for the exemplary elastomeric tape of FIG. 1A in a
stretched state in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an exemplary elastomeric
tape in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary elastomeric tape bonding
and/or reinforcing a seam in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates cross-section taken along line 4-4 of
FIG. 3 in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0015] FIG. 5A illustrates an exemplary article of apparel for an
upper torso of a wearer having a seam and/or a hem bonded and/or
reinforced with an exemplary elastomeric tape in accordance with an
aspect herein;
[0016] FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary sleeve of the article of
apparel of FIG. 5A having a hem bonded and/or reinforced with an
exemplary elastomeric tape in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0017] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrates exemplary articles of apparel for a
lower torso of a wearer having seams and/or hems bonded and/or
reinforced with an exemplary elastomeric tape in accordance with
aspects herein;
[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary article in the form of a
shoe having a seam bonded and/or reinforced with an exemplary
elastomeric tape in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0019] FIG. 8 illustrate an exemplary hem of an article where the
hem is bonded and/or reinforced with an exemplary elastomeric tape
in accordance with an aspect herein;
[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method of
manufacturing and using an elastomeric tape having enhanced
mechanical stretch characteristics in accordance with an aspect
herein; and
[0021] FIGS. 10-16 illustrate exemplary configurations for
exemplary elastomeric tapes in accordance with aspects herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The subject matter of the present invention is described
with specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. However,
the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this
patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed
subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include
different steps or combinations of steps similar to the ones
described in this document, in conjunction with other present or
future technologies. Moreover, although the terms "step" and/or
"block" might be used herein to connote different elements of
methods employed, the terms should not be interpreted as implying
any particular order among or between various steps herein
disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is
explicitly stated.
[0023] Aspects herein relate to an exemplary elastomeric tape
having a defined shape configuration that provides for an enhanced
stretch characteristic along the longitudinal axis of the tape in
response to a stretch force. More specifically, the exemplary
elastomeric tape comprises a first surface and a second surface
opposite the first surface. In aspects, the second surface may have
an adhesive that is activated by, for instance, heat, light,
mechanical pressure, ultrasound, and the like. Continuing, the
elastomeric tape may further comprise a first side and a second
side opposite the first side. Each side of the tape may have a
shape configuration comprising a series of alternating peaks and
troughs. As used throughout this disclosure, a "peak" may be
defined as a shape having a general apex region that is located a
first distance away from an axis longitudinally bisecting the tape,
and an "trough" may be defined as a shape having a general apex
region that is located a second distance away from the axis
longitudinally bisecting the tape, where the second distance is
less than the first distance. Further, an "apex region" may be
defined as the region of the peak shape and the trough shape that
is furthest away or closest to the longitudinal axis respectively.
The apex region may comprise a defined point or a more general
region in exemplary aspects.
[0024] In an exemplary configuration, a trough on the first side
may be aligned across the width of the tape with a peak on the
second side, and a peak on the first side may be aligned across the
width of the tape with a trough on the second side. This shape
configuration combined with the inherent elasticity due to the
material composition of the elastomeric tape, allows the tape to be
stretched to a greater length in response to a longitudinal stretch
force as compared to traditional tapes where the sides are linear
and in parallel alignment with each other. One reason for this is
that the shape configuration as described provides a longer linear
distance that rotates or translates into the axis of stretch to
help provide additional length.
[0025] The exemplary tape described herein may have a number of
different thicknesses as well as a number of different widths as
measured from a peak on the first side to a peak on the second
side. As well, the tape may have a number of different tolerances
as measured from a trough on the first side to a trough on the
second side. In addition, it is contemplated herein that there may
be a number of different distances between adjacent peaks on each
side of the tape and between adjacent troughs on each side of the
tape. It is further contemplated herein that there may be a number
of different angles formed between adjacent troughs.
[0026] The peaks and troughs described above, moreover, may have a
number of different configurations. In one example, each peak and
each trough may terminate at a defined apex point, while in another
example, the peaks and troughs may be more rounded and even assume
an undulating or sinusoidal characteristic. In yet another
exemplary aspect, different geometric shapes such as, for examples,
circles, stars, triangles, squares, and the like, may be associated
with the peaks to provide a pleasing aesthetic appearance to the
tape while still providing an enhanced stretch characteristic. Any
and all such aspects, and any variation thereof, are contemplated
as being within the scope herein.
[0027] The exemplary elastomeric tape described herein may be
formed from a traditional tape having sides in linear alignment by
cutting the tape to form the peaks and troughs having the shape
configurations described. Once cut, the exemplary elastomeric tape
may be used to bond and/or to reinforce seams and/or hems of an
article.
[0028] As used throughout this disclosure, the term "elastomeric
tape" may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) tape, a
polyurethane (PU) tape, a silicone tape, a rubber tape, and the
like. An exemplary TPU tape may be manufactured by Bemis Associates
Inc. located in Shirley, Mass. The materials used to form the tape
may have an inherent modulus of elasticity. The tape may be colored
or uncolored and may have varying thicknesses. Further, in
exemplary aspects, the tape may have an adhesive on one of its
surfaces that is used to adhere or bond the tape to, for example, a
seam or hem of an article using light, ultrasound, heat, a chemical
process, mechanical pressure, and the like. In other exemplary
aspects, the tape may not have an adhesive on one of its surfaces
and, instead, may be directly bonded to the seam or hem using the
same processes noted above. Any and all such aspects, and any
variation thereof, are contemplated as being within the scope
herein.
[0029] An exemplary elastomeric tape, referenced generally by the
numeral 100, is shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B in accordance with aspects
herein. The exemplary tape 100 has a shape configuration that
provides an enhanced stretch characteristic to the tape 100 in
response to a stretch force in accordance with aspects herein.
Accordingly, the tape 100 shown in FIG. 1A is in a resting, or
non-stretched state. The tape 100 comprises a first side 110 and a
second side 112 opposite the first side 110. The tape 100 further
comprises a first surface and a second surface as will be shown and
discussed in relation to FIG. 2. In the exemplary configuration
shown in FIG. 1A, the first side 110 comprises a series of
alternating peaks referenced generally by the numeral 114 and
troughs referenced generally by the numeral 118, and the second
side 112 comprises a series of alternating peaks referenced
generally by the numeral 116 and troughs referenced generally by
the numeral 120. The apex region of the peaks 114, 116 and the
troughs 118, 120 may be pointed (e.g., terminate at an actual
point) or may be more rounded as shown in FIG. 1A. FIGS. 10-16
illustrate examples of other exemplary configurations of peaks and
troughs; these figures will be discussed in greater detail
below.
[0030] In the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 1A, a trough
120 on the second side 112 is aligned across the width of the tape
100 with a peak 114 on the first side 110. For instance, trough 117
is aligned across the width of the tape with peak 113. Similarly, a
trough 118 on the first side 110 is aligned across the width of the
tape 100 with a peak 116 on the second side 112. For instance,
trough 115 is aligned across the width of the tape 100 with peak
119. This configuration may be particularly suited for applications
to straight or non-curved seams as well as curved or irregular
seams. Reference numeral 123 indicates a hypothetical longitudinal
axis that bisects the tape 100 and runs the length of the tape
100.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 1A, the tape 100 in its non-stretched state
has a width 120, where the width 120 is measured from an apex of a
peak 114 on the first side 110 to an apex of a peak 116 on the
second side 112. Exemplary widths 120 may comprise, for instance,
10 millimeters (mm), 15 mm, 18 mm, 20 mm, 27 mm, or 30 mm. It is
contemplated, however, that the exemplary tape 100 may have a width
120 less than 10 mm, greater than 30 mm, and/or have a width 120 at
any value between 10 mm and 30 mm.
[0032] As also shown in FIG. 1A, the tape 100 in its non-stretched
state has a tolerance 121, where the tolerance 121 is measured from
an apex of a trough 118 on the first side 110 to an apex of a
trough 120 on the second side 112. Exemplary tolerances 121 may
comprise, for example, 3 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, or 8 mm. It is
contemplated, however, that the exemplary tape 100 may have a
tolerance 121 less than 3 mm, greater than 8 mm, and/or have a
tolerance 121 at any value between 3 mm and 8 mm.
[0033] Continuing, the tape 100 in its non-stretched state has a
distance 122 between the apexes of adjacent peaks 114 and between
the apexes of adjacent peaks 116 that may comprise, for example, 4
mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, or 14 mm. It is contemplated,
however, that the distance 122 may be less than 4 mm, greater than
14 mm, and/or have a distance 122 at any value between 4 mm and 14
mm. By extension, the distance between the apexes of adjacent
troughs 118 and between the apexes of adjacent troughs 120 may be
the same as the distance 122. Moreover, it is contemplated herein
that distance 122 between the adjacent peaks 114 and the adjacent
troughs 118 on the first side 110 is the same as the distance 122
between the adjacent peaks 116 and the adjacent troughs 120 on the
second side 112. Reference numeral 127 indicates a peak offset
distance between a peak 114 on the first side 110 and a peak 116 on
the second side 112 of the tape 100. In exemplary aspects, the peak
offset distance 127 may be approximately half of the distance 122
between adjacent peaks on the same side of the tape 100.
[0034] Still further, the tape 100 in its non-stretched state may
have a trough angle 125 that may comprise 30 degrees, 40 degrees,
45 degrees, 50 degrees, 60 degrees, or the like. The trough angle
may be defined as the angle taken at the apex region of a trough.
The angle 125 is the same between the troughs 118 and the troughs
120 in exemplary aspects. It is contemplated herein that the angle
125 may be less than 30 degrees, greater than 60 degrees, and/or
any value between 30 degrees and 60 degrees.
[0035] FIG. 1B illustrates the tape 100 when a stretch force 128 is
applied to the tape 100 along its longitudinal axis 123 (shown by
the arrows). When the stretch force 128 is applied to the tape 100,
the apexes of the peaks 114 and 116 are drawn toward the
longitudinal axis 123 thereby decreasing the width 120 of the tape
100 to a new width 124 less than the width 120. Continuing, the
stretch force 128 further causes the distance 122 between adjacent
peaks to increase to a new distance 126 greater than the distance
122. Moreover, in response to the stretch force 128, the trough
angle 125 for both sides of the tape 100 may increase to a new
trough angle 129 that is greater than the trough angle 125. Still
further, the peak offset distance 127 increases to a new peak
offset distance 130 that is greater than the peak offset distance
127. The result of these actions is a reversible increase in the
linear length of the tape 100. As long as the stretch force 128
does not exceed the modulus of elasticity of the tape 100, the tape
100 will return to its resting state as shown in FIG. 1A once the
stretch force 128 is removed. The configuration thus described
makes the tape 100 particularly useful for bonding and/or
reinforcing seams and/or hems for which a degree of stretch is
desired.
[0036] Turning now to FIG. 2, a side view of an exemplary tape 200
is illustrated in accordance with aspects herein. The tape 200 may
comprise the tape 100 in exemplary aspects. The tape 200 comprises
a first surface 210 and a second surface 212. In exemplary aspects,
the tape 200 may have a number of different thickness between, for
instance 25 micrometers up to 0.40 mm. In exemplary aspects, an
adhesive layer 214 may be applied to the second surface 212. The
adhesive layer 214, in turn, may be used to bond or affix the
second surface 212 of the tape 200 to an article seam or an article
hem. In exemplary aspects, the adhesive layer 214 may be activated
via the application of light, ultrasound, heat, pressure, or via a
chemical process. Although shown with the adhesive layer 214, it is
contemplated herein, that the tape 200 may not have an adhesive
layer and, instead, may be directly affixed to, for example, a seam
or a hem. Any and all such aspects, and any variation thereof, are
contemplated as being within the scope herein.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a top view of an exemplary tape 310 used to bond
and/or reinforce a seam of an article 300 in accordance with
aspects herein. The exemplary tape 310 may comprise the tape 300.
As shown in FIG. 3, the article 300 comprises at least a first
panel of material 312 (only a portion of which is shown), and a
second panel of material 314 (only a portion of which is shown). A
seam 320 (shown in relief) is formed where the edge 316 of the
first panel 312 abuts the edge 318 of the second panel 314. With
respect to FIG. 3, the seam 320 is shown as curved although it is
contemplated herein that the seam 320 may be straight or
irregular.
[0038] The tape 310 is shown overlying the seam 320. The tape 310
has an exemplary configuration similar to that shown in FIGS. 1A
and 1B where a trough on the first side is aligned across the width
of the tape 310 with a peak on the second side, and a peak on the
first side is aligned across the width of the tape 310 with a
trough on the second side. The tape 310 may be adhered to the
panels 312 and 314 via an adhesive layer such as the adhesive layer
214 of FIG. 2. Alternatively, the tape 310 may be directly adhered
or affixed to the panels 312 and 314 without use of an adhesive
layer. For instance, the tape 310 may be heat pressed to a
temperature that causes the tape 310 to partially melt and adhere
to the panels 312 and 314. Any and all aspects, and any variation
thereof, are contemplated as being within the scope herein.
[0039] FIG. 4 is a cross-section view taken at the seam 320. As
shown, the seam 320 represents the junction of the edge 316 of the
first panel 312 with the edge 318 of the second panel 314. The
exemplary elastomeric tape 310 overlies the seam 320. More
specifically, a surface of the tape 310 overlies the seam 320 and
may be affixed to the seam 320 via an adhesive layer such as the
adhesive layer 214 of FIG. 3. Although shown as having a gap or
space between the edges 316 and 318, in exemplary aspects, the
edges 316 and 318 may directly touch one another, and/or one of the
edges 316 or 318 may overlap the other edge 316 or 318. For
instance, the edges 316 and 318 may be directly affixed to each
other using ultrasonic welding. Further, in exemplary aspects, the
seam 320 may be secured and or affixed using affixing technologies
such as stitching or adhesives. In this instance, the tape 310 may
act to reinforce the already-affixed seam 320. In other exemplary
aspects, the edges 316 and 318 may only be secured and/or affixed
via the tape 310. Any and all such aspects, and any variation
thereof, are contemplated as being within the scope herein.
[0040] Examples of seams and/or hems located on articles and
secured using the exemplary elastomeric tape described herein are
shown in FIGS. 5A-7. FIG. 5A illustrates an article of apparel 500
for an upper torso of a wearer, where the article of apparel 500
comprises at least a collar portion 510 affixed to a body portion
512 at a seam 514, where the seam 514 is curved. The seam 514 is
bonded and/or reinforced by an elastomeric tape 516 having an
exemplary configuration as described herein such as the exemplary
configuration of the tape 100. The article 500 further includes a
hem 518 at its bottom margin. The hem 518 is bonded and/or
reinforced by an elastomeric tape 520 having an exemplary
configuration as described herein such as the exemplary
configuration of the tape 100. Although shown on the
external-facing surface of the article 500 for aesthetic appeal, it
is contemplated herein that the hem 518 may face inward and the
tape 520 may be located on an inner-facing surface of the article
of apparel 500.
[0041] FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary sleeve of the article of
apparel 600, where the sleeve has a hem 522 that is bonded and/or
reinforced by an elastomeric tape 524 having an exemplary
configuration as described herein such as the exemplary
configuration of the tape 100. A close-up view of a hem that is
bonded and/or reinforced by the exemplary elastomeric tape
described herein is shown in FIG. 8 and is referenced generally by
the numeral 800. A textile material 810 is shown as being folded
over onto itself to form a hem line 814. The hem line 814 may be
affixed using an exemplary elastomeric tape 812 as described herein
such as the tape 100. In exemplary aspects, the hem 814 may be
secured using only the elastomeric tape 812, while in other
aspects, the hem 814 may be secured using, for example, stitching,
welding, and/or an adhesive and the elastomeric tape 812 may be
used to further reinforce the hem 814. The hem 814 may be located
on any portion of an article.
[0042] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate exemplary articles of apparel for a
lower torso of a wearer. Referring to FIG. 6A, the article of
apparel 600 comprises at least a front panel 610 affixed to a back
panel 612 by a curved seam 614. The seam 614 is shown as being
bonded or reinforced by an elastomeric tape 616 having an exemplary
configuration as described herein such as the exemplary
configuration of the tape 100. The shape configuration of the tape
616 enables its surface to be fully adherent to the seam 614
throughout the length of the seam 614. This is because the peaks
and troughs of the tape 616 are able to flex such that the tape
conforms to the curved shape of the seam 614. Although the tape 616
is shown as being located on the external-facing surface of the
apparel item 600 for aesthetic appeal, it is contemplated herein
that the tape 616 may be located on the internal-facing surface of
the apparel item 600.
[0043] Apparel item 650 in FIG. 6B is also in the form of a short
having a hem 618 that is bonded and/or reinforced by an exemplary
elastomeric tape 620 having the shape configuration described
herein such as the shape configuration associated with the tape
100. Although the tape 620 is shown as being located on the
external-facing surface of the apparel item 650, it is contemplated
herein that the tape 620 may also be located on the inner-facing
surface of the apparel item 650.
[0044] FIG. 6C illustrates an article of apparel 675 for a lower
torso of a wearer, where the article 675 comprises at least a front
panel 622 affixed to a back panel 624 by a straight seam 626. The
seam 626 is shown as being bonded or reinforced by an exemplary
elastomeric tape 628 having an exemplary configuration described
herein such as the exemplary configuration of the tape 100. As
previously mentioned, the configuration associated with the tape
100 is suited to impart a degree of stretch to seams and or hems
regardless of whether the seam and/or hem is straight or curved.
Although the tape 628 is shown as being located on the
external-facing surface of the apparel item 675 for aesthetic
appeal, it is contemplated herein that the tape 628 may be located
on the internal-facing surface of the apparel item 675.
[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates an article in the form of a shoe 700. The
shoe 700 may be in the form of an athletic shoe, a dress shoe, and
the like. The shoe 700 comprises at least a first panel 710 affixed
to a second end panel 712 by a seam 714. The seam 714 is shown as
being bonded or reinforced by an exemplary elastomeric tape 716
having an exemplary configuration described herein such as the
exemplary configuration of the tape 100. Although the tape 716 is
shown as being located on the external-facing surface of the shoe
700, it is contemplated herein that the tape 716 may be located on
the internal-facing surface of the shoe 700. Moreover, with respect
to an article in the form of a shoe, such as the shoe 700, the
exemplary elastomeric tape described herein may further be utilized
as a lace or may be utilized on seams located on different areas of
the shoe than that shown in FIG. 7.
[0046] The different articles shown in FIGS. 5A-7 are exemplary
only. It is contemplated herein that the articles shown in these
figures may take different forms such as a long-sleeved shirt, a
pull-over, a tank-top, a jacket or coat, a camisole, a swim top,
and the like for the article of apparel for an upper torso, and may
take the form of a pant, a capri, a half-pant, a three-quarter
pant, a tight, and the like for the article of apparel for a lower
torso. Further, articles contemplated herein may further include
articles such as hats, hoods, socks, gloves, mittens, totes,
backpacks, duffle bags, purses, and the like. Any and all such
aspects, and any variation thereof, are contemplated as being
within the scope herein.
[0047] FIGS. 10-16 illustrate exemplary configurations for peaks
and troughs associated with exemplary elastomeric tapes described
herein such as the tape 100. The variations in widths of the tapes,
tolerances of the tapes, peak offsets, trough angles, and distances
between adjacent peaks and troughs discussed above with respect to
the exemplary tape 100 are equally applicable to the tapes shown in
FIGS. 10-16.
[0048] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary elastomeric tape 1000
having a shape configuration where each peak 1010 and each trough
1012 terminates at an apex point. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 10,
the tolerance 1014 as measured between a trough 1012 on a first
side of the tape 1000 and a trough 1012 on the second side of the
tape 1000 may be negligible or even non-existent although it is
contemplated herein that the tolerance may comprise one of the
values discussed above.
[0049] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary elastomeric tape 1100
having a shape configuration where the peaks 1110 and the troughs
1112 are flattened out as compared to the tape 100. In other words,
the trough angle for the tape 1100 may be greater than the trough
angle of other exemplary configurations. FIG. 12 illustrates an
exemplary elastomeric tape 1200 having a shape configuration where
the peaks 1210 and the troughs 1212 assume an undulating or
sinusoidal configuration.
[0050] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary elastomeric tape 1300 where
each peak 1310 terminates in a circular structure. The tape 1300
may have an aesthetic appeal that makes it suitable for use on an
external-facing surface of an article while still maintaining its
enhanced stretch characteristic.
[0051] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary elastomeric tape 1400 where
each peak 1410 terminates in a triangular structure. Similar to the
tape 1300, the tape 1400 may have an aesthetic appeal that makes it
suitable for use on an external-facing surface of an article while
still maintaining its enhanced stretch and/or flexion
characteristics.
[0052] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary elastomeric tape 1500 where
each peak 1510 is notched. FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary
elastomeric tape 1600 where each peak 1610 has a pair of apex
points and each trough 1612 has a configuration similar to that
associated with the tape 100. The configurations depicted in FIGS.
10-16 are exemplary only and it is contemplated herein that the
apex shapes and the trough shapes may assume a variety of different
appearances without departing from the scope described herein.
[0053] Turning now to FIG. 9, a flow diagram is illustrated of an
exemplary method 900 of manufacturing an elastomeric tape having an
enhanced stretch characteristic. At a step 910 an elastomeric tape
having a traditional configuration is provided where the
elastomeric tape comprises a first planar surface, a second planar
surface opposite the first surface, a first side, and a second side
opposite the first side where the first and second sides are linear
and are in parallel alignment with each other.
[0054] At a step 912, the elastomeric tape provided in the step 910
is cut such that the first side comprises a series of alternating
peaks and troughs and the second side comprises a series of
alternating peaks and troughs. In an exemplary aspect, the tape may
be cut such that a peak on the first side is aligned across the
width of the tape with a trough on the second side, and a trough on
the first side is aligned across the width of the tape with a peak
on the second side. This configuration is exemplified by the tape
100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B. Cutting may occur via a die-cutter that has
two complementary die-cutting wheels. In aspects, cutting may also
occur via other processes such as laser cutting, hydro-jet cutting,
hand cutting, and the like.
[0055] At a step 914, the cut tape, or a portion of the cut tape
may be applied to a one or more seams or hems of an article such as
the articles shown in FIGS. 5A-7. Prior to application, the cut
tape may be re-rolled and fed into a tape dispenser. As such,
application of the tape to the seam or hem may occur via the tape
dispenser. At a step 916, the tape may be activated to adhere the
tape to the seam or hem in order to bond and/or reinforce the seam
or hem. Activation may occur via heat, light, ultrasound,
mechanical pressure, a chemical process, and the like.
[0056] From the foregoing, it will be seen that aspects herein are
well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set
forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which
are inherent to the structure. It will be understood that certain
features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed
without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is
contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. Since many
possible aspects may be made without departing from the scope
thereof, it is to be understood that all matter herein set forth or
shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as
illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
* * * * *