U.S. patent application number 14/275756 was filed with the patent office on 2015-11-19 for waterproof oversock.
The applicant listed for this patent is ROBERT LOPEZ. Invention is credited to ROBERT LOPEZ.
Application Number | 20150327628 14/275756 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54537476 |
Filed Date | 2015-11-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150327628 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LOPEZ; ROBERT |
November 19, 2015 |
WATERPROOF OVERSOCK
Abstract
A disposable waterproof oversock is worn over foot and sock to
protect from exposure to liquids, dirt and other contaminants in
the environment that can penetrate footwear or reach above the
ankle. The oversock is secured about the wearer's calf and ankle
using fasteners that accommodate a range of calf and ankle sizes
and allow adjustment to the wearer's desired fit. An elasticized
region further increase both comfort and secureness of fit.
Inventors: |
LOPEZ; ROBERT; (BROOKLYN,
NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LOPEZ; ROBERT |
BROOKLYN |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
54537476 |
Appl. No.: |
14/275756 |
Filed: |
May 14, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/61 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 17/107 20130101;
A43B 3/16 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43B 17/10 20060101
A43B017/10 |
Claims
1. A waterproof oversock comprising: a first sheet of waterproof
material and a second sheet of waterproof material, the two sheets
having complementary traditional sock shapes with oversized
openings, such that each shape has a leg portion and a foot
portion, each of said sheets having an internal surface and an
external surface, each of said sheets having a perimeter including
a top edge, the external surface of the leg portion of the first
sheet having a flap region, a mid region and an ankle region, a
waterproof seam formed between the first sheet and second sheet
along the perimeter excluding the top edge, such that an opening is
formed between the top edge of the first sheet and the top edge of
the second sheet and a cavity is defined by the internal surfaces
of the first sheet and second sheet, and a means of securing the
flap region to the mid region.
2. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 1, further
comprising: an enlarged calf region.
3. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 1, further
comprising: a first reinforcing strip securely affixed to the first
sheet and the second sheet in proximity to their respective top
edges, and a second reinforcing strip securely affixed to the first
sheet and the second sheet at their respective ankle regions.
4. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 3: wherein said
means of securing the flap region to the mid region comprises a
hook and loop system, the flap region further comprising a first
patch of fastening material securely affixed thereto and the mid
region further comprising a second patch of fastening material
securely affixed thereto, such that the first patch can be secured
the second patch.
5. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 4, further
comprising: an enlarged calf region.
6. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 3: wherein said
means of securing the flap region to the mid region comprises a
hook and loop system, the flap region further comprising a strip of
a first fastening material securely affixed thereto and the leg
region further comprising an array of one or more strips of a
second fastening material securely affixed thereto.
7. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 6, further
comprising: an enlarged calf region.
8. A waterproof oversock comprising: a first sheet of waterproof
material and a second sheet of waterproof material, the two sheets
having identical traditional sock shapes with oversized openings,
such that each shape has a leg portion and a foot portion, each of
said sheets having an internal surface and an external surface,
each of said sheets having a perimeter including a top edge, the
external surface of the leg portion of the first sheet having a
flap region, a mid region and an ankle region, an enlarged calf
region, a first reinforcing strip securely affixed to the first
sheet and the second sheet in proximity to their respective top
edges and a second reinforcing strip securely affixed to the first
sheet and the second sheet at their respective ankle regions a
waterproof seam formed between the first sheet and second sheet
along the perimeter excluding the top edge, such that an opening is
formed between the top edge of the first sheet and the top edge of
the second sheet, and a cavity is defined by the internal surfaces
of the first sheet and second sheet, and a means of securing the
flap region to the mid region.
9. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 8: wherein the upper
edges of the first and second sheet further comprise a first end
and a second end, and further comprising a first upper tab securely
affixed along the perimeter in the vicinity of the first end of the
upper edges and a second upper tab securely affixed along the
perimeter in the vicinity of the second end of the upper edges, and
a means of securing the first upper tab to the second upper tab, a
first lower tab securely affixed along the perimeter below the
first upper tab and near the ankle region, and a second lower tab
securely affixed along the perimeter below the second upper tab and
near the ankle region, and a means of securing the first lower tab
to the second lower tab.
10. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 9: wherein said
means of securing the flap region to the mid region comprises a
hook and loop system, wherein said means of securing the first and
second upper tabs comprises a hook and loop system, and wherein
said means of securing the first and second lower tabs comprises a
hook and loop system.
11. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 10, further
comprising: an ankle region on the second sheet, the material of
said ankle region gathered to form a plurality of longitudinal
creases, and a elasticized panel securely affixed to said ankle
region.
12. A waterproof oversock comprising: a waterproof material forming
an elongated cavity having a closed end, an open end, a leg
portion, a foot portion, and an external surface, the external
surface having a first side and a second side, the first side of
the leg portion having a flap region, a mid region and an ankle
region, a means of securing the flap region to the mid region
comprising a hook and loop system, wherein a first patch of
fastening material is securely affixed to the flap region and a
second patch of fastening material is securely affixed to the mid
region.
13. A waterproof oversock as set forth in claim 12, further
comprising: an enlarged calf region.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO COMPACT DISC APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates generally to foot coverings
and more particularly to a new and useful disposable waterproof
oversock which is adapted to protect a wearer's feet and socks
while wearing footwear in conditions that may be wet, dirty, soiled
or otherwise hazardous.
[0006] 2. Background of the Related Art
[0007] The use of socks as a foot covering inside shoes, boots, or
other footwear is well known in the prior art. Socks may serve any
of several purposes, including maintaining the warmth of feet,
preventing injuries to feet due to abrasion with the inner surfaces
or edges of footwear, or acting as a barrier between feet and
undesirable matter that may penetrate into the footwear.
[0008] Individuals, especially construction workers, utility
workers and emergency response personnel, often find themselves
operating in difficult environments. In some of these environments,
individuals may be required to walk through damp or soiled areas,
through puddles of standing water, and even through hazardous
conditions in which standing water contains raw sewage or other
hazardous materials. Individuals participating in recreational
activities, such as hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, boating, and
watersports, also confront similar conditions. Therefore, it is
desirable to provide a solution that protects feet and socks from
liquid and other undesirable elements that may penetrate footwear
or reach above the ankle.
[0009] During disaster relief efforts in particular, personnel are
required to act quickly entering hazardous situations to save lives
and prevent further damage. The delay in donning protective gear
can cost precious moments. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a
solution that allows protective gear to be applied and removed
quickly in emergency situations.
[0010] One common solution is for individuals to first insert their
socked feet into any available plastic bags, such as those commonly
provided by grocery stores or the bags in which loaves of sliced
bread are sold, and then inserting their bag-covered feet into
footwear. This solution provides only brief protection as these
bags are not designed for this purpose. The durability of such
coverings is unreliable, making the bags prone to rips and other
failings after minimal abrasion inside footwear. Accordingly, it
remains desirable to provide a solution for protecting feet and
socks that is durable enough to endure the abrasive conditions
expected inside footwear.
[0011] Another disadvantage of this solution is that such coverings
are prone to sagging, making it difficult to maintain the
covering's desired position above an individual's ankle and around
their calf. This causes problems when attempting to lower a pant
leg over the covering, at which point the covering is likely to be
pushed down and expose the ankle and lower leg. A further problem
results as the bag sags during use and exposes the ankle and lower
leg. In either circumstance, it is possible that the individual is
unaware that the bag has sagged or that the ankle and lower leg
would now be vulnerable if the individual were required to proceed
through some depth of water. It remains desirable to provide a
solution that permits the waterproof covering to maintain its
position above the ankle while being applied and throughout use in
working conditions.
[0012] In an alternative approach, a sock composed of an elastic
and waterproof material is provided. The elastic sleeve is pulled
on over the individual's bare or socked foot. One significant
concern in using an elasticized sleeve is that the elasticized
material will cause difficulty in pulling the sleeve over a bare or
socked foot. Another concern is that the elastic material would
cause continuous and uncomfortable pressure on the foot. Therefore,
it remains desirable to provide a waterproof solution that is not
difficult to put on and that does not apply unnecessary pressure
upon the foot. A further concern is that the cost of using the
elasticized material would be prohibitive for a disposable item. As
such, it remains desirable to provide a solution that is
inexpensive and disposable.
[0013] An additional solution provides a sock composed of one or
more advanced materials that have wicking properties in addition to
being waterproof or water-resistant. Such materials prevent
moisture from the external environment from reaching the
individual's foot and are capable of drawing any moisture
developing inside the sock--as from natural foot perspiration--away
from the foot to the exterior of the sock. While this solution
offers varying degrees of success in protecting the foot and sock,
it embodies several disadvantages.
[0014] One disadvantage of this solution is that the materials
employed are prohibitively expensive for use in a disposable
solution. A further disadvantage of this solution is that it will
be tempting to reuse such an expensive item, causing some to
attempt to clean the sock even after it has been exposed to unknown
and potentially hazardous contaminants. An individual using such a
sock will have been spared contact with undesirable substances
during use, only to be unnecessarily exposed to the same substances
in attempting to clean it for additional use. Accordingly, it
remains desirable to provide a solution that is inexpensive enough
to discourage individuals from attempting to clean a soiled
sock.
[0015] Another disadvantage of this solution is that it causes the
accumulation of moisture within the oversock. The accumulation of
moisture inside an oversock is noted particularly in socks and
oversocks that fit snugly around the foot. As such, it is the
expensive wicking materials used in snugly fitting socks that are
contributing to the moisture problem they claim to address.
Therefore, it remains desirable to provide a solution that does not
encourage the accumulation of moisture within the oversock.
[0016] Yet another disadvantage of a solution that utilizes a
snugly fitted oversock is that such oversocks are difficult to
slide over the foot and ankle as they are being put on and removed.
It is thus desirable to provide a solution that allows the oversock
to be put on and removed easily.
[0017] A further disadvantage of this solution is that many of the
advanced materials used in this solution are not recyclable.
Therefore, it remains desirable to provide a solution that uses
readily recyclable materials.
[0018] It is, therefore, an object of this invention to provide a
waterproof oversock that will protect a wearer's foot and sock from
becoming wet, soiled or contaminated from contact with external
conditions that penetrate the wearer's footwear. Another object of
this invention is to provide a waterproof oversock that protects a
wearer's leg and sock above the ankle when submerged in standing
water or other bodies of liquid. A further object of this invention
is to provide a waterproof oversock that maintains its position
about the ankle during dressing and ordinary usage. Still another
object of this invention is to provide a waterproof oversock that
will discourage the accumulation of moisture. It is also an object
of this invention to provide a waterproof oversock that does not
cause discomfort to the wearer's foot during ordinary use. Another
object of this invention is to provide a waterproof sock that is
easy to put on and remove. A further object of this invention is to
provide a waterproof oversock that is disposable and
recyclable.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0019] Accordingly, the present invention contemplates a new and
improved waterproof oversock, and more particularly, a disposable
oversock that is easy to put on and which stays in place above the
ankle. The invention eliminates the above-discussed and other
drawbacks of the currently employed solutions.
[0020] The invention solves the problem of feet and socks becoming
wet and soiled by providing a waterproof oversock that serves as a
durable and impermeable barrier to external elements. The problem
of maintaining such protection above the ankle is solved by
providing a recess within the oversock that encompasses the
wearer's calf area and contributes to securing the oversock in
position about the lower leg. The problem of maintaining such
protection above the ankle is further solved by providing a means
for easily and adjustably securing the oversock in position above
and about the ankle. The problem of difficulty putting on a tight
fitting elastic sock is solved by providing an oversized oversock
that slips easily over a foot even when wearing a thick sock
directly on the foot. The problem of moisture build-up inside the
oversock is solved by providing an oversized oversock that does not
hold the foot tightly. The problem of risking contamination by
attempting to clean the oversock is solved by providing an oversock
that is disposable and recyclable.
[0021] The invention is particularly suited for use by emergency
personnel in disaster relief efforts. The waterproof oversock can
be applied quickly without significantly impacting the response
times of disaster relief personnel. Similarly, the waterproof
oversock may be removed with ease and speed regardless of the
presence of additional protective gear or equipment. Furthermore,
the generous capacity of the oversock provides the option for it to
be worn over the pant leg, extending its protection the bottom of
the pant leg in addition to the wearer's foot, ankle and sock.
[0022] In one embodiment, a waterproof oversock is provided that is
loose fitting about the foot and with a means of securing the
oversock about the ankle.
[0023] In another embodiment, a waterproof oversock is provided
with a seamless surface.
[0024] In a further embodiment, a waterproof oversock is provided
with a plurality of points for securing the oversock in place about
the ankle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0025] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and
arrangements of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be
described in detail in this specification. Other objects and
advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the
following detailed description and upon reference to the
accompanying drawing, in which:
[0026] FIG. 1 is a side view of a first side of the oversock in
accordance with the invention.
[0027] FIG. 2 is a side view of a second side of the oversock of
FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a side view of a first side of a second embodiment
of the oversock in accordance with the invention.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a side view of a second side of the oversock of
FIG. 3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0030] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown
by way of example in the drawings that are herein described in
detail. It should be understood, however, that the description
herein to specific embodiments is not intended to limit the
invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary,
the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.
It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any
such actual embodiment, numerous decisions specific to any
particular implementation must be made to achieve the developers'
goals, such as compliance with regulatory constraints, which will
vary from one implementation to another. In the interest of
clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described
in this specification. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such
development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would
nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill
in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.
[0031] The oversock components discussed herein may be composed of
any of a number of sufficiently strong materials and may be formed
or constructed by any of a number of processes. Nothing in the
descriptions of the embodiments below is intended to be a
limitation in the possible materials to be used in constructing any
form of this invention.
[0032] FIG. 1 is a side view of a first side of an embodiment of an
oversock 100. FIG. 2 is a side view of a second side of an
embodiment of Oversock 100. In this first embodiment, oversock 100
is comprised of two layers, layer 102 being visible in FIG. 1 and
layer 103 being visible in FIG. 2. Layers 102 and 103 are comprised
of polyethylene that is at least 0.003 inches thick. Without doubt,
any of a number of other materials meeting the requirements and
characteristics of the preferred material could be employed.
[0033] Either the first side or the second side may be described as
the left side or right side of Oversock 100 as worn on a foot.
Similarly, as worn on a foot, either first or second side may be
described as the interior or exterior of the foot and leg upon
which Oversock 100 is worn.
[0034] Oversock 100 has the general shape of an oversized
traditional sock with a wider opening than is traditionally
provided. This embodiment of oversock 100 further diverges from a
traditional sock shape by providing an enlarged calf region 104. As
worn, calf region 104 creates a recess in which the wearer's calf
rests. Calf region 104 surrounds the wearer's calf, providing a
more comfortable fit and additional support against sagging.
[0035] Oversock 100 may be provided in a range of foot or shoe
sizes with the understanding, however, that Oversock 100 is
oversized relative to the size of the intended foot to which it
will be applied. Wearer's foot will rest within region 105 of
oversock 100.
[0036] The profile of Oversock 100 is defined by an upper edge 110
and seam 120 along the remaining perimeter of Oversock 100. Seam
120 is formed by heat sealing or a similarly effective means of
manufacture. As an artifact of manufacture, seam 120 may appear to
continue along upper edge 110. However, layers 102 and 103 are not
joined at upper edge 110. Upper edge 110 defines the opening of
Oversock 100 into which a wearer's foot would be inserted.
[0037] Strips 135 and 136 comprise a hook and loop fastening
system, wherein strip 135 comprises a surface of fastening material
such as a loop surface and strip 136 comprises a surface of
fastening material such as a hook surface. Oversock 100 is secured
about a calf by folding the portion of Oversock 100 with strip 136
onto strip 135.
[0038] Reinforcing strip 160 is securely affixed to Oversock 100 in
the vicinity of upper edge 110 approximately 2.5 inches below upper
edge 110. Reinforcing strip 160 may be comprised of either a single
strip affixed to both the first side and second side of Oversock
100 or two or more strips attached individually to both the first
side and second side of Oversock 100. Reinforcing strip 170 is
securely affixed to Oversock 100 at ankle region 106. Reinforcing
strip 170 may be comprised of either a single strip affixed to both
the first side and second side of Oversock 100 or two or more
strips attached individually to both the first side and second side
of Oversock 100.
[0039] Strip 136 may be pulled and selectively attached along the
width of strip 135. This individual adjustment allows the wearer to
adjustably secure oversock 100 about a range of calf sizes and to
customize the positioning to match wearer's desired fit. The
rigidity of strips 135 and 136, individually and when secured
together, prevent flap region 153 of Oversock 100 from sagging
about wearer's calf and ankle. Region 105 remains loose about
wearer's foot before and after being secured.
[0040] Once secured about wearer's foot, ankle, and calf, Oversock
100 looks, feels, and behaves similar to a standard sock. The
wearer may then insert an Oversock-enclosed foot into any other
footwear. The low friction properties of layers 102 and 103 allow
the Oversock and foot to be slipped into footwear with minimal
resistance.
[0041] FIG. 3 is a side view of a first side of a second embodiment
of an Oversock 100. FIG. 4 is a side view of a second side of a
second embodiment of Oversock 100.
[0042] In this second embodiment, strips 135 and 136 continue to
comprise a hook and loop fastening system used to selectively
secure Oversock 100 about wearer's ankle. Reinforcing strip 160
further comprises two ends, and reinforcing strip 170 further
comprises two ends.
[0043] Upper tab 131 is securely attached to Oversock 100 in the
vicinity of a first end of reinforcing strip 160. Upper tab 132 is
securely attached to Oversock 100 in the vicinity of a second end
of reinforcing strip 160. Lower tab 141 is securely attached to
Oversock 100 in the vicinity of a first end of reinforcing strip
170. Lower tab 142 is securely attached to Oversock 100 in the
vicinity of a second end of reinforcing strip 170.
[0044] Upper tabs 131 and 132 comprise a hook and loop fastening
system. Upper tabs 131 and 132 may be pulled and selectively
attached to each other. This individual adjustment allows the
wearer to further adjustably secure Oversock 100 about a range of
calf sizes and to customize how firmly it is secured about the
calf.
[0045] Lower tabs 141 and 142 comprise a hook and loop fastening
system. Lower tabs 141 and 142 may be pulled and selectively
attached to each other. This individual adjustment allows the
wearer to further adjustably secure Oversock 100 about a range of
ankle sizes and to customize how firmly it is secured about the
ankle.
[0046] The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative
only, as the invention may be modified and practiced in different
but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having
the benefit of the teachings herein. Furthermore, no limitations
are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown,
other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore
evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be
altered or modified and all such variations are considered within
the scope and spirit of the invention. The invention should not be
construed as limited to the specific form shown and described, but
instead as set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *