Socks having integrated gripping systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional socks lack gripping capabilities, leading to increased risk of slipping and reduced balance during activities like yoga and dance, as they do not effectively interact with the floor surface.
Innovation Solution
Integration of both external and internal gripping systems on the sock, with discrete gripping surfaces on the exterior and interior surfaces that are out of registration with each other, creating a shearing vector to enhance traction by applying varied gripping forces between the foot and the floor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional socks are used, then the socks are simple and comfortable, but they lack gripping capabilities and increase slip risk
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping system is segmented into multiple discrete gripping surfaces distributed across the sock sole, with each surface providing localized grip. The internal and external gripping surfaces are positioned at different locations (out of registration) to create a segmented gripping pattern that enhances traction while maintaining comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping surfaces are integrated within the sock structure itself, with internal gripping surfaces nested on the interior of the sock and external gripping surfaces on the exterior. This nested integration allows the gripping functionality to be embedded within the sock without adding separate external components.
2Reliability
If gripping surfaces are added to socks, then traction is improved, but the sock structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Gripping surfaces are applied selectively at specific locations on the sock sole rather than covering the entire surface. The internal and external gripping surfaces are positioned at different locations (out of registration) to provide localized grip where needed for traction while maintaining simplicity in non-gripping areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping surfaces utilize composite material structures with internal gripping surfaces on the sock interior and external gripping surfaces on the exterior. This composite approach combines different material properties to achieve enhanced traction while managing the complexity of the overall structure.
3Reliability
If internal and external gripping surfaces are positioned out of registration, then shearing vector is produced to improve traction, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping system is divided into segmented internal and external surfaces positioned at different locations. This segmentation into discrete gripping zones allows for the creation of shearing vectors while providing flexibility in positioning that can accommodate manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The design specifies that internal and external gripping surfaces be positioned out of registration, creating a positional parameter difference that generates shearing vectors. This parameter change in surface positioning enhances traction while the discrete nature of the gripping surfaces allows for practical manufacturing implementation.
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 integrated gripping system improves traction and balance by providing optimal grip and stability without causing discomfort, while also allowing for heat dissipation and sweat wicking, effectively reducing the risk of slipping on both dry and wet surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
the discrete internal gripping surfaces are out of registration with respect to the discrete external gripping surfaces, such that the first and second patterns are configured to improve traction by producing a shearing vector between foot-to-sock frictional forces and sock-to-underlying surface frictional forces
Data Source
AI summary
Socks or stockings including integrated gripping systems include gripping material disposed on external surfaces of a sole of the sock and gripping material disposed on internal surfaces of the sock. In some examples, the integrated gripping systems comprise a first set of gripping dots comprising gripping material applied to external surfaces of the sole of the sock and a second set of gripping dots comprising gripping material applied to internal surfaces of the sole of the sock. In some examples, the integrated gripping systems comprise a knitted fabric including gripping yarn, which includes knitted gripping portions disposed on internal surfaces of the sock and external surfaces of the sock.