Abstract:
A sock attachment is presented for keeping matched pairs of socks together during times when not being worn, including that of during the laundering process. The sock attachment comprises an elastic loop structure secured within the sock opening. A matching sock having an identical loop attachment can be secured onto its corresponding sock by the linking of one loop to another. This is accomplished by placing the loop of a first sock through the loop of the second sock and thereafter taking the distal end of the first sock and inserting the same through its own loop. Thereafter the distal end of the first sock can be pulled completely through the loop, thereby linking the two socks together with a stable connection until separated by an individual, thereby providing convenience when searching for a matching sock.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/812,574 filed on Apr. 16, 2013. The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to foot covering garments. More specifically, the invention relates socks that comprise a means for preventing the loss or separation of one sock from its corresponding sock pair half. 
         [0004]    Socks are provided in pairs and often comprise a variety of designs thereon that distinguish one sock from another. These differences make them easily matched to form an identical pair, however, when one half of a matching pair of socks is misplaced or lost, the singular sock loses its usefulness and is often tossed away or put into a drawer with a plurality of other singular socks. When individually stored in a drawer, it can be difficult to differentiate one sock from a second sock when a multitude of socks comprise closely related aesthetic designs. This can lead to the wearing of mismatched socks or the separation issue of above. 
         [0005]    A common solution for keeping sock pairs together involves placing one of the sock pairs inside of its corresponding sock pair. This can be accomplished placing the upper surfaces of two similar socks next to each other and folding the opening of one sock over the neighboring sock, thereby putting one sock within the interior of the other sock and joining the socks together. Other solutions for joining socks together involve clamping the socks together or tying one sock to its associated sock pair. These solutions, however, only are suitable for use during storage and after cleaning of the socks. 
         [0006]    There are several prior art devices that provide a means for linking or joining pairs of socks together. These prior art devices typically comprise a first sock with a fastener strap thereon and a corresponding sock with a strap comprising a receiver, whereby the fastener is releasably engaged with the receiver. Other devices of the art provide fasteners on the outside of the socks, thereby providing a link between the sock pairs. These prior art devices, however, fail to provide a securing mechanism within the sock opening, whereby the securing mechanism provides a discrete means for securing one sock to another. 
         [0007]    The present invention provides a new and novel means for securing one sock to another, thereby preventing the loss of one sock from a pair thereof. The present invention comprises a sock having a sock body with an opening. Within the opening of the sock body there is included an attachment means that is adapted for securing an elastic loop to the sock opening. In use, one can take a pair of socks of the present invention and place the loop of a first sock through the loop of a matching sock. Thereafter the distal end of the first sock body can be inserted into and pulled through its own loop in order to lock the paired loops together, thus securing the first sock to the second sock of the pair. The secured socks provide a means for preventing the loss or misplacement of the socks, enables the quick finding of sock pairs, and keeps the socks together during washing and storage. The present invention allows the socks to remain together in pairs while in a washing machine, thereby maintaining together matching pairs of socks and not requiring the user to reattach pairs together after cleaning. 
         [0008]    2. Description of the Prior Art 
         [0009]    Devices have been disclosed in the prior art that relate to sock organizers. These include devices that have been patented and published in patent application publications. These devices generally relate to instruments for keeping sock pairs together. The following is a list of devices deemed most relevant to the present disclosure, which are herein described for the purposes of highlighting and differentiating the unique aspects of the present invention, and further highlighting the drawbacks existing in the prior art. 
         [0010]    One such prior art device, U.S. Pat. No. 4,106,126 to Traenkle provides a sock with a retaining means. The retaining means can be an elongated member with a pair of end pieces resembling pompons. The device, when used while wearing shoes, is adapted for preventing the downward movement of a low-cut sock within a shoe when the elongate portion is secured onto the sock and the end pieces are secured onto an outer surface of the shoe. However, while the prior art device of Traenkle is similar in nature and relevant to the present invention, device fails to provide a means for keeping similar socks together. 
         [0011]    Another prior art device, U.S. Pat. No. 4,939,823 to Klein discloses a device that is utilized for pairing and holding socks together. The device comprises a specialized sock and sock holder. The sock includes an upper aperture and the holder comprises a loop with male and female fastening ends. A first end of the holder can be inserted into and through the aperture of the sock and secured at the opposing end of the holder in order to secure one or more socks together. The stock holder is designed for keeping socks together while washing; however, the device requires a holder to extend into an aperture of the sock, which could stretch during the movements of the socks while washing. 
         [0012]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,806,844 to Outred discloses an elastic sock for treating plantar fasciitis. The outer surface of the sock comprises an elastic strap that is secured to the toe portion and the upper surface of the sock. An individual can utilize the device to maintain static tension on the plantar fascia when the foot is at rest while allowing for exercise of the plantar fascia during walking. The prior art device, while having an outer band, fails to provide a means for attaching one sock to another in order to prevent the unwanted separation of one sock from another. 
         [0013]    Yet another prior art device, U.S. Pat. No. 5,038,413 to Ursino teaches a fastening device for keeping pairs of socks together. The device includes a first fastener attached to one sock and a second fastener attached to the second sock. The fasteners are securable onto each other and can comprise hook and loop (Velcro®), a button and button hole, and a hook and eyelet fastener. The fasteners of the prior art, however, are secured onto the outer surfaces of the socks, which is highly visible when wearing the socks. 
         [0014]    Another prior art device, U.S. Publication No. 2011/0191942 to Villalobos discloses a sock for securing down the rear hem of the pants of an individual in order to prevent the pants from being dragged on the ground or stepped on, thereby preserving the structural integrity and extending the use of the pants. The outer surface of the sock includes an adjustable strap with a distal hem-securing mechanism that keeps the end of the pants in close proximity to the lower leg portion of an individual. The prior art device may comprise a securing strap, however, the securing strap fails to provide a means for keeping one sock in close proximity to a paired sock during washing and storing. 
         [0015]    Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,970,524 to Becker discloses a means for detachably securing together a pair of socks. The socks each comprise a strap with a proximal end secured onto the sock body and a distal end comprising a fastener that is adapted for securing onto the opposing fastener of an adjacent sock. The straps can be secured to the outer or inner surfaces of the sock body, however, the prior art fails to disclose loops that are utilized for securing one sock to another as disclosed by the present invention. 
         [0016]    By contrast, the present invention provides a pair of loops that enable the temporary securement of a matching pair of socks together. The loops are secured within the sock opening and project upward therefrom in order to enable the linking of one sock loop to another. In use, the loop of a first sock can be threaded through the loop of a second sock. Thereafter, the distal end of the first sock can be threaded through the loop of the same and pulled therethrough, thereby securing the loops together until the securing process is reversed. The securing of the loops together is convenient for keeping the sock pairs together when washing, drying, and storing the socks between uses. Moreover, the loops are preferably elastic and covered with a fabric for comfort when the socks of the present invention are worn with the loops discretely tucked within the sock interior, thereby providing concealment and comfort while wearing the same. The present invention can be offered on a variety of sock types, including but not limited to athletic socks, crew socks, dress socks, and ankle socks. 
         [0017]    In view of the drawbacks of the prior art devices, it is shown that the prior art has several known setbacks and that the present invention is substantially divergent in design elements from the prior art and subsequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing sock pairing devices. In this regard the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0018]    In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of sock pairing devices now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new sock pairing device wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when desiring to keep socks together during washing, drying, or storing of the socks. 
         [0019]    It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved sock pairing device that has all of the advantages of the prior art and none of the disadvantages. 
         [0020]    It is another object of the present invention to provide a pair of socks with a means for retaining one sock onto an adjacent sock. 
         [0021]    Another object of the present invention is to provide a pair of elastic loops that can be removably secured onto each other. 
         [0022]    Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sock pairing device that is capable of securing together socks during washing, drying, and storage. 
         [0023]    Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0024]    Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout. 
           [0025]      FIG. 1  displays a view of the present invention. 
           [0026]      FIG. 2A  displays a close-up view of the sock loop with a primary loop attachment mechanism. 
           [0027]      FIG. 2B  displays a close-up view of the sock loop with an alternative loop attachment mechanism. 
           [0028]      FIG. 2C  displays a close-up view of the sock loop with an alternative loop attachment mechanism. 
           [0029]      FIG. 3  displays a view of the step of securing one sock to an adjacent sock with the loop of the present invention. 
           [0030]      FIG. 4  displays a view of the present invention in use, whereby the loops are secured together. 
           [0031]      FIG. 5  displays a view of the present invention on a variety of sock types. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0032]    Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the sock pairing device of the present invention. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, the preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for securing one sock to an adjacent sock. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect. 
         [0033]    Referring now to  FIG. 1 , there is displayed a view of the present invention. The present invention provides a device that enables an individual to quickly and easily attach one garment to another, thereby providing convenience when looking for a matching piece of clothing. The present invention is machine washable and can be used after being worn as well as before, during, or after washing and drying in order to keep the matching pair in close proximity at all times during the use of the present invention. 
         [0034]    The present invention comprises a garment for wearing on the foot of an individual, whereby the garment can comprise a sock. The sock can include a sock body  10  with an opening  30  sized for the reception of the foot of a user. Within the opening there can be provided an elastic loop  15  that can be utilized for securement onto the loop of an adjacent sock  10 . An attachment mechanism  20  can be provided for securing the elastic loop  15  to the interior opening  30  of the sock body  10 . In the illustrative embodiment the upper surface of the sock body  10  near the opening  30  is folded over  45  in order to show the attachment mechanism  20  therein. 
         [0035]    Referring now to  FIG. 2A , there is displayed a close-up view of the sock loop with a primary loop attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism  20  can be built into the opening  30  itself, thereby providing an attachment means that is not an additional structure, but rather a pocket or similar support sewn into the sock body. The attachment mechanism  20  can be a pocket  22  formed between outer and inner sock layers that enclose the loop therein, whereby the inner layer comprises a pair of cutouts that are adapted for receiving the loop therein and allowing the loop  15  to extend therethrough. The loop  15  is held captive within the pocket  22 , wherein a small portion is within the pocket  22  and the remaining portion is exposed. 
         [0036]    Referring now to  FIG. 2C , there is shown a second embodiment in which the sock loop  15  is disposed within a sock cuff cavity between the sock interior layer and the sock outer layer. The loop  15  extends around the perimeter of the sock opening  30  and within an interior cavity therein, wherein generally a sock cuff is disposed. In this embodiment, a first and second aperture  27  provides a conduit for the loop  15  to be positioned such that a portion thereof is exposed and the remainder is secured within a cavity defined by the sock inner layer and outer layer along the sock opening. 
         [0037]    Referring to  FIG. 2B , there is shown a close-up view of the sock loop with yet another alternative loop attachment mechanism on the sock body. As an alternative to the aforementioned loop attachment means, the present invention can be offered as a removable addition on the sock opening  30 . The alternative attachment mechanism can be a securing ring  24 , wherein the ring includes a snap closure or hook and loop fasteners for removably securing the ring to a base plate  23  within the sock opening  30 . Similar to the attachment means displayed in  FIG. 2A and 2C , the securing ring attachment is secured short distance within the sock opening  30 . The location of the loop a short distance within the sock opening  30  enables the loop  15  to be discretely located within the sock body  10  when the garment is being worn by an individual. A final attachment embodiment includes directly stitching the loop  15  to the sock opening  30 . 
         [0038]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , there is displayed a view of the step of securing one sock to an adjacent sock with the loop of the present invention. The present invention is designed to keep a matching pair of socks together at all times when the socks are not being worn, such as when the socks are in the clothes hamper, the washer, the dryer, or are being prepared for storage. In order to secure a first sock onto a matching sock, the loop of first sock can be inserted through the loop of the matching sock. Next, an individual can take distal end  35  of the first sock and insert the distal end  35  though the loop opening  50  of the same sock while the loop is still projecting through the loop of the second sock, as illustrated by the directional arrow  40 . The pulling through of the distal end  35  through the opening  50  formed by the loop links the matching sock pair together. Further, the elasticity of the loops  15  readily facilitates the passing of the sock body  10  through the loop  15  with ease. This process can be repeated with any pair of socks, matching or not, in order to secure the socks together until the process is reversed and the socks are separated. 
         [0039]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , there is displayed a view of the present invention in use, whereby the loops are linked together by the method as illustrated by  FIG. 3 . After the distal end ( 35 ,  FIG. 3 ) of the sock body  10  is pulled through the loop opening ( 50 ,  FIG. 3 ) of the same sock, the loops  15  of the matching socks form a link  25 . The process as shown in  FIG. 3  can be utilized for securing one sock onto any adjacent sock. This provides convenience during the laundering process, including but not limited to, organization while in the hamper, during washing, drying, folding, and any occasion where keeping the socks in close proximity are of benefit to an individual. 
         [0040]    The linked socks can be separated by pulling one of the stretchable, elastic loops and reversing the linking process. The pulling of the loop  15  will again form an opening ( 50 ,  FIG. 3 ) through which the sock body  10  can be pulled in order to separate the linked pair of socks for wearing of for storage purposes. After use the linking process can be repeated in order to have the socks linked together in the hamper prior to the laundering process in order to eliminate the risk of losing or misplacing a sock. 
         [0041]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , there is displayed a view of the present invention on a variety of sock types. The present invention can be offered on a variety of sock types, including but not limited to athletic socks, crew socks, dress socks, tube socks, no-show socks, ankle socks, and the like. The securing loops  15  enable an individual to keep their socks together at all times when not being worn, thereby eliminating the worry of losing or misplacing one of a matched pair of socks. Further, the keeping of socks together can save money by not requiring individuals to purchase additional and unnecessary socks, will prevent excess clutter in the drawers and enable the quick identification of a matched sock pair in a collection of clothes. 
         [0042]    Because the loops can be provided with a fabric covering, they can be comfortably tucked into the sock while being worn by an individual, thus encouraging use by providing concealment of the device while wearing the sock throughout the day. Further, the loops are hypoallergenic, thereby enabling use by a majority of individuals. After use, the loops of a matched pair of socks can be secured together and laundered while keeping the pair attached during the entire laundering process until the socks are separated by reversing the linking process. The socks of the present invention can be offered in a wide range of styles, sizes, and colors, and can be provided with adornments, designs and logos thereon in order to suit the aesthetic preferences of an individual. 
         [0043]    It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. 
         [0044]    Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.