U.S. patent application number 12/780111 was filed with the patent office on 2011-11-17 for seamless sock and method of knitting the same.
Invention is credited to David Yoo.
Application Number | 20110277217 12/780111 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44910386 |
Filed Date | 2011-11-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110277217 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yoo; David |
November 17, 2011 |
SEAMLESS SOCK AND METHOD OF KNITTING THE SAME
Abstract
A sock and a method of knitting the same. Generally described,
the present application relates to a sock. More specifically, the
present application relates to a sock having a revolutionary
design. In one illustrative embodiment, a stretchable foot sock
made of Lycra.RTM. is provided. The foot sock can include an open
leg end having soft ribbing for receiving a foot, toes, and at
least a portion of a leg of a wearer. The foot sock can include a
leg section for receiving at least a portion of the leg of the
wearer. The foot sock can also include a foot section for receiving
a foot of the wearer. Typically, the leg and foot sections include
a top and bottom portion wherein the top portion includes a mesh
structure and the bottom portion includes extra padding. Each of
the sections can be seamlessly integrated.
Inventors: |
Yoo; David; (Torrance,
CA) |
Family ID: |
44910386 |
Appl. No.: |
12/780111 |
Filed: |
May 14, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/239 ;
66/185 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D04B 1/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/239 ;
66/185 |
International
Class: |
A43B 17/00 20060101
A43B017/00; D04B 9/46 20060101 D04B009/46 |
Claims
1. A stretchable foot sock comprising: an open leg end having soft
ribbing for receiving a foot, toes, and at least a portion of a leg
of a wearer; a tubular leg section adjacent to said leg end
dimensioned to receive at least a portion of said leg of said
wearer; a tubular foot section extending from said leg section and
receiving said foot of said wearer, said foot section having a top
and bottom portion thereon; and a toe section coupled to said foot
section at a distal end from said leg section and receiving said
toes of said wearer; wherein said top portion of said foot section
includes a mesh structure and said bottom portion of said foot
section includes a padded construction with said padded
construction extending to said toe section, said mesh structure and
said padded construction seamlessly integrated.
2. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said soft ribbing
comprises vertical strips of stockinette stitches alternating with
vertical stripes of reverse stockinette stitches.
3. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said soft ribbing
is elastic.
4. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said open leg end
is a crew cut.
5. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said open leg end
is a low cut.
6. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said open leg end
is a quarter cut.
7. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said open leg end
is seamlessly integrated into said leg section.
8. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said padded
construction comprises at least two or more layers of material.
9. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said foot sock is
made of about 93% cotton.
10. The stretchable foot sock of claim 1, wherein said foot sock is
made of synthetic polymer composed of at least 85% of segmented
polyurethane.
11. A sock comprising: a cuff having soft ribbing; a heel section
coupled to said cuff; and a foot section coupled to said heel
section, wherein said foot section has a mesh top and a padded
bottom portion; and a toe wedge extending said padded bottom and
seamlessly connected to said foot section.
12. The sock of claim 11, wherein said cuff comprises a single
ribbing.
13. The sock of claim 11, wherein said cuff comprises a double
ribbing.
14. The sock of claim 11, wherein said foot section is seamlessly
coupled to said heel section.
15. The sock of claim 11, wherein said sock is made of a filament
yarn.
16. A method of knitting a sock comprising: knitting a soft ribbed
cuff; knitting a leg member to said soft ribbed cuff; knitting a
padded lower foot member to said leg member; and knitting a top
mesh upper foot member to said leg member.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein knitting said padded lower foot
member and said top mesh upper foot member to said leg member
comprises seamlessly integrating said members.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein said sock is made of a polymer
and a urethane.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein said polymer provides
elasticity for said sock.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein said urethane provides rigidity
for said sock.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This application generally relates to socks, and more
particularly, to a seamless sock and method of knitting the
same.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In ancient times, socks were used for many purposes. Socks
helped absorb sweat and draw it to areas where it could evaporate.
In colder environments, socks decreased the risk of frostbite.
Socks were originally made from animal skin or other similar
materials, which were often wrapped around the ankles of a user.
Over time, socks became more sophisticated in the materials
implemented and the knitting used. Nevertheless, socks today often
cause blisters, ulcers, or other debilitating conditions as a
result of poor design.
[0003] As a result, a need exists to provide a more comfortable
sock while removing these potentially harmful conditions.
Furthermore, a sock is needed that removes perspiration as well as
provide a comfortable surface for high impacts. Those skilled in
the relevant art will appreciate that a need for a sock which can
be used in a variety of settings such as for athletes, hikers, or
normal everyday wear exists.
SUMMARY
[0004] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the DESCRIPTION OF THE APPLICATION. This summary is not intended to
identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it
intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the
claimed subject matter.
[0005] In accordance with one aspect of the present application, a
stretchable foot sock is provided. The foot sock includes an open
leg end having soft ribbing for receiving a foot, toes, and at
least a portion of a leg of a wearer. In addition, the foot sock
includes a tubular leg section adjacent to the leg end dimensioned
to receive at least a portion of the leg of the wearer, the leg
section having a top and bottom portion thereon. The foot sock also
includes a tubular foot section extending from the leg section and
receiving the foot of the wearer, the foot section having a top and
bottom portion thereon. The foot sock includes a toe section
coupled to the foot section at a distal end from the leg section
and receiving the toes of the wearer. The top portions of the leg
and foot sections have a mesh structure and the bottom portions of
the leg and foot sections have a padded construction with the
padded construction extending to the toe section, the mesh
structure and the padded construction being seamlessly
integrated.
[0006] In accordance with another aspect of the present
application, a sock is provided. The sock includes a cuff which has
soft ribbing. In addition, the sock includes a heel section coupled
to the cuff. The sock also includes a foot section coupled to the
heel section, wherein the foot section has a mesh top and a padded
bottom portion. The sock includes a toe wedge extending to the
padded bottom and seamlessly connected to the foot section.
[0007] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
application, a method of knitting a sock is provided. The method
includes knitting a soft ribbed cuff and knitting a leg member to
the soft ribbed cuff. In addition, the method includes knitting a
padded lower foot member to the leg member. The method also
includes knitting a top mesh upper foot member to the leg
member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0008] The novel features believed to be characteristic of the
application are set forth in the appended claims. In the
descriptions that follow, like parts are marked throughout the
specification and drawings with the same numerals, respectively.
The drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and certain
figures can be shown in exaggerated or generalized form in the
interest of clarity and conciseness. The application itself,
however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives,
and advantages thereof, will be best understood by reference to the
following detailed description of illustrative embodiments when
read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0009] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary sock that overcomes the
previously described limitations in accordance with one aspect of
the present application;
[0010] FIG. 2 represents the interior of the exemplary sock;
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment of the exemplary sock
in accordance with one aspect of the present application; and
[0012] FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of the exemplary sock in
accordance with one aspect of the present application.
DESCRIPTION OF THE APPLICATION
[0013] The description set forth below in connection with the
appended drawings is intended as a description of
presently-preferred embodiments of the application and is not
intended to represent the only forms in which the present
application can be constructed and/or utilized. The description
sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing
and operating the application in connection with the illustrated
embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or
equivalent functions and sequences can be accomplished by different
embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the
spirit and scope of this application.
Overview
[0014] Generally described, the present application relates to a
sock. More specifically, the present application relates to a sock
having a revolutionary design. In one illustrative embodiment, a
stretchable foot sock made of Lycra.RTM. is provided. The foot sock
can include an open leg end having soft ribbing for receiving a
foot, toes, and at least a portion of a leg of a wearer. The foot
sock can include a leg section for receiving at least a portion of
the leg of the wearer. The foot sock can also include a foot
section for receiving a foot of the wearer. Typically, the leg and
foot sections include a top and bottom portion wherein the top
portion includes a mesh structure and the bottom portion includes
extra padding. Each of the sections can be seamlessly
integrated.
[0015] Advantageously, the combination of the features and
functions provided within the foot sock can overcome the
aforementioned challenges. The seamless technology presented herein
virtually eliminates irritation that is common among other socks.
The soft ribbing eliminates itchiness around the portion of the leg
of the wearer. In addition thereto, the mesh structure prevents the
accumulation of moisture within the sock and the padding provided
on the bottom portion provides a layer of cushion that can help
reduce fatigue. Other beneficial features will become apparent in
the description provided below.
[0016] As will be shown below, the sock can come in a variety of
forms. One skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that there
are numerous ways in which the illustrative sock can be altered or
manipulated to produce the benefits of the sock described herein.
Many additional features and elements of the present application
will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in the
following description.
Sock
[0017] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary sock 100 having the
revolutionary features described herein in accordance with one
aspect of the present application. The sock 100 can include, but is
not limited to, an open leg end 102, leg section 104, foot section
106, and toe section 108. Those skilled in the relevant art will
appreciate that the sock 100 can include other portions such as the
heel portion 110.
[0018] Before describing the specific features and functions of the
exemplary sock 100, illustrative materials for the sock 100 will
now be described. Typically, the sock 100 can be made of the same
materials throughout. In other embodiments, the sock 100 can
include different materials for each section. For example, the leg
section 104 can be made up of a different material from the foot
section 106. The advantages of using different materials for the
different sections of the sock 100 will become apparent from the
discussion provided below.
[0019] In one embodiment, the sock 100 can be made of spandex.
Spandex is typically composed of a manufactured fiber. The fiber
can be formed from a substance that includes a long chain synthetic
polymer composed of at least 85% of segmented polyurethane. Soft
and rubbery segments of polyester or polyether polyols can allow
the fiber to stretch up to 600% and then recover to its original
shape. Hard segments, usually urethanes or urethane-ureas, can
provide rigidity and so impart tensile strength and limit plastic
flow. The flexibility, abrasion resistance, strength, and
resistance to deterioration by body oils and perspiration are
generally better than rubber.
[0020] The sock 100, in one embodiment, can also be made up of
Lycra.RTM.. Lycra.RTM. is commonly known to include a spandex
filament yarn. The soft segments of the segmented polyurethane can
be formed from polytetramethelyne ether glycol. Socks 100 can be
made of a variety of other materials as well. Some of these
materials can be cotton, wool, nylon, acrylic, polyester, olefins,
or polypropylene. To increase the level of softness of the sock 100
other materials that might be used during the process can be silk,
linen, cashmere, or mohair.
[0021] While numerous types of materials have been described, those
skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the sock 100 can
be made of different combinations of the materials described above.
For example, the sock 100 can be made of ninety-percent (90%)
cotton and ten percent (10%) Lycra.RTM.. This combination can not
only provide a level of comfort, but also be elastic and flexible
to those demands required of the sock 100. Preferably, however, the
sock 100 can be made up of ninety-three percent (93%) cotton. Known
to those skilled in the relevant art, different combinations of
materials can be produced to fit the needs of a user.
[0022] As shown in FIG. 1, the sock 100 can include an open leg end
102. The open leg end 102 can be used to receive the foot, toes,
and at least a portion of a leg of a wearer when the sock 100 is
put on. Generally, the open leg end 102 can come in a one-size that
fits all size. The open leg end 102 can include soft ribbing 112.
The soft ribbing 112 generally eliminates itchiness around the
ankle and calf of a user. In addition thereto, the soft ribbing 112
can improve the circulation of blood to the user's foot thereby,
providing useful features to those with diabetes and other health
problems.
[0023] In one embodiment, the open leg end 102 can include double
ribbing 112. The double ribbing 112 can provide additional
elasticity for the user's foot. In some instances, the double
ribbing 112 can provide a more durable, longer lasting sock
100.
[0024] Connected to the open leg end 102, and as shown in FIG. 1,
is a leg section 104. The leg section 104 can hold an ankle and a
portion of the leg of a user. The leg section 104 can be adjusted
dependent on the type of sock 100 the user wishes to have, which
will be described in relation to FIGS. 3 and 4. Typically, the leg
section 104 can be made of the same material as the open leg end
102, as indicated by the similar shading used for both.
[0025] Continuing, the leg section 104 can be coupled to the foot
section 106. Generally, the foot portion 106 houses the foot of a
user. The foot portion 106 can be provided in a tubular shape. As
shown, the foot section 106 can include two portions, i.e., a top
portion 114 and a bottom portion 116. In one embodiment, the top
portion 114 can include a mesh type material. The mesh can be used
to prevent the accumulation of moisture by allowing for greater air
circulation. The mesh itself is typically defined by a material
having webbing that allows the skin to breath.
[0026] With reference now to the bottom portion 116 of the foot
section 106, extra padding can be provided. Typically, the extra
padding can reduce the amount of strain caused by high impact.
Another advantage of the extra padding is the durability and
sustainability of the sock 100. The padding can reduce fatigue as
well. The extra padding can be made of the same materials discussed
above. In one embodiment, several layers of padding can be provided
on the bottom portion 116.
[0027] Coupled to the foot section 106 is a toe section 108.
Similar to the bottom portion 116 of the foot section 106, extra
padding can be provided on the toe section. In one embodiment, the
toe section 108 extends into the top portion 114 of the foot
section 106 as shown in FIG. 1. This can be used to reduce the
impact on the user's toes.
[0028] The open leg end 102, leg section 104, foot section 106, and
toe section 108 can be seamlessly integrated into the sock 100. The
seamless integration eliminates irritation that is common among
most other socks. The seam 118, as shown in FIG. 1, integrates the
top portion 114, bottom portion 116, and toe section 108, where the
foot is most sensitive. Seamless integration of the various
sections of the sock 100 can provide benefits to those with
sensitive skin.
[0029] To further show the seamless integration, FIG. 2 represents
the interior of the exemplary sock 100. When flipped inside-out,
the seam 118 is virtually removed from the sock 100. This can
provide added comfort to the user. In addition to the seam 118,
typically each and every seam within the sock 100 is also
seamlessly integrated. For example, the seam 202 between the open
leg end 102 and the leg section 104 can be seamlessly integrated to
remove irritation on the leg of the user. Seam 204, seam 206, and
seam 208 can also be seamlessly provided within the sock 100 to
remove irritants to that portion of the user.
[0030] FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment of the exemplary sock
100 in accordance with one aspect of the present application.
Before, the sock 100 was presented to have a crew cut. As shown,
the sock 100 can also have a quarter cut. FIG. 4 shows a third
embodiment of the exemplary sock 100 in accordance with one aspect
of the present application whereby the sock 100 has a low cut.
Embodiments
[0031] In accordance with one aspect of the present application, a
stretchable foot sock is provided. The foot sock can include an
open leg end having soft ribbing for receiving a foot, toes, and at
least a portion of a leg of a wearer. In addition, the foot sock
can include a tubular leg section adjacent to the leg end
dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the leg of the wearer.
The foot sock can also include a tubular foot section extending
from the leg section and receiving the foot of the wearer, the foot
section having a top and bottom portion thereon. The foot sock can
include a toe section coupled to the foot section at a distal end
from the leg section and receiving the toes of the wearer. The top
portion of the foot section can include a mesh structure and the
bottom portion of the foot section includes a padded construction
with the padded construction extending to the toe section, the mesh
structure and the padded construction seamlessly integrated.
[0032] In one embodiment, the soft ribbing can include vertical
strips of stockinette stitches alternating with vertical stripes of
reverse stockinette stitches. In one embodiment, the soft ribbing
can be elastic. In one embodiment, the open leg end can be a crew
cut. In one embodiment, the open leg end can be a low cut. In one
embodiment, the open leg end can be a quarter cut.
[0033] In one embodiment, the open end can be seamlessly integrated
into the leg section. In one embodiment, the padded construction
can include at least two or more layers of material. In one
embodiment, the foot sock can be made of about 93% cotton. In one
embodiment, the foot sock can be made of synthetic polymers
composed of at least 85% segmented polyurethane.
[0034] In accordance with another aspect of the present
application, a sock is provided. The sock includes a cuff having
soft ribbing. In addition, the sock includes a heel section coupled
to the cuff. The sock also includes a foot section coupled to the
heel section, wherein the foot section has a mesh top and a padded
bottom portion. The sock includes a toe wedge which extends to the
padded bottom and is seamlessly connected to the foot section.
[0035] In one embodiment, the cuff can include a single ribbing. In
one embodiment, the cuff can include a double ribbing. In one
embodiment, the foot section can be seamlessly coupled to the heel
section. In one embodiment, the sock can be made of a filament
yarn.
[0036] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
application, a method of knitting a sock is provided. The method
includes knitting a soft ribbed cuff and knitting a leg member to
the soft ribbed cuff. In addition, the method includes knitting a
padded lower foot member to the leg member. The method also
includes knitting a top mesh upper foot member to the leg
member.
[0037] In one embodiment, wherein knitting the padded lower foot
member and the top mesh upper foot member to the leg member can
include seamlessly integrating the members. In one embodiment, the
sock can made of a polymer and a urethane. In one embodiment, the
polymer can provide elasticity for the sock. In one embodiment, the
urethane can provide rigidity for the sock.
[0038] The foregoing description is provided to enable any person
skilled in the relevant art to practice the various embodiments
described herein. Various modifications to these embodiments will
be readily apparent to those skilled in the relevant art, and
generic principles defined herein can be applied to other
embodiments. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the
embodiments shown and described herein, but are to be accorded the
full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein
reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean
"one and only one" unless specifically stated, but rather "one or
more." All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of
the various embodiments described throughout this disclosure that
are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in
the relevant art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and
intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing
disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public
regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the
claims.
* * * * *