U.S. patent application number 11/802124 was filed with the patent office on 2007-11-29 for ventilated non-slip sleeve and methods for making and using same.
Invention is credited to Gary R. Heisler, Nancy Heisler, Robert A. Van Wyk.
Application Number | 20070271681 11/802124 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38779146 |
Filed Date | 2007-11-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070271681 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Heisler; Nancy ; et
al. |
November 29, 2007 |
Ventilated non-slip sleeve and methods for making and using
same
Abstract
Described herein is a ventilated, non-slip sleeve which may be
applied to an irregularly shaped object, for example a body part
such as a limb or extremity, as well as methods for making and
using such a non-slip sleeve. In one particular embodiment, the
present invention relates to a ventilated, non-slip sock for an
animal, and a method for making the sock from a non-slip material.
The ventilated, non-slip sock of the instant invention finds
particular utility as a mobility aid for injured and/or aged
animals, to facilitate ambulation over slippery surfaces or
floors.
Inventors: |
Heisler; Nancy; (Middletown,
CT) ; Heisler; Gary R.; (Middletown, CT) ; Van
Wyk; Robert A.; (Largo, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SMITH PATENT CONSULTING CONSULTING, LLC
3309 DUKE STREET
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22314
US
|
Family ID: |
38779146 |
Appl. No.: |
11/802124 |
Filed: |
May 21, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60808063 |
May 24, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/239 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41B 11/008 20130101;
A01K 13/007 20130101; A41B 2400/20 20130101; A61D 9/00
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/239 |
International
Class: |
A41B 11/00 20060101
A41B011/00 |
Claims
1. A ventilated, non-slip mobility sock configured to be slidably
received about a limb or extremity of an animal, said sock formed
as a continuous, unitary construction from a planar sheet of a
flexible, porous material having a high coefficient of
friction.
2. The sock of claim 1, wherein said sock is shaped to be slidably
received about the forefoot or hindfoot of a dog or a cast disposed
thereon.
3. The sock of claim 1, wherein said porous material further
provides a cushioning effect.
4. The sock of claim 1, wherein said porous material comprises a
water-resistant composite.
5. The sock of claim 4, wherein said water-resistant composite
comprise an open-weave fabric coated with a polymeric foam.
6. The sock of claim 5, wherein said open-weave fabric comprises a
woven scrim of polyester or natural fibers and the polymeric foam
comprises a plasticized vinyl compound.
7. The sock of claim 6, wherein said plasticized vinyl compound
comprises polyvinyl chloride.
8. The sock of claim 1, further provided with one or more straps
for securing the sock about the limb or extremity of the
animal.
9. The sock of claim 8, wherein said straps are provided at either
end with mating fastener pairs.
10. A method of forming a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock
configured to be slidably received about a limb or extremity of an
animal comprising the steps of: (a) providing a flat blank having a
predetermined shape cut from a planar sheet of flexible, porous
material having a high coefficient of friction; (b) folding said
blank in half lengthwise; and (c) bonding the open lateral sides of
the blank to form a tubular sleeve having one closed end and one
open end.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising the step of
providing a dorsal cut extending from the open end of the sleeve
but stopping short of the closed end of the sleeve.
12. The method of claim 10, further comprising the step of
providing one or more fastening means for securing the sleeve about
the limb or extremity of the animal.
13. A ventilated, non-slip mobility sock configured to be
releasably attached to a limb or extremity of an animal, said sock
from a flat blank cut from a planar sheet of a flexible,
stretchable, porous material having a high coefficient of friction
and having a generally rectangular shape, comprised of two long
sides and two short sides, said flat blank further comprising a
first set of tabs extending from the distal end of a first long
side and second set of tabs extending from the distal end of the
second long side, disposed opposite said first set of tabs, wherein
said tabs are provided with mating fastening means, further wherein
said sock is assembled by folding the flat blank in half lengthwise
and engaging the mating fastening means on opposing sets of
tabs.
14. A method for providing a limb or extremity of an animal with a
ventilated non-slip mobility sock, said method comprising the steps
of: (a) placing the limb or extremity of the animal atop a flat
blank cut from a planar sheet of a flexible, stretchable, porous
material having a high coefficient of friction and having a
generally rectangular shape, comprised of two long sides and two
short sides, said flat blank further comprising a first set of tabs
extending from the distal end of a first long side and second set
of tabs extending from the distal end of the second long side,
disposed opposite said first set of tabs, wherein said tabs are
provided with mating fastening means; (b) folding the blank in half
lengthwise such that the limb or extremity rests between the two
halves, thereby forming a mobility sock having three open sides
(two long, one short) and one closed short end; and (c) folding the
free edges of the two long sides of the mobility sock about the
limb or extremity of the animal and engaging the mating fastening
means on opposing sets of tabs so as to seal the two long sides and
removably secure the mobility sock to the animal's limb or
extremity.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional
application 60/808,063 filed May 24, 2006, the contents of which
are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a ventilated, non-slip
sleeve configured to conform to an object, particularly a body part
such as an appendage, limb or extremity, as well as method for
making and using such a ventilated, non-slip sleeve. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a ventilated,
non-slip sleeve in the form of a mobility sock for an injured
and/or aged animal, for example a older pet, and a method for
making the mobility sock of the present invention from a porous,
non-slip material.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Conditions created by injury, or by deteriorating health due
to age or disease, frequently cause decreased function in the limbs
of animals. Geriatric dogs in particular often suffer from
age-related muscle atrophy, particularly in the hind legs, along
with deterioration of neuro-muscular function, spine problems,
arthritis and degenerative joint disease such as hip dysplasia.
These conditions, individually or in combination, lead to decreased
mobility due to associated pain or to loss of balance and control.
Dogs with these problems have difficulty maintaining their footing
when walking, particularly on slippery or smooth surfaces, for
example, polished wood and tile floors. In addition, loss of
control of the limbs may cause improper paw positioning, wherein
the pads of the paw do not contact the floor. This frequently
causes the paw the "slip out" from under the animal causing the
animal to fall. This, in turn, makes the animal reluctant to
walk.
[0004] When a conventional cast is applied to the distal portion of
the limb of an animal, the bottom surface/distal end of the cast
generally provides little resistance to skidding when the animal
attempts to stand on a smooth surface such as, for instance, floors
of polished wood, vinyl tile, ceramic tile or terrazzo. This lack
of "grip" frequently causes difficulty for the animal when standing
or walking, and may cause additional injury to the animal. The
inclusion of a "cast boot", a non-slip device typically mounted to
the bottom surface of a foot cast on a human, is not advisable
since it is necessary that air reach the interior of the cast.
[0005] Boots and booties (i.e., socks) for dogs are well known in
the art and fulfill a range of needs. Some are used to protect the
paws of dogs during outdoor activities, such as to prevent injury
to the pads of a paw when traversing rocky terrain. Others are
intended to protect injured paws and lower limbs, and to provide
traction for unstable dogs. Examples of these include, but are not
limited to, Thera-Paw.TM. boots (Thera-Paw, Inc., Lebanon, N.J.)
and Standard Boots, High Performance Boots and Protective Boots by
HandicappedPets.com (Amherst, N.H.). Boots of these types are
composed of a fabric or leather body having an upper portion with
one or more straps for securing the boot to the dog, and a lower
portion with a padded, non-slip component or coating (generally
neoprene or similar) forming the sole and lower side portions of
the boot. In addition to providing a non-slip surface, the neoprene
sole prevents moisture from entering the boot when worn in damp
areas.
[0006] Such boots are well suited to the needs of active dogs, and
may be used to improve the mobility of dogs with decreased leg
functions. However, the moisture-proof sole and side portions tend
to trap moisture within the boot. Perspiration, often coupled with
a lack of circulation, allows irritation and maceration of the skin
under the boot (or cast or brace) which, in turn, may result in the
growth of bacteria and skin erosion. If untreated, this condition
can lead to infection. Accordingly, extended wear of such
moisture-proof boots is not recommended. Furthermore, the
capabilities of these boots generally exceed the needs of most
geriatric dogs. Such dogs generally do not run, jump, or walk long
distances. Their needs are simple: generally to access food and
water, walk outside for elimination, and move from one napping spot
to another. Accordingly, there is a need for a low-cost,
ventilated, non-slip boot which can be affixed to the distal
portion of the animal's limb or about a cast disposed thereon.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In view of the foregoing, it is accordingly an object of
this invention to produce a ventilated, non-slip sleeve which can
be applied to the distal end of an appendage, limb or extremity of
an animal. Depending upon the condition of the animal, the sleeve
may be applied over a fiberglass cast or directly to the limb
itself.
[0008] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that one
or more aspects of this invention can meet certain objectives,
while one or more other aspects can meet other objectives. Each
objective may not apply equally, in all its respects, to every
aspect and embodiment of this invention. As such, the following
objects may be viewed in the alternative with respect to any one
aspect of this invention.
[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
ventilated, non-slip sleeve from a planar sheet or flat blank of a
flexible, stretchable, porous material having a high coefficient of
friction.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
ventilated, non-slip sleeve in the form of a mobility sock
configured to be slidably received about or removably affixed to a
limb or extremity of an animal (e.g., a paw, foot or leg) or to an
orthopaedic cast or brace disposed thereon.
[0011] A further object of the present invention is to provide the
mobility sock with enhanced ventilation and non-slip character,
more particularly wherein all portions are equally ventilated and
all exterior surfaces are equally non-slip. In this manner, the
mobility sock of the present invention not only prevents moisture
entrapment and resulting infections in the lower limb associated
with the devices of the prior art but also provides improved
traction and ambulation regardless of what portion of the animal's
limb contacts the floor.
[0012] It is yet a further object of the present invention to
provide a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock which is both
economical and of simple construction.
[0013] It is yet a further object of the present invention to
provide a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock that effectively
remains in place but that can also be readily and conveniently
applied and removed. To that end, the mobility sock is preferably
provided with one or more releasable fastening means for securing
the sock to the limb or cast.
[0014] It is yet a further object of the present invention to
provide a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock from a sleeve of
water-resistant mesh.
[0015] It is yet a further object of the present invention to
provide a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock which also provides
cushioning.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method of making a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock as a unitary
construction, at a low cost.
[0017] In one particular embodiment, the present invention is
directed to a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock for an animal
fabricated from a porous yet water-resistant composite material,
for example, from a fabric mesh having a rubber or plastic material
foamed thereon. Composite materials of this type are known in the
art and are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,278
(Dehondt), the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by
reference. This economical non-slip material is frequently used for
shelf lining, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. Commercial
examples of this material include, but are not limited to, Easy
Liner.TM. and Easy Liner Supreme.TM. shelf liner materials by
Henkel Consumer Adhesives (Avon, Ohio), and Magic-Grip.TM. by
American Non-slip Products (Alpharetta, Ga.). In the context of the
present invention, a flat blank having a predetermined shape is cut
from the material. Through a sequence of folding operations, the
blank is formed into a predetermined shape having overlaps and
seams. The seams and overlapping portions are joined or fused to
make a three dimensional "sock" or "boot" which may be fitted to
the distal end of the limb of an animal, either directly over the
limb itself or over an orthopaedic cast or brace disposed
thereon.
[0018] Because the mobility sock of the present invention can be
formed from a planar sheet of a composite material using a sequence
of simple folding and bonding operations, it can be produced at low
cost. The porous nature of the material allows ventilation of the
limb so as to prevent overheating and the collection of moisture
which, as discussed above, can lead to infection.
[0019] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a
non-slip cover for an irregularly shaped item or object, for
example one which is neither approximately flat nor cylindrical nor
a simple combination of flat and cylindrical, and a method of
making same. The method includes the steps of forming a flat blank
having a predetermined shape from porous sheet material formed from
an open scrim coated with polymeric foam. The blank is formed in a
sequence of folding operations to a predetermined shape having
overlaps and seams. The seam and overlapping portions are fused by
melting the polymeric foam so as to form a three dimensional
non-slip object. In certain preferred embodiments, additional
layers of material may be bonded to predetermined locations so as
to provide additional cushioning and material thickness on wear
surfaces.
[0020] These and other objects and features of the invention will
become more fully apparent when the following detailed description
is read in conjunction with the accompanying FIGS. and examples.
However, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary of
the invention and the following detailed description are of a
preferred embodiment, and not restrictive of the invention or other
alternate embodiments of the invention. In particular, while the
invention is described herein with reference to a number of
specific embodiments, it will be appreciated that the description
is illustrative of the invention and is not constructed as limiting
of the invention. Various modifications and applications may occur
to those who are skilled in the art, without departing from the
spirit and the scope of the invention, as described by the appended
claims. Likewise, other objects, features, benefits and advantages
of the present invention will be apparent from this summary and
certain embodiments described below, and will be readily apparent
to those skilled in the art having knowledge in the relevant art.
Such objects, features, benefits and advantages will be apparent
from the above as taken into conjunction with the accompanying
examples, data, figures and all reasonable inferences to be drawn
therefrom, alone or with consideration of the references
incorporated herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] Various aspects and applications of the present invention
will become apparent to the skilled artisan upon consideration of
the brief description of the figures and the detailed description
of the present invention and its preferred embodiments which
follows:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary composite
material found in the prior art which may be used to form sleeves,
socks and other covering structures in accordance with the
principles of this invention.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
ventilated, non-slip mobility sock formed in accordance with the
principles of this invention on the leg of a dog.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the flat blank formed from the
material of FIG. 1 for forming a ventilated, non-slip mobility sock
according to the principles of this invention.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the blank of FIG. 3 folded
in preparation for bonding.
[0026] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the folded blank of FIG. 4
with the lateral edges joined, thereby forming a sleeve in
accordance with the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the sleeve of FIG. 5
with a longitudinal cut disposed therein.
[0028] FIG. 7 is plan view of a mobility sock formed in accordance
with the principles of this invention.
[0029] FIG. 8 is a proximal end view of the object of FIG. 7.
[0030] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the object of FIG. 7.
[0031] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an alternate blank used to form an
alternate embodiment of the mobility sock of the present
invention.
[0032] FIG. 11 depicts the first step of a multi-step process used
in forming the alternate embodiment mobility sock, using the blank
of FIG. 10.
[0033] FIG. 12 depicts the second step of a multi-step process used
in forming the alternate embodiment mobility sock, using the blank
of FIG. 10.
[0034] FIG. 13 depicts the third step of a multi-step process of a
multi-step process used in forming the alternate embodiment
mobility sock, using the blank of FIG. 10.
[0035] FIG. 14 depicts the fourth step of a multi-step process of a
multi-step process used in forming the alternate embodiment
mobility sock, using the blank of FIG. 10.
[0036] FIG. 15 depicts the fifth step of a multi-step process of a
multi-step process used in forming the alternate embodiment
mobility sock, using the blank of FIG. 10.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0037] Although any materials and methods similar or equivalent to
those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of
embodiments of the present invention, the preferred methods,
materials, and embodiments are now described. However, before the
present invention is now described, it is to be understood that
this invention is not limited to the particular materials,
compositions, methodologies or protocols herein described, as these
may vary in accordance with routine experimentation and
optimization. It is also to be understood that the terminology used
in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular
versions or embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the
scope of the present invention which will be limited only by the
appended claims.
[0038] All patents and publications mentioned herein are
incorporated by reference in their entirety. Nothing herein is to
be construed as an admission that the invention is not entitled to
antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.
[0039] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. However,
in case of conflict, the present specification, including
definitions, will control. Accordingly, in the context of the
present invention, the following definitions apply:
[0040] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular
forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural reference unless the
context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to
a "seam" is a reference to one or more seams and equivalents
thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.
[0041] The term "proximal" refers to a location that is situated
toward the point of origin or attachment, as of a limb or bone, or
a central point. Conversely, the term "distal" refers to a location
that is situated farthest away from a point of origin or attachment
or central point. Accordingly, when applied to the forelimb of a
dog, the proximal portion of the sock will be the upper portion
situated about or closest to the pastern or knee whereas the distal
portion of the sock will be the lower portion situated about or
closest to the claws or toes.
[0042] Embodiments of the present invention are characterized as
being "non-slip" or "non-skid". These terms are interchangeably
used herein to refer to sleeves, socks, boots or the like having a
high friction surface that provides non-slip properties by
substantially increasing the coefficient of friction between, for
example, an animal's foot and a floor surface. In a preferred
embodiment, the high friction material utilized has a sufficiently
high static coefficient of friction, for example, a static
coefficient of friction that about 1.0 or higher. In a preferred
embodiment, the non-slip character is not limited to the "sole" or
lower portions of the sleeve assembly. Rather, it is preferable
that the entirety of the sleeve, sock, boot, or the like be formed
from a unitary blank or sheet of "non-slip" material.
[0043] Embodiments of the present invention are characterized as
being "ventilated", more particularly being ventilated throughout.
In the context of the present invention, a ventilated mobility sock
should be provided throughout with a multitude of pores or vents
that admit circulation of fresh air to the sock's interior, so as
to allow for aeration of the underlying limb or the orthopaedic
cast or brace disposed thereon.
[0044] To achieve sufficient ventilated and non-slip character, it
is preferable to form the sleeve, sock, boot or the like from a
foam coated mesh or scrim material. A "mesh" is defined as any
knit, woven, or knotted fabric of open texture. Similarly, a
"scrim" is defined as a firm open-weave fabric, typically of cotton
or linen. In the context of the present invention, these terms are
used interchangeably to refer to breathable, porous, typically
loosely woven fabrics of natural or synthetic origin.
[0045] As noted above, the present invention utilizes a material
comprised of a foam coated scrim. In the context of the present
invention, exemplary foam materials include, but are not limited,
to expandable plastic or polymeric foams, more particularly rubbery
polymers such as polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polychloroprene
(e.g., Neoprene.TM.), and the like.
[0046] The instant invention has both human medical and veterinary
applications. Accordingly, the terms "subject" and "patient" are
used interchangeably herein to refer to the person or animal being
treated. Exemplary animals include house pets, farm animals, and
zoo animals. In a preferred embodiment, the subject is a mammal,
more particularly a pet such as a dog or cat.
[0047] The non-slip sleeve of the present invention may be
optionally provided with one or more releasable fastening means for
securing the sleeve in position. For example, in the context of a
veterinary mobility sock, it is desirable to include at least one
fastening means at the proximal end, so as to engage the relevant
anatomical structure of respective the limb or extremity and secure
the sock in position. In the context of a dog's forefoot, the
relevant anatomical structure is typically at or near the dewclaw,
pastern, or knee. It is often desirable to include multiple
fastening means, for example one to be secured above the dewclaw
and one at the pastern.
[0048] The number or type of fastening means utilized is not
particularly critical to the present invention. In one embodiment,
the fastening means is afforded with both a plurality of fasteners
and plurality of mating receivers. In another embodiment, the strap
may be provided with the plurality of fasteners while the plurality
of mating receivers is disposed directly on the sleeve or sock
itself (or vice versa). For example, the fastening means may
comprise a strap afforded with hook fabric at one end and mating
loop or pile fabric (e.g., Velcro.TM.) at the other. It will be
readily apparent that mating hook-and-pile fabric may be exchanged
for a plurality of hooks and mating eyelets, buttons and button
holes, or mating snaps.
[0049] Hereinafter, the present invention is described in more
detail by reference to drawings of preferred embodiments. However,
the drawings are provided for the purpose of illustrating certain
principles and aspects of the invention and not for the purposes of
limiting the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize
that variations and modifications may be made to the depicted
embodiments without changing the principles of the invention herein
disclosed. As such, methods and materials similar or equivalent to
those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of
the present invention.
[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the material used for forming the
mobility sock and other non-slip, cushioned items in accordance
with the principles of this invention is formed by dipping a sheet
of mesh or scrim material into a reservoir of plasticized foam.
This results in the formation of globules of rubbery polymeric
material, for example plasticized vinyl compounds such as polyvinyl
chloride, distributed randomly in both directions about the fiber
forming the open-weave mesh or scrim fabric. The globules are more
pronounced at intersections of the fibers forming the fabric. The
fabric may contain added scrim in openings or enlarged open gaps
forming a pattern over the fabric. The thread pattern of the scrim
used to produce the material, and the amount of foam adhering to
the scrim can vary, resulting in material having a variety of
appearances. FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary material 100 having scrim
102 with a thread pattern and a foam coating 104 which together
form a regular pattern of openings 106 in material 100.
[0051] Forming a complex three-dimensional object from a planar
sheet material requires that the material be cut to a predetermined
shape and folded to form seams which are joined to form the object.
Joining of the seams may be accomplished using adhesive, stitching,
mechanical fasteners, or fusing of the material, for example
through the selective application of heat. In the case of the
porous, non-slip material 100 used for this invention, seams are
preferably joined by means of heat and/or pressure fusion. For
example, a heated element of appropriate size and shape may be
applied to the seam or fold. While applying a compressive force,
material 100 is heated to a temperature sufficient to cause
localized melting and flow of the tissue so as to cause fusing of
the foam of the overlapping material.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, which depicts a veterinary mobility
sock constructed in accordance with the principles of the present
invention and mounted on the leg of a dog, the mobility sock 1 has
a closed-end, distal (lower) portion 2 which covers the paw of the
animal, and an upper portion 4 which wraps around the leg of the
animal and is secured by straps 6. As noted above, the straps may
be secured using a variety of fastening mechanism, from mating
hook-and-pile fabric, to mating hooks and eyelets, from buttons and
button holes to mating snaps. Depicted in FIG. 2 is a preferred
embodiment, wherein the upper and lower portions are integrally
formed, as a unitary construction from a single sheet of foam
coated scrim. In this manner, all portions and surfaces of the
mobility sock are both sufficiently ventilated and sufficiently
non-slip.
[0053] FIG. 3 depicts a flat blank, having a predetermined shape
cut from a planar sheet of material, which is used to form a
non-slip sleeve, sock or boot constructed in accordance with the
principles of the present invention. Blank 10 is symmetrical about
line 12 with lateral edges 14. In FIG. 4, blank 10 is folded at
line 12. As shown in FIG. 5, the lateral edges 14 of folded blank
10 may be joined to form seams 15 of tubular member 16 which has a
closed end 18 and an open end 20. In a preferred embodiment, the
edges 14 are joined to form seams 15 using heat and pressure so as
to fuse the polymeric foam. In other embodiments, a solvent bonding
agent may be used. In still other embodiments, edges 14 may be
joined by stitching or mechanical fasteners. In FIG. 6, a
longitudinal cut 22 of in upper wall 24 of member 16 extends
distance 26 from open end 20 of member 16.
[0054] Instead of folding a single blank as discussed above, one
can create a similar shaped sleeve by simply placing two blanks of
generally equal dimension on top of each other (not shown). In that
context, one would join the lateral edges of three of the four
sides to form a peripheral seam and one open end.
[0055] FIGS. 7 through 9 depict a non-slip mobility sock 1 formed
in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Member
16 with cut 22 is turned inside out such that seams 15 are on the
interior of the sleeve 1. Portion 30, extending distance 32 from
closed end 18 has a width 34. Mid-portion 36 has a minimum width
38. Tapered portion 42 extends from the end of portion 36 to open
end 20. Portion 42 has a width 44 at end 20. Other shapes may be
used. For instance, widths 34, 38 and 44 may be equal so that sock
1 has a constant width.
[0056] The process used to produce sock 1 may be used to form other
cushioned, non-slip sleeves, objects and items. More particularly,
sheet material formed from a scrim coated with polymeric foam may
be cut to a predetermined shape, formed to a three dimensional
shape by folding and contouring, and the seams thereof fused by use
of heat and pressure which cause local melting and bonding of the
polymeric foam material.
[0057] An alternate embodiment of the veterinary mobility sock of
the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 10 through 15. In this
embodiment, the sock is formed from the same material as the
previous embodiment; however, bonded seams are not used.
[0058] FIG. 10 depicts the precut blank configured to construct
mobility sock 200. Blank 202 has a first portion 204 and a second
portion 206 to which are attached portions 208 with hook fastener
material 210 attached to their lateral-most portions, and portions
212 with loop fastener material 214 attached to the underside of
their lateral-most portions. Fastener materials 210 and 214
together form a fastener pair. Portion 216 of first portion 204 is
laterally outside fold line 218.
[0059] In use, the foot or paw 300 of the animal is placed atop
blank 202. Portion 216 of first portion 204 is wrapped over the top
of paw 300 as shown in FIG. 11, approximately along fold line 218.
Portion 220 is laterally outside fold line 222. Subsequently, as
seen in FIG. 12, portion 220 is wrapped over the top of paw 300 and
portion 216. Fold line 222 is at the juncture of first portion 204
and second portion 206. In FIG. 13, second portion 206 is folded
over paw 300 which is wrapped beneath portions 216 and 220 of first
portion 204, the folding being along line 222 of FIG. 12. Following
this, as shown in FIG. 14, portions 212 with loop fastener material
214 are folded under portions 204 and 206 which are wrapped about
paw 300, the fold being approximately along line 224 of FIG. 13.
Subsequently, portions 208 with hook fastener material 210 are
folded under portions 204 and 206 which are wrapped about paw 300,
the fold being approximately along line 226 of FIG. 14. Fastener
pairs formed by hook material 210 and loop material 214 are joined
so as to removably secure mobility sock 200 to paw 300.
[0060] Sleeves, socks, boots, and the like formed in accordance
with this invention may be formed in a range of sizes and lengths
to fit animals of various sizes and with various medical
conditions. For instance, socks may be made with greater widths
relative to their lengths for animals having limbs in casts or
splints. Also, socks may have added length so that they can be cut
to a length which is appropriate to the animal to which they are to
be applied.
[0061] The present invention has been described in detail and with
reference to specific examples and embodiments. However, the
foregoing description is exemplary and explanatory in nature and is
intended only to illustrate the invention and its preferred
embodiments. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that
various changes and modifications can be made therein without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and that
alternate embodiments are also contemplated. For example, in some
embodiments, the finished sock or boot may be treated with a
substance which discourages chewing on the sock or boot by the
animal. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the sock or boot may
be provided with a non-porous water-proof cover or water-proof
liner for temporary use on an animal which will be walking in a wet
environment. Also contemplated are mobility socks and cast boots
made from non-porous materials in which perforations are formed so
as to afford the sock or boot with sufficient ventilation.
[0062] Thus, it should be clearly understood that the instant
descriptions are added only by way of example and are not intended
to limit, in any way, the scope of the invention. Moreover, while
the present invention has been described with particularity in
connection with specific examples, other advantages and features
will become apparent from the claims filed hereafter, with the
scope of such claims to be determined by their reasonable
equivalents, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. In
sum, the invention is intended to be defined not by the foregoing
description, but by the following claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *