NIKE, Inc.
Footwear cushion with internal conformal electronics

Abstract:

An article of footwear can comprise: an upper; and a sole assembly connected to the upper to form a receptacle for a human foot, the sole assembly can comprise: a cushion comprising an exterior wall that forms an enclosure; an antenna disposed within the enclosure; and a microchip connected to the antenna. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear can comprise: positioning an electronic communication device between two plies of polymer laminate; heating the two plies of polymer laminate to form a weld area and a cushion area, wherein the electronic communication device becomes encapsulated between the two plies of polymer laminate; inflating the cushion area with a gas; and sealing the cushion area.