ITEM OF GARMENT

Abstract

Item of clothing (1), comprising: a. a first textile region (2) which is suitable for receiving at least one sensor, the first textile region (2) having a pocket (5) or clamp for receiving the sensor; b. a second textile area (3); and c. a third textile region (4) which is arranged at least partially between the first (2) and second (3) textile regions, wherein the third textile region (4) is designed such that it decouples relative movements occurring between the first textile region (2) and the second textile region (3) when the item of clothing (1) is worn, so that a sensor accommodated by the first textile region (2) remains substantially stationary relative to a region of an underlying organ of a wearer of the item of clothing (1).

Description

1. Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a garment with a receptacle for a sensor and a method for producing a sports garment. 2, State of the art

[0002] Especially in the field of sports, but also for inpatient or outpatient patient monitoring, clothing is increasingly being equipped with sensors. These sensors are capable of measuring the physiological data of the wearer of such a garment. This physiological data includes, for example, heart rate, electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, and respiratory signals, as well as current movement status and body temperature.

[0003] For example, the heart rate is measured using two electrodes placed in contact with a person's skin. The human heartbeat, particularly its so-called R-pulses, causes voltage changes on the skin, which can be measured using the two electrodes.

[0004] Respiration is measured using meandering electrical conductors, which can be arranged in the chest and / or abdomen, each forming an electrical coil connected to an electrical oscillator. Due to the respiratory movement, the chest and abdominal circumference change, and thus the length of the conductors, the inductance of the coils, and ultimately the oscillation frequency. The change in the oscillation frequency can be evaluated and allows conclusions to be drawn about the respiratory movements.

[0005] A person's movement can be recorded using position sensors or acceleration sensors. Position sensors are capable of providing data on their position in space, while acceleration sensors measure the acceleration acting on them. The sensors can be attached to individual body parts, such as limbs, to measure the movement and / or position of the body parts. Distance sensors can be used to measure the distance between individual body parts relative to each other.

[0006] It is desirable that the sensors attached to a piece of clothing remain as stationary as possible, i.e., that they do not slip. For example, if an electrode for measuring heart rate, as described above, slips, contact with the skin is disrupted or even completely lost, making it impossible to measure the voltage generated on the skin by the heartbeat.

[0007] It can also happen that a sensor moves too far away from the organ whose physiological signals are to be measured. For example, a sensor for measuring respiratory movements described above can slip too far upwards toward the armpits or become tilted, making it impossible to detect respiratory movements. In another example, an electrode for measuring heart rate can move so far away from the heart when wearing a garment equipped with one that it is no longer possible to measure the voltage on the skin caused by the heartbeat.

[0008] The desire for sensors to be as stationary as possible, i.e., non-slip, when wearing sensor-equipped clothing is counteracted by the fact that such clothing is worn precisely when body movements occur that favor slipping. For example, the wearer of a sports garment sometimes performs complex and powerful movements. A soccer player, for example, raises his arms above his head when throwing a ball, so that the torso part of his shirt experiences an upward force, i.e., towards the head. When a tennis player hits the ball, a one-sided force acts on the upper body clothing, which can lead to a twisting of the upper body clothing relative to the skin.Patients who wear a garment equipped with sensors for overnight monitoring may frequently and unconsciously change their lying position and move while sleeping, which may cause the sensors to slip.

[0009] In connection with the problem of sensor slippage or excessive distance from the organ to be measured, it is particularly important that the sensor is optimally positioned. For example, if the sensor is positioned immediately after putting on the garment equipped with the sensor so that a signal can just be measured, slippage caused by movement can be tolerated less than if the sensor is optimally positioned immediately after putting on. If the sensor is incorrectly positioned immediately after putting on, for example, too far from an organ to be measured, the sensor will not be able to measure any signals from the outset.

[0010] DE 22 05 305 A concerns outerwear, in particular sportswear such as anoraks, golf jackets, etc.

[0011] US 3 801 987 A relates to a garment with sleeves and panels at the points where they join the main body of the garment, which provide ventilation under the arms.

[0012] EP 2 077 077 A1 relates to a garment configured using a stretchable fabric, wherein a side region of a rear body part is formed with a linear location whose stretchability in a predetermined direction along a width direction is lower than that of adjacent portions along a predetermined direction.

[0013] US 2007 / 0 256 217 A1 concerns tights with highly elastic sections over an area where no strain is required on the psoas major muscle.

[0014] US 2 554 380 A concerns knitted or warp-knitted clothing articles for pilots, athletes and other persons whose duties require frequent raising, lowering and other movements of the arms.

[0015] US 2005 / 0 054 941 A1 relates to a garment for physiological monitoring comprising first and second elastic fabric sections between which an elongated, stretchable textile data / power bus is arranged.

[0016] US 2011 / 0 184 270 A1 relates to a garment for physiological monitoring of a wearer. In one embodiment, the garment comprises a sensor configured to detect a physiological signal of the wearer; a stretchable element connected to a first connection point; an adjustment element connected to the stretchable element; an adjustment element configured to adjust a distance between the stretchable element and a second connection point; and wherein the stretchable element is configured to stretch when the distance is less than a predetermined distance to bring the sensor into contact with the wearer's skin.

[0017] The present invention is therefore based on the problem of positioning and securing a sensor incorporated into a garment as optimally as possible, so that slippage of the sensor while the garment is worn is reduced or prevented and the measurement signal recorded by the sensor is not disrupted. Furthermore, the present invention is based on the problem of specifying a method for producing a piece of sportswear. 3. Summary of the invention

[0018] According to a first aspect of the present invention, this problem is solved by a garment, wherein the garment has a first textile region which is suitable for receiving a sensor, a second textile region and a third textile region which is arranged at least partially between the first and second textile regions, wherein the third textile region is designed such that it decouples relative movements occurring between the first textile region and the second textile region when the garment is worn, so that a sensor received by the first textile region remains substantially stationary relative to a region of an underlying organ of a wearer of the garment.

[0019] "Substantially stationary" means that the sensor does not slip while worn to the point where a measurement is no longer possible. The area of ​​the underlying organ can be the area in which the sensor is able to measure a signal. If the sensor is, for example, a heart rate electrode that is in contact with the skin, this area can have a diameter of just a few centimeters on the skin, for example 10 cm. Therefore, if the organ is the skin, it is preferably only a partial area of ​​the skin that is important, with respect to which the sensor must remain essentially stationary.

[0020] Unlike known garments equipped with sensors, the garment according to the invention features a third textile region that substantially decouples the relative movements between a first and second textile region. This allows the first textile region, which can accommodate a sensor, to move almost independently of the second textile region. The provision and arrangement of a decoupling third textile region between the first and second textile regions reduces or eliminates the forces occurring between the first and second textile regions due to relative movements between the first and second textile regions caused by body movements of a wearer of the garment.

[0021] The inventors have particularly recognized that slipping generally occurs when the item of clothing does not move with the skin, i.e. when the item of clothing stretches differently than the underlying skin when tensile, shearing and pulling forces occur. The present invention is therefore based on the fundamentally new concept of ensuring, by means of the third textile region and its decoupling arrangement between the first and second textile regions, that the first textile region, which can accommodate a sensor, essentially moves with the skin and therefore continuously delivers signals. Due to the decoupling from the second textile region, the first textile region experiences essentially the same tensile, shearing or pulling forces as the underlying skin and deforms in exactly the same way as the skin, so that slipping of the sensor is reduced or avoided.

[0022] The garment according to the invention enables the measurement of physiological data during natural movement sequences without a permanent "dropout" of the measurement signal. Especially in real-time measurements, it is important that the measurement signal does not drop out permanently, since the position of the sensor cannot be constantly checked and corrected. For example, an athlete in a field sport equipped with a garment according to the invention does not need to leave the field to correct the position of a sensor. Even in relatively "rough" sports such as rugby, the sensor's position remains guaranteed.

[0023] In principle, there are a multitude of possibilities for the design of the third textile area for the inventive realization of the new concept.

[0024] According to a first preferred embodiment of the invention, a material processed in the third textile region is more easily stretchable than a material processed in the first textile region.

[0025] "More stretchable" means that, under typical forces encountered during wear of the garment, a section of the third textile area experiences a greater change in length or stretch than a section of the same size in the third textile area. This can be achieved, for example, by different laminations, knitting, weaving, or warp-knit patterns, fibers, material thicknesses, or densities in the first and third textile areas.

[0026] By making the third textile region a more easily stretchable material than the first textile region, the tensile force occurring between the first and second textile regions is reduced, and slippage of the sensor in the first textile region is reduced or prevented. At the same time, the material used in the first textile region can be less stretchable to secure the sensor.

[0027] For example, the third textile region can have a smaller modulus of elasticity than the first textile region. The modulus of elasticity of a material indicates how much the material expands under a tensile force. Generally, the modulus of elasticity is defined as the quotient of tensile force and material expansion, i.e., a smaller modulus of elasticity means that a lower tensile force must be applied to achieve the same material expansion. Preferably, the third textile region can have a modulus of elasticity of 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 the modulus of elasticity of the first textile region, i.e., it can expand three to two times that of the first textile region under the same force.

[0028] A further possibility from the multitude of possibilities for the design of the third textile region, according to an alternative, preferred embodiment of the invention, provides that the third textile region has an uneven structure. The third textile region therefore does not lie tightly against the skin everywhere. The third textile region can, for example, have folds (pleats) arranged at right angles to the tensile force that occurs, which folds are unfolded, i.e. pulled straight, by a tensile force that occurs between the first and second textile regions. Due to the folds, the third textile region has sufficient material reserves to minimize tensile forces that occur due to changes in length or stretching and to decouple the first and second textile regions. A fine, unfolding, crimped surface structure of the third textile region is also conceivable.

[0029] Yet another possibility from the multitude of possibilities for the design of the third textile region provides, according to an alternative, preferred embodiment of the invention, that the third textile region is designed such that, when the garment is worn, it is spaced further from the skin of a wearer of the garment than the first textile region. The first and second textile regions can, for example, be cut to fit tightly against the wearer's body, while the third textile region has a loose cut. This measure ensures that the third textile region has sufficient material reserves to minimize tensile forces occurring due to changes in length or stretching and to decouple the first and second textile regions.At the same time, the first textile area lies close enough to the wearer's skin to ensure, for example, contact of the sensor with the skin, and the second textile area lies close enough to ensure an appropriate fit of the garment.

[0030] Yet another possibility from the multitude of possibilities for the design of the third textile region, according to an alternative, preferred embodiment of the invention, provides that the third textile region has a substantially different mechanical pre-tension than the first and / or second textile region. The mechanical pre-tensions differ in such a way that, when movements occur on the part of the wearer of the garment, a sensor arranged in the first textile region can measure physiological signals without interference.

[0031] For example, the third textile area can have a lower mechanical pre-tension than the first and second textile areas. This allows the third textile area to deform more easily when tensile stresses occur between the first and second textile areas during wear of the garment. Occurring tensile forces can thus be minimized by changing the length or stretching the third textile area, and the first and second textile areas are decoupled.

[0032] A lower mechanical prestress of the third textile region can be achieved, for example, by stretching the first and / or second textile region through tensile stress when connecting, e.g., sewing, the third textile region to the first and / or second textile region. In this way, the third textile region receives a lower mechanical prestress than the first and / or second textile region.

[0033] The alternative, preferred embodiments described above demonstrate that there are numerous possibilities for the design of the third textile region. Common to all possibilities is that the provision of a third textile region and its decoupling arrangement between the first and second textile regions ensure that the first textile region, which can accommodate a sensor, moves with the skin. In this way, slippage of the sensor is reduced or prevented. For example, it ensures that a heart rate electrode remains in contact with the area of ​​the skin in which electrical surface voltages generated by the heart can be measured.

[0034] Of course, a combination of the various approaches explained as examples as well as other procedures for decoupling the first and second areas through a correspondingly designed third area is also conceivable.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the third textile region has an elongated section substantially along the direction of greatest stretch when the garment is worn. This efficiently decouples forces occurring between the first and second textile regions during wear.

[0036] The sensor can, for example, be a skin electrode for measuring electrical voltages on the skin, such as those used in heart rate measurement or an ECG. It can also be meandering electrical conductors for measuring respiration, arranged as described above. The sensor can also be a magnetometer capable of measuring physiological magnetic fields.

[0037] Preferably, the organ is the skin, heart, or lungs of the wearer of the garment. However, the organ can also be a body region such as the chest, abdomen, or a limb such as a leg or arm. Other organs whose physiological data are measured by a sensor are conceivable.

[0038] Preferably, the third textile region is arranged between the first and second textile regions such that the first and second textile regions do not adjoin one another. However, this is not mandatory. For example, the third textile region can be a circumferential insert substantially in the shape of a cylindrical surface. This insert can, for example, enclose a body part, such as the arm or the underarm area, when the garment is worn. Because the first and second regions do not adjoin one another, both regions are completely decoupled by the third textile region, further reducing the risk of the sensor slipping.

[0039] The garment is preferably an upper body garment, wherein the first textile region is a torso region and the second textile region is a sleeve region. The garment can, for example, be a T-shirt, as worn in numerous sports, e.g., football, tennis, or running. Because the garment has sleeves that are decoupled from the torso region in terms of force by the third textile region, it can be worn visibly as the only garment. The wearer does not have to wear the garment equipped with a sensor as a sleeveless undershirt under their actual sportswear.The invention opens up the possibility of equipping a variety of clothing items for different sports, different seasons such as summer and winter, or indoor and outdoor sports with sensors for the first time ever, without there being an excessive risk of the sensors slipping.

[0040] More preferably, the third textile area is a circumferential sleeve piece. For example, it can be a sleeve piece with a cylindrical surface, positioned near the armhole. This optimally decouples the sleeve from the torso area of ​​the garment, even in a long-sleeved garment, such as a winter jersey.

[0041] The first textile section of the garment has a pocket or clip to accommodate the sensor. This allows the sensor to be removed, preventing it from being damaged when washing the garment. The pocket also ensures optimal support and positioning over the organ to be measured.

[0042] Alternatively, the sensor is sewn, woven, knitted, or glued into the first textile area. If the sensor is designed to withstand cleaning without damage, this type of attachment allows for easy handling of the garment, as the garment can simply be put on without the wearer having to worry about attaching the sensor. Furthermore, a sewn, woven, knitted, or glued sensor cannot slip within the first textile area. This prevents the sensor from becoming incorrectly positioned.

[0043] Preferably, the third textile area is a woven fabric. Fabrics have the advantage that their extensibility, expressed, for example, by their modulus of elasticity, can be easily adjusted through the weaving technique and the yarn used.

[0044] Preferably, the first and second textile areas are made of the same material. This gives the garment a largely consistent appearance. For example, in a long-sleeved T-shirt, the sleeves can be made of the same material as the torso area, except for the third textile area located near the armhole.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the third textile region has two different elastic moduli in two different directions and is oriented such that the direction of the smaller elastic modulus is substantially parallel to the direction of the greatest mechanical stress occurring when the garment is worn. With this orientation of the third textile region, the third textile region can expand most easily when tensile forces occur, thus reducing or preventing the sensor from slipping in the first textile region.

[0046] Preferably, the garment is designed to arrange the sensor so that, when the garment is worn, it is positioned on one side of the torso of a wearer of the garment. With this positioning, for example, the heartbeat of the wearer of the garment can be easily measured.

[0047] Preferably, the sensor can be a heart rate electrode arranged in a lateral region of the chest area. More preferably, two heart rate electrodes are arranged on opposite lateral regions of the chest area.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the garment is designed to arrange the sensor circumferentially, so that when the garment is worn, it extends at least partially around the torso of a wearer of the garment. For example, it can be a meandering conductor, which is used to measure respiration as described above by measuring the change in chest and / or abdominal circumference.

[0049] A further aspect of the present invention relates to methods for manufacturing a piece of sportswear, the method comprising the steps of: a. Obtaining a stretch pattern of the skin of a wearer of the piece of sportswear during at least one sport-specific movement of the wearer; and b. Manufacturing the piece of sportswear, wherein the piece of sportswear has a stretch pattern substantially similar to the stretch pattern of the skin during the sport-specific movement of the wearer and is suitable for accommodating a sensor.

[0050] The wearer's sport-specific movement is a movement specific to a sport. For example, the wearer can perform a throw-in in soccer, or hitting a ball in tennis, as a specific movement. In this way, a piece of sportswear tailored to a specific sport can be manufactured, ensuring reduced slippage of a sensor incorporated into the sportswear while practicing the sport.

[0051] The stretch pattern of the sportswear is so similar to the stretch pattern of the skin that a sensor incorporated into the sportswear, for example, a heart rate electrode, remains essentially stationary relative to an underlying organ of the wearer of the sportswear during movement. This means that the sensor does not slip during the wearer's specific movements to the point where a measurement is permanently impossible.

[0052] The method according to the invention allows the production of a piece of sports clothing that is suitable for accommodating a sensor and thus enables the measurement of physiological data of a wearer of the sports clothing in real time during natural movements, without a permanent "breakdown" of the measurement signal occurring. For example, an athlete in a field sport who wears a piece of sports clothing produced according to the method according to the invention does not need to leave the field to correct the position of a sensor. Even in relatively "rough" sports such as rugby, the fit of the sensor is guaranteed. A piece of sports clothing produced according to the method according to the invention, on the one hand, enables a good measurement signal from a accommodated sensor when the wearer of the clothing is at rest. On the other hand, a permanent "breakdown" of the signal during movements of the wearer, e.g., during sports, is reduced or avoided.

[0053] Step b. of the method is designed such that the stretch pattern of the sportswear item is such that a sensor accommodated by the sportswear item remains substantially stationary relative to a region of an underlying organ of a wearer of the sportswear item when the sportswear item is worn.

[0054] More preferably, the organ is the skin, heart, lungs, rib cage, or abdomen of a wearer of the sportswear item. An organ can also be a body part such as the rib cage or abdomen, but also, for example, a limb such as a leg or arm.

[0055] The method comprises the step of attaching a holder for a sensor to the piece of sportswear. The holder can be, for example, a pocket or a clip.

[0056] The method further preferably comprises the step of attaching a sensor to the piece of sportswear. For example, the sensor can be sewn, woven, knitted, or glued into the piece of sportswear. However, the sensor can also be inserted into a pocket of the piece of sportswear or attached to the piece of sportswear using a clip or similar means.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the receptacle and / or the sensor are mounted in an area of ​​less stretch compared to other areas of the stretch pattern of the sportswear item. This further prevents or reduces the risk of the sensor slipping during certain movements of the wearer, making a measurement impossible.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the method, a textile region is incorporated in a region of greater stretch compared to other regions of the stretch pattern of the sportswear item, which is more easily stretchable than other textile regions. This advantageously reduces mechanical stresses between different regions of the sportswear item and, in particular, ensures that a sensor incorporated in the sportswear item moves with the skin.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the stretch pattern is obtained in step a. using an optical method. For example, reference points can be applied to the skin, whose relative change in distance during the specific movements is optically recorded to determine the stretch pattern.

[0060] Preferably, step b. of the method further comprises: designing at least two textile regions of the sportswear item with different stretching behavior. For example, a textile region of the sportswear item with high stretchability can be provided in a region of high stretchability of the skin. In a region of low stretchability of the skin, a textile region with a correspondingly lower stretchability can be provided. In this way, the stretch pattern of the sportswear item can be adapted to the stretch pattern of the skin. 4. Brief description of the drawings

[0061] In the following detailed description, currently preferred embodiments of the ball according to the invention are described with reference to the following drawings: Fig. 1: A schematic representation of a first embodiment of the present invention, in which the garment according to the invention is an upper body garment; Fig. 2: A schematic representation of a movement of the garment from the embodiment of the Fig. 1; Fig. 3: A schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of the garment according to the invention with a fold-like structure; Fig. 4: A schematic representation of a further alternative embodiment of the garment according to the invention with a third textile region spaced further away from the skin of a wearer of the garment; Fig. 5: A schematic representation of a further embodiment of the garment according to the invention with touching first and second textile areas; Fig. 6: A schematic representation of another embodiment of the garment according to the invention with two different elastic moduli; Fig. 7: A representation of a further embodiment of the garment according to the invention, in which the garment is designed to arrange the sensor circumferentially around the chest of a wearer; Fig. 8: A representation of a further embodiment of the garment according to the invention, in which the garment has a circumferential third textile region and an electrical conductor connected to the sensor; Fig. 9: An embodiment of the garment according to the invention with a third textile area having two sections and a measurement data processing device; Fig. 10: A detailed view of a section of a third textile area according to the embodiment of the Fig. 9; Fig. 11: An illustration of a partial aspect of the implementation of the method according to the invention; Fig. 12: An illustration of a partial aspect of the implementation of the method according to the invention; Fig. 13: A detailed view of a section of a third textile area according to an embodiment; Fig . 14: A detailed view of a section of a third textile area with a slit according to an embodiment; Fig. 15: A partial view of an alternative embodiment of a garment according to the invention; Fig. 16: A partial view of an alternative embodiment of a garment according to the invention; Fig. 17: A diagram regarding the finding of an area of ​​optimal position of a sensor; Fig. 18: An illustration of one aspect of finding an area of ​​optimal position of a sensor; Fig. 19: An illustration of one aspect of finding an area of ​​optimal position of a sensor for two different sports. 5. Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

[0062] In the following, currently preferred embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to a garment and a method.

[0063] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a garment 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the garment 1 is shown as a long-sleeved upper body garment, for example, a winter football jersey. In principle, however, the garment can also be a short-sleeved shirt, for example, a summer jersey, a running shirt, an undershirt, a vest, or pants—in other words, any garment. Preferably, the garment is functional clothing for sporting activities such as football or basketball.

[0064] The garment is generally made of a textile fabric. This fabric can be woven, knitted, crocheted, braided, or fleece—in other words, any type of fabric made from textile fibers.

[0065] The Fig. 1, the article of clothing 1 has a first textile area 2 which is suitable for accommodating at least one sensor (in Fig. 1 not shown). The first textile area 2 is made of a textile material as described above. In the Fig. In the garment 1 shown in FIG. 1, the first textile region is the torso area of ​​the upper body garment shown. In another garment according to the invention, for example, trousers, the first textile region could be, for example, the thigh area.

[0066] The first textile area is suitable for at least one sensor (in Fig. 1 not shown). The sensor is connected to a recording (in Fig. 1 not shown) in the form of a pocket or a clip or other fastening means. Other forms of receptacle, such as a hook-and-loop fastener, snap fasteners, or lacing are conceivable. If the sensor requires contact with the wearer's skin, the receptacle can be arranged on the inside, i.e., the side of the garment turned inside out, facing the body. In such a case, the receptacle allows the sensor to come into contact with the wearer's skin, for example, through one or more holes.

[0067] The first textile area 2 can also permanently, i.e., non-removably, accommodate the sensor. For example, the sensor can be sewn, woven, knitted, or glued into the first textile area.

[0068] The Fig. 1, the garment 1 further comprises a second textile area 3. The second textile area 3 is also made of a textile material as described above. This can be the same material as the first textile area 2. The second textile area 3 in Fig. 1 is a sleeve area of ​​the upper body garment of the Fig. 1. In another article of clothing according to the invention, for example trousers, the second textile area could be, for example, the lower leg area.

[0069] Furthermore, the Fig. 1 has a third textile area 4. This textile area 4 is also made of a textile material as described above. In principle, this can be a different textile material than the first and second textile areas. Fig. The third textile area 4 shown in Figure 1 has the shape of a circumferential sleeve piece, i.e., it runs once around the arm of a wearer of the garment 1. For example, the sleeve piece 4 can be a circumferential insert essentially in the shape of a cylindrical surface. For example, the hems of the torso and sleeves of a T-shirt or shirt could be cut out and the third textile area inserted instead. The sleeve could also be shortened to make room for the third textile area, so that the sleeve has the same length as before after inserting the third textile area.

[0070] The third textile area 4 is designed in such a way that it decouples relative movements between the first textile area and the second textile area that occur when the item of clothing is worn, so that a sensor recorded by the first textile area (in Fig. 1 not shown) remains substantially stationary relative to a region of an underlying organ of a wearer of the garment.

[0071] For example, the sensor can remain essentially stationary relative to an area of ​​the underlying skin. This is particularly advantageous for heart rate electrodes, which require the lowest possible contact resistance between the skin and the electrode. Depending on the application, the sensor can also, additionally or alternatively, remain essentially stationary relative to an internal organ, such as the heart or lungs.

[0072] For example, if the organ is the skin, it is sufficient for the sensor to remain essentially stationary relative to a region of the skin directly associated with the sensor. For example, the sensor may be located on a region of the skin with a diameter of a few centimeters, such as 10 cm, and remain essentially stationary relative to it. For the sensor to be able to measure the heartbeat, it is irrelevant whether other regions of the skin, such as the leg, move relative to the sensor.

[0073] The function of the third textile area 4 is in the Fig. 2, which schematically shows a movement of the garment 1 from the embodiment of the Fig. 1 shows. In the Fig. 2, the garment 1 is after raising the left arm of a wearer (in the Fig. 2 not shown) of the garment 1. By providing and arranging the third textile area 4 between the first textile area 2 and the second textile area 3, the movement of the second textile area 3 is essentially decoupled from the first textile area 2. Since the first textile area covers the sensor (in the Fig. 2 not shown), the movement of the second area 3 is not transmitted to the sensor. The sensor remains essentially stationary relative to the underlying skin of the wearer, meaning the measurements it performs are not adversely affected.

[0074] As in the Fig. 2, the relative movement between the second textile region 3 and the first textile region 2 leads to a significant change in length or stretching of the third textile region 4. This change in length or stretching can be caused by the fact that the third textile region is more easily stretchable than the first textile region.

[0075] For example, the third textile area may have a smaller modulus of elasticity than the first textile area. As is well known, the modulus of elasticity of a material indicates how much the material expands under a tensile force. In general, the modulus of elasticity is defined as the quotient of tensile force and material expansion, i.e., a smaller modulus of elasticity means that a lower tensile force must be applied for the same material expansion. In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 this means that the third textile area 4 expands significantly more than the first and second textile areas.

[0076] Another possibility to promote a change in length or stretching of the third textile area 4 when tensile forces occur is in the Fig. 3. Here, the third textile area 4 has an uneven, namely a fold-like structure 7. Such a structure could, for example, be a pleat, i.e. artificially formed folds. Other structures are conceivable, such as a crumpled fabric or a micro-three-dimensional structure. As in the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the folds 7 can be arranged at right angles to the tensile force between the first and second textile areas, for example, circumferentially around the sleeve. If a relative movement occurs between the first and second textile areas, the folds 7 in the third textile area 4 are elongated, i.e., the third textile area is stretched. The folds 7 thus ensure that, when tensile forces occur, sufficient fabric reserves in the third textile area 4 are available to effect a change in length or stretching.

[0077] Another possibility to promote a change in length or stretching of the third textile area 4 when tensile forces occur is in the Fig. 4. Here, the third textile area 4 is designed such that when the garment 1 is worn, it is further away from the skin of a wearer of the garment than the first textile area. In the embodiment of the Fig. 4, the third textile area 4 below the armpits is further away from the skin of a wearer (in the Fig. 4 (not shown) than the first and second textile regions. In this exemplary embodiment, the third textile region 4 is partially arranged between the first and second textile regions. Partially, namely below the armpits, the third textile region is not arranged between the first and second textile regions. This measure provides the third textile region 4 with sufficient material reserve to cause a change in length or stretching when tensile forces occur.

[0078] Yet another possibility for promoting a change in length or stretching of the third textile region 4 when tensile forces occur is for the third textile region 4 to have a different mechanical prestress than the first and / or the second textile region. For example, the third textile region 4 can have a lower mechanical prestress than the first and second textile regions. In this way, the third textile region 4 can deform more easily when tensile stresses occur between the first and second textile regions when the item of clothing 1 is worn. Occurring tensile forces can thus be minimized by a change in length or stretching of the third textile region 4, and the first and second textile regions are decoupled.

[0079] A lower mechanical prestress of the third textile region 4 can be achieved, for example, by stretching the first and / or second textile region through tensile stress when connecting, e.g., sewing, the third textile region 4 to the first and / or second textile region. In this way, the third textile region 4 receives a lower mechanical prestress than the first and / or second textile region.

[0080] What the above-described embodiments have in common is that the provision of a third textile region 4 and its decoupling arrangement between the first textile region 2 and the second textile region 3 ensure that the first textile region 2, which can accommodate a sensor, moves with the skin of a wearer of the shown item of clothing 1. In this way, slipping of the sensor is reduced or avoided, i.e. the sensor can continue to perform measurements unhindered. The above-described embodiments can also be combined. Other procedures for decoupling the first and second textile regions by means of a correspondingly designed third textile region are also conceivable.

[0081] In the Fig. 1 to 4, the first textile region 2 does not adjoin the second textile region 3, ie the third textile region 4 separates these regions completely. Alternatively, the first and second textile regions can be arranged adjacently, as in the embodiment of Fig. 5. Here, the second textile area 3 in the form of a sleeve area is drawn on the upper side of the sleeve up to the first textile area 2 in the form of the torso area, i.e. both areas touch each other on the upper side of the sleeve in the area of ​​the shoulder. The third textile area 4 is arranged on the side and below the axel between the sleeve area 3 and the torso area 2 in the form of a sleeve piece 4. Since the greatest tensile forces between the sleeve area 3 and the torso area 2 occur below the axel, for example during lifting movements of the arm, this arrangement of the sleeve piece 4 fulfills an equally good decoupling function as in the embodiments of the Fig. 1 to 4.

[0082] In the example of Fig. 6, the third textile region 4 has two different elastic moduli E1 and E2 in two different directions and is oriented such that the direction of the smaller elastic modulus E1 is substantially parallel to the direction of the greatest mechanical stress F occurring when the garment 1 is worn.

[0083] Textile materials with different elastic moduli in two different directions can be, for example, woven fabrics. Fabrics are generally formed from perpendicular warp and weft threads. Different thicknesses and densities of warp and weft threads, as well as the type of weaving, can cause significantly different elastic moduli in the warp and weft directions.

[0084] In the example of Fig. 6, the third textile region 4 is arranged on the garment 1 such that the direction of the smallest modulus of elasticity E1 is substantially parallel to the direction of the greatest mechanical stress F occurring when the garment is worn.

[0085] In the example of the upper body garment of the Fig. 6, the greatest mechanical stress F occurs on the underside of the axilla, e.g., when raising the arm, and is directed from the sleeve area 2 to the torso area 2. Accordingly, the direction of the smallest elastic modulus E1 is essentially parallel to the direction of this mechanical stress F. In this way, stretching of the third textile area is further promoted when tensile stresses occur, and slipping of the sensor is reduced or avoided.

[0086] Fig. 7 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in which the item of clothing 1 is designed to arrange a sensor 5 circumferentially, so that when the item of clothing is worn, the sensor 5 runs at least partially around the torso of a wearer of the item of clothing 1. For example, it can be a meander-shaped electrical conductor which is used to measure respiration. To measure respiration, the sensor 5 has, for example, meander-shaped electrical conductors, each of which forms an electrical coil and can be connected to an electrical oscillator. Due to the respiratory movement, the chest and abdominal circumference change and thus the length of the electrical conductor, the inductance of the coils and finally the oscillation frequency. The change in the oscillation frequency can be evaluated and allows conclusions to be drawn about the respiratory movements.

[0087] Fig. Fig. 8 shows a representation of a further embodiment of the garment 1 according to the invention, in which the garment 1 has a circumferential third textile area 4 and an electrical conductor 6 connected to the sensor 5. The electrical conductor can, for example, lead to a measurement data processing direction (in the Fig. 8 not shown) which is attached to the item of clothing 1 and processes or stores the data measured by the sensor 5 or transmits it wirelessly to a receiver.

[0088] Fig. 9 shows a further embodiment of the garment 1 according to the invention with a third textile area 4 comprising two sections 4a and 4b and a measurement data processing device 7. The third textile area 4 comprises a section 4a surrounding the arm in the shoulder area and an elongated section 4b extending from the lateral chest area under the armpit to the upper arm area. Fig. 9 also shows an area 8 optimal for the function of the sensor. If the sensor, which in this embodiment is a heart rate electrode, is positioned in this area, it is capable of measuring the heart rate of a wearer of the garment 1. The measurement data processing device 7 is connected to the heart rate electrode via an electrical conductor 6. This conductor can be flexible and exhibit a similar stretching behavior to the textile area in which it is arranged.

[0089] Fig. 10 shows a detailed view of a section 4b of a third textile area 4 according to the embodiment of Fig. 9. Section 4b is elongated and has a tapered shape. This cut allows for optimal decoupling of the first and second textile sections.

[0090] Fig. Figure 11 shows an illustration of a partial aspect of the implementation of the method according to the invention. Here, the stretching pattern of the skin of a wearer, namely an athlete, was obtained using an optical method during a sport-specific movement, namely a throw-in in soccer. The stretching of the skin is shown in this figure as a relative stretch compared to the resting state of the skin, e.g., when standing upright and relaxed with arms hanging. Thus, a relative stretch of 100% in a specific area of ​​the skin means that the skin in this area has stretched to twice its length. A stretch of 30%, for example, means that a previously 1 cm long piece of skin has stretched to a length of 1.3 cm.

[0091] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the greatest strain occurs in area 9, ranging from 25% to 60%. Area 10 exhibits a strain of 20% to 25%. Area 11 exhibits a strain of 10% to 20%, and area 12 exhibits a strain of 0% to 10%. As shown in Figure 11, Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the greatest stretching of the skin below the axilla occurs between the mid-lateral chest area and the mid-lateral back area during a throw-in.

[0092] After the Fig. 11, an article of sportswear is produced according to the method according to the invention, wherein the article of sportswear has a stretch pattern when worn that is substantially similar to the stretch pattern of the skin.

[0093] The stretch pattern of the sportswear is so similar to the stretch pattern of the skin that a sensor accommodated by the sportswear, for example, a heart rate electrode, remains essentially stationary relative to an underlying organ of the wearer of the sportswear during the specific movements of the wearer of the sportswear. This means that the sensor does not slip during the wearer's specific movements to the point where a measurement is permanently impossible.

[0094] The method according to the invention allows the production of a piece of sportswear suitable for accommodating a sensor, thus enabling the real-time measurement of physiological data of a wearer of the sportswear during natural movements, without a permanent "disruption" of the measurement signal. For example, according to the method according to the invention, the piece of sportswear can be adapted for a specific sport or group of sports by performing at least one sport-specific movement while maintaining the skin's stretch pattern.

[0095] For example, an athlete in a field sport wearing a piece of sportswear manufactured according to the method according to the invention does not need to leave the field to adjust the position of a sensor. Even in relatively "rough" sports such as rugby, the sensor's fit remains guaranteed.

[0096] Fig. Figure 12 shows an illustration of a partial aspect of the implementation of the method according to the invention. This figure shows the stretching of a piece of sportswear 1 according to the invention. The stretching of the sportswear was achieved using the same method as the stretching of the skin in Fig. 11. The areas of different strain correspond to those from Fig. 11. The lowest stretch occurs in area 12, from 0% to 10%. This area is best suited for positioning a sensor and / or an expandable electrical lead for the sensor, as the sensor and / or the expandable electrical lead are least likely to slip during a sport-specific movement, such as a throw-in. The sensor and / or the expandable electrical lead can also be positioned in area 11, which has a stretch of 10% to 20%.

[0097] Preferably, a stretchable electrical lead for the sensor has the same stretching behavior, e.g. expressed by a modulus of elasticity, as the area of ​​the sports clothing item in which the stretchable electrical lead is attached.

[0098] The Fig. 11 and Fig. The strain scale shown in Figure 12 ranges from 0% to 30%. Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 shown areas 9 also show strains of more than 30%, for example up to 60%. In the explanation of the Fig. 11 and Fig. For example, the stretching range was divided into four ranges: 12: 25% to 60%, 11: 20% to 25%, 10: 10% to 20%, and 9: 0% to 10%. Other divisions, coarser or finer, are of course possible. Likewise, the stretching scale can be adjusted to accommodate larger or smaller maximum stretches, depending on the specific movement or sport.

[0099] Fig. Figure 13 shows a detailed view of a section 4b of a third textile region according to an exemplary embodiment. In section 4b, the third textile region has an elongation of more than 30%, preferably more than 60%.

[0100] Fig. Figure 14 shows a detailed view of a section 4b of a third textile area with a slit 13 according to one exemplary embodiment. The slit in the third textile area can further promote the decoupling between the first and second textile areas by preventing or reducing the upward movement of the first textile area, e.g., during a throw-in in soccer.

[0101] Fig. Figure 15 shows a partial view of an alternative embodiment of a garment according to the invention. Compared to the previous embodiments, this garment has a different cut, especially in the third textile area.

[0102] Fig. Figure 16 shows a partial view of an alternative embodiment of a garment according to the invention, which is suitable for the sport of basketball. Here, a portion of the third textile area 4 is positioned in a diamond shape under the armpit.

[0103] It is important that a sensor incorporated into the garment according to the invention is positioned as optimally as possible. The following procedure can be used for this purpose: The method relates to determining a range of possible positions of a sensor on a garment, wherein the sensor is suitable for measuring physiological data of a wearer of the garment, and wherein the method comprises the steps of: a. putting on the garment by a first wearer; b. marking a range of possible positions of the sensor on the garment that is specific to the first wearer; c. repeating steps a and b for at least a second wearer; and d. determining an overlap area of ​​the specific ranges of possible positions of the sensor of the first and second wearers.

[0104] The overlap area can be determined directly or indirectly, for example, by inferring from all areas where the possible sensor positions of the first and second carriers do not overlap. The overlap area can also be determined by determining the area specific to the second carrier only within the area specific to the first carrier. Similarly, the area specific to a third carrier would be determined only within the area specific to the second carrier, and so on. In this way, the overlap area is increasingly narrowed down.

[0105] The process ensures that the sensor, or a holder for it, is positioned as optimally as possible on the garment so that minimal slippage can be tolerated. Clothing is usually offered in various sizes, for example S (for "small"), M (for "medium"), L (for "large") and XL (for "extra large"), with extensions for smaller and larger sizes if necessary. Custom-made garments are generally not found, especially in the leisure and sports sectors, but are still possible there - e.g., in elite sports. Therefore, a certain clothing size should fit as many different wearer anatomies as possible. It is well known that people of the same clothing size do not have a uniform anatomy; there are large differences, for example, in terms of circumference, arm and leg length, shoulder and hip width, etc.

[0106] The method allows the determination of an area on the garment that is optimal for positioning the sensor for a variety of different wearer anatomies. This area is the overlap area determined by the method. The method ensures that the sensor, or a holder for it, is positioned on the garment in such a way that it rests against the organ to be measured for the largest possible number of different wearers, enabling the measurement of the organ's physiological data. This positioning allows for minor slippage to be tolerated, as the sensor is then still within the optimal area determined by the method.If the sensor were positioned in a suboptimal area for measurement immediately after putting on the garment, i.e., before any activity, such as near the edge of the organ, even a slight shift could cause the sensor to move too far from the optimal area. Measurement would then no longer be possible.

[0107] In a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises the step of applying a reference marking to the garment. This preferably occurs before step a. However, it is also possible to apply the reference marking after step a. A reference marking allows for a simple comparison between the specific ranges of possible sensor positions for different wearers. A reference marking also facilitates electronic measurement and processing during the method.

[0108] The reference marking is preferably a grid. This facilitates the measurement of the specific areas of possible sensor positions for different wearers by allowing the coordinates of the areas to be determined relative to the grid.

[0109] Fig. Figure 17 shows a diagram of the optimal position of a sensor. Fig. Figure 17 shows a grid as a reference marker. Furthermore, the optimal sensor location on the garment for the current wearer was determined and marked accordingly. This location lies between the underside of the pectoralis major muscle and the lower edge of the rib cage, e.g., in the area of ​​the costal arch. This position enables a good measurement signal from the sensor when the wearer is at rest. Furthermore, signal interruption during wearer movement, e.g., during sports, is reduced or eliminated.

[0110] The method preferably comprises the step of electronically detecting the specific ranges of possible positions of the sensor of the first and second carriers relative to the reference marking. Electronic detection allows for simple electronic processing and evaluation during the method.

[0111] The method further preferably comprises the step of superimposing the specific regions of possible positions of the sensor of the at least two carriers using the reference marking. By superimposing the specific regions of possible positions of the sensor of different carriers, the overlapping region can be easily determined as an intersection. However, other methods for directly or indirectly determining the overlapping region are also possible.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the specific areas of possible sensor positions for the first and second wearers are defined by the underside of a pectoral muscle (musculus pectoralis major) and the lower edge of the rib cage, e.g., in the area of ​​the costal arch (arcus costalis). Such a defined area is the area relevant for determining the heart rate, i.e., a sensor suitable for measuring the heart rate, such as an electrode, should be positioned in this area.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the first and second wearers are athletes of different sports. This ensures that the sensor position is optimal when practicing different sports, for example, soccer and basketball, and that slight slippage of the sensor can be tolerated.

[0114] Fig .Figure 18 shows an illustration of this aspect of the described method for finding an area of ​​optimal sensor position. The left half shows the optimal areas for different average soccer players, while the right half shows the optimal areas for different average basketball players. The different optimal areas for the soccer players result in the overlap area 14, which is optimal for a large proportion of soccer players when the soccer players used to implement the method correspond to the population and / or buyer average. The same applies to the overlap area 15 in the right half for the average basketball players.

[0115] Fig. Figure 19 shows an illustration of one aspect of finding an area of ​​optimal sensor position for two different sports. In this figure, areas 14 and 15 were Fig. 18 overlaps, resulting in an area 16 in which the sensor is optimally positioned for both football and basketball.

[0116] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the area specific for the first or second wearer comprises all positions at which the sensor is capable of measuring physiological data of the first or second wearer.

[0117] A further aspect of the present invention relates to an item of clothing having at least one receiving device for a sensor, wherein the position of the receiving device for the sensor in the item of clothing has been determined by a method which comprises determining a range of possible positions of the sensor in the item of clothing according to the method described above. The receiving device, for example a pocket or clip, fixes the sensor to the item of clothing and thus determines its position on the item of clothing. The position of the sensor and thus the position of the receiving device is determined according to the method described above, so that the position of the sensor and thus of the receiving device is optimal for a variety of different wearer anatomies and slight slippage of the sensor can be tolerated without negatively affecting the measurement carried out using the sensor.This distinguishes the garment according to the invention from previously known garments for accommodating sensors from the prior art.

[0118] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a garment having at least one sensor, wherein the position of the sensor in the garment has been determined by a method comprising determining a range of possible positions of the sensor in the garment according to the method described above. This ensures that the position of the sensor is optimal for a variety of different wearer anatomies and that slight slippage of the sensor can be tolerated without negatively affecting the measurement performed by the sensor. Here, too, the position determination using the method according to the invention significantly determines the measurement accuracy and the reliability of the sensor function of the garment according to the invention.

Claims

[1] Article of clothing (1), comprising: a. a first textile region (2) which is suitable for receiving at least one sensor, the first textile region (2) having a pocket (5) or clamp for receiving the sensor; b. a second textile area (3); and c. a third textile region (4) which is arranged at least partially between the first (2) and second (3) textile regions, wherein the third textile region (4) is designed such that it decouples relative movements occurring between the first textile region (2) and the second textile region (3) when the item of clothing (1) is worn, so that a sensor accommodated by the first textile region (2) remains substantially stationary relative to a region of an underlying organ of a wearer of the item of clothing (1). [2] Garment (1) according to claim 1, wherein a material processed in the third textile region (4) is more easily stretchable than a material processed in the first textile region (2). [3] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third textile region (4) has an uneven structure (7). [4] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third textile region (4) is such that, when the item of clothing (1) is worn, it is spaced further from the skin of a wearer of the item of clothing (1) than the first (2) textile region. [5] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third textile region (4) has a substantially different mechanical pre-tension than the first (2) and / or the second (3) textile region. [6] Garment (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third textile region (4) has an elongated section substantially along the direction of greatest stretch when the garment is worn. [7] A garment (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the organ is the skin, heart, lungs, thorax or abdomen of a wearer of the garment. [8] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third textile region (4) is arranged between the first (2) and second (3) textile regions such that the first (2) and second (3) textile regions do not adjoin one another. [9] Garment (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which is an upper body garment, wherein the first textile region (2) is a torso region and wherein the second textile region (3) is a sleeve region. [10] Garment (1) according to claim 9, wherein the third textile area (4) is a circumferential sleeve piece. [11] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (6) is sewn, woven, knitted or glued into the first textile area (2). [12] Garment according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third textile region (4) is a woven fabric. [13] Garment (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (2) and second (3) textile areas comprise the same material. [14] Garment (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the third textile region (4) has two different elastic moduli (E1, E2) in two mutually different directions and is oriented such that the direction of the smaller elastic modulus (E1) is substantially parallel to the direction of the greatest mechanical stress (F) occurring when the garment is worn. [15] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the item of clothing (1) is designed to arrange the sensor so that it is positioned on one side of the torso of a wearer of the item of clothing (1) when the item of clothing (1) is worn. [16] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the item of clothing (1) is designed to arrange the sensor (6) circumferentially, so that when the item of clothing (1) is worn, it extends at least partially around the torso of a wearer of the item of clothing (1). [17] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor is a textile sensor with a substantially identical stretching behavior as the first textile region and / or the skin of a wearer of the item of clothing. [18] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor is a heart rate electrode and wherein the item of clothing (1) is designed to arrange the sensor such that it is arranged in a lateral chest region of the wearer of the item of clothing. [19] Item of clothing (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor is a heart rate electrode which communicates with a data transmission device. [20] A method of manufacturing a sportswear item, the method comprising the steps of: a. maintaining a stretch pattern of the skin of a wearer of the sportswear during at least one sport-specific movement of the wearer; b. Producing the item of sportswear, wherein the item of sportswear has a stretch pattern substantially similar to the stretch pattern of the skin during the sport-specific movement of the wearer, and attaching a receptacle for a sensor to the item of sportswear, wherein the production of the item of sportswear is designed such that the stretch pattern of the item of sportswear is such that a sensor received by the item of sportswear remains substantially stationary relative to a region of an underlying organ of a wearer of the item of sportswear when the item of sportswear is worn. [21] The method of claim 20, wherein the organ is the skin, heart, lungs, thorax or abdomen of a wearer of the sportswear. [22] The method according to any one of claims 20 to 21, wherein step b. further comprises the step: Attaching a sensor to the piece of sportswear. [23] A method according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the receptacle and / or the sensor are mounted in a region of small stretch compared to other regions of the stretch pattern of the sportswear item. [24] Method according to one of claims 20 to 23, wherein in a region of high stretch compared to other regions of the stretch pattern of the sportswear item, a textile region is incorporated which is more easily stretchable than other textile regions. [25] Method according to one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the obtaining of the strain pattern in step a. is carried out by means of an optical method. [26] A method according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein step b. further comprises: Designing at least two textile areas of the sportswear item with different stretching behavior.

Images