Composite Material with Elongate Slits for Adaptive Ventilation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sports gear ventilation methods, such as perforations, are inefficient and require additional layers to adapt to changing weather conditions and body temperature, failing to provide optimal comfort and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A composite material comprising a first textile layer, a second textile layer, and a slit layer with elongate slits that transition from a low air permeability state to a high air permeability state when actuated by a stretch force, allowing for adaptive ventilation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional perforation methods are used for ventilation, then air permeability is provided, but additional layers are required to adapt to changing weather conditions and body temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single composite material layer. The slit layer is integrated between the outer and inner textile layers, merging the ventilation function with the adaptive response to weather and body temperature changes, eliminating the need for separate adaptive layers
Solution Approach 2:
The elongate slits are configured to dynamically change their state between open and closed positions in response to stretching forces. This dynamic behavior allows the material to automatically adapt ventilation levels based on body movement and temperature changes without requiring multiple static layers
2Productivity
If traditional perforation methods are used for ventilation, then air permeability is provided, but ventilation efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation function is segmented into multiple elongate slits distributed across the slit layer. Each slit acts as an independent ventilation channel, collectively providing efficient air permeability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The slits are designed to transition between closed and open states dynamically. When the composite material is stretched, the slits open to allow air flow; when relaxed, they close. This dynamic mechanism significantly improves ventilation efficiency in response to actual usage conditions without complex structural additions
3Adaptability or versatility
If the slit layer is stretched perpendicular to the slit length, then air permeability increases, but the material structure must accommodate this deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The slit layer is designed with dynamic geometry that responds to stretching forces. When stretched perpendicular to the slit length, the slits open and air permeability increases. The material structure is engineered to accommodate this deformation while maintaining overall integrity and returning to its original state when the force is removed
Solution Approach 2:
The slit layer functions as a flexible thin film structure that can deform under stress. The elongate slits are configured to open when the material is stretched, allowing controlled changes in air permeability while the flexible nature of the film accommodates the deformation without compromising structural stability
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 composite material effectively regulates air permeability, providing enhanced comfort and adaptability to varying weather conditions and body temperatures, improving wearer comfort and performance.
Implementation Method 1
the slit layer comprises a plurality of elongate slits configured to transition from a first state to a second state when actuated, wherein the first state provides a first air permeability of less than about 10 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and the second state provides a second air permeability of greater than about 10 CFM
Implementation Method 2
the slit layer comprises a main body having a plurality of elongate slits formed therein and configured to expand about an axis from a first state to a second state in response to a stretch force applied substantially perpendicularly to the axis
Data Source
AI summary
A composite material comprises a first textile layer and a slit layer coupled to the first textile layer. The slit layer comprises a plurality of elongate slits configured to transition from a first state to a second state when actuated. The first state provides a first air permeability of less than about 10 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and the second state provides a second air permeability of greater than about 10 CFM.