3D Elastomer Garment Layers for Localized Support and Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing garments and bandages with superimposed fabric layers fail to provide a comfortable fit and functional support adaptation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the application of elastomer connections in dot-, line-, or areal forms to interconnect fabric layers, combined with a three-dimensional elastic shaped part protruding from one layer, using elastomer and optionally reinforcement material, to enhance comfort and support properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If two fabric layers are fully interconnected by elastomer adhesive, then structural stability is improved, but wear comfort and elastic movement are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomer connection is segmented into discrete dot-like, line-like, or areal patterns rather than continuous coverage. This segmentation allows the fabric layers to remain connected at specific points while maintaining freedom of movement in other areas, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and wear comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomer connection is applied with varying local density and distribution patterns across different regions of the garment. Areas requiring higher stability receive denser elastomer connections, while areas requiring greater flexibility receive sparser connections, optimizing both structural stability and wear comfort locally.
2Ease of manufacture
If uniform elastomer connection is applied across all fabric areas, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but functional support adaptation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Different elastomer connection patterns (dot-like, line-like, areal) and densities are applied to different functional zones of the garment. High-support areas receive denser connections while low-support areas receive sparser connections, enabling functional adaptation without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomer connection pattern is designed to dynamically adapt to body movements and physiological conditions. The distributed dot-like and line-like patterns allow the garment to flex and conform to changing body shapes while maintaining appropriate support levels in different regions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If elastomer is applied in dot-like pattern, then fabric breathability is improved, but connection strength is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection is segmented into discrete dots distributed across the fabric surface. This segmentation maintains large open areas for breathability while the concentrated elastomer at each dot location provides sufficient connection strength. The cumulative effect of multiple distributed dots achieves overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The parameters of the dot-like elastomer connections (size, spacing, density, and local concentration) are optimized to achieve the desired balance. By controlling the elastomer application parameters, sufficient connection strength is achieved at each dot while maintaining overall fabric breathability through the distributed pattern.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method achieves a comfortable fit with localized pressure points for massaging or medical support, such as lymph flow enhancement, while allowing elastic movement and high wear comfort.
Implementation Method 1
the elastomer material enters the fabric layers at least partially
Implementation Method 2
After curing of the elastomer material a firm interconnection between the elastomer and each fabric layer is established
Implementation Method 3
because of the elasticity of the elastomer material, a certain resiliency in a direction normal to the fabric layer plane and also in both directions within the fabric layer plane is provided for
Implementation Method 4
by a layered application of an elastomer material, a three-dimensional elastic shaped part which protrudes from the one fabric layer
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for producing garments or bandages two superimposed fabric layers are interconnected by a dot-, line-, or areal elastomer connection wherein on one of the fabric layers a three-dimensional upstanding shaped part is formed by a layered application of an elastomer and is connected only to the fabric layer carrying the shaped part.