Knit Sock Targeted Compression Zones Plantar Fascia
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing knit hosiery does not effectively provide targeted compression to lift and stretch the plantar fascia, nor does it securely 'lock' the sock in position on the foot, thereby lacking in both comfort and performance enhancement for runners and athletes.
Innovation Solution
A circularly-knit sock with targeted compression zones, featuring axially extending compression ridges of variable length, made from a combination of body yarn and elastic yarns, which are integrated into the fabric to provide increased compression and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If existing knit hosiery is used, then the sock can be worn comfortably, but it does not provide targeted compression to lift and stretch the plantar fascia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a compression zone with higher yarn density and compression force specifically at the plantar fascia location on the sole of the foot. This localized compression zone is integrally knit into the sock with variable length ridges that concentrate force where needed to lift and stretch the plantar fascia, while other areas of the sock maintain standard compression levels.
2Reliability
If existing knit hosiery is used, then the sock can be manufactured simply, but it does not securely 'lock' the sock in position on the foot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates localized grip zones with increased yarn density and friction properties at specific locations on the sock, particularly in the compression zone. These localized high-friction areas prevent the sock from slipping or rotating on the foot, providing secure positioning without requiring complex fastening mechanisms throughout the entire sock structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If uniform compression is applied across the entire foot, then the sock is simple to manufacture, but it does not enhance proprioception, kinesthetic awareness, or performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements variable compression by knitting the plantar fascia compression zone with higher yarn density and creating variable length ridges that concentrate compression force at the arch area. This localized high-compression zone enhances proprioception and performance specifically where needed, while the rest of the sock maintains standard compression and simpler knit patterns, balancing performance enhancement with 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 sock provides intensified compression to the inner arch and other areas of the foot, enhancing proprioception, comfort, and performance by securely fitting the sock to the foot, thus improving endurance and overall athletic performance.
Implementation Method 1
The compression zone comprises elastic yarns laid-in the body yarn
Implementation Method 2
A compression force applied by the foot portion within the targeted compression zone is greater than the compression force in directly adjacent areas of the foot portion
Data Source
AI summary
A knit sock is integrally formed of a body yarn in circumferential courses and axial wales, and includes a foot portion having a heel and a toe, and an ankle portion joined to the foot portion and defining an open leg end of the sock. A first targeted compression zone is formed with the foot portion between the heel and the toe, and includes spaced-apart axial compression ridges extending axially outward from the heel at a first end of the first compression zone to a second end of the first compression zone. A second targeted compression zone is formed with the ankle portion between the heel and the open leg end of the sock, and includes spaced-apart axial compression ridges extending axially outward from the heel at a first end of the second compression zone to a second end of the second compression zone.