Flat Knit Bra Double Layer Power Sling Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flat knit bras, particularly those without metal underwires, are less suitable for larger breast sizes as they flatten the curve of the breasts, compromising comfort and shape.
Innovation Solution
A flat knit bra design featuring double layered knit material in the power slings and multiple band zones with varying elasticity, which extend from a common center region to the ends and wings, providing support without the need for a metal underwire or bridge, allowing for better fit and comfort for larger cup sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a metal underwire is used to provide support and structure, then the bra structure is strengthened, but the wearing comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the metal underwire from the bra structure entirely, extracting the harmful element while maintaining support through alternative means (knitted cup construction and band design)
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the rigid mechanical support system (metal underwire) with a flexible knitted structure that provides support through material properties and construction technique rather than rigid mechanics
2Strength
If a stiffener runs from the bridge to the wings with low elastic extensibility, then the bra provides structural support, but it flattens the breast curve and is less suited for larger breast sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different elastic properties to different zones of the bra - the cups have higher elasticity to accommodate and shape larger breasts, while the band provides anchoring support, creating local quality variations that solve both support and shape needs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic, elastic knitted materials that can adapt and deform to accommodate different breast sizes and shapes, rather than static rigid structures that flatten the breast curve
3Productivity
If the bra is designed with zero waste flat bed knitting, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but the adaptability to different body shapes and sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent varies the stitch patterns, yarn types, and knitting densities in different zones of the bra to create different elastic properties, allowing the same flat-knitted structure to adapt to different body shapes and sizes through parameter variation rather than structural modification
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 offers enhanced support and comfort for larger breast sizes by distributing pressure evenly and maintaining the natural curve, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit without the need for additional structural elements like metal underwires or bridges.
Implementation Method 1
the power sling is comprised of a double layered knit material, and the band is comprised of more than one band zones each zone comprised of a double layered knit material
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a flat knit bra comprising two cups (1a, 1b), each cup provided with a neckline zone (2a, 2b), two power slings (4a, 4b) and two wing zones (5a, 5b) and a band (6) having a first and second end (6a, 6b). The neckline zones (2a, 2b) may extend to the band (6) in an overlapping fashion. The power sling (4a, 4b) is comprised of a double layered knit material. The band (6) is branches from a common centre region (16) into more than one band zones (7,8,9,10). One band zone (7,8) extends to the ends (6a, 6b) of the band (6) and at least one other band zone (9,10) extends into each of the wings (5a, 5b).