Stretchable fabric product

Abstract

A stretchable fabric article (20) includes a plurality of discrete fabric members (22, 24), each fabric member (22, 24) extending between a first end (26) and a second end (28), the first ends (26) of the fabric members (22, 24) being joined together and the second ends (28) of the fabric members (22, 24) being joined together, wherein the plurality of fabric members (22, 24) includes at least one first fabric member (22) and at least one second fabric member (24), the or each first fabric member (22) including a fabric region configured to have enhanced stretch characteristics from the first end (26) toward the second end (28), the or each second fabric member (24) including a fabric region configured to have enhanced stretch characteristics from the second end (28) toward the first end (26), wherein the stretchable fabric article (20) further includes a compressible fabric member (100) arranged to interconnect the first and second fabric members (22, 24) such that, in use, stretching of the stretchable fabric article (20) in an orientation extending between the joined first end (26) and the joined second end (28) causes compression of the compressible fabric member (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a stretchable fabric article, preferably for use in clothing or technical fabrics. Background Art

[0002] It is known to use stretchable fabric articles to provide fabric-based products with stretch properties, such as clothing and technical fabrics. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a stretchable fabric article including a plurality of discrete fabric members, each fabric member extending between a first end and a second end, the first ends of the fabric members being joined together and the second ends of the fabric members being joined together, wherein the plurality of fabric members includes at least one first fabric member and at least one second fabric member, the first fabric member or each first fabric member including a fabric region configured to have enhanced stretch properties from the first end towards the second end, the second fabric member or each second fabric member including a fabric region configured to have enhanced stretch properties from the second end towards the first end, wherein the stretchable fabric article further includes a compressible fabric member arranged to interconnect the first fabric member and the second fabric member such that, in use, stretching of the stretchable fabric article in an orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end causes compression of the compressible fabric member.

[0004] The term "fabric" with reference to the present invention is intended to cover but not be limited to the terms "cloth" and "fabric". Furthermore, the present invention is applicable to but not limited to woven and non-woven fabrics.

[0005] The term "discrete" with reference to the discrete fabric members of the stretchable fabric article of the present invention is intended to mean that the fabric members are individually separate and distinct fabric members.

[0006] There are several ways to join the ends of the discrete fabric members. Such methods can include but are not limited to stitching, using adhesives, using permanent or temporary fasteners to connect the ends via additional fabric sections, and the like.

[0007] A combination of a plurality of discrete fabric members joined at a first end and a second end, and fabric regions having enhanced tensile properties included in each of the first fabric member and the second fabric member produce a multi-modulus stretchable fabric article having tensile properties that cannot be obtained or easily produced in a single fabric member. More specifically, by configuring the tensile properties of the fabric regions of the first fabric member and the second fabric member to be enhanced in opposite directions between the first end and the second end, applying a load, force or stress to cause an overall stretch of the stretchable fabric article results in a relative stretch in opposite directions between the first fabric member and the second fabric member, due to the different tensile properties of the first fabric member and the second fabric member. The relative stretch in opposite directions between the first fabric member and the second fabric member in turn causes compression of the compressible fabric member that interconnects the first fabric member and the second fabric member. This configuration of the first fabric member, the second fabric member, and the compressible fabric member is thus capable of compressing the compressible fabric member by stretching the stretchable fabric cloth of the present invention.

[0008] In addition, by using discrete fabric members, the tensile properties of the stretchable fabric article of the present invention can be easily customized to match the requirements of a wide range of fabric products and applications. Such customization can include selecting suitable enhanced tensile properties, shapes, and sizes for each discrete fabric member.

[0009] The fabric region of each fabric member can extend partially or completely along the length of the corresponding fabric member between the first end and the second end.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the compressible fabric member is configured such that, in use, stretching the stretchable fabric article in an orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end and compressing the compressible fabric member causes the compressible fabric member to expand in an orientation perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end.

[0011] By configuring the compressible fabric member in this way, the stretchable fabric article additionally has auxeticity, which increases the range of fabric products and applications to which the stretchable fabric article can be applied.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present invention, the tensile properties of the fabric area of the first fabric member or each first fabric member may be continuously or discontinuously enhanced from the first end towards the second end, and the tensile properties of the fabric area of the second fabric member or each second fabric member may be continuously or discontinuously enhanced from the second end towards the first end. That is to say, the first fabric member and the second fabric member may be configured such that each fabric area of the first fabric member and the second fabric member has continuously variable tensile properties in the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end; or each fabric area of the first fabric member and the second fabric member has discontinuously variable tensile properties in the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end; or one or more fabric areas of the first fabric member and the second fabric member have continuously variable tensile properties in the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end, while the fabric area or each other fabric area of the first fabric member and the second fabric member has discontinuously variable tensile properties in the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end.

[0013] In another embodiment of the present invention, the fabric area of at least one fabric member may include a plurality of fabric sub-areas, which are continuously arranged in the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end. Each fabric sub-area may have its own constant or substantially constant tensile properties, and the tensile properties of the fabric sub-areas of at least one fabric member may be different from each other. In such an embodiment, the fabric area of each fabric member may include a first fabric sub-area and a second fabric sub-area that are continuously arranged in the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end, and the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of each fabric member may be positioned towards the first end and the second end respectively.

[0014] The tensile properties of the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the first fabric member or each first fabric member may be selected such that the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the first fabric member or each first fabric member exhibit non-stretchability and stretchability respectively. The tensile properties of the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the second fabric member or each second fabric member may be selected such that the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the second fabric member or each second fabric member exhibit stretchability and non-stretchability respectively.

[0015] A stretchable material is a material that can extend when subjected to an applied load, force, or stress and then return to its original shape and dimensions when the applied load, force, or stress is released. Stretchable materials tend to have high stretch properties. A non-stretchable material is a material that cannot extend when subjected to an applied load, force, or stress and then cannot return to its original shape and dimensions when the applied load, force, or stress is released. Non-stretchable materials tend to have low stretch properties.

[0016] By configuring the stretch properties of the first fabric sub-region and the second fabric sub-region of the first fabric member and the second fabric member in the foregoing manner, applying a load, force, or stress to cause overall stretching of the stretchable fabric article results in a decrease in the distance between or an increase in the overlap of the stretchable fabric sub-regions, due to the non-deformation or minimal deformation of the non-stretchable fabric sub-regions. This decrease in the distance between or increase in the overlap of the stretchable fabric sub-regions can be used to provide the desired compression of the compressible fabric member that interconnects the first fabric member and the second fabric member.

[0017] The fabric sub-regions of the first fabric member and the second fabric member can be arranged such that when the stretchable fabric article is in an unstretched state:

[0018] · The first fabric sub-region of the first fabric member or each first fabric member overlaps with the second fabric sub-region of the second fabric member or each second fabric member; or

[0019] · The first fabric sub-region of the second fabric member or each second fabric member overlaps with the second fabric sub-region of the first fabric member or each first fabric member; or

[0020] · The first fabric sub-region of the first fabric member or each first fabric member does not overlap with the second fabric sub-region of the second fabric member or each second fabric member, and the first fabric sub-region of the second fabric member or each second fabric member does not overlap with the second fabric sub-region of the first fabric member or each first fabric member.

[0021] When the stretchable fabric article is in an unstretched state, this means that no net load, force, or stress is applied to the stretchable fabric article, causing the stretchable fabric article to extend beyond its original shape and dimensions. When the stretchable fabric article is in a stretched state, this means that the stretchable fabric article extends beyond its original shape and dimensions in one or more dimensional orientations, due to the application of a net load, force, or stress in such dimensional orientation or each such dimensional orientation.

[0022] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of fabric members may include a plurality of first fabric members and / or a plurality of second fabric members. The number of the first fabric members and the number of the second fabric members depend on the requirements of the relevant fabric product and / or application. In addition, in such an embodiment, the first fabric members and the second fabric members may be arranged in different ways to change the overall stretching characteristics of the stretchable fabric article. For example, the first fabric members and the second fabric members may be arranged to form alternately positioned first fabric members and second fabric members.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present invention, the compressible fabric member may include a tubular sleeve portion, and the tubular sleeve portion includes a hole which is arranged to receive the fabric member. In such an embodiment, the tubular sleeve portion may be woven.

[0024] The shape of the tubular sleeve portion is suitable for compression. In addition, the woven structure of the tubular sleeve portion is also suitable for compression.

[0025] The tubular sleeve portion of the compressible fabric member may be designed to provide comfort to the user, improve the aesthetics of the stretchable fabric article, and / or protect the fabric member from damage.

[0026] The shape of each fabric member may vary according to the requirements of the stretchable fabric article, such as functionality and aesthetics. For example, each fabric member may be in the shape of a strip.

[0027] The stretchable fabric article may be constructed as a structural support member. Alternatively, the stretchable fabric article may be constructed to form a part of a structural support member. For example, the structural support member may be a strip or a band, which may be used for clothing, underwear, bags, seat belts, and footwear.

[0028] In particular, when the stretchable fabric article is additionally provided with the auxetic properties as detailed above, the expansion of the compressible fabric member provides additional structural support to the user wearing the stretchable fabric article, because the expansion of the compressible fabric member has the effect of providing a wider support area for the user. The wider support area may be designed to reduce the pressure on the user caused by the load, force, or stress applied to stretch the stretchable fabric article. For example, the wider support area generated by the auxeticity of the stretchable fabric article may be used for impact protection.

[0029] The stretchable fabric article may be used for a wide range of fabric products, preferably clothing and technical fabrics. Clothing is a fabric product worn on a wearer. Technical fabric is a fabric product mainly manufactured for functional purposes and may or may not have aesthetic purposes. Examples of technical fabrics include, but are not limited to, industrial fabrics, medical fabrics, protective fabrics, electronic fabrics, etc.

[0030] It should be understood that, unless otherwise specified, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this patent specification is merely intended to help distinguish similar features (e.g., a first fabric member and a second fabric member, a first fabric sub-region and a second fabric sub-region, etc.), and is not intended to indicate the relative importance of one feature with respect to another feature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1a and Figure 1b shows a stretchable fabric article according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 shows Figure 1a and Figure 1b the variation of the stretch characteristics along the length of each fabric member of the stretchable fabric article;

[0034] Figure 3a and Figure 3b shows the relative stretch between the fabric members of the stretchable fabric article when a tensile load is applied to the stretchable fabric article Figure 1a and Figure 1b ;

[0035] Figure 4 shows a side-by-side comparison of the unstretched state and the stretched state of the stretchable fabric article of FIG. 1;

[0036] Figure 5 shows a stretchable fabric article according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 shows Figure 5 the variation of the stretch characteristics along the length of each fabric member of the stretchable fabric article;

[0038] Figure 7a and Figure 7b shows the relative stretch between the fabric members of the stretchable fabric article when a tensile load is applied to the stretchable fabric article Figure 5 ;

[0039] Figure 8 shows Figure 5 a side-by-side comparison of the unstretched state and the stretched state of the stretchable fabric article;

[0040] Figure 9a , Figure 9b , Figure 9c , Figure 9d , Figure 9e andFigure 9f shows a stretchable fabric article according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 10 shows the variation in the stretch characteristics of the length of each fabric member of the stretchable fabric article along Figure 9a , Figure 9b , Figure 9c , Figure 9d , Figure 9e and Figure 9f ;

[0042] Figure 11a and Figure 11b show the relative stretch between the fabric members of the stretchable fabric article when a stretching load is applied to the stretchable fabric article along Figure 9a , Figure 9b , Figure 9c , Figure 9d , Figure 9e and Figure 9f ; and

[0043] Figure 12 show a side-by-side comparison of the unstretched and stretched states of the stretchable fabric article along Figure 9a , Figure 9b , Figure 9c , Figure 9d , Figure 9e and Figure 9f .

[0044] The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and for purposes of clarity and conciseness, certain features of the drawings and certain views may be enlarged or shown in schematic form. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The following embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to a stretchable fabric article made of a woven fabric, but it should be understood that the working principle of each of the following embodiments of the present invention is equally applicable to a stretchable fabric article made of a non-woven fabric.

[0046] The stretchable fabric article according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 1a and Figure 1b and is generally indicated by the reference numeral 20.

[0047] The stretchable fabric article 20 includes a plurality of discrete fabric members 22, 24. Each fabric member 22, 24 is in the form of a fabric strip extending between a first end 26 and a second end 28. The first ends 26 of the plurality of fabric members 22, 24 are joined together by a first fabric section 30, and the second ends 28 of the plurality of fabric members 22, 24 are joined together by a second fabric section 32. The plurality of fabric members 22, 24 extend parallel or substantially parallel between the joined first ends 26 and the joined second ends 28 such that the plurality of fabric members 22, 24 are side-by-side with each other between the joined first ends 26 and the joined second ends 28. Each fabric member 22, 24 is spaced apart from each adjacent fabric member 22, 24 between the joined first ends 26 and the joined second ends 28.

[0048] Preferably, the first fabric section and the second fabric sections 30, 32 are non-stretchable or rigid fabric sections. That is, the stretch characteristics of the first fabric section and the second fabric sections 30, 32 can be selected such that the first fabric section and the second fabric sections 30, 32 exhibit non-stretchability.

[0049] The plurality of fabric members 22, 24 includes a plurality of first fabric members 22 and a plurality of second fabric members 24. The first fabric members and the second fabric members 22, 24 are arranged to form first fabric members and second fabric members 22, 24 that are alternately positioned between the joined first ends 26 and the joined second ends 28.

[0050] Each fabric member 22, 24 is made of an elastic woven fabric material and includes a fabric area that extends fully along the length of the fabric member 22, 24. Each fabric area is configured to have enhanced stretch characteristics in an orientation extending between the joined first ends 26 and the joined second ends 28. More specifically, the fabric area of each first fabric member 22 has stretch characteristics that continuously increase from the first end 26 towards the second end 28 along the length of the fabric strip, and the fabric area of each second fabric member 24 has stretch characteristics that continuously increase from the second end 28 towards the first end 26 along the length of the fabric strip. Figure 2 The variation of the stretch characteristics along the length of each fabric member 22, 24 is shown.

[0051] The enhanced stretch characteristics of the fabric area of each fabric member 22, 24 can be obtained by varying the fabric characteristics of each fabric member 22, 24. This may include, for example, changing the weave structure (a tighter weave results in lower stretch characteristics, while a looser weave results in higher stretch characteristics), or changing the yarn density.

[0052] The stretchable fabric article 20 further includes a compressible fabric member 100 made of a woven fabric material. The compressible fabric member 100 includes a tubular sleeve portion having apertures, and a first fabric member and a second fabric member 22, 24 are received in the apertures. In other words, the compressible fabric member 100 wraps around the first fabric member and the second fabric member 22, 24. A first end 102 of the compressible fabric member 100 is attached to a portion of the first fabric member 22 facing the second end 28, and a second end 104 of the compressible fabric member 100 is attached to a portion of the second fabric member 24 facing the first end 26. The first end 102 of the compressible fabric member 100 is not attached to the portion of the second fabric member 24 facing the second end 28, and the second end 104 of the compressible fabric member 100 is not attached to the portion of the first fabric member 22 facing the first end 26.

[0053] The stretchable fabric article 20 can be stretched by applying a tensile load 34 to the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28. Since the stretch characteristics of the fabric areas of the first fabric member and the second fabric member 22, 24 continuously increase in opposite directions between the first end and the second end 26, 28, the application of the tensile load 34 causes relative stretching between the first fabric member and the second fabric member in opposite directions. This causes a portion of each first fabric member 22 positioned toward the second end 28 to be stretched 36 toward a portion of each second fabric member 24 positioned toward the first end 26, and causes a portion of each second fabric member 24 positioned toward the first end 26 to be stretched 38 toward a portion of each first fabric member 22 positioned toward the second end 28, as Figure 3a shown. Accordingly, the distance between the two portions is reduced.

[0054] As another example Figure 3b shown, the reduction in the distance between the above two portions causes the two ends 102, 104 of the compressible fabric member 100 to come together, thereby causing compression of the compressible fabric member 100. Due to the woven structure of the compressible fabric member 100, the compression of the compressible fabric member 100 causes the compressible fabric member 100 to expand 106 in an orientation perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the orientation extending between the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28. In this way, the stretchable fabric article 20 has auxeticity.

[0055] Figure 4 A side-by-side comparison of the unstretched state and the stretched state of the stretchable fabric article 20 is shown. "X" marks are used to illustrate the stretching behavior of the first fabric member and the second fabric member 22, 24, and thus the relative stretching between the first fabric member and the second fabric member 22, 24.

[0056] Thus, the combination of a plurality of discrete fabric members 22, 24 joined at a first end and a second end 26, 28 and the inclusion of fabric regions having enhanced tensile properties in each fabric member 22, 24 provides a multi - modulus stretchable fabric article 20. The enhancement of the tensile properties, shape, and dimensions of each discrete fabric member 22, 24 can vary to customize the tensile properties of the stretchable fabric article 20 to match the requirements of a wide range of fabric products and applications.

[0057] As a result of the structure of the stretchable fabric article 20, the stretchable fabric article 20 can be stretched more effectively by applying a tensile load gradually rather than suddenly, such as by using a rapid pulling motion.

[0058] It is contemplated that, in addition to positioning the first fabric member and the second fabric members 22, 24 alternately between the first end and the second end 26, 28, in other embodiments of the present invention, the first fabric member and the second fabric members can be arranged in other ways between the first end and the second end. For example, the fabric members can be arranged such that the first fabric members are grouped together on one side of the stretchable fabric article, while the second fabric members are grouped together on the other side of the stretchable fabric article.

[0059] It is also contemplated that, in other embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1a and Figure 1b the stretchable fabric article 20 can include a single first fabric member instead of a plurality of first fabric members 22, and / or include a single second fabric member instead of a plurality of second fabric members 24.

[0060] It is further contemplated that, in other embodiments of the present invention, in addition to weaving, the compressible fabric member 100 can be constructed in different ways such that, in use, stretching the stretchable fabric article 120 in an orientation extending between the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28 causes compression of the compressible fabric member 100, which in turn causes the compressible fabric member 100 to expand in an orientation perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the orientation extending between the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28.

[0061] The fabric article according to the second embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 5 and is generally designated by the reference numeral 120. Figure 5 The stretchable fabric article 120 is similar in construction to the stretchable fabric article 20 of FIG. 1, and like features share the same reference numerals.

[0062] Figure 5 The stretchable fabric article 120 is different from the stretchable fabric article 20 of FIG. 1 in that, in Figure 5In the stretchable fabric article 120, the fabric region of the first fabric member 22 has stretch characteristics that are discontinuously enhanced from the first end 26 toward the second end 28 along the length of the fabric strip, and the fabric region of the second fabric member 24 has stretch characteristics that are discontinuously enhanced from the second end 28 toward the first end 26 along the length of the fabric strip.

[0063] More specifically, as Figure 6 shown, the fabric region of each fabric member 22, 24 includes first and second fabric sub-regions 40, 42, 44, 46 that are continuously arranged between the first and second ends 26, 28 along the length of the fabric members 22, 24. The first and second fabric sub-regions 40, 42, 44, 46 of each fabric member 22, 24 are positioned toward the first and second ends 26, 28, respectively.

[0064] Each fabric sub-region 40 adjacent to the first end 26 of each first fabric member 22 has respective constant or substantially constant stretch characteristics, and each fabric sub-region 42 adjacent to the second end 28 of each first fabric member 22 has stretch characteristics that are continuously enhanced from the first end 26 toward the second end 28 along the length of the fabric sub-region 42. Each fabric sub-region 44 adjacent to the first end 28 of each second fabric member 24 has respective constant or substantially constant stretch characteristics, and each fabric sub-region 46 adjacent to the second end 28 of each second fabric member 24 has stretch characteristics that are continuously enhanced from the second end 28 toward the first end 26 along the length of the fabric sub-region 46.

[0065] The stretch characteristics of the first and second fabric sub-regions 40, 42 of each first fabric member 22 can be selected such that the first and second fabric sub-regions 40, 42 of each first fabric member 22 exhibit non-stretchability and stretchability, respectively. The stretch characteristics of the first and second fabric sub-regions 44, 46 of each second fabric member 24 can be selected such that the first and second fabric sub-regions 44, 46 of each second fabric member 24 exhibit stretchability and non-stretchability, respectively.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the fabric sub-regions 40, 42, 44, 46 of the first and second fabric members 22, 24 are arranged such that when the stretchable fabric article 120 is in an unstretched state, the non-stretchable first fabric sub-region 40 of each first fabric member 22 overlaps with the non-stretchable second fabric sub-region 46 of each second fabric member 24.

[0067] In a form similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1, applying a tensile load 34 to the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28 causes relative tensile forces 36, 38 in opposite directions between the first fabric member and the second fabric member 22, 24, as Figure 7a shown. This results in a reduction in the overlap between the non-stretchable fabric sub-regions 40, 46, and thus, due to the non-deformation or minimal deformation of the non-stretchable fabric sub-regions 40, 46, the distance between the stretchable fabric sub-regions 42, 44 is reduced, as Figure 7a shown. With a sufficiently large tensile load 34 applied, an overlap between the stretchable fabric sub-regions 42, 44 can be obtained.

[0068] Also, as Figure 7b shown, the reduction in the distance between the two aforementioned parts brings the two ends 102, 104 of the compressible fabric member 100 closer together, thereby causing compression of the compressible fabric member 100. Due to the woven structure of the compressible fabric member 100, the compression of the compressible fabric member 100 causes the compressible fabric member 100 to expand 106 in an orientation perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the orientation extending between the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28. In this way, the stretchable fabric article 20 is provided with auxeticity.

[0069] Figure 8 A side-by-side comparison of the unstretched state and the stretched state of the stretchable fabric article 120 is shown.

[0070] The stretchable fabric article according to the third embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 9a to 9f and is generally designated by the reference numeral 220. Figures 9a through 9f The stretchable fabric article 220 is structurally similar to the stretchable fabric articles 20 of Figure 1a and Figure 1b , and similar features share the same reference numerals.

[0071] Figures 9a through 9f The stretchable fabric article 220 differs from the stretchable fabric articles 20 of Figure 1a and Figure 1b in that, in the stretchable fabric article 220 of Figures 9a through 9f :

[0072] · The plurality of fabric members 22, 24 includes a single first fabric member 22 and a single second fabric member 24;

[0073] · The fabric members 22, 24 are arranged to extend parallel or substantially parallel between the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28 and to overlap each other between the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28; and

[0074] · The first ends 26 of the first fabric member and the second fabric members 22, 24 are stitched together, and the second ends 28 of the first fabric member and the second fabric members 22, 24 are stitched together.

[0075] Figure 9a and Figure 9b are top views of a stretchable fabric article 220, which respectively show a compressible fabric member 200 and a first fabric member without a compressible fabric member. Figure 9c and Figure 9d are side views of a stretchable fabric article 220, which respectively show a compressible fabric member 200, a first fabric member without a compressible fabric member, and second fabric members 22, 24. Figure 9e and Figure 9f are bottom views of a stretchable fabric article 220, which respectively show a second fabric member 24 with a compressible fabric member 200 and a second fabric member without a compressible fabric member.

[0076] The fabric area of the first fabric member 22 has stretch characteristics that are discontinuously enhanced from the first end 26 towards the second end 28 along the length of the fabric strip, and the fabric area of the second fabric member 24 has stretch characteristics that are discontinuously enhanced from the second end 28 towards the first end 26 along the length of the fabric strip.

[0077] More specifically, as Figure 10 shown, the fabric area of each fabric member 22, 24 includes first fabric sub-areas and second fabric sub-areas 40, 42, 44, 46, and the first fabric sub-areas and the second fabric sub-areas are continuously arranged between the first end and the second end 26, 28 along the length of the fabric members 22, 24. The first fabric sub-areas and the second fabric sub-areas 40, 42, 44, 46 of each fabric member 22, 24 are respectively positioned towards the first end and the second end 26, 28. Each fabric sub-area 40, 42, 44, 46 has its own constant or substantially constant stretch characteristics. The stretch characteristics of the first fabric sub-areas and the second fabric sub-areas 40, 42 of the first fabric member 22 are selected such that the first fabric sub-areas and the second fabric sub-areas 40, 42 of the first fabric member 22 respectively exhibit non-stretchability and stretchability. The stretch characteristics of the first fabric sub-areas and the second fabric sub-areas 44, 46 of the second fabric member 24 are selected such that the first fabric sub-areas and the second fabric sub-areas 44, 46 of the second fabric member 24 respectively exhibit stretchability and non-stretchability.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the fabric sub-regions 40, 42, 44, 46 of the first fabric member and the second fabric members 22, 24 are arranged such that when the stretchable fabric article 220 is in an unstretched state, the non-stretchable first fabric sub-region 40 of the first fabric member 22 is superimposed on the non-stretchable second fabric sub-region 46 of the second fabric member 24.

[0079] The compressible fabric member 200 is made of a woven fabric material and includes a tubular sleeve portion having holes, and the first fabric member and the second fabric members 22, 24 are received in the holes. In other words, the compressible fabric member 200 wraps around the first fabric member and the second fabric members 22, 24. The first end 202 of the compressible fabric member 202 is attached to the stretchable fabric sub-region 42 of the first fabric member 22, while the second end 204 of the compressible fabric member 200 is attached to the stretchable fabric sub-region 44 of the second fabric member 24. The second end 204 of the compressible fabric member 200 is not attached to the non-stretchable fabric sub-region 40 of the first fabric member 22, and the first end 202 of the compressible fabric member 200 is not attached to the non-stretchable fabric sub-region 46 of the second fabric member 24.

[0080] In a manner similar to the Figure 1a and Figure 1b embodiment, applying a tensile load 48 to the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28 causes a relative stretch 50 between the first fabric member and the second fabric members 22, 24 in opposite directions. This results in a reduction in the superimposition between the non-stretchable fabric sub-regions 40, 46, and thus, due to the non-deformation or minimal deformation of the non-stretchable fabric sub-regions 40, 46, the distance between the stretchable fabric sub-regions 42, 44 is reduced, as Figure 11a shown.

[0081] As another example, Figure 11b shown, the above-described reduction in the distance between the stretchable fabric sub-regions 42, 44 brings the two ends 202, 204 of the compressible fabric member 200 closer together, thereby causing compression of the compressible fabric member 200. Due to the woven structure of the compressible fabric member 200, the compression of the compressible fabric member 200 causes the compressible fabric member 200 to expand 206 in an orientation perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the orientation extending between the joined first end 26 and the joined second end 28. In this way, the stretchable fabric article 220 is provided with auxeticity.

[0082] Figure 12 A side-by-side comparison of the unstretched state and the stretched state of the stretchable fabric article 220 is shown.

[0083] It is contemplated that in other embodiments of the present invention,Figures 9a through 9f The stretchable fabric article 220 may include a plurality of first fabric members instead of a single first fabric member 22, and / or a plurality of second fabric members instead of a single second fabric member 24.

[0084] It is also contemplated that in other embodiments of the present invention, the fabric sub-regions 40, 42, 44, 46 of the first and second fabric members 22, 24 are arranged such that when the stretchable fabric article 220 is in an unstretched state:

[0085] · The stretchable first fabric sub-region 44 of the second fabric member 24 overlaps with the stretchable second fabric sub-region 42 of the first fabric member 22; or

[0086] · The non-stretchable first fabric sub-region 40 of the first fabric member 22 overlaps with the stretchable first fabric sub-region 44 of the second fabric member 24, but does not overlap with the non-stretchable second fabric sub-region 46 of the second fabric member 24, while the stretchable second fabric sub-region 42 of the first fabric member 22 overlaps with the non-stretchable second fabric sub-region 46 of the second fabric member 24, but does not overlap with the stretchable first fabric sub-region 44 of the second fabric member 24.

[0087] Figure 1a and Figure 1b 、 Figure 5 and Figures 9a through 9f Each of the embodiments 20, 120, 220 may be used as a structural support component for clothing.

[0088] In one embodiment, Figure 1a and Figure 1b 、 Figure 5 or Figures 9a through 9f The embodiments 20, 120, 220 are configured to be straps for a bra. After the bra is worn and the straps are stretched, the expansion 106, 206 of the compressible fabric members 100, 200 results in a wider support area for the user wearing the bra, thereby reducing the pressure applied to the user's shoulders.

[0089] Figure 1a and Figure 1b 、 Figure 5 and Figures 9a through 9f Each of the embodiments 20, 120, 220 may be configured as a different type of structural support component rather than a strap or strip. Figure 1a and Figure 1b 、 Figure 5 and Figures 9a through 9f Each of the embodiments 20, 120, 220 may be used in other types of clothing, bags, seat belts, footwear, or technical fabrics.

[0090] It will be understood that, in embodiments of the present invention, the fabric area of each fabric member may be divided into any number of fabric sub-areas having different stretch characteristics.

[0091] It should also be understood that, for the sake of clarity in illustrating the different features of the embodiments, shading and / or hatching are used in the figures.

Claims

1. A stretchable fabric article comprising a plurality of discrete fabric members, each fabric member extending between a first end and a second end, the first ends of the fabric members being joined together, the second ends of the fabric members being joined together, wherein the plurality of fabric members includes at least one first fabric member and at least one second fabric member, the first fabric member or each first fabric member includes a fabric region configured to have enhanced stretch properties from the first end towards the second end, the second fabric member or each second fabric member includes a fabric region configured to have enhanced stretch properties from the second end towards the first end, wherein the stretchable fabric article further includes a compressible fabric member, the compressible fabric member being arranged to interconnect the first fabric member and the second fabric member such that, in use, stretching of the stretchable fabric article in an orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end causes compression of the compressible fabric member, wherein, The compressible fabric member includes a tubular sleeve portion that includes a bore configured to receive the first fabric member and the second fabric member.

2. The stretchable fabric article according to claim 1, wherein, The compressible fabric member is configured such that, in use, stretching of the stretchable fabric article in an orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end compresses the compressible fabric member, causing the compressible fabric member to expand in an orientation perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end.

3. The stretchable fabric article according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The fabric members are arranged such that: · they extend parallel or substantially parallel between the joined first end and the joined second end; and / or · they are laterally adjacent to each other between the joined first end and the joined second end; and / or · they are stacked on top of each other between the joined first end and the joined second end.

4. The stretchable fabric article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The stretch characteristics of the fabric area of the first fabric member or each first fabric member increase continuously or discontinuously from the first end towards the second end, and the stretch characteristics of the fabric area of the second fabric member or each second fabric member increase continuously or discontinuously from the second end towards the first end.

5. The stretchable fabric article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The fabric area of at least one of the fabric members includes a plurality of fabric sub-areas that are arranged continuously in an orientation extending between the first end and the second end, each fabric sub-area having respective constant or substantially constant stretch characteristics, and the stretch characteristics of the fabric sub-areas of the at least one fabric member being different from each other.

6. The stretchable fabric article according to claim 5, wherein, The fabric area of each fabric member includes a first fabric sub-area and a second fabric sub-area that are arranged continuously in an orientation extending between the joined first end and the joined second end, and the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of each fabric member are positioned towards the first end and the second end respectively.

7. The stretchable fabric article according to claim 6, wherein, The stretch characteristics of the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the first fabric member or each first fabric member are selected such that the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the first fabric member or each first fabric member exhibit non-stretchability and stretchability respectively, and the stretch characteristics of the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the second fabric member or each second fabric member are selected such that the first fabric sub-area and the second fabric sub-area of the second fabric member or each second fabric member exhibit stretchability and non-stretchability respectively.

8. The stretchable fabric article according to claim 7, wherein, The fabric sub-areas of the first fabric member and the second fabric member are arranged such that when the stretchable fabric article is in an unstretched state: · the first fabric sub-area of the first fabric member or each first fabric member is stacked on the second fabric sub-area of the second fabric member or each second fabric member; or · The first fabric sub-region of the second fabric member or each second fabric member is superimposed on the second fabric sub-region of the first fabric member or each first fabric member; or · The first fabric sub-region of the first fabric member or each first fabric member is not superimposed on the second fabric sub-region of the second fabric member or each second fabric member, and the first fabric sub-region of the second fabric member or each second fabric member is not superimposed on the second fabric sub-region of the first fabric member or each first fabric member.

9. The stretchable fabric article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plurality of fabric members includes a plurality of first fabric members and / or a plurality of second fabric members, wherein the first fabric members and the second fabric members are arranged to form first fabric members and second fabric members that are alternately positioned.

10. The stretchable fabric article according to claim 1, wherein, The tubular sleeve portion is woven.

11. The stretchable fabric article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each fabric member is in the shape of a strip.

12. The stretchable fabric article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The stretchable fabric article is configured as a structural support member, or wherein the stretchable fabric article is configured to form part of a structural support member.

13. The stretchable fabric article according to claim 12, wherein, The structural support member is a strip or a ribbon.

14. Use of the stretchable fabric article according to any one of the preceding claims in clothing or technical fabrics.

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