Machine for producing foot reflexology socks

Abstract

Machine for producing socks (1) for foot reflexology, configured to apply one or more external stimulating elements (2) to socks (1), positioned in the sole area (10) and / or the instep area (11) and / or the lateral areas of the foot, using thermoadhesive material provided between the sock (1) and each stimulating element (2). The machine includes a press (3) comprising: two compression plates (30, 31) and an actuating member (32) configured to bring the two plates (30, 31) into contact and to exert pressure between them, and one or two flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4), which flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) are provided with integrated heating means.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a machine for producing foot reflexology socks.

[0002] Specifically, the invention relates to a machine configured to apply one or more external stimulating elements to socks, positioned in the sole area and / or the instep area and / or the sides of the foot, using thermoadhesive material placed between the sock and each stimulating element. The machine includes a press comprising two compression plates.

[0003] Foot reflexology is a practice based on the stimulation of specific points on the sole of the foot, called reflex points, which correspond to organs and systems of the body, with the aim of promoting general wellness and relieving tension or disorders, restoring the body to its natural balance.

[0004] Socks of this type are known and, in one possible form, are described, for example, in document US2016000177A1, which presents socks equipped with stimulating elements directly integrated into the fabric. According to the document, these elements, made of silicone or similar materials, are attached to the sock by gluing or sewing and positioned at specific points corresponding to foot reflexology zones.

[0005] In the field of manufacturing socks with additional features, existing techniques have significant limitations. In particular, the application of non-slip rubber inserts or decorative elements uses non-specialized equipment that cannot guarantee uniform and lasting adhesion and stimulation as required by foot reflexology socks. Furthermore, the lack of precise pressure and temperature control can compromise the effectiveness of the process, leading to production waste and inconsistent results. For these reasons, the production of this type of sock is currently mainly manual.

[0006] The proposed invention aims to overcome these disadvantages by offering a machine specifically designed to optimize the process of applying the stimulating elements, improving both production efficiency and the final quality of the socks.

[0007] The present invention achieves these aims with a machine as described at the beginning, which also includes: a drive member configured to bring the two plates into contact and to exert pressure between them, and one or two flat foot-shaped heating molds onto which one or two of said socks can be fitted, which flat foot-shaped heating molds are provided with integrated heating means.

[0008] The machine is therefore configured to apply stimulating elements, or thickening elements, or inserts, or pads, to the sock by means of thermoadhesion: once the sock is fitted onto the respective heated form, adhesion is achieved by means of internal heat and external pressure.

[0009] A fundamental aspect of the invention lies in the internal heating provided by the heated flat foot-shaped molds, preferably metallic, which ensures optimal application of the stimulating elements to the sock.

[0010] This approach allows heat to be transferred directly from the core of the heating mold, which supports the sock, to the thermal adhesive and the fabric of the sock, promoting uniform and controlled fusion of the adhesive without exerting excessive pressure on the elements themselves.

[0011] This avoids the risk of deforming or excessively compressing the thickened elements, maintaining their stimulating and therapeutic functionality.

[0012] Internal heating, in synergy with uniform pressure exerted from the outside by the press plates, ensures stable and lasting adhesion of the elements, preserving their structure and ensuring their long-term effectiveness.

[0013] According to one embodiment, two flat foot-shaped heating molds are provided.

[0014] The two flat foot-shaped heating molds can be used to produce a right sock and a left sock in pairs, avoiding the mistake of joining two right socks or two left socks together.

[0015] According to one embodiment, a support base for the flat foot-shaped heating molds is provided in a position suitable for placing the sock on the flat foot-shaped heating mold and applying the said stimulating elements to the sock, with removable means for fixing the flat foot-shaped heating molds to the said base.

[0016] The support base for the heating molds allows the heating molds to be kept in a stable and comfortable position for the operator during the fitting of the sock and the application of the stimulating elements.

[0017] This configuration simplifies the process, as the flat foot-shaped heating molds are ergonomically positioned to facilitate operations, thus improving production efficiency.

[0018] The removable fasteners allow the flat foot-shaped molds to be securely locked onto the base during use and easily removed when necessary, for example, for transfer to the press, but also for maintenance or cleaning operations.

[0019] This system ensures stability and precision during operations, reducing the risk of accidental movements that could compromise the positioning of the stimulating elements or cause defects in the workmanship.

[0020] In one embodiment, the removable fasteners are configured to allow free rotation of the flat foot-shaped heating mold around its longitudinal axis.

[0021] This allows easy positioning of the stimulating elements first in the dorsal part and then in the plantar part, or vice versa, with a simple rotation of the heating mold.

[0022] In one embodiment, each flat foot-shaped heating mold is equipped with a gripping portion made of thermally insulating material.

[0023] The presence of a gripping portion made of thermally insulating material ensures safe and easy handling of the flat foot-shaped heating molds during the production process, as it allows the molds to be transferred from their support base to the press without risk to the operator, avoiding direct contact with the heated surfaces.

[0024] According to one example, the grip section made of insulating material also has an area designed to hold the part of the sock that includes the elastic.

[0025] In this way, when the sock is correctly fitted onto the heating mold, the elastic of the sock (i.e., the elastic present in the cuff of the sock) is protected from heat during the pressing of the stimulating elements, so as not to be damaged.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the thermally insulating material is cork.

[0027] Cork offers an excellent combination of lightness and insulation, reducing heat transmission and improving the ergonomics of the operation. This allows for greater efficiency, reducing handling time and ensuring operator safety even at high temperatures.

[0028] However, other thermally insulating materials can be used, such as high thermal resistance polymeric materials, such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), PEEK (polyetheretherketone), or phenolic resins. These materials offer excellent thermal insulation properties and, at the same time, good durability and mechanical strength, making them suitable for replacing cork in applications that require greater robustness or specific processing requirements.

[0029] In a further embodiment, one or both of said compression plates are at least partially coated with silicone.

[0030] The silicone coating of the press plates offers significant advantages during the process of adhering the stimulating elements to the stocking. Silicone, thanks to its elasticity and ability to distribute pressure evenly, compensates for any irregularities on the surface of the stocking or stimulating elements, avoiding excessive pressure points that could damage the material. In addition, the non-stick nature of silicone facilitates the removal of the stocking from the press at the end of the operation, reducing the risk of tearing or deformation.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the compression plates consist of an upper plate and a lower plate, the upper plate consisting of a base plate and a floating plate, which floating plate is designed to come into contact with the lower plate and is connected to the base plate by means of a preloaded spring system.

[0032] This allows for optimal adaptation and control of the pressure exerted by the press. The floating plate, which comes into direct contact with the lower plate, is able to compensate for irregularities in the stocking due to stimulating elements thanks to the preloaded spring system. This system allows the floating plate to move independently of the upper base plate, adapting precisely to the variable geometry of the material without generating excessive localized pressures that could deform or damage the stimulating elements. The upper base plate provides structural stability, while the mobility of the floating plate ensures high operating precision.

[0033] In one embodiment, the said actuating member is manual and is provided with a handle.

[0034] The use of a manual actuating member with a handle allows direct control of the pressure applied during the process.

[0035] However, it is possible to provide an automatic or partially automated press.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the press is provided with a support base for said plate and the handle is connected to a bracket pivoted to said press base, the bracket being provided with a counterweight in a position opposite the handle with respect to the pivot point.

[0037] This configuration reduces the effort required by the operator when operating the press. The counterweight, positioned opposite the handle with respect to the fulcrum of the bracket, balances the system, reducing the load felt during movement of the handle.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the heating means of the heating forms consist of electric resistors integrated into the flat foot-shaped heating forms themselves.

[0039] The integration of the electric resistors within the flat foot-shaped heating forms ensures uniform and controlled heating directly in the area of contact with the sock. This solution optimizes thermal efficiency, reducing heat loss and ensuring that the energy is used exclusively to heat the sock and activate the adhesive of the stimulating elements.

[0040] In one embodiment, a temperature control system is provided for the flat, foot-shaped heating molds.

[0041] This allows the heat generated by the heating molds to be precisely adapted to the specific requirements of the production process. This feature ensures proper activation of the adhesive of the stimulating elements without risking damage to the sock material or altering the structure of the elements themselves. Temperature control also allows a variety of materials and adhesives to be used, each of which may require different thermal parameters.

[0042] According to one embodiment, a system is provided for regulating the heating time of the press in the closed condition.

[0043] The heating time adjustment system allows the duration of the thermal application during the production cycle to be determined precisely and ensures that the adhesive of the stimulating elements is activated in an optimal manner, avoiding both insufficient heating, which could compromise adhesion, and excessive exposure to heat, which could damage the sock or alter the properties of the stimulating elements.

[0044] Time adjustment, combined with temperature control, allows the process to be standardized, improving the repeatability and quality of the results.

[0045] In one embodiment, foot-shaped, preferably flat, illuminating shapes are provided.

[0046] The flat, foot-shaped illuminating shapes are designed to allow accurate optical inspection of the sock both before and after the application of the stimulating elements. The emitted light uniformly illuminates the stocking, making any imperfections visible, such as missing fabric or small holes, which could compromise the quality of the finished product. This system allows the operator to quickly identify any defects and take corrective measures, improving quality control and reducing the risk of rejects or complaints.

[0047] The object of the present invention is also a method for producing reflexology socks by applying one or more external stimulating elements to the socks, positioned in the sole area and / or the instep area and / or the sides of the foot, using heat-adhesive material between the sock and each stimulating element.

[0048] The method involves the following steps: a) placing the sock on a respective flat foot-shaped heating shape; b) applying the stimulating elements to the sock; c) inserting the flat foot-shaped heating shape fitted with the sock into a press comprising two compression plates and an actuator configured to bring the two plates into contact and to exert pressure between them; d) closing the press by means of the drive member; e) heating the flat foot-shaped heating shape by means of heating means integrated into the flat foot-shaped heating shape; f) keeping the press in the closed condition; g) opening the press; h) extracting the flat foot-shaped heating shape from the press; i) removing the sock from the flat foot-shaped heating shape.

[0049] In one embodiment, prior to step a) or b), the heating shape is positioned on a base for supporting the heating shape in a position suitable for fitting the sock onto the heating shape and applying the said stimulating elements to the sock.

[0050] In a further embodiment, a step is provided for setting the temperature of the heating form and / or setting the heating time of the press in the closed condition.

[0051] In a further embodiment, while the press is kept in the closed condition, a second sock is fitted onto a second heating shape and the said stimulating elements are applied to this second sock.

[0052] This allows production times to be optimized by taking advantage of the period in which the press is engaged in the heating and compression cycle to work on a second sock: while the press is kept in the closed position, the operator can fit a sock onto a second heating mold and apply the stimulating elements, reducing downtime and increasing operational efficiency.

[0053] In a further embodiment, prior to or after steps a) to i), the sock is fitted onto a foot-shaped illuminating shape for visual inspection.

[0054] According to one embodiment, a step of applying one or more sensors to the sock is provided.

[0055] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the following description of some embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 illustrates foot reflexology socks with a plurality of possible stimulating elements; Fig. 2 illustrates an overall view of the machine; Fig. 3 illustrates a heating shape; Figs. 4 and 5 illustrate front and rear views of the press, respectively; Fig. 6 illustrates a front view of the press with the heating shape in the inserted position; Fig. 7 illustrates two illuminating shapes.

[0056] Figure 1 illustrates socks 1 for foot reflexology, equipped with one or more external stimulating elements 2 positioned in the area of the sole of the foot 10 and in the area of the instep 11. The upper part of the figure shows the two socks, right and left, seen from the side of the instep 11, with the possible stimulating elements 2 applied in this area. The lower part of the figure shows the right and left socks seen from the sole of the foot 10, where the stimulating elements 2 are much more numerous.

[0057] The stimulating elements 2 shown in the figure are not to be considered as applicable to the sock in their entirety: for each specific sock, a subset of stimulating elements 2 is applied, which are positioned in a specific combination and arrangement to form configurations designed to perform a specific therapeutic task related to the stimulation of reflex points according to the principles of foot reflexology.

[0058] The socks 1 are shaped with separate toes, a feature that allows specific stimulating elements 2 to be inserted even into the individual toes. This configuration ensures accurate and personalized stimulation, improving therapeutic effectiveness and comfort for the user.

[0059] Figure 2 shows an overview of the machine for producing socks 1 for foot reflexology that is the subject of this invention. The machine is configured to apply a plurality of said external stimulating elements 2 to each sock 1 by using thermoadhesive material interposed between the sock 1 and each stimulating element 2.

[0060] The machine includes a press 3 configured to compress the sock and the stimulating elements 2 in order to achieve stable adhesion. The press 3 constitutes the main body of the machine, which also houses the electronic systems and the power supply.

[0061] The machine comprises one or two heating shapes 4, which are flat and shaped like a foot, equipped with integrated heating means. These shapes 4 provide direct heat to the sock 1 from the inside during the action of the press 3, promoting uniform adhesion of the stimulating elements 2 without compromising their functionality or structure. The heating shapes 4 are connected to the press 3, each with its own cable of sufficient length to allow comfortable working maneuvers.

[0062] Figure 2 also shows illuminating shapes 5, which are also flat and shaped like a foot, used for visual inspections of the sock 1. These illuminating shapes 5 allow for the verification of any defects, such as missing fabric or holes. Such visual inspections can be performed both before and after the application of the stimulating elements 2.

[0063] Figure 3 shows a detailed view of a heating shape 4, which is flat and shaped like a foot and has separate toes so that it can be used with socks 1 that have separate toes, as described above. The heating shape 4 is equipped with integrated heating means, developed to ensure uniform heating across the entire surface. There are two heating shapes 4, one configured for the right foot and the other for the left foot, ensuring the perfect positioning of the stimulating elements 2 on the sock 1. The machine provides pairs of heating shapes 4 for each individual size.

[0064] The heating shapes 4 can be removably fixed to a base 40, designed to keep the shapes in an ergonomic position suitable for fitting the sock 1 and applying the stimulating elements 2. The base 40 consists of a stable support base on a flat surface and a beam element, fixed to the base in a tilting manner and lockable in the desired position by means of a pawl. Advantageously, the heating mold can be positioned at 45° to the support surface. The fasteners 41 include a rod fixed to the beam element, on which the heating mold 4 is mounted, equipped with a specific housing for the rod.

[0065] Each heating shape 4 is equipped with a gripping portion 42, made of thermally insulating material, preferably cork, to allow safe handling during operations. However, the use of gloves for high temperatures up to 500° is recommended for the operator to handle the heating shapes 4. The gripping portion 42 also includes an accumulation area for the part of the sock comprising the elastic band, interposed between the heating portion and the end of the gripping portion 42 opposite the heating portion.

[0066] As specified above, each heating mold 4 is connected to the press 3 by a cable of suitable length, which facilitates work maneuvers without hindering the operator.

[0067] The heating shapes 4 are preferably made of aluminum, a material chosen for its excellent thermal and environmental properties. Aluminum allows for rapid preheating and equally rapid cooling, optimizing energy consumption and improving the overall efficiency of the process. Inside the heating elements 4 is a manually shaped ultra-flat resistance, consisting of a nickel-chromium resistive wire approximately 1 mm in diameter, fixed on micanite insulation. This design ensures uniform heat transmission across the entire surface of the element, maintaining an overall thickness of only 4 mm. The properties of nichrome, such as corrosion resistance, high melting point (approximately 1400 °C), and high electrical resistivity, make the heating element effective and reliable. The manual shaping of the heating element on a special template ensures even heat distribution, improving the quality of adhesion of the stimulating elements 2 to the sleeve 1.

[0068] Figures 4 and 5 show a front view and a rear view of the press 3, respectively, while Figure 6 shows the press 3 from the front with a heating shape 4 in the inserted position, ready to be pressed.

[0069] The press 3 consists of two compression plates, a lower plate 30 and an upper plate 31, designed to compress the socks 1 and the stimulating elements 2 in order to ensure proper adhesion through the thermoadhesive material.

[0070] The upper plate 31 consists of two components: a base upper plate 310 and a floating plate 311, which is connected to the base upper plate 310 by means of a preloaded spring system 312. The floating plate 311 is designed to come into contact with the lower plate 30 and to adapt dynamically to the irregularities of the sock 1 and the stimulating elements 2 thanks to the preloaded spring system 312, in order to obtain uniform pressure on each stimulating element 2 regardless of size or shape. The example in the figure shows six preloaded springs 312, but these can be provided in different numbers or arrangements.

[0071] The lower plate 30 and the floating plate 311 are coated with a layer of high-temperature resistant silicone 6, which ensures uniform pressure distribution and prevents damage or displacement of the stimulating elements 2 during the pressing cycle.

[0072] The press 3 is mounted on a stable base 36 that supports the lower plate 31 and provides a solid structure for compression operations.

[0073] The manual drive 32 is designed to allow controlled movement of the upper plate 31 of the press 3, enabling uniform and precise compression. It consists of two double brackets, one fixed bracket 322 and one movable bracket 321, which work together to ensure the system functions properly.

[0074] The fixed bracket 322 is integral with the base 36 of the press 3 and includes a fulcrum 324, which acts as a pivot point for the movable bracket 321, and two vertical arms equipped with vertical slots 325. The slots 325 allow vertical movement of a support pin 327, which supports the upper base plate 310 during operation.

[0075] The movable bracket 321 is pivoted to the fixed bracket 322 by means of the fulcrum 324. At the upper end of the movable bracket 321 there is a handle 320, designed to allow the operator to manually operate the press 3. The opposite end of the movable bracket is equipped with a counterweight 323 designed to balance the system and reduce the effort required to raise and lower the upper plate 30.

[0076] Between the fulcrum 324 and the handle 320, the movable bracket 321 has slots 326 located near the vertical slots 325 of the fixed bracket 322. The support pin 327, which passes through both slots, connects the upper base plate 310 to the mechanism. During movement of the handle 320, the support pin 327 slides along the slots 326 and vertically along the slots 325, allowing the upper plate 31 to move toward the lower plate 30 and exert the pressure necessary for the adhesion process.

[0077] To minimize friction and ensure smooth and precise movement, the support pin 327 is advantageously equipped with a bearing.

[0078] The fixed bracket 322 also includes an enlargement 328 provided with a plurality of holes 329 arranged in an arc on a circumference centered on the fulcrum 324. The movable bracket 321 is provided with a locking pin 330 adapted to be inserted alternately into one of said holes 329 to adjust the pressure of the upper plate 31 by means of a mechanical lock in multiple positions.

[0079] Made entirely of stainless steel, the press 3 is corrosion resistant and fully recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly and sustainable choice. Stainless steel also does not require additional surface treatments, further reducing the environmental impact of the device.

[0080] The sock 1 is initially fitted onto the heating shape 4, which is suitably positioned on the base 40 as shown in Figure 3, and the stimulating elements 2 are applied manually to the sock 1. Once this phase is complete, the heating mold 4 is manually removed using the gripping portion 42 and inserted into the press 3 as shown in Figure 6. The gripping portion 42 is equipped with two centering holes 47 designed to cooperate with two centering pins 37 provided in the base 36 of the press 3. This allows the correct positioning of the heating mold 4 inside the press 3 to be quickly identified.

[0081] The base 36 houses the electronic components for the operation of the machine. These include a digital thermostat 34, which allows the temperature of the heating molds 4 to be regulated, supported by ultra-flat temperature probes inserted inside each heating mold 4.

[0082] The electronic system also includes a solid-state relay, which ensures reliable and stable switching operations, and a digital timer 35 with an acoustic signal to set and monitor processing times. An ON / OFF switch 33 with a LED light allows the operating status of the machine to be easily detected, while a safety fuse protects the system from overloads or short circuits.

[0083] The pressing operation is best performed for two minutes at a temperature of 150°C and a pressure of 0.5 kg.

[0084] The wiring is made with cables designed to withstand high temperatures, while the plug-in connectors 38 are equipped with a safety locking system to ensure stable connections even during intensive use of the machine.

[0085] Figure 7 shows two illuminating elements 5 fixed to a respective base 50, similar in shape and design to the base 40 for the heating shapes 4. The illuminating shapes 5 are also right and left and have separate fingers, so as to operate with precision on the stockings 1 and allow visual inspection to be carried out both before and after the stockings 1 pass through the press 3.

[0086] Support elements 51 are provided for each illuminating shapes 5, inside which LEDs are provided, consisting of strips with a light emission color temperature of 6500°K. The power supply required for operation is integrated inside the base 50.

[0087] The illuminating shapes 5 can be removed from the support elements 51 and are made of opacified methacrylate, a material chosen for its ability to amplify and evenly diffuse light over the entire surface of the illuminating shape 5.

[0088] Each sock 1 is slipped onto the appropriate light-emitting template 5, which is then inserted into the support element 51 equipped with LEDs. The light emitted by the LEDs, transmitted and amplified by the matt methacrylate surface, highlights any defects, holes, or anomalies in the fabric of the sock 1.

[0089] Sensors can be integrated into the sock 1.

[0090] An example of a technology that can be used is a highly elastic and recoverable conductive paste containing silver, suitable for low-voltage printed circuits on elastomeric films and textile substrates. This conductive paste offers excellent elasticity, adhesion, and conduction, and is compatible with polyurethane (TPU) films and selected synthetic fabrics. Drying takes place at 130°C for 15 minutes in a well-ventilated oven or in a belt dryer that complies with environmental regulations, ensuring optimal electrical and physical performance.

[0091] The conductive tracks thus created can be connected to miniaturized sensors, such as small PCBs, wireless systems, or BLE modules, expanding the functionality of the socks.

[0092] Applicable sensors include: Skin temperature sensors: useful for monitoring the user's blood circulation. Stimulating element wear sensors: these detect when elements need to be replaced to maintain therapeutic effectiveness. Pressure sensors: these measure the forces exerted during use and provide data on the actual stimulation of reflex points.

[0093] The data collected by these sensors can be used both to perform scheduled maintenance on the sock, for example by replacing worn stimulating elements, and to assess how the wear and tear of the stimulating elements affects the therapeutic effect of the product.

[0094] The sensors are preferably applied at the same time as the stimulating elements 2 during the pressing process.

[0095] The sensors are preferably inserted between the stimulating elements 2 and the sock 1, in a protected and functional position.

[0096] A particularly effective configuration involves a network of sensors premounted on a single soft silicone element, which includes the necessary microelectronics and conductive tracks. This element is positioned on the sock, after which the stimulating elements 2 are applied and the whole assembly is inserted into the press 3. During pressing, the heat-activated adhesive melts, firmly bonding the entire system (sock 1, sensors, and stimulating elements 2), ensuring stable adhesion and long-lasting functionality.

Claims

1. Machine for producing socks (1) for foot reflexology, configured to apply one or more external stimulating elements (2) to socks (1) positioned in the sole area (10) and / or the instep area (11) and / or the lateral areas of the foot by means of thermoadhesive material provided between the sock (1) and each stimulating element (2), which machine includes a press (3) comprising two compression plates (30, 31), characterized by comprising an actuating member (32) configured to bring the two plates (30, 31) and to exert pressure between them, and one or two flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) on which one or two of said socks (1) can be placed, which flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) are provided with integrated heating means.

2. Machine according to claim 1, wherein a base (40) is provided for supporting the flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) in a position suitable for fitting the sock (1) onto the flat foot-shaped heating shape (4) and applying said stimulating elements (2) to the sock (1), removable fastening means (41) being provided for the flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) on said base (40).

3. Machine according to claim 2, wherein the removable fastening means are configured so as to allow free rotation of the flat foot-shaped heating shape (4) about its longitudinal axis.

4. Machine according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein each flat foot-shaped heating shape (4) is provided with a gripping portion (42) made of thermally insulating material.

5. Machine according to claim 4, wherein the gripping portion made of insulating material also has an area suitable for accumulating the part of the sock comprising the elastic.

6. Machine according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein one or both of said compression plates (30, 31) are at least partially coated with silicone.

7. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said compression plates consist of a lower plate (30) and an upper plate (31), the upper plate (31) consisting of a base upper plate (310) and a floating plate (311), which floating plate (311) is adapted to come into contact with the lower plate (30) and is constrained to the upper base plate (310) by means of a preloaded spring system (312).

8. Machine according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the heating means of the flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) consist of electrical resistors integrated into the flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) themselves.

9. Machine according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein a system for regulating the temperature of the flat foot-shaped heating shapes (4) is provided.

10. Machine according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein a system for regulating the heating time of the press (3) in the closed condition is provided.

11. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, in which foot-shaped illuminating shapes (5) are provided.

12. Method for producing socks for foot reflexology by applying one or more external stimulating elements (2) to socks (1), positioned in the sole area (10) and / or the instep area (11) and / or the lateral areas of the foot, using thermoadhesive material provided between the sock (1) and each stimulating element (2), wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) fitting the sock (1) onto a respective flat foot-shaped heating shape (4); b) applying the stimulating elements (2) to the sock (1); c) inserting the flat foot-shaped heating shape (4) equipped with the sock (1) into a press (3) comprising two compression plates (30, 31) and an actuator (32) configured to bring the two plates (30, 31) into contact and to exert pressure between them; d) closing the press (3) by means of the actuator (32); e) heating the flat foot-shaped heating mold (4) by means of heating elements integrated into the flat foot-shaped heating shape (4); f) keeping the press (3) closed; g) opening the press (3); h) removing the flat foot-shaped heating shape (4) from the press (3); i) removing the sock (1) from the flat foot-shaped heating shape (4).

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein a step is provided for setting the temperature of the flat foot-shaped heating shape (4) and / or setting the heating time of the press (3) in the closed condition.

14. Method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, while the press (3) is kept in the closed condition, a second sock (1) is fitted onto a second flat foot-shaped heating shape (4) and said stimulating elements (2) are applied to said second sock (1).

15. Method according to claim 12 or 13 or 14, wherein, prior to or after steps a) to i), the sock (1) is fitted onto a foot-shaped illuminating shape (5) for visual inspection.

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