Apparel Aperture for Secure Electronic Device Housing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing athletic apparel with integrated electronic devices often exposes these devices to damage during washing and lacks flexibility in design, limiting functionality and interchangeability.
Innovation Solution
An article of apparel, such as a wristband or jacket, featuring a material element with an aperture to securely house an electronic device, covered by a flexible material that allows the device to be hidden and its display to be readable through the material, enabling easy activation and interchangeability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electronic device is exposed on the apparel surface, then the display is visible and functional, but the device is vulnerable to damage during washing
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device is nested within an aperture in the apparel material, with the device positioned inside the apparel rather than exposed on the surface. This nesting arrangement protects the device from external damage during washing while still allowing the display to be visible through the material.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparel material itself serves as an intermediary protective layer between the electronic device and the washing environment. The material allows the display to be seen through it while providing physical protection against damage during the washing process.
2Reliability
If the electronic device is covered by material, then the device is protected and aesthetics are improved, but the display visibility may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The covering material is designed with optical properties that allow it to change its transparency state. When the electronic device is active, the material becomes transparent or translucent to allow display visibility. When inactive, the material maintains its opaque or colored appearance for aesthetic purposes and protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering material dynamically adjusts its transparency based on the operational state of the electronic device. The material transitions between opaque and transparent states, allowing it to provide both protection and visibility as needed, rather than being fixed in one state.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the electronic device is permanently attached to the apparel, then the integration is secure, but the flexibility for interchangeability and washing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device and apparel are segmented as separate components that can be independently attached and detached. The device is positioned within an aperture in the apparel but remains as a separate, removable component, allowing for easy interchangeability while maintaining secure attachment when in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic removable attachment. The device can be securely attached during use and easily removed for washing or interchangeability, providing flexibility in how the components are connected.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the electronic device is integrated into the apparel, then functionality is enhanced, but the ease of washing the apparel is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device and apparel are segmented as separate washable components. The device can be removed from the apparel before washing, allowing the apparel to be washed without damage to the electronic components. This segmentation maintains the functional integration during use while enabling separate washing during maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device is removed from the apparel as a preliminary action before the apparel is subjected to washing. This preliminary separation protects the electronic components from water and mechanical damage during the washing process while maintaining the integrated functionality during normal use.
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 solution protects the electronic device from damage during washing and allows for interchangeable functions, enhancing user convenience and athletic performance by integrating various electronic features like timing, GPS, and communication without compromising aesthetics or functionality.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible material covers the electronic device such that the electronic device is not seen. Upon activation of the electronic device, the readout of the electronic device is visible through the material.
Data Source
AI summary
An article of apparel is disclosed that includes a covered electronic device. The apparel is at least partially formed from a material element that defines an aperture. The electronic device is locatable within the aperture and secured to the material element. A material covers the electronic device such that the electronic device cannot be seen. Upon activation of the electronic device, the readout is seen through the material. The electronic device may be a timing device, such as a watch, or a global positioning system unit. The apparel may be a wristband formed from a polymer material or any of a variety of other types of apparel.