Foam Padded Bras — Bioform Changing The World Of Lingerie

Foam padded bras, developed through computer analysis techniques, are all set to change the world of lingerie. Composed of two hard plastic cups, covered with soft rubber, the Bioform foam padded bra is designed to lift and push the woman's figure from the sides to ease the discomfort often imposed by traditional underwired bras.

Drawing on expertise gained in the automotive, consumer products and construction industries, Arup's Advanced Technology Group in London has played a leading role in the development of the Bioform. Arup helped Seymour and Powell, the design consultancy and bra's designers, by examining the stresses and strains the Bioform would be subjected to after prolonged wear. Through calculating the permanent deformation properties of several grades of polymer, Arup was able to make geometric alterations to reduce the stress exerted on the pad of the bra.

The research was conducted by creating a computational model of the Bioform from a cutting pattern. From here, by stimulating the stitching process, the exact shape and properties of the padded bra were created and placed onto a torso model that represented the characteristics of the human body. This model was then loaded by tensioning the straps.

The work demonstrates an advanced use of software in simulating fabric and plastic behavior under contact-induced loading conditions and Arup is already investigating applying these techniques to sports equipment, training shoes and other fabric studies.

About The Author:

Darlene Thompson is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.bra-n-bras.com. As in independant consultant, she has been designing womens support under garments and bras for almost a decade.