Shape-Changing Fibers for Adaptive Athletic Apparel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Athletic apparel lacks dynamic properties that can adapt to changing environmental conditions, such as temperature and moisture, as the physical properties of fibers used in current athletic wear are static during wear.
Innovation Solution
Development of shape-changing fibers that respond to external stimuli like heat, moisture, and magnetic fields, composed of multiple synthetic polymers with different properties, which can be incorporated into yarns and woven into fabrics to create adaptive garments with adjustable wind and water permeability, insulation, and moisture management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional static fibers are used in athletic apparel, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the garment cannot adapt to changing environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining multiple synthetic polymers with different physicochemical properties within a single fiber structure. The fiber comprises at least two synthetic polymers that respond differently to environmental stimuli, creating a composite structure that enables environmental adaptability while maintaining manufacturability through integrated fiber construction rather than separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by creating fibers with radially distributed polymer regions that can dynamically change their configuration in response to environmental stimuli. The different polymer regions expand or contract at different rates when exposed to moisture, heat, or other stimuli, causing the fiber to dynamically alter its cross-sectional shape and thereby change garment properties like permeability and insulation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple polymers with different properties are integrated into a single fiber, then environmental responsiveness is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the radial distribution of different polymers during the fiber manufacturing process itself. The polymers are arranged in their final radial configuration before the fiber is put into service, eliminating the need for post-manufacturing assembly or adjustment. This preliminary structuring during extrusion maintains ease of manufacture while achieving stimuli responsiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single fiber structure that can respond to multiple different environmental stimuli (moisture, heat, etc.) through its radially distributed polymer regions. This multi-functional fiber eliminates the need for separate specialized fibers or components, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while achieving comprehensive environmental responsiveness
3Adaptability or versatility
If fibers undergo radial shape changes in response to stimuli, then garment permeability and insulation can be adjusted, but fiber structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating regions within the fiber cross-section that have different properties and respond differently to stimuli. Each radially distributed polymer region has specific local characteristics that cause it to expand or contract at different rates, creating localized shape changes that collectively result in overall fiber permeability adjustment without requiring complex global structural changes
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 fibers enable garments to dynamically adjust properties in response to environmental changes, enhancing comfort and performance by automatically or user-controllably altering features like moisture-wicking, insulation, and permeability.
Implementation Method 1
a first material with a first shape located at a core of the composite fiber, the first material expanding in the presence of an external stimulus and contracting in response to the absence of the external stimulus
Implementation Method 2
a second material with a second shape, the second material mechanically engaged by the first material at least one point so that the second material is in the second shape when the first material is contracted and reversibly changes to a third shape in response to the expansion of the first material
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a dynamic fiber capable of changing in response to external stimuli. The fiber in accordance with the present invention undergoes a radial symmetric change. The fiber in accordance with the present invention may be heat sensitive, moisture sensitive, magnetic field sensitive, electromagnetic field sensitive, etc. Fibers in accordance with the present invention may be incorporated into yarns that may be knitted or woven into textiles/fabrics. Garments or other articles of manufacture may be formed from textiles/fabrics incorporating dynamic fibers, permitting the properties of garments to alter in response to environmental conditions.