Lightweight Bra with Bonded Elastomeric Adhesive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bras often compromise between support and comfort, with underwire designs being uncomfortable and restrictive, while sports bras limit natural movement, and shaping bras can feel clammy and impose an unnatural shape on the breasts.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight bra constructed from free-cut knit fabric with strategically placed bonded film strips of elastomeric adhesive provides supportive and resilient function without the discomfort of underwires, using urethane-based adhesives and foam cups for enhanced shaping and moisture control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If underwire design is used to provide support, then support function is improved, but comfort and wearability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the underwire component entirely from the bra structure, replacing it with alternative support mechanisms such as bonded film strips and strategically placed adhesive elements that provide support without the discomfort and restrictiveness of traditional underwires
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the rigid mechanical underwire structure with flexible elastomeric adhesive bonds and fabric construction that provide support through material properties rather than rigid mechanical elements, eliminating the harmful effects of underwires while maintaining support function
2Shape
If shaping pads are added to enhance shape, then shape enhancement is improved, but comfort deteriorates due to clammy feeling
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes traditional shaping pads from the bra construction, achieving shape enhancement through the natural drape and elasticity of the free-cut knit fabric itself, thereby eliminating the clammy feeling associated with padded bras
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters by using high-spandex free-cut knit fabric that provides shaping through its inherent elasticity and recovery properties rather than through rigid pads, maintaining comfort while achieving the desired shape enhancement
3Strength
If conventional bra construction is used to provide support, then support function is improved, but natural movement is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a dynamic bra construction using elastomeric adhesive bonds and flexible fabric that can adapt and move with the wearer's body, providing support that dynamically responds to movement rather than rigidly constraining it
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses thin flexible elastomeric adhesive films and bonded film strips that provide support while allowing natural movement, replacing rigid structural elements with flexible materials that conform to body motion
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 bra offers comfortable, flexible support that is more natural than traditional underwire designs, maintaining breast shape without restricting movement or feeling clammy, while the adhesive strips and moisture management treatment enhance wearability.
Implementation Method 1
strategically positioned bonded film strips of elastomeric adhesive between two layers of fabric to provide supportive resilient function
Implementation Method 2
The adhesive is preferably urethane based adhesive, especially ester modified urethane adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
A breast supporting garment such as a shirt, bra or similar garment has a body section having a front bust section for supporting a woman's breasts. A band of elastic material is provided under the bust section for shape and support. Another band of elastic material is provided around the bottom of the garment and helps keep it from riding up. The bust section of the garment should be formed from two layers of fabric adhered with elastomeric adhesive. The fabric should be free cut knit fabric having a high level of spandex. The bra will be lightweight and free feeling, as if it is not there.