Knit elastic mesh loop pile fabric for orthopedic and other devices

Abstract

An improved fabric for orthopedic devices is provided, being a knitted fabric produced on either a warp or weft knit system and utilizing a filament yarn selected from nylon and polyester as well as spandex. The fabric enhances freedom of movement while stimulating blood flow and muscle tone. The fabric has an elasticity that enables closure of orthopedic and other devices by placing the hook component of a Velcro (®) strip at any convenient point rather than aligning it with the loop component of the Velcro (®). The fabric is more convenient, faster and easier for many incapacitated persons, enhancing wearing comfort. Its mesh structure makes it more porous, which enhances the air circulation and the moisture management in creating a cooling effect on the wearer's skin and ready evaporation of perspiration, while still providing therapeutic warmth without heat buildup.

Description

[0001]This application claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 847,186 filed Sep. 26, 2006. The subject application is also related to the following applications:[0002]Fabric for Protection against Electric Arc Hazards[0003]60 / 847,305 filed Sep. 26, 2006 U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ filed ______,[0004]Under Body Armor Cooling Vest and Fabric Thereof[0005]60 / 847,307 filed Sep. 26, 2006 U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ filed ______, and[0006]Improved High Performance Fire Resistant Fabrics and the Garments Made Therewith[0007]60 / 847,002 filed Sep. 25, 2006; U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ filed ______.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0008]The invention relates to a knit fabric, and, more particularly, to an elastic knit fabric having a loop pile construction.[0009]Orthopedic devices such as braces, splints, supports, orthodics, slings, bandaging, etc. are used to relieve discomfort, pain, physical weakness for diverse conditions, ailments or...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0022]1) the spandex content enhances the freedom of movement while stimulating blood flow and muscle tone;

[0023]2) its elasticity enables closure of orthopedic and other devices by placing the hook component of the Velcro (®) strip at any convenient point rather than aligning it with the loop component of the Velcro (®); this is much more convenient, faster and easier for many incapacitated persons and also enhances the wearing comfort; and

[0024]3) the mesh structure makes it more porous, which enhances the air circulation and the moisture management in creating a cooling effect on the wearer's skin and ready evaporation of perspiration, while still providing therapeutic warmth without heat buildup.

Problems solved by technology

Neoprene, while cheap and in frequent use, has poor air porosity, which leads to heat buildup, inducing perspiration and discomfort.

It is, however, disadvantageous since the foam does not sufficiently control the amount of perspiration generated along a patient's skin.

Also the Rubberlite foam is less than desirable due to its tendency to break down and disintegrate.

Neoprene rubber foam carries the functional disadvantages outlined above.

Also, woven fabrics have low permeability to air and do not conform well to the contours of a patient's body or limbs.

Thus, the fabrics in current use have limited flexibility and give, thereby constraining the freedom of movement.

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