ADAPTIVE VENTS

Abstract

Aspects herein provide for an article of apparel having one or more vent systems that dynamically transition to an open state when the article of apparel is exposed to an external stimulus. The vent system includes an adaptive structure affixed to the surface of a textile proximate to a slit in the textile. The adaptive structure, and the surrounding textile, changes in shape and/or dimension when exposed to the external stimulus causing the slit to dynamically transition to an open state and creating a vent opening. Once the external stimulus is removed, the adaptive structures and the underlying textile return to their pre-exposure dimensions causing the vent opening to transition to a closed state. The adaptive structure can be configured and positioned relative to the slit so that its effect on the shape and dimensions of the textile on either side of the slit are different.

Claims

1. A textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, the first end and the second end defining a longitudinal axis in an x-direction, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile wherein, when exposed to an external stimulus, the adaptive structure undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a closed state to an open state; wherein, when in the closed state, the first slit edge has a first curvature and the second slit edge has a first tension in the x-direction; and when in the open state, the first slit edge has a second curvature that is greater than the first curvature, and the second slit edge has a second tension in the x-direction that is different than the first tension.

2. The textile of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the first slit edge in the open state extends in the z-direction out of the plane in a first direction towards the adaptive structure.

3. The textile of claim 2, wherein the first slit edge has an apex of between 2 and 10 mm above the plane.

4. The textile of claim 2, wherein during the transition the second slit edge moves in the z-direction in a second direction opposite the adaptive structure.

5. The textile of claim 1, wherein during the transition the second slit edge does not increase in curvature.

6. The textile of claim 5, wherein during the transition at least a portion of the second slit edge decreases in curvature relative to the closed state.

7. The textile of claim 1, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a base, a first arm and a second arm, the base comprising a vertex and a base edge opposite the vertex, and the first arm and the second arm extending from the base edge.

8. The textile of claim 7, wherein the slit is positioned between the first arm and the second arm.

9. The textile of claim 7, wherein the slit intersects at least a portion of the first arm or the second arm, and the adaptive structure comprises one or more structure slits aligned with the slit.

10. The textile of claim 1, wherein the slit intersects at least a portion of the adaptive structure, the adaptive structure comprising one or more structure slits aligned with the slit.

11. The textile of claim 1, wherein the slit does not intersect any portion of the adaptive structure.

12. The textile of claim 1, wherein the first slit edge increases in length between the closed state and the open state.

13. The textile of claim 1, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a thermoplastic non-woven material.

14. The textile of claim 13, wherein the thermoplastic non-woven material comprises a melt-blown fiber web.

15. The textile of claim 14, wherein the melt-blown fiber web comprises TPU.

16. An article of apparel, the article of apparel comprising a textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; and a plurality of vent systems, each of the plurality of vent systems comprising: a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, the first end and the second end defining a longitudinal axis in an x-direction, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile, the adaptive structure comprising a first arm and a second arm connected at a base, the base positioned on a first side of the longitudinal axis, and a first end of the first arm and a second end of the second arm positioned on a second side of the longitudinal axis opposite the first side; wherein, when exposed to an external stimulus, the adaptive structure undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a closed state to an open state.

17. The article of apparel of claim 16, wherein the first surface faces away from a wearer's body.

18. The article of apparel of claim 16, wherein the plurality of vent systems include a first set of vent systems in a first region of the article of apparel, and a second set of vent systems in a second region of the article of apparel, with the first set of vent systems and the second set of vent systems differing in at least one property.

19. The article of apparel of claim 18, wherein the first set of vent systems and the second set of vent systems have slits of differing lengths.

20. The article of apparel of claim 18, wherein the first set of vent systems comprise a first set of adaptive vent systems, each with a first surface area, and the second set of vent systems comprise a second set of adaptive vent systems, each with a second surface area, wherein the first surface area the second surface area are different.

21. The article of apparel of claim 18, wherein the first set of vent systems comprise a first number of slits per unit area and the second set of vent systems comprise a second number of slits per unit area, and the first number and the second number are different.

22. The article of apparel of claim 18, wherein a first total length of the slits per unit area of the first set of vent systems is different than a second total length per unit area of the second set of vent systems.

23. A textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, the first end and the second end defining a longitudinal axis in an x-direction, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile,, the adaptive structure partially surrounding the slit, wherein: when exposed to moisture, the adaptive structure undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a less open state to a more open state; and during the transition, the first slit edge moves in the z-direction away from the second slit edge.

24. The textile of claim 23, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a first arm and a second arm connected to a base, and the slit is positioned between the first arm and the second arm.

25. The textile of claim 24, wherein the base comprises a vertex from which the first arm and the second arm extend and diverge from.

26. The textile of claim 25, wherein the base comprises a base edge between the first arm and the second arm.

27. The textile of claim 26, wherein the base edge is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

28. The textile of claim 23, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a thermoplastic non-woven material.

29. The textile of claim 28, wherein the thermoplastic non-woven material comprises a melt-blown fiber web.

30. The textile of claim 29, wherein the melt-blown fiber web comprises TPU.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0003] The present systems and methods for a textile venting system are described in detail below with reference to these figures.

[0004] FIG. 1A depicts an article of apparel comprising a plurality of vent systems in a closed or less open configuration in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0005] FIG. 1B depicts the article of apparel of FIG. 1 with the plurality of vent systems in an open or more open configuration.

[0006] FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure in a closed state.

[0007] FIG. 3A depicts a top view of the vent system of FIG. 2.

[0008] FIG. 3B depicts a cross-sectional views of the vent system of FIG. 2.

[0009] FIG. 3C depicts a second cross-sectional view of the vent system of FIG. 2.

[0010] FIG. 3D depicts a cross-sectional view of another example vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of the vent system of FIG. 2 in an open state.

[0012] FIG. 5A depicts a top view of the vent system of FIG. 4.

[0013] FIG. 5B depicts across-sectional view of the vent system of FIG. 4.

[0014] FIG. 5C depicts another cross-sectional view of the vent system of FIG. 4.

[0015] FIG. 6A depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure in a closed state.

[0016] FIG. 6B depicts a cross-sectional view of the vent system of FIG. 6A.

[0017] FIG. 7A depicts a top view of the vent system of FIG. 6A in an open state.

[0018] FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional view of the vent system of FIG. 7A.

[0019] FIG. 7C depicts another cross-sectional view of the vent system of FIG. 7A.

[0020] FIG. 8 depicts another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure in a closed state.

[0021] FIG. 9 depicts a flow diagram of a method of manufacturing an article of apparel in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 11 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 12 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 13 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 14 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 15 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 16 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 17 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 18 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 19 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 20 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 21 depicts a top view of another example of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Designing apparel for persons engaging in athletic activities presents several obstacles, particularly for use in cold weather. Often a person will initially wear several layers of clothing to stay warm while in a pre-exercise or resting state, and then will need to remove one or more layers as increased exertion causes their body temperature to rise, often to the point where perspiration commences. Once exercise is completed, the cold weather will rapidly cool the person's body, particularly if perspiration has occurred, potentially below a comfortable temperature, requiring the re-application of the conventional layers previously removed. Thus, it would thus be advantageous for one or more of the garment layers to have adaptive properties that respond when the wearer is perspiring in order to help decrease the wearer's body temperature; that is, a garment that provides more breathability (i.e., increased air circulation) when the wearer is perspiring, but then to revert back to a less breathable state once perspiration ceases.

[0035] Some conventional outer garments, such as jackets, may have one or more vents to allow for increased air circulation. Conventional vents generally exist in a static state (such as always open) or use a mechanical structure that requires human manipulation such as a zipper or fastener to open and close them.

[0036] More recently articles of article of apparel have been developed in which one or more vent openings that dynamically transition to an open state when the article of apparel is exposed to an external stimulus such as, for example, moisture in the form of perspiration, and dynamically transition to a closed state when the external stimulus is removed. This provides an increase in venting when, for example, a wearer is exercising and a decrease in venting when the wearer is at rest without any active manipulation of the article of apparel and/or the vent opening by the wearer. However, the designs of these conventional garments, which may have one or more film structures on the inner-facing surface of the garment and/or require a garment formed of multiple textile panels, have been found to be more appropriate for outer-layer garmentsthat is, garments that are not worn directly against the skin of a wearer. The film structures have a different feel against the skin of a user than the fabric they are attached to, which may cause distraction, irritation or other discomfort if they are applied to the inner-facing surface of the garment. Similarly, garments formed of multiple textile panels will often increase the number of seams in the garment, which also are less comfortable against a user's skin. Additionally, the vents of these conventional garments may include sharp points or edges that, if directly in contact with a wearer's skin, would be distracting or irritating.

[0037] Incorporating adaptive venting technology to a garment, including garments intended to be worn as a base layer (i.e., a layer meant to be worn next to the wearer's skin, which may include undergarments such as a sports bra or training tank) may be desirable for several reasons. While an outer garment like a jacket can be taken off during exercise, a base layer or other garments sometimes cannot be removed for modesty reasons, or for example, if the garment is a uniform that must be kept on during competition for identification purposes. In particular, a base layer with adaptive venting, being adjacent to the wearer's skin and the air immediately proximate to the skin without any intervening layers in between, may also allow for a quicker response to a wearer's perspiration, providing cooling effects more rapidly and delaying further increases in body temperature.

[0038] Aspects herein provide for an article of apparel having one or more vent openings that dynamically transition to an open state when the article of apparel is exposed to an external stimulus such as, for example, moisture in the form of perspiration, and that dynamically transition to a closed state when the external stimulus is removed. The dynamic transition of the vent opening between an open and closed state is achieved through use of an adaptive structure that is affixed to the surface of the textile proximate to a vent opening in the form of a slit in the textile.

[0039] The adaptive structure changes in shape and/or dimension when exposed to the external stimulus which causes the underlying textile to undergo a change in shape and/or dimension, thereby causing the vent opening to dynamically transition to an open state. Once the external stimulus is removed, the adaptive structures and the underlying textile return to their pre-exposure dimensions causing the vent opening to transition to a closed state. Said another way, the adaptive structure serves as an actuator to move the vent opening(s) from the closed state to the open state in response to moisture exposure or other stimulus, as defined below.

[0040] The adaptive structure can be configured and positioned relative to the slit so that its effect on the shape and dimensions of the textile on either side of the slit's longitudinal axis are different. For example, an adaptive structure can be configured and applied to the textile on or around a slit in the textile such that, on a first side of the slit's longitudinal axis, the adaptive structure shape change causes the first edge to curve so that it extends out of the plane of the textile in a z-direction away from the wearer, while on the opposing second side of the longitudinal axis, the adaptive structure shape change causes the second edge of the slit to be stretched in a linear fashion in the x-y plane perpendicular to the z-direction. Thus, the vent opening formed by the two sides of the slit in the open state are each actively shaped and defined by the adaptive structure. In an example, the vent system comprises an adaptive structure that is V-shaped with a base and two arms, with a slit formed in the textile between the two arms and adjacent to an edge of the base.

[0041] The term z-direction as used herein to describe a measurement or dimensional change in, for example, the adaptive structures and/or textile to which the adaptive structures are affixed means a direction that extends away from the surface of the upper-or lower-body garments in a positive or negative direction. The terms x-direction and y-direction when referring to, for instance, a measurement or change in dimension of the adaptive structures and/or textile to which the adaptive structures are affixed, means a direction extending along the surface of the upper-or lower-body garments. In examples, the y-direction may be oriented in a generally vertical direction, that is upwards away from a ground surface when the article of apparel is donned by a wearer.

[0042] The term external stimulus as used herein encompasses any number of stimuli such as temperature, pressure, moisture, electrical energy, magnetic energy, light, sound, and the like. In one example aspect, the external stimulus is moisture where the moisture can be in the form of liquid water, water vapor, perspiration, and the like.

[0043] The term vent opening as used herein means an opening formed in an article of apparel that provides a fluid (e.g., gas, liquid) communication path between the external environment and the interior of the article of apparel (e.g., the space between the inner-facing surface of the article of apparel and the wearer's body). The vent opening may be formed between first and second edges of a slit that extends through the textile.

[0044] The term longitudinal axis used when describing the vent opening is an axis that is parallel to the longest dimension of the vent opening. To state this differently, the longitudinal axis of a vent opening linearly extends between a first end and a second end of the vent, each end being the point where the two sides of the vent converge. For example, for a vent formed by a slit in a layer, the longitudinal axis runs through the ends of the slit where the slit starts and ends. If the slit is straight, then the longitudinal axis will also run parallel to edges of the slit.

[0045] The term closed state when describing the vent opening means a state where the first and second edges of a slit are in an abutting relationship along their length. The abutting relationship may mean contact between the surfaces of the edges, or near contact between the first and second edges of the slit.

[0046] The term open state when describing the vent opening means a state where at least a portion of the first and second edges are no longer in an abutting relationship. In some aspects, the term open state refers to the condition where the vent opening is biased away from the closed state.

[0047] It is to be appreciated that in some examples a vent may not have a closed state but instead may transition between a less open state to a more open state, wherein the more open state the maximum distance between the edges of the vent is greater than in the less open state.

[0048] The term dynamic or dynamically used when describing the vent opening transitioning from a closed state (e.g., less open) to an open state (e.g., more open) or vice versa generally means a mechanical action that occurs without human manipulation of the article of apparel while the article of apparel is unworn, is in a controlled environment (e.g., standard ambient temperature and pressure (25 degrees Celsius and 101.325 kPa of pressure)), and is not subject to wind conditions. Unless otherwise noted, all measurements provided herein are with the article of apparel in an un-worn, resting state and at standard ambient temperature and pressure.

[0049] The term adaptive structure as used herein refers to an application of a material layer on the surface of a textile where each adaptive structure is spaced apart on all sides from (i.e., discrete from) an adjacent adaptive structure by an expanse or portion of the textile. In example aspects, the adaptive structure is a layer of material that is fully adhered to the surface of the textile through, for instance, an intermediate adhesive layer, melting or (partially melting or softening) and then solidifying the adaptive layer and/or the textile when applying it to the textile, and the like. The adhesive layer may allow for the transmission of moisture through it, so that it does not impede the transportation of moisture through the textile into the adaptive structure.

[0050] In some examples, the adaptive structure comprises a material in the form of a film (i.e. a thin continuous layer of material that is deposited or formed on a surface).

[0051] In some examples, the adaptive structure comprises a layer formed from a nonwoven textile. The term nonwoven textile refers to a textile having fibers that are held together by mechanical and/or chemical interactions (e.g., formed using heat, solvent, adhesive, and any combination thereof) and typically without being in the form of a knit, woven, braided construction, or other structured construction. In some examples, the nonwoven textile may include different webs of fibers formed into a cohesive structure, where the different webs of fibers may have a different or similar composition of fibers and/or different properties. Non-limiting examples of nonwoven textiles can include entangled staple-fiber nonwovens, spunbond nonwovens, spunlace nonwovens, and melt-blown nonwovens. Stated differently, bonding of the fibers in the nonwoven textile can be achieved with thermal bonding (with or without calendering), fluid-entanglement (e.g., hydro or air), ultrasonic bonding, needlepunching (needlefelting), chemical bonding (e.g., using binders such as latex emulsions or solution polymers or binder fibers or powders), melt-blown bonding (e.g., fiber is bonded as air attenuated fibers intertangle during simultaneous fiber and web formation), spun-bond, and any combination thereof.

[0052] In at least some examples, a nonwoven textile can include, among the entangled fibers, voids or pores that extend through the textile and that arise from the manufacturing or entanglement process. For example, the voids can arise from needles, fluid jets, etc. penetrating into the fiber web and/or can result from the manner in which the fibers are randomly deposited, such as in a melt-blown nonwoven. In some instances, these voids or pores can contribute to the functioning of the nonwoven textile as an adaptive structure and can contribute to the material properties of the adaptive structure (e.g., moisture absorption, breathability, etc.).

[0053] A nonwoven textile that forms the adaptive structure can include fibers that compositionally include one or more various polymers. In some examples, the fibers can include polyurethane. In some examples, the polymer can include a thermoplastic polymer. In some examples, the polymer can include a thermoplastic elastomer. In some examples, the polymer can include a recycled polymer. In some examples, the polymer can include recycled polyurethane (rPU), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), recycled TPU (rTPU), thermoplastic polyether ester elastomer (TPEE), recycled TPEE (rTPEE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), recycled PTFE (rPTFE), and the like.

[0054] The examples herein contemplate that the adaptive structure may comprise any film, layer, or other deposit of material that expands in one or more of the x-direction, the y-direction, and/or the z-direction when exposed to an external stimulus such as moisture while remaining affixed or adhered to the textile. In addition to expanding, absorption of moisture makes the adaptive structure more rigid, in some aspects. In general, a thicker adaptive structure will have more rigidity than a thinner adaptive structure dependent on the adaptive structure's thickness being such that moisture is able to diffuse through the adaptive structure within a reasonable time frame. These properties of expansion and rigidity can be utilized in creating vent systems with desirable features, as further discussed below.

[0055] The adaptive structures described herein may be comprised of any material capable of transporting or diffusing moisture from one surface of a structure formed of the material to a second opposite surface of the adaptive structure. In example aspects, the adaptive structure described herein may comprise a thermoplastic material, which may include one or more of thermoplastic polymer materials and thermoplastic elastomer materials. The transport of the moisture may be facilitated by the presence of hydrophilic molecules (molecules that attract or have an affinity for water) within the material of the adaptive structure where a greater number of hydrophilic molecules may result in a greater transport of moisture. Hydrophilicity can be measured using any one or more tests known to an ordinary skilled artisan, such as (but not limited to) water absorption tests (e.g., measuring the amount of water absorbed by the material over a given period).

[0056] In examples, the adaptive structure may comprise a hydrophilic non-woven thermoplastic material. In another example, the adaptive structure may comprise a film or layer (e.g., a nonwoven textile, such as a web of melt-blown or spunbond fibers) formed with a thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE). In example aspects, the adaptive structure may include a hygroscopic material that is embedded in or is mixed with the thermoplastic material. For example, a TPEE adaptive structure may include polyethylene glycol, sodium polyacrylate, and the like. Because of the presence of a hygroscopic material, the adaptive structure swells in one or more of a z-direction, an x-direction, and a y-direction when exposed to moisture.

[0057] In another example, the adaptive structure may be formed from a film or layer (e.g., a nonwoven textile, such as a web of melt-blown or spunbond fibers) comprising thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) configured to transport or diffuse moisture from one surface of the adaptive structure to a second opposite surface of the adaptive structure. The transport of the moisture may be facilitated by the presence of hydrophilic molecules (molecules that attract or have an affinity for water) within the TPU where a greater number of hydrophilic molecules may result in a greater transport of moisture. Additional materials for the adaptive structure contemplated herein include a thermoplastic poly(ether-amide) elastomer (TPAE) material.

[0058] The movement of moisture through the adaptive structure may be measured using a water vapor transmission test such as, for instance, ASTM E96 B. In example aspects, the water vapor transmission rate of the adaptive structure may be from about 600 g/m.sup.2/day to about 10,000 g/m.sup.2/day, from about 1,000 g/m.sup.2/day to about 9,000 g/m.sup.2/day, from about 3,000 g/m.sup.2/day to about 8,000 g/m.sup.2/day, from about 5,000 g/m.sup.2/day to about 7,000 g/m.sup.2/day, or about 6,000 g/m.sup.2/day.

[0059] In examples, the adaptive structure may be manufactured so that it exhibits different properties in the x-and y-directions, which may correspond to a machine-and cross-direction of a manufactured film or non-woven layer forming the adaptive structure.

[0060] The amount of movement of the underlying textile in the x-, y-and z-directions caused by the adaptive structures may be dependent on the thickness of the adaptive structures and its construction/composition. In general, a thicker adaptive structure will cause more movement of the textile to which it is attached than a thinner adaptive structure dependent on the adaptive structure's thickness being such that moisture is able to diffuse through the adaptive structure within a reasonable time frame. Additionally, an adaptive structure with a greater surface area will cause more deformation of the underlying textile than an adaptive structure with a smaller surface area. In examples, the adaptive structures may have a thickness of less than or equal to 300 microns. In other examples, the thickness may be from about 20 microns to about 100 microns, from about 25 microns to about 90 microns, from about 30 microns to about 80 microns, from about 35 microns to about 70 microns, or about 40 microns. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the thickness of the adaptive structure is measured in the z-direction from the surface of the textile that the adaptive structure is affixed to the opposite surface (i.e., the non-affixed surface) of the adaptive structure. In some examples, the adaptive structure is affixed to the surface of the textile without their structures intermingling. However, as further discussed below, in some examples a portion of the adaptive structure may be melted or fused into the textile to which it is affixed. In some such examples, the adaptive structure comprises a TPU melt-blown layer that is affixed to a knit textile by heat pressing the TPU melt-blown layer into the knit textile. The heat and pressure causes at least a portion of the TPU melt-blown layer to at least partially melt and then penetrate into and intermingle with the structure of the knit textile, which upon cooling re-solidifies and affixes the adaptive structure to the knit textile. In an example, the TPU used to form the melt-blown layer has a melting temperature of less than 140 degrees Celsius, or less than 130 degrees Celsius. The TPU melt-blown layer may be formed on a carrier sheet, such as a polyester film or glassine paper, prior to being shaped and/or heat pressed onto the textile to form the adaptive structure, after which the carrier sheet can be removed. The TPU melt-blown layer may be heat pressed to transfer the TPU melt-blown layer onto the textile with a heat press or heat roller temperature of greater than 140 degrees Celsius, or between 150 and 180 degrees Celsius.

[0061] Due to the nature of its construction, an adaptive structure formed from a melt-blown layer may have a greater air permeability than a film layer, which may help to improve the overall breathability of the textile to which is applied. (i.e., a greater air permeability, which may be measured by a standard such as ASTM D737).

[0062] The degree of puckering, movement and/or stretching of the textile caused by swelling of an adaptive structure may be dependent on a number of factors associated with the textile. For example, the degree of movement of the textile in the z-direction may be dependent on the moisture regain value of the yarn(s) used to form the textile where moisture regain is defined as the percentage of moisture an oven-dry fiber or filament will absorb from the air when at standard temperature and relative humidity. As an example, when the textile is formed from yarns having a low moisture regain, such as polyester or nylon, the textile may undergo a greater degree of deformation or puckering compared to when the textile is formed from yarns having a high moisture regain, such as cotton. This is because yarns having a high moisture regain will typically absorb moisture causing the yarn to swell or expand which counteracts the tensioning forces generated by the swelling of the adaptive structures and results in a lesser degree of puckering of the textile.

[0063] As used herein, textile refers to a textile, fabric or substrate to which the adaptive structure is affixed. In examples, the textile can comprise a knit textile, a woven textile, or a non-woven textile. A knit textile may be a weft knit or warp knit. In examples, the knit textile may comprise a 3-D spacer textile. The textile may comprise yarns formed of synthetic or natural materials, such as polyester, nylon, cotton, or wool as non-limiting examples. In other examples, the textile may comprise a film, a membrane, a foam layer, or a leather material. The textile can comprise a single layer or comprise multiple layers of the same material and construction, or layers having comprising different materials or having a different construction.

[0064] The textile may form part or of all of an article of apparel. As used herein, the term article of apparel encompasses any number of products meant to be worn by a wearer including upper-body garments (e.g., shirts, jackets, hoodies, pullovers), lower-body garments (e.g., pants, shorts, leggings), articles of footwear such as shoes or socks, articles of headwear (e.g., hats), gloves, sleeves (e.g., arm sleeves, calf sleeves), and the like. Positional terms used when describing the article of apparel such as front, back, inner-facing surface, outer-facing surface, upper, lower, proximal, distal, medial, lateral, and the like are with respect to the article of apparel being worn as intended with the wearer standing upright. As such, when the article of apparel is in the form of an upper-body garment or a lower-body garment, the front of the article of apparel is configured to cover, for instance, a front torso area, a front arm area, or a front leg area of the wearer, and the back of the article of apparel is configured to cover the back torso area, the back arm area, or the back leg area of the wearer. Similarly, the inner-facing surface of the article of apparel is configured to be in face-sharing contact (defined as a surface of a first substrate that is in contact or near contact with a surface of a second substrate) with a wearer's skin surface or a another layer (e.g., a second article of apparel worn inside), and the outer-facing surface of the article of apparel is configured to face toward the external environment.

[0065] A factor may influence the shape change of an adaptive structure is the weight of the textile to which it is applied. In aspects, the textile may comprise a lightweight fabric (e.g., from about 30 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 150 gsm) or an ultra-lightweight fabric (e.g., from about 10 gsm to about 100 gsm) although heavier weight fabrics (e.g., greater than 150 gsm) are contemplated herein. Lightweight and ultra-lightweight fabric may pucker to a greater degree than heavier weight fabrics. In further example aspects, the degree of movement of the textile may be dependent on the presence of elastomeric yarns that exhibit stretch and recovery properties such as, for example, Spandex. When, for example, textile types, textile weights, and textile constructions (e.g., knit or woven) are the same, the presence of elastomeric yarns may allow the adaptive structure to stretch the region of the textile to which it is applied to a greater extent compared to when the textile does not include elastomeric yarns. In other examples, the textile may not stretch appreciably in reaction to a tension force. Thus, the change of shape of the adaptive structure and of the textile to which it is applied may be adjusted based on the type of yarn used to form the textile, the weight of the textile, and/or the use of elastomeric yarns in the textile.

[0066] Another factor that may influence the shape change of an adaptive structure is the material flow direction (e.g., the knit orientation of a knit textile) of the textile to which it is affixed. In other words, two adaptive structures having the same overall shape may change shape differently on exposure to moisture if they are placed at different orientations relative to a machine direction of the textile to which they are affixed.

[0067] Turning now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, which depict an article of apparel 10 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure herein, article of apparel 10 comprises a textile 110 and one or more vent systems 101 on a first surface 112 of the textile 110 that faces outwardly from the wearer when the article of apparel 10 is worn. The second surface 114 of the textile 110 opposite the first surface 112 is facing towards a wearer's skin when the article of apparel 10 is worn. Each vent system 101 includes an adaptive structure 120 positioned on the first surface 112 of the article proximate to a corresponding slit 150. As used herein, an adaptive structure is proximate to a corresponding slit when their closest points are within 10 mm of each other. As further discussed below, each adaptive structure also partially surrounds its corresponding slit.

[0068] In some examples, vent systems 101 can be positioned in one or more areas of the garment based on a thermal map of a human body (e.g., thermal map of the human body during an activity, such as running, exercise etc.). For example, areas where a thermal map may show greater heat generation during activity include the chest area, the upper back between the shoulder blades, the underarm area, the sides of the torso, and the region where the shoulders join the torso. Vent systems 101 may also be applied adjacent to areas where features of the article of apparel may decrease the breathability of the article. For example, vent systems 101 may be applied adjacent to one or more heat transfer elements affixed to a uniform that display graphics or player numbers.

[0069] Vent systems 101 may also be positioned at least partially circumferentially around a cylindrical portion of an article, such as a leg portion or a waist portion of a lower-body garment or an arm portion (i.e., a sleeve) of an upper-body garment. Vent systems 101 can also be positioned where it is anticipated that vent openings 160 will maximize the ability of air to flow into and out of the garment during particular movements such as running, jumping, skating, or sliding. For example, vent systems may be positioned on an area of a sleeve that is more covered when the arm is by a wearer's side but that is exposed during a running or jumping motion.

[0070] The adaptive structures 120 and slits 150 of the different vent systems 101 may have a uniform size and shape or may be of differing sizes and shapes. As seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the vent systems 101 in a first region 12 of the article of apparel 10 have different sized adaptive structures 120 (e.g., the structures have different surface areas) and slits 150 (e.g., slits of different lengths) than the vent systems 101 in a second region 14 or a third region 16. In examples, the vent systems 101 can have a greater density per unit area of the textile depending upon the desired amount of venting. Stated differently, the total flow area of the vents per unit area of the textile 110 when the vents are fully opened can vary from a first region to a second region. The density can be varied based on number of adaptive structures and slits, the size of each adaptive structure and slit, or a combination of the two. For example, the greater total flow area can result from an increased number of venting structures or an increased size of individual vents (e.g., longer slits), so that the total length of the slits (on a per unit area basis) in a first region is greater than in a region location.

[0071] The slits 150 and the adaptive structures 120 of the vent systems 101 in different regions of the garment may also be oriented in the same or in different directions, either with respect to other slits within the same region or a different region. For example, as seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B the orientation of the adaptive structures 120 in region 14 are angled relative to the adaptive structures in regions 12 and 16.

[0072] In examples, it is contemplated that the positioning, configuration, size, concentration and orientation of the vent systems 101 may be based, at least in part, on a heat or sweat map of the body. For example, as discussed above, a heat map and/or sweat map may indicate a region, such as the central posterior region of the human torso, as being a high heat and/or sweat producing area. As such, vent systems 101 may be positioned at the central rear region of the upper body garment in a greater density, i.e., in a greater concentration or having larger adaptive structures and/or slits, than in other regions.

[0073] In the article of apparel 10 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the adaptive structure 120, being applied to the first surface 112 which is an outer-facing surface of the article of apparel 10, is not in contact with the skin when the article is worn. However, moisture from the wearer can transfer through the textile 110 and into the adaptive structure 120. The adaptive structure 120 can be affixed to the first surface 112 in several ways. In an aspect, the adaptive structure 120 is heat-pressed onto the first surface 112 without adhesive. In another aspect, an adhesive is used between the adaptive structure 120 and the first surface 112. The adhesive should either allow for the transmission of water through it, or there should be gaps in the adhesive layer so that moisture can travel from the textile 110 into the adaptive structure 120 through the gaps.

[0074] The article of apparel 10 shown in FIGS. 1A-B depicts an upper-body garment with short sleeves; however, it is contemplated herein that the article of apparel 10 may be sleeveless or may include long sleeves, three-quarter sleeves, half-sleeves, quarter-sleeves, and the like. In addition, although article of apparel 10 depicted in FIGS. 1A-B does not have separable parts, it is contemplated herein that the article of apparel 10 may include two or more separable parts (e.g., a left side and a right side) that may be joined by fasteners (e.g., buttons, a zipper, hook-and-loop systems, etc.). It is further contemplated that the vent systems 101 of the present disclosure may be incorporated into, for example, a lower-body garment or other articles of apparel such as headwear, gloves, socks, shoes, and the like. Furthermore, while the vent systems 101 disclosed herein is described in some examples with respect to base layers, it is to be understood that it is within the scope of the present disclosure that they can be incorporated in other garment layers, including outer garments such as jackets and vests.

[0075] As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3A-C, which depict an example vent system 101 in a closed state, the adaptive structure 120 has a geometric shape generally resembling a V with a base 122 formed where a first arm 124 and a second arm 126 meet at a vertex 128. Stated differently, the base 122 is generally triangular-shaped with a vertex 128 and a base edge 130 opposite the vertex 128, with the first arm 124 and the second arm 126 divergently extending from either end of the base edge 130. The first arm 124 shares a first outer edge 132 with one side of the base 122, and the second arm 126 shares a second outer edge 134 with the other side of the base 122. The first arm 124 also has a first arm inner edge 136 and the second arm 126 has a second arm inner edge 138. In the example of FIG. 2 the first outer edge 132, the second outer edge 134, the first arm inner edge 136 and the second arm inner edge 138 are generally straight. In other examples the edges of each arm may be curved or comprise multiple straight and curved portions, and may be either parallel or angled with respect to each other. In the example of FIGS. 2 and 3A-C, the vertex 128, the first arm end 140 and the second arm end 142 are rounded to avoid creating sharp points that may irritate the wearer, but it is to be understood that other configurations are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0076] While the example adaptive structure 120 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3A-C is depicted with a V-shape comprising a base 122 having a base edge 130 separate from the first arm inner edge 136 and the second arm inner edge 138, in other examples the adaptive structure may comprise two arms converging at a base or vertex but without a distinct base edge (i.e., a V-shape without a thickened portion at the vertex).

[0077] The first arm inner edge 136, the second arm inner edge 138, the base edge 130, the first arm end 140 and the second arm end 142 define a tension zone 144 on the second side 118 of the textile 110. As used herein, a tension zone is an area of the textile between two different parts of the adaptive structure that is subject to an increase in tension (i.e. stretching forces) when the adaptive structure changes shape in response to moisture, as further discussed below. That is, the change of shape of the adaptive structure causes the textile in the tension zone to be pulled. Depending upon the amount of force being applied by the adaptive structure 120 the textile 110 within the tension zone 144 may be stretched to a greater length or may be pulled taut reducing slack of the textile 110 between the first arm 124 and the second arm 126. In the example of FIGS. 2 and 3A-C, the tension zone 144 is generally trapezoidal in shape, but other shapes are contemplated. As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the adaptive structure partially surrounds the slit 150.

[0078] As seen in FIGS. 3B-C, the adaptive structure 120 has a thickness 161 from a first surface 162 which is aligned with and affixed to the first surface 112 of textile 110, to an opposing second surface 164. In an aspect, the adaptive structure 120 has a uniform thickness 161; however, other aspects are contemplated in which different portions of the adaptive structure 120 have different thicknesses.

[0079] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 3D, a portion of the adaptive structure 120 may be melted or fused into (or otherwise intermingled with) the textile 110 to which it is affixed. An adaptive structure that is affixed to a textile by such an intermingled portion may have an increased wash durability. The thickness 161 of the adaptive structure 120 may still be measured from the first surface 112 to the opposite second surface 164 of the adaptive structure 120, but the adaptive structure 120 will also have an intermingled portion 180 that is intermingled with the textile 110. The thickness of the intermingled portion 182 will typically be less than the thickness of the textile.

[0080] In examples, the adaptive structure 120 of FIG. 3D comprises a TPU meltblown fiber web layer that is affixed to the textile via heat pressing so that a portion of the adaptive structure intermingles with the textile 110. When applied to the textile 110, the adaptive structure 120 has a thickness 161 of less than 200 microns. In examples, the TPU melt-blow fiber web layer, prior to being affixed to the textile, the TPU melt-blown fiber web may have a thickness of between 150 and 300 microns, a weight of between 50 and 100 gsm, an air permeability of between 200 and 400 cfm (cubic feet per minute per square foot), and a water vapor transmission rate of between 1000 and 3000 g/m.sup.2/day, or between 1500 and 2000 g/m.sup.2/day.

[0081] The textile 110 has a slit 150 that extends through the thickness 111 of textile 110 between the first surface 112 and the second surface 114, and comprising a first slit edge 152 and second slit edge 154 opposite the first slit edge 152 between a first slit end 156 and a second slit end 158. The slit 150 is positioned between the first arm 124 and the second arm 126 and adjacent the base edge 130 of the adaptive structure 120. As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the slit is partially surrounded by the adaptive structure 120. As used herein, the term partially surrounded means that the slit is positioned between two different parts of the adaptive structure but is not fully enclosed or encircled by the structure. For example, in FIGS. 2 and 3 the slit 150 is positioned between the first arm 124 and the second arm 126. In other examples, the slit may be fully encircled by the structure or only a portion of the slit may be partially surrounded by the adaptive structure.

[0082] Turning again to FIGS. 3A-C, the slit 150 defines a longitudinal axis A.sub.1 that extends in an x-direction along the first surface 112 of the textile 110. The base 122 of the adaptive structure 120 is positioned on a first side 116 of the textile 110 adjacent to the first slit edge 152. The first arm 124 and the second arm 126 extend from the first side 116 of the textile 110 across the longitudinal axis A.sub.1 to the second side 118 of the textile 110. In an example, the first arm 124 and the second arm 126 diverge from each other as they extend away from the base edge 130. In other examples, the first arm 124 and the second arm 126 may be parallel or may converge towards each other. As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, at least a portion of the slit 150 is partially surrounded or circumscribed by the adaptive structure 120.

[0083] In the example of FIGS. 3A-C, the surface area of the adaptive structure 120 on the first side 116 of the textile 110 is greater than the surface area of the adaptive structure 120 on the second side 118 of the textile. However, in other examples, the surface area of the adaptive structure on the first side 116 may be less than the surface area of the adaptive structure on the second side. The difference in the amount of surface area between the first side 116 and the second side 118, together with the other factors discussed herein, may affect the behavior of the adaptive structure 120 and its effect on the slit 150 as the adaptive structure 120 changes shape in response to its exposure to moisture.

[0084] In some examples, the slit 150 is positioned parallel to the base edge 130, as shown in at least FIG. 3A-3C, so that the longitudinal axis A.sub.1 is parallel to the base edge. In other examples, as further discussed below, slit 150 may be positioned anywhere within the tension zone 144 and have different orientations relative to the adaptive structure 120.

[0085] It is to be appreciated that in the accompanying figures, some distances between elements, such as the distance between the base edge and the first slit edge (e.g., base edge 130 and first slit edge 152 in FIG. 3A), have been exaggerated to better distinguish the elements, but it is contemplated that these distances can be minimized (or eliminated) depending upon the precision of the manufacturing methods used and the desired interaction of the elements with each other. For example, the base edge 130 of the adaptive structure can be spaced 1-5 microns from the first slit edge 152 in FIG. 3A, or may the base edge 130 may be aligned with the first slit edge 152. It is to be understood, however, than in other examples a distance between an edge of the adaptive structure and the slit or opening edges is desired.

[0086] Further, while the example shown herein shows a slit 150 having a linear shape and with edges that are touching or adjacent to each other in the closed position, the slit 150 may be configured as an opening that is not configured to be completely closed. For example, the slit or other opening may be pre-formed into the textile prior to the application of the adaptive structure to the textile. For example, when the textile comprises a knit textile the opening may be an engineered opening, wherein the opening is integrally knit into the textile. Such an opening may not be fully closed, i.e., the sides of the opening will not be touching, when the opening is in the least opened configuration. For example, the openings may be generally rectangular, circular, oval, or spindle shaped, or have other geometric configurations.

[0087] When exposed to moisture, the adaptive structure 120 swells in one or more dimensions, which, due to the adaptive structure 120 being affixed to the textile 110, exerts various forces upon one or more parts of the textile 110, which may also result in shape changes of different parts of the textile 110. The final shape change of the vent system 101 and its components is dependent upon several factors, including the thickness and orientation of the adaptive structure 120, the presence and positioning of the slit 150, and the fiber orientation, weight and elasticity of the fabric or textile comprising the textile 110. The results of the adaptive structure shape change are also affected by the forces that different parts of the adaptive structure 120 itself exert on other parts. For example, the base 122, the first arm 124 and the second arm 126 of the adaptive structure 120 of FIG. 2, being connected with each other, affect each other's shape change and the overall effect of the adaptive structure 120 on the textile 110 and slit 150 in a way that may differ than if separate, unconnected adaptive structures of the same size as the base, the first arm and the second arm were applied in corresponding positions on the textile 110.

[0088] Looking now to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5A-C which show the vent system 101 after the adaptive structure 120 has been exposed to moisture, the swelling of the base 122 causes the first slit edge 152 and the neighboring portions of the textile 110 to cup or pucker upward in the z-direction away from the body. Stated differently, as the base 122 swells it stretches out while being attached to the textile on the first side 116 of the slit 150. Because of the slit 150 the textile cannot exert a resisting force along the first slit edge 152. As a result, the first slit edge 152 lifts out of the plane of the textile 110 and in a direction away from the wearer (i.e., in a first direction towards the adaptive structure), forming a curve between the first slit end 156 and the second slit end 158 and separating the first slit edge 152 from the second slit edge 154. Stated differently, during the transition of the slit from a closed state (i.e., less open) to an open state (i.e., more open), the first slit edge moves in the z-direction away from the second slit edge. The portion of the textile 110 that the base 122 is attached to correspondingly forms a scoop shape. Depending upon the elasticity of the fabric comprising the textile 110, the first slit edge 152 may also be stretched so that its length is longer than the length of the first slit edge 152 in the closed state.

[0089] Continuing, the first arm 124 and the second arm 126, when exposed to moisture, change their shape by curling, with the edges of each arm curling towards each other. Because the arms are still connected to the base 122, the tension zone 144 of the textile 110 is stretched in at least the x-direction between the first arm 124 and the second arm 126, with the second slit edge 154 also being stretched taut between the first slit end 156 and the second slit end 158 in at least the x-direction. The first slit edge 152 and the second slit edge 154 thus define a vent opening 160 in the textile 110. As shown in FIGS. 5B-C, the first slit edge 152 has an apex 166 at a midpoint between the first slit end 156 and the second slit end 158. The height of the apex 166 above the second slit edge 154 is dependent upon factors such as the length of the slit 150, the thickness of the adaptive structure 120 and its expansion properties upon exposure to moisture, and the properties of the textile 110. In an example, the apex 166 may be between 2 mm and 10 mm above the second slit edge 154.

[0090] In the example shown in FIGS. 5B-C, the edges of the arms are shown at about the same relative positioning in the z-direction with respect to each other. However, in other examples, the outer edges (e.g., first outer edge 132) may be higher or lower than the inner edge (e.g., first arm inner edge 136), depending upon the interaction of the different parts of the adaptive structure 120 with the slit 150, the textile 110, and other nearby vent systems 101.

[0091] The vent system 101 improves over existing adaptive venting systems as it dynamically reacts to moisture from increased body temperature while avoiding irritating the wearer of the article of apparel 10 to which it is applied. By actively stretching the tension zone and the second slit edge 154 taut, the vent system both increases the size of the vent opening 160 and avoids the fabric adjacent to the second slit edge 154 from obscuring the vent opening 160. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 3A-C herein, the shape and orientation of the adaptive structure 120 also avoids creating sharp points or edges that could dig into the wearer's skin. Additionally, in a configuration where the adaptive structures are affixed to the surface of the textile that forms the outer-facing surface of the article of apparel, direct contact of the adaptive structures with the wearer's skin in both the closed and open states is avoided. However, it is to be understood that other configurations in which one or more adaptive structures 120 are on an inner-facing surface of an article or textile are also contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0092] In the example shown in FIGS. 2-5C, the adaptive structure 120 is symmetrically shaped about a midline M1 running through its vertex 128 but in other examples, the adaptive structure 120 may not be symmetrical. It is contemplated that asymmetrical adaptive structure and slit configurations may result in vent systems with unique characteristics, including but not limited to asymmetric vent openings and pleasing aesthetic effects for the vent opening, the adaptive structure, or both.

[0093] While the vent system depicted in FIGS. 2-5C is shown being used on a uniform textile or textile 110, it is further contemplated that the vent system of the present disclosure can be used on a textile 110 with different regions comprising different yarn types and/or knit structures. For example, an adaptive structure, such as the adaptive structure 120, may be applied to a textile 110 having two regions formed of different yarns, with a slit formed along the boundary between the two regions. The yarns may have different properties, such as different stretch properties, so that the effects of the adaptive structure 120 as it swells and expands are accentuated or attenuated. For example, the first side 116 of the textile 110 of FIG. 3A may be formed of a first yarn that is more elastic yarn, so that the first slit edge 152 and the corresponding scoop portion of the vent system 101 can be stretched wider by the expanded adaptive structure 120. At the same time, the second side 118 of the textile 110 may be formed with a second yarn that resists stretching, increasing the amount of tension that the textile 110 in the tension zone 144 is capable of withstanding so that the tension zone 144 maintains its tautness without excessive deformation/stretching. In another example, the entirety of the textile 110 comprises a first yarn throughout the textile 110, which may be an elastic yarn. In certain regions, such as the second side 118 in FIG. 3A, a second yarn may be plated with the first yarn, with the second yarn having less elasticity than the first yarn.

[0094] In another example of the vent system 101, as shown in FIGS. 6A-B and 7A-C, the first arm 124 and the second arm 126 of the adaptive structure 120 may be positioned over the first slit end 156 and the second slit end 158 of the slit 150 in the textile 110. Adaptive structure 120 has structure slits 121 so that the adaptive structure 120 does not impede the movement of the first slit edge 152 or the second slit edge 154 as the adaptive structure 120 transitions between open and closed states. Stated differently, the slit 150 and the structure slits 121 together form a slit between the first slit end 156 and the second slit end 158 that extends through the thickness 111 of the textile 110 and the thickness 161 of the adaptive structure 120. Unlike the adaptive structure 120 of FIGS. 2-5, the first arm inner edge 136 and the second arm inner edge 138 are not anchored to the base edge of the adaptive structure 120.

[0095] Thus, when the adaptive structure 120 is exposed to moisture, the first arm inner edge 136 and the second arm inner edge 138, no longer being constrained by being attached to the base 122, are free to curl downward in the z-direction, which forces the second slit edge and the textile between the first arm and the second arm underneath the plane of the textile (i.e., in a second direction along the z-direction opposite the film structure). Additionally, the first slit edge 152, also being less restrained by having less connection with the first arm 124 and second arm 126, may extend even further upward in the z-direction when the adaptive structure 120 expands upon exposure to moisture. The first slit edge 152 and the second slit edge 154 thus move away from each other in the z-direction as the slit transitions to a more open state. These two effects further increase the flow area of the vent opening 160 formed by the first slit edge 152 and the second slit edge 154.

[0096] Variations of the dimensions and positioning of the adaptive structures 120 and slits 150 are contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, adaptive structures 120 having the general shape shown in FIGS. 3A-C can vary with respect to its dimensions, including the length and width of the first arm 124 and the second arm 126, and the angle at which they extend from the base 122. The base can vary in in its length and width. Different aspect ratios can also be varied, including but not limited to the length or width of the first arm 124 or second arm 126 to the length or width of the base 122. The first arm 124 and the second arm 126 can be straight-edged, wavy, or curved, and may be of a consistent width, tapered, or flared. With respect to the positioning of the slit 150 relative to the adaptive structure 120, the varying dimensions and elements may include the distance from the slit 150 to the base edge 130, and the distance from an end of the slit to the adjacent inner arm edge (e.g., distance from first slit end 156 to first arm inner edge 136).

[0097] FIG. 8 depicts another example of a vent system 801 in which the slit 850 is curved between first end 856 and second end 858, and an adaptive structure 820 with the base edge 830 also having a convex curve that corresponds with the curve in the slit 850. Upon exposure to moisture, the first arm 824 and second arm 826 will still stretch the textile of the tension zone 844, which will keep the curved second slit edge 854 taut. It is to be appreciated that curved base edge 830 is not in the tension zone, which is bounded by the second slit edge 854. Instead, the first slit edge 152, now comprising a convex curve and attached to the curved base edge 830 instead of a straight line, will lift out of the plane away from the wearer and create an extended curve lip of the resulting vent opening, increasing the height of the apex of the vent opening when the vent system 801 is in the open state. In contrast, while a vent system with a slit that is curved in the opposite (concave) direction is also possible, the second slit edge of such a vent system and the adjacent textile, being curved out of the tension zone, may create a loose flap of fabric that could impede the flow of air or create discomfort.

[0098] FIG. 9 depicts a flow diagram of an example method 900 of forming a vent system, such as the vent system 101, for use in apparel. At a step 910, one or more adaptive structures, each having a base and two arms, such as the adaptive structure 120, is secured to the textile of an article, such as the textile 110 of article. 10.

[0099] At a step 912, a plurality of slits, such as slits 150, are formed through a thickness of the textile, each slit proximate to one of the adaptive structures. In examples, the slits may be formed by a laser. In other examples, the slits may be created by mechanical cutting, such as a knife or stamping process.

[0100] In yet other examples, as discussed above, the slit or other opening may be pre-formed into the textile prior to the application of the adaptive structure to the textile. For example, when the textile comprises a knit textile the opening may be an engineered opening, wherein the opening is integrally knit into the textile. In examples, such as when the knit textile is warp knit, the edges of the opening may comprise finished edges. Such an engineered opening may be formed by not engaging one or more needles (i.e., meaning they do not receive yarn or form loops) resulting in an absence of intermeshing loops, which creates an opening with edges that will not be touching, when the opening is in the least opened configuration. Adaptive structures may then be applied to the textile proximate to the engineered openings to form the vent systems. In aspects, the positioning of the adaptive structures relative to their respective vents may be the same or may be different; the differences may be a deliberate design choice or may be due to manufacturing tolerances in the registration or alignment process when applying the adaptive structures to the textile.

[0101] In some examples, a slit is also formed through at least part of the adaptive structure adjacent to the slit in the textile. When a laser is used, there may be some melting of the adaptive structure where it is cut, which may result in the cut edges getting stuck to each other, requiring separation by pulling or a second cutting action being performed, which may be at a different energy and/or frequency (or using a separate cutting mechanism), to detach the two edges from each other. To avoid this, an adaptive structure such as the adaptive structure 1020 depicted in FIG. 10 can be used. Adaptive structure 1020 includes cutouts 1023 in the arms 1024, 1026 immediately proximate to the slit 1050. In examples, the distance of the edges of the cutouts from the slit 1050 can be as little as 1-5 microns.

[0102] Additional examples of a vent system in accordance with the present disclosure are depicted in FIGS. 11 to 21, to demonstrate some of the different ways in which the different components of a vent system may be configured.

[0103] In FIG. 11, the vent system 1101 has an adaptive structure 1120 with a base 1122 that is generally rectangular in shape, and with a first arm 1124 and a second arm 1126 that extend generally parallel to each other and with slit 1150 between them.

[0104] In FIG. 12, the vent system 1201 has an adaptive structure 1220 with a base 1222 that is generally semi-circular. FIG. 12 also depicts a slit 1250 between first arm 1224 and second arm 1226 that may not be fully closed (i.e., the slit edges do not touch each other) in its less closed configuration.

[0105] FIG. 13 depicts a vent system 1301 with an adaptive structure 1320 with a slit 1350 and a base 1322 that is generally trapezoidal in shape with its side edges 1332 flared outwardly away from its base edge 1330, an first arm 1324 and second arm 1326 also flared outwardly.

[0106] FIG. 14 depicts a vent system 1401 with an adaptive structure 1420 with a first arm 1424 and a second arm 1426 that are angled towards each other as they extend away from the base 1422. Additionally, the inner arm edges 1436 extend into the base 1422 (i.e., the base edge 1430 is inwardly offset from the outer perimeter of the base 1440) and the outer arm edges 1434 are not aligned with the side edges 1432 of the base 1422.

[0107] FIG. 15 depicts a vent system 1501 with an adaptive structure 1520 that is asymmetrical; e.g., the first arm 1524 and the second arm 1526 are different lengths and are at different angles relative to the base edge 1530 of the base 1522. Slit 1550 is also shown in a less-open state that is not fully closed.

[0108] It is also contemplated that vent systems in accordance with the present disclosure may have more than two arms and more than one slit or opening associated with an adaptive structure. For example, FIG. 16 depicts a vent system 1601 with an adaptive structure 1620 with three arms extending out of base 1622 instead of two, and with a first slit 1651 positioned adjacent a first base edge 1631 between first arm 1624 and second arm 1636, and a second slit 1652 positioned adjacent a second base edge 1632 between the second arm 1626 and the third arm 1628. Similarly, FIG. 17 depicts a vent system 1701 with an adaptive structure 1720 having a base 1722 that has a first arm 1724, a second arm 1726, a third arm 1728 and a fourth arm 1730 generally configured in an X shape, with a first slit 1751 adjacent a first base edge 1731 between the first arm 1724 and the second arm 1726 and a second slit 1752 adjacent a second base edge 1732 between the third arm 1728 and the fourth arm 1730.

[0109] FIG. 18 depicts a vent structure 1801 with an adaptive structure 1820 with a base 1822 and slit 1850 between first arm 1824 and second arm 1826 where the slit 1850 is angled relative to the base edge 1832. FIG. 18 also depicts a slit that is oriented in a generally vertical direction (i.e., the y-direction), which may prevent gravity from pulling down on or otherwise distorting one or both of the edges of the slit.

[0110] FIG. 19 depicts a vent structure 1901 with an adaptive structure 1920 with a base 1922 and a slit 1950 positioned perpendicular to the base edge 1930, within the tension zone 1944 that is between the first arm 1924 and the second arm 1926.

[0111] In some other examples, more than one slit may be included within the tension zone of a vent system. As a non-limiting example, as shown in the vent system 2001 shown in FIG. 20, a first slit 2050 and a second slit 2052 may be positioned within the tension zone 2044 of the adaptive structure 2020 between a first arm 2024 and a second arm 2026, with each of the first slit 2050 and the second slit 2052 being angled relative to the base edge 2030 of base 2022.

[0112] In another non-limiting example of a vent system 2101 as shown in in FIG. 21, a first slit 2150 may be positioned closer to a base edge 2130 of base 2122 and a second slit 2152 may be positioned further away from the base edge 2130 than the first slit 2150 but may still remain within the tension zone 2144 between the first arm 2124 and the second arm 2126. FIG. 21 also depicts how one or more slits 2160, 2162 may be positioned outside of the tension zone 2144 of the adaptive structure 2120 in addition to the one or more slits 2150, 2152 within the tension zone 2144. The positioning and orientation of the external slits are illustrative only and not meant to be limiting. In yet other examples a vent system may have one or more slits where only a portion of the slit is partially surrounded by the adaptive structure.

[0113] The following clauses represent example aspects of concepts contemplated herein. Any one of the following clauses may be combined in a multiple dependent manner to depend from one or more other clauses. Further, any combination of dependent clauses (clauses that explicitly depend from a previous clause) may be combined while staying within the scope of aspects contemplated herein. The following clauses are examples and are not limiting.

[0114] Clause 1. A textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, the first end and the second end defining a longitudinal axis in an x-direction, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile wherein, when exposed to an external stimulus, the adaptive structure undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a closed state to an open state; wherein, when in the closed state, the first slit edge has a first curvature and the second slit edge has a first tension in the x-direction; and when in the open state, the first slit edge has a second curvature that is greater than the first curvature, and the second slit edge has a second tension in the x-direction that is different than the first tension.

[0115] Clause 2. The textile of clause 1, wherein at least a portion of the first slit edge in the open state extends in the z-direction out of the plane in a first direction towards the adaptive structure.

[0116] Clause 3. The textile of clause 2, wherein the first slit edge has an apex of between 2 and 10 mm above the plane.

[0117] Clause 4. The textile of clause 2, wherein during the transition the second slit edge moves in the z-direction in a second direction opposite the adaptive structure.

[0118] Clause 5. The textile of any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein during the transition the second slit edge does not increase in curvature.

[0119] Clause 6. The textile of clause 5, wherein during the transition at least a portion of the second slit edge decreases in curvature relative to the closed state.

[0120] Clause 7. The textile of clause any of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a base, a first arm and a second arm, the base comprising a vertex and a base edge opposite the vertex, and the first arm and the second arm extending from the base edge.

[0121] Clause 8. The textile of clause 7, wherein the slit is positioned between the first arm and the second arm.

[0122] Clause 9. The textile of clause 7, wherein the slit intersects at least a portion of the first arm or the second arm, and the adaptive structure comprises one or more structure slits aligned with the slit.

[0123] Clause 10. The textile of any of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the slit intersects at least a portion of the adaptive structure, the adaptive structure comprising one or more structure slits aligned with the slit.

[0124] Clause 11. The textile of any of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the slit does not intersect any portion of the adaptive structure.

[0125] Clause 12. The textile of any of clauses 1 to 11, wherein the first slit edge increases in length between the closed state and the open state.

[0126] Clause 13. The textile of any of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a thermoplastic non-woven material.

[0127] Clause 14. The textile of clause 13, wherein the thermoplastic non-woven material comprises a melt-blown fiber web.

[0128] Clause 15. The textile of clause 14, wherein the melt-blown fiber web comprises TPU.

[0129] Clause 16. An article of apparel, the article of apparel comprising a textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; and a plurality of vent systems, each of the plurality of vent systems comprising: a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, the first end and the second end defining a longitudinal axis in an x-direction, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile, the adaptive structure comprising a first arm and a second arm connected at a base, the base positioned on a first side of the longitudinal axis, and a first end of the first arm and a second end of the second arm positioned on a second side of the longitudinal axis opposite the first side; wherein, when exposed to an external stimulus, the adaptive structure undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a closed state to an open state.

[0130] Clause 17. The article of apparel of clause 16, wherein the first surface faces away from a wearer's body.

[0131] Clause 18. The article of apparel of any of clauses 16 to 17, wherein the plurality of vent systems include a first set of vent systems in a first region of the article of apparel, and a second set of vent systems in a second region of the article of apparel, with the first set of vent systems and the second set of vent systems differing in at least one property.

[0132] Clause 19. The article of apparel of clause 18, wherein the first set of vent systems and the second set of vent systems have slits of differing lengths.

[0133] Clause 20. The article of apparel of clause 18, wherein the first set of vent systems comprise a first set of adaptive vent systems, each with a first surface area, and the second set of vent systems comprise a second set of adaptive vent systems, each with a second surface area, wherein the first surface area the second surface area are different.

[0134] Clause 21. The article of apparel of clause 18, wherein the first set of vent systems comprise a first number of slits per unit area and the second set of vent systems comprise a second number of slits per unit area, and the first number and the second number are different.

[0135] Clause 22. The article of apparel of clause 18, wherein a first total length of the slits per unit area of the first set of vent systems is different than a second total length per unit area of the second set of vent systems.

[0136] Clause 23. A textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, the first end and the second end defining a longitudinal axis in an x-direction, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile,, the adaptive structure partially surrounding the slit, wherein: when exposed to moisture, the adaptive structure undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a less open state to a more open state; and during the transition, the first slit edge moves in the z-direction away from the second slit edge.

[0137] Clause 24. The textile of clause 23, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a first arm and a second arm connected to a base, and the slit is positioned between the first arm and the second arm.

[0138] Clause 25. The textile of clause 24, wherein the base comprises a vertex from which the first arm and the second arm extend and diverge from.

[0139] Clause 26. The textile of clause 25, wherein the base comprises a base edge between the first arm and the second arm.

[0140] Clause 27. The textile of clause 26, wherein the base edge is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0141] Clause 28. The textile of any of clauses 23 to 28, wherein the adaptive structure comprises a thermoplastic non-woven material.

[0142] Clause 29. The textile of clause 28, wherein the thermoplastic non-woven material comprises a melt-blown fiber web.

[0143] Clause 30. The textile of clause 29, wherein the melt-blown fiber web comprises TPU.

[0144] Clause 31. A textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, the first end and the second end defining a longitudinal axis in an x-direction, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile, the adaptive structure partially surrounding the slit; wherein the adaptive structure, when exposed to an external stimulus, undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a closed state to an open state in which at least a portion of the first slit edge and a portion of the second slit edge separate from each other.

[0145] Clause 32. An article of apparel, the article of apparel comprising a textile comprising: a first layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface defining a plane with a z-direction extending out of the plane; and a plurality of vent systems, each of the plurality of vent systems comprising: a slit comprising: a first end and a second end and extending through the first layer from the first surface to the second surface, and a first slit edge and a second slit edge opposite the first slit edge between the first end and the second end; and an adaptive structure affixed to the first surface of the textile wherein, when exposed to an external stimulus, the adaptive structure undergoes a shape change that causes the slit to transition from a closed state to an open state; wherein: a first portion of the adaptive structure on a first side of the slit comprises a first surface area; a second portion of the adaptive structure on a second side of the slit opposite the first side comprises a second surface area; and the first surface area and the second surface area are not the same.

[0146] The subject matter of the present disclosure is described with specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed or disclosed 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.