BREATHABLE GEL

摘要

Cushioning elements include a breathable material configured to allow gases to pass through at least a portion thereof, and a plurality of discrete segments of thermoplastic elastomeric gel (“gel”) heat-fused or otherwise attached to the breathable material. The gel comprises an elastomeric polymer and a plasticizer, with a plasticizer-to-polymer ratio of from about 0.3 to about 50. The plurality of discrete segments defines at least one breathable gap between adjacent discrete segments. Methods of forming cushioning elements include forming a plurality of discrete segments of gel, securing each segment to a breathable material, and providing a gas path through the breathable material and between adjacent segments. Another method includes providing molten gel within a mold, providing at least a second portion of the gel within a permeable material, and solidifying the gel to form discrete segments of gel.

主权项

1. A cushioning element, comprising:
a breathable material configured to allow gases to pass through at least a portion thereof; and a plurality of discrete segments of thermoplastic elastomeric gel heat-fused to the breathable material, the thermoplastic elastomeric gel comprising an elastomeric polymer and a plasticizer; wherein a ratio of a weight of the plasticizer to a weight of the elastomeric polymer is from about 0.3 to about 50; and wherein the plurality of discrete segments defines at least one breathable gap between adjacent discrete segments.