Brassiere Back Panel Support Bands for Torso Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional brassieres often lack sufficient support and comfort due to either excessively wide shoulder straps that are visible and uncomfortable or thin straps that fail to provide adequate support, potentially digging into the skin.
Innovation Solution
The integration of elasticized support bands in the back and/or side panels with a higher modulus of elasticity than the panels themselves, which are non-elasticized in the lateral direction to limit elongation and provide additional stability, supplementing the support offered by shoulder straps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If wide shoulder straps are used, then support is improved, but comfort and aesthetics deteriorate due to visibility and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is segmented from the shoulder straps and transferred to the back panel through the support band. The back panel is divided into functional zones: elasticized areas for comfort and a non-elasticized support band for structural support. This segmentation allows different parts to perform different functions - the straps provide minimal support while the back panel provides the primary support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support mechanism is shifted from the vertical dimension (shoulder straps hanging down) to the horizontal dimension (support band encircling the back). By adding support in the horizontal plane around the torso, the patent creates a three-dimensional support system that distributes weight more effectively across the back rather than concentrating it on the shoulders.
2Ease of operation
If thin shoulder straps are used, then comfort and aesthetics are improved, but support deteriorates as they may dig into the skin
Solution Approach 1:
The support band acts as an intermediary structure between the cups and the wearer's back. Instead of relying solely on the shoulder straps to provide support, the support band distributes the load across the back panel, reducing the burden on the thin straps and preventing them from digging into the skin.
3Ease of operation
If elasticized material is used throughout the brassiere, then comfort is improved, but support deteriorates due to excessive elasticity
Solution Approach 1:
The back panel features localized zones with different elastic properties. The elasticized portions provide comfort and flexibility where needed, while the non-elasticized support band provides structural support and stability. This local differentiation of material properties allows the garment to simultaneously achieve comfort and support.
Solution Approach 2:
The back panel is constructed as a composite structure combining elasticized fabric with a non-elasticized support band. This composite construction integrates materials with different mechanical properties to achieve both comfort (from the elasticized portion) and support (from the non-elasticized band).
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
This configuration ensures a closer fit and enhanced support for the breasts, providing stability and comfort by minimizing the overall elasticity of the torso encircling portion of the brassiere, particularly beneficial for women with larger breasts.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one band limits the elongation of each of the pair of back panels during wear
Data Source
AI summary
A brassiere has a pair of breast receiving cups and a first back panel connected to one of the pair of breast receiving cups and a second back panel connected to the other of the pair of breast receiving cups. The first back panel and the second back panel each have a band affixed thereto that is capable of modifying a property of the panel. The bands limit the elongation of each of the pair of back panels during wear.