Ariya Xuxu Amoozegar-Montero

Digital Manufacturing for Bras after Breast Reconstruction and Lumpectomy Surgery

This PhD thesis tackled the challenges of bra fitting for individuals who have undergone breast cancer surgery, examining their experiences and preferences concerning post-surgery bras in Aotearoa. It aimed to explore the potential of 3D knitting and #D scanning for mass customisation manufacturing, with two primary objectives:

  1. Understanding how breast surgery impacts bra fit and experiences, and establishing design guidelines for a 3D-knitted bra.
  2. Developing prototypes of a 3D-knitted bra aligned with design criteria and creating a process to convert breast measurements into a knitting pattern for production.

Qualitative methods, such as interviews and cultural probes, were used to comprehend post-surgery experiences, revealing comfort, appearance, and emotional attachment as crucial factors in bra preferences. The study concentrated on crafting 3D-knitted bra prototypes and exploring custom sizing methods. Seamless 3D knitting was explored to promote sustainable manufacturing practices by minimising waste and enabling customisation at a mass production level.

Key findings highlighted the transformative impact of surgery on bra fit, the role of bras in restoring post-surgery confidence, and the feasibility of producing custom-sized 3D-knitted bras. Practical implications included advocating for sustainable manufacturing practices and the necessity to rethink bra design for comfort, support, and inclusivity. The outcomes of this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the unique needs and experiences of bra wearers post-breast surgery and the critical role that bras play after surgery.

Supervisors

Academic awards

WDSI Alpha Iota Delta Honour Society Best Paper 2024; HealthTech Award for Best Translational Research Project 2023; Wellington Doctoral Submission Scholarship; KiwiNet Emerging Innovator Programme; MedTech CoRE Student Grant; Best oral presentation for Manufacturing and Design 2019