Multi-Layer Adjustable Collar for Fit and Moisture Drainage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing apparel articles often fail to provide adjustable fit, mobility, comfort, and protection from external conditions, leading to suboptimal performance and discomfort during various activities.

Innovation Solution

The development of an adjustable collar with a multi-layer construction, featuring an inner and outer collar member with a partially enclosed region and laser perforated holes, along with a cord assembly and cord cinch mechanism, allowing for customizable fit and drainage of moisture.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed collar structure is used, then the manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability and comfort for different subjects are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecollar fit adaptabilityVSAvoidcollar structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collar is divided into multiple independent layers (outer collar member, inner collar member, intermediate layer) that can function independently or work together. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute to the overall adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The collar incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms including draw cords with cinch mechanisms, adjustable fastening systems, and flexible materials that allow the collar structure to adapt to different neck sizes and shapes. These dynamic elements enable the collar to transform from a fixed structure to an adjustable one

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a multi-layer collar structure is used, then the protection and comfort are enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecollar performance reliabilityVSAvoidcollar construction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collar employs a nested multi-layer construction where the inner collar member is positioned within the outer collar member, with an intermediate layer between them. This nesting arrangement provides enhanced protection and comfort through multiple layers while organizing the complexity in a structured, manageable manner

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The collar utilizes composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties - the outer collar member provides structural integrity and weather protection, the intermediate layer provides insulation and moisture management, and the inner collar member provides comfort against the skin. This composite approach enhances overall reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of operation

If the inner collar member extends past the outer collar member, then the comfort and mobility are improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveneck mobilityVSAvoidcollar edge alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of having the outer collar member extend beyond the inner collar member (traditional design), this invention inverts the arrangement by having the inner collar member extend past the outer collar member at the front. This inversion improves comfort and mobility by allowing the inner layer to contact the skin directly while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

4Adaptability or versatility

If a cord assembly with cinch mechanism is used, then the adjustability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecollar size adjustabilityVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collar incorporates self-adjusting features through draw cords that pass through the collar layers and can be easily pulled and cinched by the user without requiring complex mechanisms or assistance. The cinch mechanisms are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, allowing individuals to independently adjust the collar fit

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 mobility, comfort, and protection by optimizing fit and managing moisture, thereby improving performance across different environments and activities.

Implementation Method 1

the outer collar member comprises a plurality of laser perforated holes in fluid communication with the partially enclosed region

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid communication through laser perforated holes: Porosity

Data Source

PatentUS12532928B1Garment with adjustable collar

Publication Date: 2026.01.27 ACUSHNET CO

AI summary

An article comprising an upper garment with a multi-layer collar configured to extend around a neck region of a subject's body. The multi-layer collar may comprise an inner collar member with a first lower edge and a first upper edge and an outer collar member with a second lower edge and a second upper edge. In some cases, the first lower edge and the second lower edge may be joined together to form a lower edge of the multi-layer collar. In some cases, the first upper edge of the inner collar member may be configured to extend past the second upper edge of the outer collar member.