The application of 3D printing technology for developing a lumbar support garment for obese women

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a lumbar support garment, using three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, that has a good fit and great aesthetics for obese women in their 30s and 40s. To this end, a survey was conducted to investigate consumers’ satisfaction with commercially available lumbar supports. One participant with class 2 obesity, aged between 30 and 49 years, with previous experience of back pain and wearing a lumbar support, was selected for the 3D body scanning procedure. A lumbar support was designed based on the 3D shape data obtained by the 3D body scan of the participant and was then printed using a 3D printer. The lumbar support garment was designed as a sleeveless wrap-style innerwear piece combined with lumbar support. Cross-sectional comparisons, a wear test, and an appearance evaluation were also conducted. The cross-sectional comparisons confirmed that wearing the lumbar support garment straightened the back and waist posture and tightened the abdomen. Three obese women in their 30s and 40s were recruited for the wear test and, based on the test results, the lumbar support garment scored very high on air permeability, material, washing, and long wearability. Furthermore, because the lumber support garment can be worn under another garment, the participants felt more comfortable psychologically. The support also received good scores on appearance evaluations. However, spine experts suggested reducing the support’s thickness to improve its functionality and appearance.