Post-Op Compression Bra with Adjustable Clips and Mesh Venting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional compression bras cause discomfort due to skin scratching from hook and loop fasteners, nipple irritation from seams, and pressure on lymph nodes from side straps, failing to effectively reduce swelling and bruising after breast surgery.
Innovation Solution
A post-operative compression bra with adjustable strap clips and attachment straps for ergonomic fit, mesh material for airflow, and a drain apron with pockets for secure storage of drain bulbs, allowing easy pressure adjustment and minimizing irritation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hook and loop fastener is used to secure the bra, then the bra can be easily fastened and adjusted, but the fastener scratches the skin and causes discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the hook and loop fastener from the bra design entirely. Instead, it uses a front opening with overlapping edges that can be secured by various means including clips, buttons, or ties, eliminating the skin-scratching fastener while maintaining ease of adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary securing mechanism (such as clips, buttons, or ties) that replaces the direct skin-contact fastener. This intermediary allows the bra to be secured without the hook and loop material directly touching and scratching the patient's skin.
2Strength
If a seam is located down the middle of each cup, then the bra provides structural support, but the seam rubs against the nipple and causes irritation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the central seam from the bra cup design. Instead of having a seam running down the middle of each cup, the bra uses seamless construction or places seams at edges and perimeters only, eliminating the source of nipple irritation while maintaining structural integrity through alternative reinforcement methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved or rounded seam lines that follow the natural contours of the breast, avoiding straight seams that would directly contact and irritate the nipple area. The curvature allows seams to be positioned away from sensitive areas while still providing necessary structural support.
3Strength
If side straps wrap around the torso, then the bra provides lateral support, but the straps press against lymph nodes and cause discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes or significantly modifies the traditional side straps that wrap around the torso. Instead, it uses alternative support mechanisms such as wide distributed straps, under-bust bands, or back-secured designs that provide lateral support without concentrating pressure on the lymph node area under the armpits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent shifts the support mechanism from horizontal side straps to vertical or diagonal configurations that distribute pressure away from the lymph node area. Support is achieved through the overall bra structure, back closure tension, and distributed strap systems rather than concentrated side wrapping straps.
4Device complexity
If the bra uses a fixed closure system, then the structure is simple, but the patient cannot easily adjust the pressure exerted on the body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic closure system that allows the patient to easily adjust the tightness and pressure of the bra. This includes adjustable straps with multiple attachment points, flexible closure mechanisms, and components that can be repositioned to accommodate changing swelling and comfort needs throughout recovery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the closure system to serve multiple functions: providing structural support, allowing pressure adjustment, enabling easy donning and doffing, and accommodating various body shapes and swelling patterns. The same closure mechanism handles both support and adaptability requirements.
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 reduces swelling and bruising while providing comfortable, adjustable support and secure storage for post-operative care, minimizing discomfort and facilitating easy access for patients with decreased motor function.
Implementation Method 1
The side portions and a rear portion may also be partially constructed out of a mesh material to allow for air flow to the skin.
Implementation Method 2
Elastic is located along an upper edge of each pocket to prevent the drain bulbs from falling out of the apron
Data Source
AI summary
A post-operative compression bra (1) having an opening located between two portions, a front right portion (2) and a front left portion (3) that are secured together using strap clips (9) that allow pressure being exerted by the bra on a patient to be adjusted. Rounded notches (19) are located on an upper edge (17) of a right side portion (12) and a left side portion (13) to prevent the side portions from coming into contact with a patient's lymph nodes. The side portions and a rear portion (20) may also be partially constructed out of a mesh material to allow for air flow to the skin. A drain apron (30) provides storage for drain bulbs (32).