Air-Inflatable Sportswear Jacket | Ergonomics Research & Adaptive Thermal Design (2014–2015)

Can air become an adjustable insulation layer in sportswear? This experimental sportswear jacket was developed between 2014 and 2015 as the main prototype of my Master's graduation research in ergonomics and functional apparel design at Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT). The project explored how air, one of the most accessible insulation materials, could be used to create an adjustable microclimate around the human body. My research examined muscular movements across five sports: basketball, running, badminton, football and speed walking, alongside the distribution of sweat glands and body movement patterns. Based on these findings, I developed a one-piece inflatable sports jacket using knitted fabric, industrial membranes, hot-melt adhesive films and heat-press bonding techniques. Internal air channels connect the front and back of the garment, while strategically selected fabrics respond to different areas of muscular activity, perspiration and movement. A manual air pump allows the wearer to inflate or deflate the jacket, adjusting its insulation according to environmental conditions and personal comfort. Comparative testing showed improved thermal insulation at maximum inflation compared with the uninflated state. The design also explored moisture management, flexibility and adaptability to different body shapes. Research Focus: Human Factors & Ergonomics Functional Sportswear Design Muscular Movement Analysis Body Microclimate & Thermal Comfort Inflatable Garment Construction Heat-Press Bonding & Technical Textile Development Research Period: 2014–2015 Institution: Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT) Project: Master's Graduation Research Prototype #ErgonomicsResearch #FunctionalSportswear #WearableInnovation #TechnicalTextiles #SportswearDesign #AdaptiveClothing #FashionTechnology