Clothing Chimney Effect Sweat Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing textile clothing items for the upper body, such as undershirts, inadequately transport moisture from the skin, leading to insufficient sweat removal and potential cooling of sensitive areas.
Innovation Solution
A textile item with hydrophilic zones that create a 'chimney effect' by extending from the lower end to the neck opening, utilizing the Venturi principle to actively transport sweat to the neck area where it can evaporate, combined with warming zones that reduce cooling and compression zones for a snug fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hydrophilic zones are used to rapidly transport moisture from the skin, then sweat removal efficiency is improved, but the wearer becomes excessively cold
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct functional zones within the garment: hydrophilic zones for sweat absorption and transport, hydrophobic zones for thermal insulation, and warming zones with air chambers for temperature maintenance. Each zone is strategically positioned to address specific local needs - hydrophilic zones contact the skin for moisture wicking, while hydrophobic and warming zones are positioned to protect sensitive areas from excessive cooling
Solution Approach 2:
The garment is segmented into multiple functional layers and zones with different properties. The inner layer contains hydrophilic zones for moisture transport, while outer layers contain hydrophobic fibers and air chambers for thermal insulation. This segmentation allows simultaneous sweat removal and temperature regulation without the entire garment having uniform properties
2Temperature
If polypropylene fiber is used to prevent cooling in exposed areas, then thermal insulation is improved, but moisture transport capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using polypropylene fiber specifically in warming zones and exposed areas where thermal insulation is prioritized, while hydrophilic fibers are used in zones requiring active moisture transport. The garment structure allows hydrophobic polypropylene to provide insulation without compromising overall moisture management, as the hydrophilic zones handle the primary sweat transport function
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
Effectively removes sweat from the skin and prevents excessive cooling by directing moisture to areas where it can evaporate, enhancing comfort and sweat management.
Implementation Method 1
a textile item of clothing for an upper body, in particular an undershirt, with hydrophilic zones (9) and with warming zones (12)
Implementation Method 2
hydrophilic zones which are connected to one another in a chain-like manner and which form a chimney effect
Implementation Method 3
warming zones (12) arranged in such a way that they cover the area of the kidneys
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Item of clothing comprises hydrophilic moisture transport zones (10) which extend from a lower end region of an upper clothing piece (1) to a neck opening (8) and connected to hydrophilic zones (9) to produce a chimney effect. Preferred Features: The hydrophilic moisture transport zones run linearly on a front side of the upper clothing piece. One hydrophilic zone covers the chest region when the upper clothing piece is correctly worn.