Compression Sock Aid With Spring-Opened Panels for Easy Donning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hosiery donning devices are inadequate for applying compression stockings and socks, as they lack a strong and sturdy structure, often slip during use, and do not provide sufficient tension to expand the garment for easy application over the foot and calf, particularly challenging for the elderly and those with limited physical abilities.
Innovation Solution
A double-paned structure connected via a hinge with a spring mechanism, handles, friction pads, thumb grips, and a closure mechanism that allows for expanding the diameter of the device to facilitate easy application of compression hosiery by providing tensioned resistance, conforming to the natural shape of the calf and preventing slipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple hosiery donning device is used, then the device is easy to manufacture, but it lacks a strong and sturdy structure and slips during use
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate panels (first panel and second panel) connected by a hinge, allowing each panel to be independently constructed with adequate structural reinforcement while maintaining overall device simplicity and manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member is integrated between the two panels to combine structural support, tensioning force, and closure function into a single component, enhancing reliability without adding separate complex mechanisms
2Device complexity
If a traditional hosiery donning device is used, then the structure is simple, but it does not provide spring induced tension to expand the diameter of the stocking
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member provides dynamic tension that automatically adjusts as the panels open and close, enabling the stocking to expand and contract with the device's motion while maintaining relatively simple device geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member is pre-loaded to provide initial tension force that automatically expands the stocking diameter when the panels open, preparing the stocking for easy insertion before the user even begins the application process
3Reliability
If a tight fitting compression stocking is applied, then the circulation benefit is improved, but it requires substantial energy to apply the stocking
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member acts as a counterweight force system, storing and releasing mechanical energy to assist in overcoming the high friction and resistance of applying tight-fitting compression stockings, thereby reducing the user's energy expenditure while maintaining effective compression levels
4Ease of operation
If the user bends over to apply hosiery, then the application can be performed, but it is difficult for the elderly and handicapped
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be used in an upright or seated position, eliminating the need for the user to bend over by providing a mechanical advantage system that works with gravity rather than against it, making the application process accessible to elderly and handicapped users
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
Enables users to apply compression hosiery easily without bending, providing a secure grip and preventing slipping, making it easier to put on and take off tight-fitting garments without assistance, especially beneficial for those with limited mobility.
Implementation Method 1
the device further includes a spring member, handles, friction pads, thumb grips, gripping portions, a hook notch and a ball fastening closure mechanism
Implementation Method 2
friction pads, thumb grips, gripping portions
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a compression sock aid device having a left and right double paneled structure hingedly connected to one another, wherein a spring member provides outward bias to facilitate opening of the device and the spreading of sock material placed thereover. Rope handles with gripping portions and associated hook notch closure means are provided, along with friction pads and thumb grips to facilitate the application of compression stockings and tight fitting hosiery onto the leg of the wearer. The hosiery is placed over the device while the spring member and hinged connection enable the opening of the hosiery placed thereon. The device is secured using the rope handle that includes a fastening ball, wherein the rope handle is placed into an opposing hook notch to resist the outward bias of the spring member. The inner panels support the hosiery away from the user's skin while the inner panels slide thereagainst.