Support Bra with Parallel Elongated Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports bras, whether compression or encapsulation types, are uncomfortable and can potentially injure breasts due to their design and fabrication complexity, which requires multiple materials and processes.
Innovation Solution
A bra design featuring a base structure with elongated elements arranged in parallel and curved shapes to form reinforcement zones, combined with a three-dimensional knit structure and thermal molding process, providing a supportive and comfortable fit for athletic use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compression type bra is used to limit breast movements, then support effectiveness is improved, but comfort and breast health are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The bra front portion is divided into multiple cups (first cup, second cup, third cup) that independently enclose different breast regions. Each cup can move and compress independently, allowing targeted support while maintaining overall comfort. This segmentation prevents the need for full-compression designs that compromise comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the bra front portion have different compression characteristics. The cups provide localized compression only where needed for support, while other areas maintain flexibility and comfort. The elongated elements provide targeted reinforcement in specific zones rather than uniform compression across the entire bra.
2Ease of operation
If encapsulation type bra is used to respect breast health, then comfort and breast health are improved, but support effectiveness for limiting movements is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The bra incorporates elongated elements that can dynamically adjust and move with breast motion. These elements are coupled to the base structure and arranged in parallel, allowing them to flex and adapt during movement while maintaining support. This dynamic design enables the bra to respond to movement patterns rather than rigidly resisting them.
Solution Approach 2:
The bra combines different materials with complementary properties: elastic materials for comfort and movement, reinforcement materials for support, and textile materials for breathability and comfort. This composite approach allows simultaneous achievement of comfort and effective support that neither material could provide alone.
3Reliability
If complex fabrication process with multiple materials is used, then structural performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements are merged into a single integrated front portion structure. The cups, elongated elements, and base structure are combined in one fabrication process rather than assembled from separate components. This merging reduces manufacturing steps while maintaining the complex functional performance required for effective support.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural framework, supports the cups, anchors the elongated elements, and forms the overall shape of the bra front portion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the fabrication process while maintaining structural performance.
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 enhanced support and comfort by reducing vertical movements of the breasts through bidirectional elasticity and cradle-shaped mesh zones, while simplifying the fabrication process with a more integrated material approach.
Implementation Method 1
The bra offers enhanced support and comfort by reducing vertical movements of the breasts through bidirectional elasticity
Implementation Method 2
By molding, the front portion of the bra is shaped by a molding process, such as thermal molding, of one or more materials, especially textile materials
Data Source
AI summary
A bra is provided in the form of a base structure having a front portion, the front portion including a first cup, a second cup, and a center portion disposed therebetween. A first plurality of elongated elements is coupled to the base structure and are arranged in a substantially parallel manner. A second plurality of elongated elements is also coupled to the base structure. Each elongated element of the second plurality of elongated elements further includes an upper portion, and each upper portion the elongated elements of the second plurality of elongated elements is positioned within or proximate to the center portion of the bra to form a reinforcement zone. In addition, the first plurality of elongated elements at least partially overlies the second plurality of elongated elements.