Sports Bra Support Testing via 3D Sensor Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the support level of sports bras are arbitrary and inaccurate, relying on physical observation and limited sensor systems that only measure vertical movement, leading to potential discomfort and injury during physical exercise.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a sensor system that measures bust movement along X, Y, and Z axes during dynamic exercise regimens to accurately determine the support level of sports bras, using a single sensor unit secured to the garment, allowing for the calculation of support values based on greatest change in position, thereby providing consistent and accurate labeling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical observation techniques including videotaping are used to determine bust movement, then the testing method is simple to implement, but the measurement precision is insufficient and limited to vertical movement only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional vertical movement measurement to three-dimensional measurement by incorporating sensors that detect movement along X, Y, and Z axes. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive capture of bust movement in all directions during exercise, resolving the limitation of prior art that only measured vertical displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual physical observation and videotaping methods with an automated sensor-based measurement system. The sensor unit continuously captures positional data during exercise, eliminating the need for human observers to manually record and analyze video footage, thereby improving both precision and efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensor systems are used to measure movement in multiple directions, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple measurement functions into a single integrated sensor unit that simultaneously tracks position changes along three orthogonal axes. This unified sensor design eliminates the need for separate sensors for each directional measurement, reducing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive three-dimensional movement capture capability.
3Reliability
If arbitrary labeling methods based on sizing or material elasticity are used, then the labeling process is simple, but the reliability of support level indication is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an empirical feedback mechanism where actual measured data from sensor trials during exercise is used to determine and validate support level classifications. This data-driven approach replaces arbitrary labeling with objective, measurement-based categorization, ensuring that each sports bra's support level accurately reflects its performance characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes specific quantitative thresholds for position changes along the Y-axis to differentiate between low, medium, and high support levels. By defining clear parameter boundaries (e.g., specific millimeter ranges for each support category), the system transforms continuous measurement data into discrete, reliable support level labels that are both accurate and efficient to assign.
4Adaptability or versatility
If limited exercise regimens (walking, jogging, running) are used for testing, then the testing process is simple and quick, but the adaptability of the support assessment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal testing framework where a single sensor system and standardized protocol can assess sports bra performance across multiple exercise types and intensities. The system adapts to different dynamic movements (walking, jogging, running, and other exercises) without requiring separate measurement setups, enabling versatile assessment while maintaining testing efficiency through automated data collection.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and sensor for testing and evaluating a sports bra for a level of support provided by the sports bra includes selecting a sports bra and removably attaching one sensor to the wearer of the sports bra. The wearer of the sports bra completes an exercise regimen corresponding to a support level indicated for the sports bra and the vertical, lateral and backward/forward movement of a bust supported by or within the sports bra is measured with the single sensor. A largest change in movement in each of the vertical, lateral and backward/forward directions is calculated to determine the level of support actually provided by the sports bra for accurate labeling of the support level of the sports bra for accurately informing consumer purchasing.