Reversible Bra Cup with Localized Underwire Thinning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bras are not easily reversible, leading to issues with fasteners, wrinkle formation, and aesthetic concerns, especially with underwire structures, which become exposed and unsightly when reversed.
Innovation Solution
A reversible bra design featuring breast cups with an elongate zone of reduced thickness adjacent to the underwire assembly, allowing for hand manipulation to alternate between concave and convex sides, and a fastening arrangement with hook and eye system for seamless construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional bra is reversed, then the underwire structure becomes exposed, but this results in unsightly appearance and loss of aesthetic quality
Solution Approach 1:
The breast cup is designed with an elongate zone of reduced thickness specifically located adjacent to the underwire assembly. This localized thinning allows the cup to be manually reversed without the underwire becoming exposed on the outer surface, as the reduced thickness zone accommodates the underwire structure during reversal. The rest of the cup maintains its normal thickness to preserve aesthetic quality and structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a moulded bra with multiple laminated layers is reversed, then the cup shape becomes distorted, but this results in wrinkle formation and loss of aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate zone of reduced thickness is strategically positioned adjacent to the underwire assembly, creating a localized flexible region that allows the multi-layered moulded structure to reverse without distorting the overall cup shape. This localized modification enables the laminated layers to realign properly during reversal, preventing wrinkle formation while maintaining the aesthetic cup shape on the outer surface.
3Strength
If the underwire structure is attached to the inner side of the bra, then it provides structural support, but when reversed it becomes exposed and creates unsightliness
Solution Approach 1:
The underwire assembly remains attached to the inner side of the breast cup to maintain structural support functionality. The elongate zone of reduced thickness adjacent to the underwire allows the cup to be manually reversed without exposing the underwire, as this thinning zone accommodates the underwire's position during reversal. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the underwire to remain in its structurally supportive position while preventing its exposure during reversal.
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
Enables seamless and aesthetically pleasing reversibility of the bra, maintaining shape and concealing underwire structures, while allowing for easy adjustment and secure fastening.
Implementation Method 1
the breast cup includes an elongate zone of reduced thickness that extends along or adjacent at least part of the underwire assembly and on the opposite side thereof to the lower periphery
Implementation Method 2
the foam core comprises two layers of foam material and intermediate of which the underwire assembly is located
Implementation Method 3
the first side outermost layer and second side outermost layer are laminated with each other
Data Source
AI summary
A reversible bra that includes two breast cups. Each breast cup includes a first side outermost layer and a second side outermost layer. Between the two outermost layers there is captured an underwire assembly that extends along or adjacent at least part of the lower peripheral region of the breast cup. The breast cup includes an elongate zone of reduced thickness that extends along or adjacent at least part of the underwire assembly.