Evaluation of Pressure Measurement Systems for Compression Garments

A two part research on the evaluation of compression garments for its performance and pressure measurement systems using sensors is presented. Researches pertaining to the use of pressure measurement systems for evaluating compression garments were critically appraised and highlighted for their evidence. Various factors that influence garment designing are also highlighted such as, body shape, fabric panels, garment sizing and fabric behaviour. Based on the research it was determined to predict the pressure applied by compression garments on various part of body contour by understanding the fabric characteristics, using pressure sensors and creating a simulated 3D avatar. In part II, sports compression tops were selected. Fabric characteristics were ascertained using FAST (Fabric Assurance by Simple Testing). Using pressure sensor the actual pressure applied by the garment on to the mannequin was recorded. The simulation model was created using information from FAST. The distribution of pressure in the virtual system was comparable to that in the experimental work. This study highlighted the potential of predicting the pressure applied by the garment using 3D simulation model.