Multi-Layer Sock Structure With Elastomeric Padding for Blister Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional socks often cause blisters due to excessive foot movement and friction, lacking adequate support and cushioning, especially in areas like the ball and heel regions, which can lead to discomfort and health issues during physical activity.
Innovation Solution
Multi-layered socks with a varying thickness middle layer made of elastomeric material, providing localized support and cushioning in key areas such as the toe, heel, and midfoot regions, reducing friction and foot motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single layer of material is used in socks, then the sock structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the user's foot moves around more causing greater frictional forces and blister formation
Solution Approach 1:
The sock is divided into multiple functional layers: an inner layer for moisture management, a middle layer with elastomeric padding for cushioning and friction reduction, and an outer layer for structural support. This segmentation allows each layer to address specific problems independently, reducing overall foot movement and friction without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sock combines different materials with complementary properties: natural fibers (cotton, wool) for moisture absorption, synthetic fibers (nylon, polyester) for durability and elasticity, and elastomeric materials for targeted cushioning. This composite approach reduces frictional forces and blister formation while maintaining manufacturing feasibility
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additional layers and cushions are added to reduce foot motion and friction, then blister formation is reduced, but the sock structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The middle layer features localized elastomeric padding concentrated in high-friction areas such as the toe region (first and fifth metatarsals), heel region, and midfoot region. This targeted approach reduces blister formation in critical areas without adding unnecessary complexity to the entire sock structure
Solution Approach 2:
The middle layer with elastomeric padding is nested between the inner and outer layers, creating a compact multi-layer structure. This nesting arrangement maximizes cushioning effectiveness while minimizing overall sock bulk and structural complexity
3Ease of operation
If the middle layer is made thicker in heel and toe regions for localized support, then foot comfort and support are enhanced, but the sock becomes less uniform in thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The middle layer thickness varies strategically: thicker in the heel region and toe region (particularly at first and fifth metatarsals) for enhanced cushioning and support, and thinner in midfoot regions. This non-uniform thickness distribution optimizes foot comfort and support where needed most while maintaining overall sock functionality
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 multi-layered design effectively reduces blister formation and enhances foot comfort and support, promoting general foot health by distributing weight evenly and minimizing frictional forces.
Implementation Method 1
the middle layer comprises an elastomeric material
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-layered socks with elastomeric padding in accordance with embodiments of the invention are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sock for reducing foot movement is provided, the sock including: a toe region connected to a mid-foot region, connected to a heel region, further connected to an ankle region, the ankle region including an opening; a sole positioned from the toe region through the mid-foot region to the heel region, the sole comprising an inner layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer; the middle layer being attached to the inner layer and encapsulated between the inner layer and the outer layer; the middle layer of the sole varies in thickness; a thickness of the middle layer of the sole is greater in the heel region and the toe region; and the sock forms a hollow tubular shape that is closed at the toe region and open at the ankle region.