Waistband Construction with Nested Elastic Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional elastic waistbands stretch or shrink, leading to a non-flat appearance on the wearer due to ribbing or bunching, which is aesthetically unpleasing and uncomfortable.
Innovation Solution
A waistband construction that includes a base fabric panel with integrated elastic layers and interlining, secured by folds and stitching, providing a continuous and flat appearance while maintaining elasticity through the use of natural or synthetic fibers and stretch tape, with optional darts and pleats for added structure and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional elastic waistbands are stretched or shrunk to accommodate weight changes, then the article of clothing can be worn by different sized wearers, but the waistband does not lay flat and shows ribbing or bunching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the elastic layer inside a fabric tube formed by folding the waistband fabric. The fabric tube envelops the elastic layer, with the elastic nested within the folded fabric structure. This nesting arrangement allows the elastic to provide stretch and shrinkage for adaptability while the outer fabric layers maintain a flat appearance by concealing the elastic's ribbing and bunching.
2Shape
If elastic layer is integrated within folded fabric structure, then waistband maintains flat appearance, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the waistband into distinct functional layers: an outer fabric tube formed by folding and stitching the waistband fabric, and an inner elastic layer. The fabric tube is segmented into panels that are folded and stitched to create the tubular structure. This segmentation allows each layer to be constructed and assembled separately, making the complex integrated structure more manageable in manufacturing.
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 ensures a flat, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing waistband that maintains elasticity, suitable for both casual and formal wear, by integrating the elastic layer within the fabric structure and using stitching to secure it, preventing the ribbing and bunching issues of conventional elastic waistbands.
Implementation Method 1
Some waistbands are elastic, which allows the article of clothing to be worn if a weight of the wearer change.
Data Source
AI summary
An article of clothing, the article of clothing including a fabric. The fabric defines a waistband portion having an interior. The fabric also defines a base fabric panel. Additionally, the article of clothing includes an elastic layer. The interior of the waistband faces the elastic layer. Moreover, the interior of the waistband is defined by one or more folds forming a border between the base fabric panel and the waistband. The one or more folds include an initial bottom fold and a final bottom fold of the fabric. The one or more folds further include a top fold at a top edge of the waistband. The waistband is attached to the elastic layer through the initial bottom fold and the top fold. Additionally, an interior of the final bottom fold and the interior of the top fold are common to the interior of the waistband.