Cyclist Jersey Pocket Weight Distribution via Stiffening Fabric
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cyclist jerseys with large rear pockets deform significantly and interfere with movement when loaded, causing discomfort and fatigue due to the weight and positioning of contents.
Innovation Solution
The integration of stiffening fabric means between the pockets and the shoulder area transforms the pockets into shoulder bags, utilizing elastic fabric for adherence and minimal aerodynamic resistance, with a portion of fabric extending from the rear to the shoulders and potentially beyond, to distribute the weight and maintain garment stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the pocket is made of large dimensions to receive tools and accessories, then the storage capacity is improved, but the pocket deforms considerably and elongates downwards when loaded
Solution Approach 1:
The pocket structure is divided into two functional parts: an elastic pocket body for storage and a separate stiffening fabric panel for structural support. This segmentation allows the pocket to maintain its shape while preserving storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pocket assembly combines two different materials with complementary properties: elastic fabric for the pocket interior (providing flexibility and storage) and stiffening fabric (providing structural rigidity and shape maintenance). This composite structure resolves the contradiction between storage capacity and shape stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pocket is loaded with accessories and luxury goods, then the utility is improved, but the weight causes deformation of the jersey and interferes with cyclist movements
Solution Approach 1:
The stiffening fabric extends vertically from the pocket upward toward the shoulder area, distributing the load in the vertical dimension rather than concentrating it at the pocket location. This dimensional extension transfers weight away from the cyclist's body, maintaining movement freedom while preserving utility.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffening fabric acts as an intermediary structural element between the loaded pocket and the cyclist's body. It mediates the weight transmission, preventing direct contact between the heavy contents and the cyclist, thus maintaining ease of movement while preserving pocket utility.
3Ease of operation
If the pocket is positioned at the rear part of the jersey for accessibility, then the ease of access is improved, but the weight and positioning interfere with cyclist movements and cause discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The stiffening fabric extends the pocket structure vertically into the upper dimension (toward the shoulders), redistributing the weight away from the lower back area. This dimensional extension maintains rear accessibility while eliminating the harmful effect of weight-induced discomfort and fatigue.
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 solution minimizes deformation and ensures optimal wearability, adherence to the torso, and reduced fatigue by distributing the weight of contents, maintaining stability and comfort during sports activities.
Implementation Method 1
The vest 12 of the garment 10 comprises a plurality of portions 18 of substantially elastic fabric
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Sports garment (10), especially a cyclist jersey, of the type comprising a vest (12) intended to be in contact with the sportsman's torso and equipped with at least one pocket (14), means (16) being provided for supporting said at least one pocket (14), extended between at least one part thereof and an area of the sports garment positioned substantially at the shoulders of the sportsman who is wearing said garment (10), thus substantially transforming said pocket (14) into a pack-saddle, i.e. into a shoulder bag associated with the said garment (10).