Compression Apparel Insert Positioning via Friction and Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing athletic apparel systems lack flexibility in positioning and securing various functional elements such as padding, heating/cooling devices, and electronic components, which limits their ability to provide customized protection and functionality based on user preferences and activities.
Innovation Solution
A two-layer apparel system with an outer and inner layer that are mostly unconnected, allowing insert elements like foam, liquid, or electronic devices to be securely positioned between them using friction, compression, and fastening systems, enabling their relocation and customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If insert elements are secured within apparel using friction and compression, then the insert elements remain positioned during athletic activities, but the apparel structure becomes more complex with multiple layers and fastening systems
Solution Approach 1:
The apparel is divided into multiple functional layers: an inner layer, an outer layer, and removable fastening systems. This segmentation allows each layer to serve a specific purpose - the inner and outer layers provide structural integrity and compression, while the separate fastening systems enable adjustable securing of insert elements without complicating the base apparel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening systems are designed to be removable and adjustable, allowing the apparel to dynamically adapt between different configurations. Users can add or remove fastening systems based on activity requirements, maintaining simplicity when insert elements are not needed while providing secure positioning when required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the outer layer stretches at least thirty percent prior to tensile failure, then the apparel provides compression and flexibility during athletic activities, but the ability to securely hold insert elements through friction alone is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparel incorporates adjustable fastening systems that can be tightened or loosened based on activity requirements. During high-flexibility activities, the fastening systems can be loosened to allow greater stretch (at least 30% prior to tensile failure). During activities requiring secure insert element positioning, the fastening systems can be tightened to provide additional holding force beyond friction alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening systems are pre-configured to engage with the insert elements and apparel layers, creating a preliminary secure connection before athletic activities begin. This preliminary action ensures that even when the outer layer stretches significantly, the insert elements remain securely positioned through the combined action of friction and fastening systems.
3Reliability
If a coefficient of static friction of at least 0.70 is achieved between insert elements and apparel, then insert elements are securely held in place, but the materials and surface treatments required increase manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening systems act as intermediaries between the insert elements and the apparel structure. Rather than requiring the apparel materials themselves to have high-friction surfaces (which would complicate manufacturing), the fastening systems provide the necessary retention force through mechanical engagement, allowing the use of standard, easily manufactured materials for the inner and outer layers.
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
Enables secure and customizable placement of insert elements, enhancing impact protection, temperature regulation, and functionality, while allowing for a wide range of configurations and user preferences.
Implementation Method 1
the outer layer stretches at least thirty percent prior to tensile failure
Implementation Method 2
a coefficient of static friction between the insert element and the apparel may be at least 0.70
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparel system may include an article of apparel and at least one insert element. The apparel has an inner layer and an outer layer positioned adjacent to the inner layer such that a surface of the inner layer contacts a surface of the outer layer. The insert elements is locatable between the inner layer and the outer layer. In some configurations, the outer layer stretches at least thirty percent prior to tensile failure. In order to secure the insert element within the apparel, a coefficient of static friction between the insert element and the apparel may be at least 0.70. In some configurations, a surface of the inner layer contacts and is unsecured to a surface of the outer layer in at least thirty percent of the apparel.