Elastic Sock Loop with Concealment Pocket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sock pairing systems fail to accommodate varying sock sizes effectively, leading to difficulties in pairing larger socks and discomfort from visible or irritating inner loops, while also compromising aesthetics and security during wash cycles.
Innovation Solution
A sock pairing system featuring adjustable loops and optional pockets made of elastic nylon, where the loop length and pocket dimensions are tailored to the sock type, allowing for secure pairing without visibility or skin irritation, and color-coding for identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If inner loops are used to connect socks, then socks can be paired during laundering, but the loops may scrape against the skin and cause discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful inner loop structure is extracted and removed from the sock design. Instead of attaching loops to the inner surface that contact skin, the patent uses outer surface attachment with aesthetic covers that prevent skin irritation while maintaining pairing functionality through the external connection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary aesthetic cover layer is introduced between the loop structure and the wearer's skin. This cover prevents direct contact and irritation while allowing the loop to fulfill its pairing function, effectively mediating between the functional requirement and the comfort requirement.
2Reliability
If outer loops are used to connect socks, then socks can be paired during laundering, but the loops are visible and present poor aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
An aesthetic cover serves as an intermediary element that conceals the functional loop structure. The cover is attached to the outer surface and hides the loop from view while the loop itself remains functional for pairing, thus mediating between aesthetic requirements and functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The aesthetic cover provides localized cosmetic improvement at the visible cuff area where the loop would otherwise be exposed. The cover's material and design are specifically tailored to match the sock's aesthetic qualities while the loop structure maintains its pairing function.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed-size loops are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but the loops cannot accommodate varying sock sizes effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The loop structure is designed with dynamic characteristics including elastic materials and adjustable configurations that allow it to adapt to different sock sizes. The loop can stretch, compress, and adjust its effective length to accommodate various sock dimensions while maintaining pairing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The loop's physical parameters such as length, elasticity, and configuration are made variable to accommodate different sock sizes. The system allows parameter adjustment within the loop structure to match the specific size requirements of different sock types while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
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 system ensures secure pairing of socks across different sizes, enhances comfort by hiding loops from the skin, and provides aesthetic appeal by keeping loops concealed, while allowing easy identification in mixed laundry.
Implementation Method 1
The loops may be circular (cords) or rectangular (strips) in cross-section and may be in the form of nylon elastic strings to provide strength and comfort should the strings contact the skin of the wearer.
Data Source
AI summary
The sock pairing system includes a loop that is attached adjacent the top edge of socks and is used to attach pairs of socks to keep a plurality of socks sorted during laundering. The effective length of the loop is the length of the loop between the ends of the loop that are attached to the sock. The effective length of the loop is selected based on the type of sock to which the sock pairing system is attached. The sock pairing system may also include an optional pocket. In its extended position the loop extends out of the pocket, and in its tucked position the loop is tucked into the pocket. The pockets may also be color-coded, such that pairs of socks can be readily identified from a plurality of socks, should the socks become separated prior to or during laundering.