U.S. patent application number 12/407473 was filed with the patent office on 2009-09-24 for disposable sock with liquid impermeable inner sole.
Invention is credited to Rosa Brown, Angela Harris.
Application Number | 20090235433 12/407473 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41087428 |
Filed Date | 2009-09-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090235433 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Harris; Angela ; et
al. |
September 24, 2009 |
Disposable Sock with Liquid Impermeable Inner Sole
Abstract
This invention relates generally to a disposable sock with an
inner liquid impermeable layer on the portion that covers the sole
of the foot, and a breathable outer layer that encases the liquid
impermeable layer and encases the remaining portion of the foot.
The characteristics of the present invention increase circulation
in the foot, aid in the absorption of a multitude of compounds,
including lotions, ointments, or therapeutics to the foot, while
minimizing bacterial growth, are cost efficient, lightweight and
easy to use.
Inventors: |
Harris; Angela; (Durham,
NC) ; Brown; Rosa; (Upper Marlboro, MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MEGAN LYMAN
1816 SILVER MIST CT.
RALEIGH
NC
27613
US
|
Family ID: |
41087428 |
Appl. No.: |
12/407473 |
Filed: |
March 19, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61038445 |
Mar 21, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/239 ;
36/43 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41B 11/121 20130101;
A41B 2400/52 20130101; A41B 11/005 20130101; A41B 11/007 20130101;
A43B 17/107 20130101; A41B 2400/22 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/239 ;
36/43 |
International
Class: |
A43B 17/00 20060101
A43B017/00; A43B 13/38 20060101 A43B013/38 |
Claims
1. A disposable sock adapted to transfer a compound from the
interior surface of the disposable sock to the skin of a wearer of
the disposable sock, the disposable sock comprising: an inner layer
that is not permeable to liquids and is in contact with the sole of
the foot when the sock is worn by said wearer; an outer breathable
layer that encases said inner layer and the foot of said wearer,
said inner layer being adhered to said outer layer; and a compound
associated with at least a portion of the interior surface, wherein
the inner layer is interposed between the composition and the outer
layer, and the composition is interposed between the skin of said
wearer and the inner layer.
2. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein the inner layer that is
not permeable to liquids is made of polyethylene.
3. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein the inner layer is a
shape comparable to the sole of the foot of said wearer.
4. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein the outer breathable
layer is made of a nylon mesh material.
5. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein the outer breathable
layer terminates in an elastic portion that secures the sock to the
wearer at the termination of the sock.
6. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein the sock terminates at
the ankle, calf, or middle calf of the wearer.
7. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein the sock is adapted to
be disposed of after a single use.
8. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein said compound is
absorbed into the skin of the sole of the foot of said wearer at a
rate more rapid than a user of the compound not wearing said
disposable sock.
9. The disposable sock of claim 1, wherein the compound may be any
oil, lubricant, lotion, cream, water, humectant, therapeutic,
herbal remedy, or homeopathic remedy.
10. A disposable sock comprising an inner polyethylene layer that
is in skin contact with at least a portion of the sole of the foot
and an outer breathable layer that encases the inner layer, said
inner layer being adhered to the outer layer, and said disposable
sock increasing the circulation of the foot of a wearer when the
disposable sock is worn.
11. The disposable sock of claim 10, wherein a compound may be
applied to the sole of the foot of said wearer such that said
compound is interposed between the skin of the sole of the foot of
said wearer and said inner layer and said compound is in direct
contact with at least a portion of the skin of the sole of the foot
of said wearer, said compound being absorbed into the skin of the
sole of the foot of said wearer at a rate more rapid than a user of
the compound not wearing said disposable sock.
12. The disposable sock of claim 10, wherein the outer breathable
layer is made of a nylon mesh material.
13. The disposable sock of claim 10, wherein the outer breathable
layer terminates in an elastic portion that secures the sock to the
wearer at the termination of the sock.
14. The disposable sock of claim 10, wherein the inner layer is a
shape comparable to the sole of the foot of said wearer.
15. A disposable sock comprising an inner polyethylene layer that
is in skin contact with at least a portion of the sole of the foot
and an outer breathable layer that encases the inner layer, said
inner layer being adhered to the outer layer, and said disposable
sock increasing the circulation of the foot of a wearer when the
disposable sock is worn and where a compound is applied to the sole
of the foot of said wearer and said compound is interposed between
the skin of the sole of the foot of said wearer and the inner
layer, the absorption of said compound into the skin of the sole of
the foot of said wearer at a rate more rapid than a user of the
compound not wearing said disposable sock.
16. The disposable sock of claim 15, wherein the outer breathable
layer is made of a nylon mesh material.
17. The disposable sock of claim 15, wherein the outer breathable
layer terminates in an elastic portion that secures the sock to the
wearer at the termination of the sock.
18. The disposable sock of claim 15, wherein the inner layer is a
shape comparable to the sole of the foot of said wearer.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/038,445 filed Mar. 21, 2008.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] This invention relates generally to a disposable sock with
an inner liquid impermeable layer on the portion that covers the
sole of the foot, and a breathable outer layer that encases the
liquid impermeable layer and encases the remaining portion of the
foot. The characteristics of the present invention increase
circulation in the foot, aid in the absorption of a multitude of
compounds, including lotions, ointments, or therapeutics to the
foot, while minimizing bacterial growth, are cost efficient,
lightweight and easy to use.
[0004] 2. Brief Description of the Prior Art
[0005] A multitude of socks have been patented to address various
maladies of the foot. For instance, some patents are directed to
improving the circulation of the foot only, which is has healthful
benefit to those with certain conditions such as diabetes (U.S.
Pat. Nos. 7,207,961 and 6,606,750). Meanwhile, other prior art
describe articles that increase absorption of therapeutics through
the skin (U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,664,087, 6,792,701 and 5,682,617; and
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/590,444). Specifically, the
'444 application describes an article to be worn on the skin that
has a liquid-impermeable layer with an outer fibrous layer. While
this document describes use as a way to exacerbate the absorption
compounds to the skin, the article does not discuss the added
benefit, and need for some users to increase circulation at the
same time.
[0006] Presently, no sock has been developed that is disposable,
cost effective, breathable, lightweight, increases circulation, and
aids in the absorption of compounds to the foot. As will be seen
from the subsequent description, the preferred embodiment of the
present invention overcomes these and other shortcomings of the
prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Various issues associated with the skin or tissue of the
foot may diminish the health and or hygiene of a person. For
example, dryness of the foot is a common problem, especially where
the skin is exposed to cold or dry conditions. This may be
especially true for older individuals. There are many compounds
designed to alleviate this problem. Many of these compounds require
a substantial period of time to become effective. Additionally,
many compounds only give the user benefit for a short period of
time after application. The present invention enhances absorption
of such compounds to the sole of the foot.
[0008] Other therapeutic compounds may be prescribed to persons for
a variety of reasons, including wound healing. By maintaining
direct contact with the therapeutic and the skin, the beneficial
effects can become apparent in a shorter period of time. The
present invention allows the wearer to easily maintain this direct
contact between therapeutics and other compounds (including oils,
ointments, lotions, etc.) applied and the skin of the sole of the
foot, so that the full benefit of such compounds can be
realized.
[0009] Additionally, maintaining adequate circulation in the
extremities is difficult for certain groups of people such as those
with diabetes or those that are elderly. Poor circulation can have
many ramifications such as the feet feeling cold, or going to
"sleep", or numbness that can make the person unaware of injury to
the foot. Increasing circulation in the foot is advantageous to
many persons.
[0010] Moreover, as compounds are applied to the foot, or as any
sock is worn, bacteria may grow and cause further issues for the
wearer. The present invention overcomes this disadvantage by being
low cost, and disposable. Because the sock of the present invention
is to be worn only one time for a limited period, bacterial build
up is not an issue. Moreover, one time usage increases ease of use,
as the wearer does not have to wash or reuse the sock.
[0011] Consequently, the disposable sock of the present invention
addresses these concerns and others. The liquid impermeable layer
that may be made of polyethylene is in contact with the sole of the
foot increases circulation in the foot, increases absorption of
compounds applied to the foot, and serves as a liquid-impermeable
layer so that any compounds applied will not seep out of the sock.
Polyethylene, as well as other modern day materials that provide
the liquid impermeable layer accomplishes an effect that could not
be realized by earlier socks (such as Lewis in U.S. Pat. No.
2,664,087). The outer breathable layer maintains the positioning of
the inner polyethylene layer, cools the foot, is lightweight and
comforts the wearer. The disposable nature of the sock decreases
bacterial build up, and increases ease of use for the wearer.
[0012] As stated above, the present invention is inexpensive,
disposable, lightweight and easy to manufacture. The present
invention overcomes the shortcomings of prior products as it is
advantageous to circulation, the application of compounds, and is
cost effective. Still other modifications and positions of these
elements may be implemented, as will be apparent to one skilled in
the art.
[0013] One object of the present invention is to provide an
inexpensive disposable sock to increase circulation in the wearer's
foot.
[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
disposable sock that comforts and supports the applications of a
variety of compounds including, creams, oils, ointments, lotions,
moisturizing agents, conditioners, botanicals and therapeutics that
the wearer may apply.
[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
disposable sock that provides for increased circulation,
application of compounds to the sole of the foot while providing a
breathable upper portion for the comfort of the wearer.
[0016] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a disposable sock that is more effective and efficient to
use than known products and allows the wearer to discard after a
brief, one-time, or limited use.
[0017] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a disposable sock that can be manufactured without contain
latex and has a breathable portion that is comfortable and
stretchable.
[0018] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a disposable sock that does not suffer from high bacterial
growth before it is disposed, and thus reduces the chance of
infection.
[0019] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a disposable sock that is appropriate for use in both
domestic and institutional environments.
[0020] It is another objective of the present invention to provide
a disposable sock that is produced economically and appeals to a
variety of market segments.
[0021] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a disposable sock that can be worn comfortably alone, with
footwear, or under a sock as the wearer chooses.
[0022] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a disposable sock that offers a sanitary foot product
alternative for wearers.
[0023] Still other aspects of the present invention will become
apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description
of a preferred embodiment, which is by way of illustration, one of
the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will
be realized, the invention is capable of other different and
obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention.
Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are illustrative in
nature and not restrictive.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] The foregoing aspects and many of the accompanying
advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated
as the same becomes understood by reference to the following
detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0025] FIG. 1 is a rendering of the disposable sock from a vertical
cross-section, according to one preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional rendering of the disposable
sock from the sole of the foot, according to one embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The detailed explanation of the present invention is
described below. The described preferred embodiments are presented
for the purpose of illustration and description; they are not
intended to limit the scope of the present invention. As will be
apparent to one skilled in the art, modifications to described
elements below may be made without deviating from the scope of the
present invention.
[0028] FIG. 1 is an illustration of the disposable sock in a
vertical cross-sectional view, according to one embodiment of the
invention. Similarly, FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional rendering where
the bottom, or sole, of the foot is highlighted. The reference
numerals to the elements of the invention remain constant in both
figures.
[0029] The wearer's sole of their foot is in contact with a liquid
impermeable layer 10, which is adhered to the outer breathable
portion 11 of the sock. The liquid impermeable layer 10 holds the
application of a variety of compounds including: creams, oils,
ointments, lotions, moisturizing agents, conditioners, botanicals,
and therapeutic compositions, in direct contact with the skin
surface of the wearer when applied to the sole of the foot. This
direct contact allows for concentrated treatment of the skin by any
such applied compounds. When used in this manner, according to one
embodiment, the liquid impermeable layer 10, provides for increased
absorption relative to breathable material.
[0030] Moreover, the liquid impermeable layer 10 increases
circulation to the foot by stimulating the skin of the wearer. The
liquid impermeable layer 10 also improves skin condition, aids
toxin removal, and improves the overall health of the foot. The
liquid impermeable layer 10 can be manufactured from a variety of
materials including: polyethylene, plastics, or other film material
such as a thermoplastic elastomeric polyolefin polymer, as is known
by those skilled in the art. The liquid impermeable layer 10 is
attached to the breathable layer 11 by an adhesive, thermal
bonding, radio frequency bonding, ultrasonic bonding, or the like.
The liquid impermeable layer 10 is attached to the breathable layer
11 by an adhesive in the preferred embodiment of the present
invention. The liquid impermeable layer 10 can be in many shapes
including oval, rectangular, or as the shape of the sole of the
foot. In the preferred embodiment, the liquid impermeable layer 10
is the shape of the underside of the foot and provides for a snug
fit when worn by the user.
[0031] The breathable layer 11 provides comfort to the wearer and
allows excess heat to diffuse from the foot to limit excess
stimulation of the sweat glands. The breathable layer 11 is
manufactured from stretchable, breathable material that allows
moisture to exit from the skin of the wearer. The material of the
breathable layer 11 can be made from a variety of materials
including, natural fabrics (i.e., cotton and the like) or synthetic
breathable materials such as nylon, nylon blends, and the like. The
breathable layer 11 encases the liquid impermeable layer 10 and is
designed to fit the contours of the foot without wrinkling or
bunching around the area covered by the present invention. In one
embodiment, the material of the breathable layer 11 does not
contain latex, which can be problematic for many users. The
breathable layer 11 has the ability to stretch to accommodate a
variety of foot sizes, while still supporting the liquid
impermeable layer 10.
[0032] The present invention also contains an upper elastic portion
12 that secures the upper portion of the sock to the wearer and is
continuous with the breathable layer 11. The elastic portion 12 may
be manufactured with the same material as the breathable layer 11,
or contain added elastic materials such as synthetic or natural
rubbers or tacky materials that secure the disposable sock on the
foot, without causing discomfort.
[0033] The length of the disposable sock of the present invention
may be varied according to the preference of the wearer or
contingent on the reason for use (i.e., therapeutic
considerations). For instance the sock may stop at the ankle or be
manufactured to the specifications of a crew style, mid-calf style,
over-the-calf style, and the like. The stretchable material of the
breathable layer 11 provides added flexibility to accommodate
different leg sizes. Moreover, color selections are not limited and
may include white, black, orange, navy, green, light blue, pink,
red, and beige.
[0034] The present invention can be worn on each foot, can be worn
with or without shoes or other footwear (such as sandals or
slippers), and can be worn comfortably under socks or other
materials the wearer may employ (such as foot braces, etc.). The
wearer, or someone assisting the wearer, may apply a compound such
as those described, to the bottom of the feet of the wearer before
placing the disposable sock on each foot. The characteristics of
the present invention will allow for increased absorbency of any
compounds applied to the bottom of the foot, and can increase
circulation of the foot, leading to overall improved health of the
user. After one use, the wearer removes the disposable sock and
discards them to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria and
other infectious materials.
* * * * *