Rolling Measurement Container for Compression Sock Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compression socks do not fit all individuals equally well, leading to inadequate or excessive compression, which can result in discomfort or potential harm, as one size does not accommodate varying calf and ankle circumferences effectively.
Innovation Solution
A container with marked surfaces that can be rotated to measure the circumference of the calf and ankle, allowing for the selection of appropriate compression sock sizes based on measured dimensions, using markings to indicate different size ranges such as small, medium, and large.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single size of compression sock is used for all individuals, then manufacturing and inventory management are simplified, but the compression effectiveness and comfort are compromised due to varying calf and ankle circumferences
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the sock sizing problem into two separate measurement components: calf circumference and ankle circumference. By segmenting the sizing system into these two independent dimensions, the patent enables precise fitting for different body types without requiring multiple complete sock variants, thus maintaining manufacturing simplicity while improving compression effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the sizing parameter from a single overall size category to two independent circumference measurements (calf and ankle). This parameter transformation allows for more precise matching between sock dimensions and individual body characteristics, resolving the contradiction between standardized production and personalized fit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If compression socks are made to fit smaller circumferences, then they provide adequate compression for smaller individuals, but they are too tight for larger individuals
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by allowing different parts of the sock (calf region and ankle region) to have different dimensional characteristics. The sizing system enables selection of socks with specific calf circumference and ankle circumference dimensions, ensuring that each region of the leg receives appropriate compression tailored to its specific measurements, thereby avoiding both inadequate and excessive compression.
3Ease of operation
If traditional sizing methods are used, then the selection process is simple, but accurate size selection cannot be determined without separate measurement tools
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the sizing information for both calf and ankle circumferences into a single unified sock product identifier. Each sock size category incorporates both dimensional parameters, allowing consumers to determine their size using one integrated sizing system rather than requiring separate measurement tools and complex cross-referencing, thus maintaining ease of operation while achieving measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A container (10) and a method facilitating measuring a member, for example measuring the length or perimeter of a user's lower leg e.g. the calf and/or ankle. The method comprises aligning and locating a first datum (24) of the container (10) against a second datum on the member followed by rolling the container's perimeter relative to a section of the member to be measured. Measurement is complete when the container (10) has rolled from the first datum (24) along the minor surfaces until a point of the container (10) reaches an extremity of the member/dimension being measured; the extremity may be the second datum, where a circumference of a member is being measured. When rolling the perimeter of the container (10) is complete a point of the container face (12) will be aligned with a point representing the extremity of the dimension being measured or the second datum. Alignment of two points at the extremity of the measured member is indicative of the dimension of the member. Thereby, the dimension, for example the perimeter, of the member can be determined by reading off markings provided on one or more exterior minor faces of the container or by physically measuring the container perimeter.