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Work-wear pattern design to accommodate different working postures

Sara Bragança (Department of Production and Systems, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal)
Miguel Carvalho (Department of Textile Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal)
Pedro Arezes (Department of Production and Systems, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal)
Susan P. Ashdown (Department of Fiber Science and Apparel Design, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA)

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology

ISSN: 0955-6222

Article publication date: 5 June 2017

548

Abstract

Purpose

This paper presents an analysis of several issues that are preponderant for the work-wear design. The purpose of this paper is to create a prototype of a women’s base upper body garment, based on the information gathered.

Design/methodology/approach

All the necessary information was collected through questionnaires, anthropometric measurements and evaluation of compression forces between the different prototypes.

Findings

It was possible to conclude that to create a better design some alterations need to be made in the standard base pattern design, such as measurements across the back length.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the fact that these design changes have a great impact on the stretch ability and on the compression forces, using softer fabric, such as cotton, is always better for an increased comfort. However, in more professional situation where these fabrics should not be used, these design changes can really make a difference.

Practical implications

A test with a set of compression sensors showed that the simple alteration of one measurement in the design of the base patterns highly reduces the compression forces.

Social implications

These simple alterations allow the garments to adjust to the users’ needs, promoting higher levels of comfort and lower levels of limitations of movement.

Originality/value

The designs presented in this paper can be easily adapted to a variety of garments, such as jackets or dresses, both for leisure or professional activities.

Keywords

Citation

Bragança, S., Carvalho, M., Arezes, P. and Ashdown, S.P. (2017), "Work-wear pattern design to accommodate different working postures", International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, Vol. 29 No. 3, pp. 294-313. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCST-05-2016-0063

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2017, Emerald Publishing Limited

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