Double-Layer Knitted Compression Articles for Anatomical Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression articles, such as stockings and bandages, suffer from discomfort due to moisture retention near the skin and imperfect fit, particularly in regions of varying body circumference, leading to inadequate pressure distribution and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A compression article is produced on a knitting machine with stitch adjustments and variations in stitch count and wale direction to match the body's radial and longitudinal shape, using a double-layer fabric with hydrophilic and hydrophobic layers to enhance moisture management and fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a single-layer hydrophilic fabric is used, then moisture absorption is improved, but moisture retention near the skin causes discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The fabric is divided into two distinct layers: an inner hydrophobic layer that prevents moisture retention near the skin, and an outer hydrophilic layer that absorbs moisture. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function independently, solving the contradiction between moisture absorption and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite fabric structure combining hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials in a double-layer construction. The hydrophobic inner layer repels moisture while the hydrophilic outer layer absorbs it, creating a synergistic effect that resolves the contradiction between moisture management and wearer comfort.
2Ease of manufacture
If stitch increases and reductions are performed only at the margins of the flat knitted fabric, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the compression article shape does not perfectly replicate body anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies different stitch densities at different locations on the compression article. By varying the number of stitches per stitch row in specific regions corresponding to body contours, the fabric achieves local adaptation to anatomical features while maintaining overall manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The knitting process dynamically adjusts the number of stitches per row based on the required body part circumference at each location. This dynamic variation in stitch density allows the flat knitted fabric to transform into a three-dimensional shape that precisely fits anatomical contours when sewn into a tube.
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 provides improved fit and even pressure distribution, reducing moisture retention and enhancing wearer comfort by using stitch adjustments and a double-layer fabric structure.
Implementation Method 1
By a capillary effect the inner layer is moving moisture from the skin to the outer layer
Data Source
AI summary
A compression article and method for its production on a knitting machine, in particular a flat-bed knitting machine, wherein, in the compression article, respectively the number of stitches per stitch row is matched to the radial circumference of the body part to be treated by the compression article, and which compression article has a plurality of points which are distributed over its circumference and at which, in a stitch row, a stitch increase and/or a stitch reduction is realized, and wherein, moreover, the number of stitches in the wale direction varies over the circumference of the compression article and is matched, in the longitudinal direction of the body part, to the shape of the body part to be treated.