Compression Sock Anti-Slip Grip Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression socks lack sufficient anti-slip functionality, particularly in hospital settings where users are weakened and floors are slippery, leading to increased risk of slipping and accidents.
Innovation Solution
The compression sock incorporates elastic gripping elements with a minimal surface area of 0.2 cm² to 1 cm², arranged in a staggered pattern to maximize friction coefficient while maintaining flexibility, and is made from materials with increased friction coefficients, such as silicone, to provide improved grip without discomfort or deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thermoplastic material is attached to the sole of the compression sock to provide anti-slip functionality, then the friction coefficient between the sock and floor is increased, but the sock cannot deform completely and the compressive effect is strongly influenced locally
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-slip sole is divided into multiple discrete gripping elements (protrusions or recesses) rather than a continuous rigid layer. Each gripping element has a surface area between 0.2 cm² and 1 cm² and is spaced apart from others, allowing the fabric between elements to deform freely while providing anti-slip contact points.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements are distributed across the sole surface with varying patterns, providing anti-slip functionality only where needed for contact with the floor, while leaving other areas of the sock fabric free to deform and provide compression. The gripping elements have different shapes (circular, rectangular, triangular, etc.) optimized for local friction enhancement.
2Reliability
If a continuous anti-slip layer is applied to the sock sole, then slipping resistance is improved, but the sock loses flexibility and causes user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous anti-slip layer is segmented into discrete gripping elements spaced apart from each other. This segmentation allows the fabric between elements to maintain flexibility and elasticity while the elements themselves provide the necessary friction against the floor.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements are made from elastomeric material that forms a flexible coating on the sock sole. This flexible material can deform with the sock fabric while still providing adequate friction, unlike rigid thermoplastic materials.
3Reliability
If rigid gripping elements are used to increase friction, then anti-slip performance is improved, but the compressive effect of the sock is strongly influenced and pressure distribution becomes uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The sole is segmented into multiple small gripping elements rather than large rigid blocks. This segmentation allows pressure to be distributed across many small contact points while maintaining flexibility, preventing localized pressure concentrations that would occur with rigid elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements have optimized surface areas (0.2 cm² to 1 cm²) and are made from elastomeric material with specific durometer values (40-80 Shore A). These parameter changes allow the elements to be sufficiently rigid for friction while remaining flexible enough to deform with the sock and distribute pressure evenly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively enhances the user's safety by providing a secure grip on slippery hospital floors, reducing the risk of slipping and falling while maintaining the sock's elasticity and comfort, thus preventing blood clots and ensuring proper compression.
Implementation Method 1
grip elements (3) which are adapted for increasing the friction coefficient between the bottom side (8) and the floor
Implementation Method 2
The compression sock according to the invention is provided with a plurality of grip elements (3), in particular protruding or recessed elastic grip elements
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
The present invention relates to a (medical) compression sock for prevent blood clots from forming, in which the compression sock has an improved anti-slip functionality.