Knit Sock with Targeted Compression Zones for Plantar Fascia Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional knit hosiery does not effectively provide targeted compression to enhance proprioception, kinesthetic awareness, and performance for athletes, particularly in areas like the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, which are crucial for endurance and comfort during activities like running.
Innovation Solution
A circularly-knit sock with targeted compression zones, featuring axially extending compression ridges and elastic yarns, is designed to apply greater compression force to the inner arch and ankle regions, enhancing support and stability by integrating thicker uncut pattern yarns and double-covered elastic yarns with increased stitch density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional knit hosiery is used, then the sock is comfortable and easy to wear, but it does not provide targeted compression to enhance proprioception and performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different knit densities to different regions of the sock. Specifically, the instep region features a higher knit density (tighter gauge) compared to other areas, creating localized compression zones that target specific anatomical structures like the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon without making the entire sock overly complex or restrictive
Solution Approach 2:
The sock is divided into distinct functional zones with different compression characteristics. The instep area is segmented as a separate compression zone with increased stitch density, while other regions maintain standard knit density, allowing each segment to serve its specific functional purpose
2Reliability
If uniform compression is applied throughout the sock, then the sock provides general support, but it does not specifically target the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon for performance enhancement
Solution Approach 1:
The knit pattern incorporates a localized high-density zone specifically positioned over the instep region where the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon are located. This area uses a tighter gauge knit while surrounding areas use a standard gauge, creating targeted compression without requiring complex patterns throughout the entire sock
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than applying uniform compression across the entire foot, the patent applies excessive compression (higher knit density) only to the specific instep region where it is most needed for plantar fascia and Achilles tendon support, while other areas receive standard compression levels
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, up to 3-4 times greater than adjacent areas, improving proprioception, stamina, and overall performance by effectively lifting and stretching the plantar fascia and providing support to the Achilles tendon, thereby enhancing athletic performance and comfort.
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.