Design of Girdles with Waist Support Function Considering Muscle Load, Autonomic Nerves, and Sensations

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to develop guidelines for designing comfortable girdles with a waist support function, such as reducing the muscle load. We conducted the following experiments: (i) measuring the electrocardiogram (ECG) and electromyogram (EMG) when using low‐elastic spats with high‐elastic tape and (ii) evaluating the effects of three types of trial girdles based on the results of the first experiment. During the first experiment, we developed a taping method for reducing the muscle load and sympathetic activity (psychological stress). During the second experiment, it was found that the girdle types (A, B, and C) are effective at reducing the muscle load. In particular, the Type A girdle, which placed the hard elastic fabric on the back horizontally and surrounding the ilium, provided a less compressive feeling than the others. Finally, we objectively evaluated the emotion through brain wave analysis. The Type A girdle was found to be less irritating than the regular one on the market. The results of this research confirmed that the Type A design provides a comfortable girdle with a waist support function.