Adaptive Bra Fastening With Shape Memory Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with physical impairments face challenges in dressing and undressing due to the need for physical strength, dexterity, and precision in handling traditional clothing fasteners, leading to reduced quality of life, independence, and health issues.
Innovation Solution
Integration of shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators into garments for self-tightening and self-fastening mechanisms, such as adaptive bras, belts, and shoes, which utilize SMA springs and traditional or electromagnetic fasteners to facilitate easy closure and fitting without requiring manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners (zippers, buttons, snaps) are used in clothing, then the clothing can be securely fastened, but it requires physical strength, dexterity, and precision that individuals with physical impairments lack
Solution Approach 1:
The clothing fastening system performs the fastening action automatically without requiring manual manipulation of fasteners by the wearer. The system uses sensors to detect when the garment is put on and automatically activates actuators to secure the garment, enabling individuals with physical impairments to dress independently
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical fasteners (buttons, zippers, snaps) are replaced with an automated system comprising sensors, controllers, and actuators. The mechanical action of fastening is substituted with an automated mechanism that detects garment placement and executes fastening without manual intervention
2Ease of operation
If adaptive clothing designs (zip-off sleeves, Velcro closures) are implemented, then dressing becomes easier for some individuals, but the clothing lacks customizable fits and cannot adapt to different body types and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The clothing system transitions from static, fixed designs to dynamic, adjustable configurations. Actuators can dynamically adjust the fit of the garment in real-time based on sensor feedback about the wearer's body shape, movement, and environmental conditions, providing customizable fits while maintaining ease of dressing
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors continuously monitor the garment's fit and the wearer's conditions, providing feedback to a controller that adjusts actuator positions to optimize the garment's adaptation. This closed-loop system enables the clothing to automatically adjust to different body types and conditions while maintaining ease of operation
3Ease of operation
If shape memory material actuators are integrated into garments, then self-tightening and self-fastening mechanisms are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (sensing, control, actuation, fastening) are merged into an integrated system where components work together as a unified whole. The shape memory material actuators are combined with sensors and controllers in a coordinated system that achieves self-fastening capability while managing complexity through functional integration
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
Enhances independence and comfort for individuals with disabilities by reducing the need for strength and dexterity in dressing, providing customizable fits, and improving daily dressing experiences.
Implementation Method 1
at least one expanding panel including at least one shape memory material (SMM) actuator, wherein the at least one SMM actuator generates a linear contraction of the expanding panel when activated
Implementation Method 2
a shape memory material (SMM) actuator extending between the free end and the cinch loop such that actuation causes the SMM actuator to pull the fastener in alignment with the at least one fastener attachment point
Implementation Method 3
a shape memory material (SMM) actuator connected to each of the first and second ends of the shoelace such that actuation causes the actuator to draw on the first and second ends of the shoelace and to draw each of the first and second fasteners to latch with a fastener attachment point
Implementation Method 4
an electromagnet embedded in the elastic band and drawn toward the passive magnet when powered
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptive bra including an encircling band, a front panel connected to the encircling band and including at least one support panel configured to substantially cover at least one breast of a wearer, and at least one expanding panel including at least one shape memory material (SMM) actuator, wherein the at least one SMM actuator generates a linear contraction of the expanding panel when activated.