Brassiere Underwire Gel Tips for Pressure Redistribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Brassiere underwires cause discomfort and pain due to pressure points, leading to restricted movement and potential skin irritation, with existing solutions like cushions and end protectors either failing to balance pressure or adding bulkiness to the garment.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating gel tips made of polyurethane gel between inner and outer layers of the brassiere cups, strategically placed to absorb and redistribute pressure, providing support and cushioning while minimizing bulkiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If underwires are used in brassiere cups for support and shaping, then lifting and holding capability is improved, but pressure points and discomfort to the wearer are caused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing gel pads specifically at the underwire tips and along the underwire path where pressure is concentrated, rather than uniformly distributing material throughout the cup. This targeted approach cushions high-pressure areas while maintaining support functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The gel pads serve as an intermediary element between the rigid underwire and the wearer's body. This mediator absorbs and redistributes pressure, preventing direct contact between the hard underwire tips and sensitive skin areas.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cushions are added along the entire length of the underwire to reduce pressure, then overall pressure is reduced, but bulkiness and displacement issues are created
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding cushioning material uniformly along the entire underwire length, the patent places gel pads only at specific high-pressure locations such as the tips and key contact points. This localized approach reduces bulkiness while effectively addressing pressure points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by providing cushioning only where most needed (at underwire tips and high-pressure zones) rather than along the entire underwire length. This selective cushioning achieves pressure reduction without the bulkiness of complete coverage.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If end protectors are attached to underwire tips to reduce pressure, then pressure points are reduced, but the protectors break under repeated use and exposure occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses gel pads made from viscoelastic material that combines the cushioning properties needed for pressure reduction with the structural durability required for repeated use. This composite material approach eliminates the fragility issue of soft plastic end protectors while maintaining pressure relief functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from soft, fragile plastic end protectors to viscoelastic gel pads with superior mechanical properties. The gel material maintains its cushioning effectiveness while exhibiting enhanced durability and resistance to breakdown under repeated stress.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If complete encapsulation of the underwire with rubber or foam is performed to protect skin, then skin protection is improved, but displacement and bulkiness problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing gel pads only at specific high-pressure contact points rather than completely encapsulating the entire underwire. This selective placement provides skin protection where needed while maintaining the underwire's structural integrity and the brassiere's proper fit and positioning.
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 gel tips effectively balance uneven pressure, reducing discomfort and pain associated with underwire brassieres, allowing for greater mobility and aesthetic appeal by maintaining a sleek design.
Implementation Method 1
gel tips made of polyurethane gel between inner and outer layers of the brassiere cups, strategically placed to absorb and redistribute pressure
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
Brassiere cups, each comprising an inner layer attached to an outer layer. The inner layer comprises an inner foam material that is substantially laminated to an inner fabric lining. The outer layer comprises an outer foam material that is substantially laminated to an outer fabric lining. Each brassiere cup further includes an underwire assembly having an arcuate wire coupled to a plurality of gel pads. The underwire assembly is housed between the inner foam material and the outer foam material at or adjacent to a lower peripheral area of each brassiere cup. Preferably, each of the gel pads is coupled to respective ends of the arcuate portion.