Bra support structure

Abstract

Aspects herein relate to a support structure for supporting a breast covering portion of a garment. The support structure includes a plurality of discrete cable structures. At least a portion of the discrete cable structures have a first shape configuration in an untensioned state and a second shape configuration in a tensioned state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This article relates in various aspects to a support structure for the breast coverage portion of a bra, the support structure comprising multiple discrete cable structures. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional bra-style support garments provide support by using one or more panels of textile material with varying degrees of stretch and recovery in different areas of the bra, or by layering different materials on top of each other to create the desired support. Furthermore, the different materials are often molded into a "cup" shape. These types of bras can be time-consuming and expensive to manufacture, and offer only limited customizable fit and / or support to the wearer. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The following clauses represent exemplary aspects of the concepts envisioned herein. Any of the following clauses may be combined in a multi-dependent manner to depend on one or more other clauses. Furthermore, any combination of dependent clauses (clauses that explicitly depend on preceding clauses) may be combined while remaining within the scope of the aspects envisioned herein. The following clauses are illustrative and not restrictive.

[0004] Clause 1. A breast cover portion supporting clothing, the breast cover portion comprising: a base layer; and a support structure positioned outside the base layer and including a first plurality of discrete cable structures, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures having a first shape configuration in an untensioned state and a second shape configuration in a tensioned state.

[0005] Clause 2. The breast covering portion according to Clause 1, wherein the support structure is fixed to the base layer at a first position and a second position, and is not fixed to the base layer between the first position and the second position.

[0006] Clause 3. The breast covering portion as described in Clause 2, wherein the first position is located on the upper part of the breast covering portion and the second position is located on the lower part of the breast covering portion.

[0007] Clause 4. The breast covering portion according to any one of Clauses 2 to 3, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures extend between the first position and the second position over at least the central region of the breast covering portion.

[0008] Clause 5. The breast covering portion according to any one of Clauses 2 to 4, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures are not fixed to the base layer between the first position and the second position.

[0009] Clause 6. The breast covering portion according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the support structure has greater tensile strength than the base layer.

[0010] Clause 7. The breast covering portion according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein when each discrete cable structure is in the first shape configuration, each discrete cable structure includes a plurality of linear segments extending alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction.

[0011] Clause 8. The breast covering portion according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein each discrete cable structure comprises a single continuous linear segment when each discrete cable structure is in the second shape configuration.

[0012] Clause 9. A breast cover portion supporting clothing, the breast cover portion comprising: a support structure comprising: a first plurality of discrete cable structures and a second plurality of discrete cable structures, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures having a first shape configuration in an untensioned state and a second shape configuration in a tensioned state, the second shape configuration being different from the first shape configuration, and each of the second plurality of discrete cable structures having the second shape configuration in both the untensioned state and the tensioned state.

[0013] Clause 10. The breast cover portion of the garment supporting it as described in Clause 9, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast cover portion, over the central region of the breast cover portion, and to the lower portion of the breast cover portion.

[0014] Clause 11. The breast covering portion of the supporting garment according to any one of Clauses 9 to 10, wherein the second plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast covering portion, over the outer and inner regions of the breast covering portion, and to the lower portion of the breast covering portion.

[0015] Clause 12. The breast covering portion of a support garment according to any one of Clauses 9 to 11, wherein the support structure further includes a lower portion located at the lower part of the breast covering portion, and wherein each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures and the second plurality of discrete cable structures extends from the lower portion.

[0016] Clause 13. The breast covering portion of the supporting garment according to any one of Clauses 9 to 12, wherein the first shape configuration comprises a plurality of linear segments extending alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction.

[0017] Clause 14. The breast coverage portion of the supporting garment according to any one of Clauses 9 to 13, wherein the second shape configuration comprises a single continuous linear segment.

[0018] Clause 15. A method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast covering portion of clothing, the method comprising: forming the support structure in a flat planar form, the support structure comprising: a first plurality of discrete cable structures and a second plurality of discrete cable structures, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures having a first shape configuration, and each of the second plurality of discrete cable structures having a second shape configuration different from the first shape configuration.

[0019] Clause 16. A method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast covering portion of clothing as described in Clause 15, wherein the first shape configuration comprises a plurality of linear segments extending alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction.

[0020] Clause 17. A method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast covering portion of clothing, as described in any one of Clauses 15 to 16, wherein the second shape configuration comprises a single continuous linear segment.

[0021] Clause 18. A method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast cover portion of clothing according to any one of Clauses 15 to 17, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast cover portion, over a central region of the breast cover portion, and to the lower portion of the breast cover portion.

[0022] Clause 19. A method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast cover portion of clothing according to any one of Clauses 15 to 18, wherein the second plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast cover portion, over the outer and inner regions of the breast cover portion, and to the lower portion of the breast cover portion.

[0023] Clause 20. A method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast covering portion of clothing, as claimed in any one of Clauses 15 to 19, wherein the support structure is formed of a low-tensile material. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The following is a detailed description of examples from various aspects of this article, with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0025] Figure 1 A view is shown of a first example support structure for forming a breast-covering portion of clothing according to various aspects of this article, wherein the first example support structure is in a flat form and in an unstressed state.

[0026] Figure 2A view is shown of a second example support structure for forming a breast-covering portion of clothing according to various aspects of this article, wherein the second example support structure is in a flat form and in an unstressed state.

[0027] Figure 3 A view of the front portion of the supporting garment, which is in a flat and unstretched state, is shown according to various aspects of this article;

[0028] Figure 4 The illustration shows an example configuration based on various aspects of this article, in which the breast coverage includes a base layer and a support structure positioned outside the base layer;

[0029] Figure 5 The illustration depicts clothing based on various aspects of this article. Figure 1 or Figure 2 A front view of the wearer of the supporting structure;

[0030] Figure 6 The illustration shows the various aspects based on this article. Figure 5 The wearer's rear view; and

[0031] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example method for manufacturing a support structure for supporting the breast covering portion of clothing, according to various aspects of this article, is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The subject matter of this invention has been specifically described herein to satisfy legal requirements. However, this description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the inventors have envisioned that the claimed or disclosed subject matter may also be embodied in other ways in combination with other current or future techniques to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to those described herein. Furthermore, although the terms “step” and / or “box” may be used herein to refer to different elements of the method employed, these terms should not be construed as implying any particular order among or between the various steps disclosed herein, unless and only as expressly stated.

[0033] Traditional bra-style support garments provide support by using one or more panels of textile material with varying degrees of stretch and recovery in different areas of the bra, or by layering different materials on top of each other to create the desired support. Furthermore, the different materials are often molded into a "cup" shape. These types of bras can be time-consuming and expensive to manufacture, and offer only limited customizable fit and / or support to the wearer.

[0034] This document relates in various aspects to a support structure for a bra, the support structure comprising a discrete cable structure extending in a generally vertical orientation from the upper portion of the breast coverage of the bra to the lower portion of the breast coverage. The discrete cable structure is formed of a low-strength or non-strength material. In an example aspect, the discrete cable structure includes a first plurality of discrete cable structures extending over a central region of the breast coverage and a second plurality of discrete cable structures extending over outer and inner regions of the breast coverage. The first plurality of discrete cable structures have a first shape configuration in an unstressed state and a second shape configuration in a stressed state. The unstressed state corresponds to the bra being in an unworn configuration (i.e., when the breasts are not positioned within the breast coverage) and is generally a flat planar form, while the stressed state corresponds to the bra being in a worn configuration (i.e., when the breasts, large enough to fill the breast coverage, are positioned within the breast coverage). In an example, the first shape configuration includes a zigzag configuration having linear segments extending alternately in the positive and negative x directions (i.e., in the inner and outer directions), and the second shape configuration includes a single continuous linear configuration. When the first plurality of discrete cable structures are subjected to tension and are stretched (e.g., straightened), such as when a breast is positioned within a breast coverage portion, the use of the zigzag configuration or other similar configurations facilitates a reversible increase in length. In an example, the second plurality of discrete cable structures, both in an untensioned state and a tensioned state, have the second shape configuration.

[0035] When a bra is worn, displacement caused at least by the central portion of the wearer's breast (including the areola and the portions above, below, and inside and outside the areola) causes the first plurality of discrete cable structures to transition from a first zigzag configuration to a second linear shape configuration. Because the cable structures are formed of a low- or non-stretchable material, once the cable structures are taut and transition to the second shape configuration, they provide support for the central portion of the wearer's breast, which can help reduce breast heave during, for example, exercise. Because of the smaller breast volume at the outer and inner sides of the breast, it is generally not necessary for the cable structures located in these areas to undergo a reversible increase in length, thus explaining the linear configuration of the second plurality of discrete cable structures in both untaut and taut states. The second plurality of discrete cable structures provide support for the inner and outer sides of the breast, which can help reduce inner-to-outer sway during, for example, exercise.

[0036] In an example, to help support the load exerted by the wearer's breasts when wearing a bra, multiple discrete cable structures can be anchored to the upper and lower parts of the breast coverage area. In one example, both the first and second discrete cable structures can be anchored to the bra's shoulder straps or shoulder strap area by sewing, gluing, adhesives, etc. Similarly, both the first and second discrete cable structures can be anchored to the underband or lower edge of the bra.

[0037] In terms of examples, the support structures described herein can be manufactured in a flat planar form, thereby eliminating the need for time-consuming and potentially expensive molding steps. For instance, at least the first and second discrete cable structures can be cut from low-strength or non-strength materials, or the first and second discrete cable structures can be printed in a flat form using, for example, polymeric materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In another example, the first and second discrete cable structures can be constructed using flexible yet robust materials, such as threads or yarns made of para-aramid fibers.

[0038] In terms of examples, at least the geometry of the first plurality of discrete cable structures can be adjusted to accommodate different breast sizes. For bras designed for larger breasts, the length of the zigzag segments can be increased in one or both of the positive and negative x directions to increase the total length of the cable structure when tightened. Similarly, the number of zigzag segments within the cable structure can be increased to increase the total length of the cable structure when tightened. The aspects of this paper further envision that the support structure can be customized for an individual wearer. For example, a body scan of the wearer's breasts can be performed, and the geometry of the cable structure (i.e., the number and / or shape of the zigzags) can be designed such that the first plurality of discrete cable structures are collectively tightened when the bra is worn. The aspects of this paper also envision the use of a base layer positioned below or within the support structure to contact or be close to the wearer's skin surface.

[0039] As used throughout this disclosure, the term "bra" is intended to encompass any type of supportive garment configured to support the wearer's breasts. Therefore, the term "bra" encompasses traditional bras, sports bras, vests, sleeveless shirts, swimwear, etc. The term "breast coverage portion" is the portion of the bra located adjacent to the wearer's breasts and generally extends from the top portion of the wearer's breasts (e.g., near the wearer's collarbone) to the lower portion of the wearer's breasts (e.g., the wearer's inframammary fold) and from the inner edge of the wearer's breasts (e.g., near the wearer's sternum) to the outer edge (e.g., near the wearer's armpit). When used to describe a bra and / or breast coverage portion, positional terms such as "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," etc., are relative to the bra being worn by a wearer who is intended to be upright. Thus, the term "upper" refers to a position closer to the wearer's head, and the term "lower" refers to a position closer to the wearer's waist. When used relative to the portion of the breast covered, the term "medial" refers to a location closer to the midline of the wearer's body, and when used relative to the portion of the breast covered, the term "lateral" refers to a location closer to the mid-axillary line of the wearer. When used relative to the portion of the breast covered, the term "central area" refers to a location roughly midway between the medial and lateral sides of the breast covered. This location typically corresponds to the central vertical portion of the wearer's breast, encompassing the areola and the area above the areola up to near the wearer's collarbone, the area below the areola up to near or including the inframammary fold, and the area located medial and lateral to the areola (e.g., within approximately 2 to 4 cm of the areola).

[0040] The term "cable structure" refers to a structure having a length and a width, wherein the length is greater than the width. For example, the length can be at least about 25 times greater than the width. For example, if a single cable structure has a width of 5 mm, it has a length of at least about 125 mm or 12.5 cm. When used to describe a single cable structure, the term "discrete" means that the cable structure is spaced apart from adjacent cable structures at least at the midpoint of its length. In terms of examples, a discrete cable structure may include two cable structures joined together at one or more points along their respective lengths. As described herein, discrete cable structures are formed of low-tensile or non-tensile materials, meaning that the material generally does not have inherent tensile properties (mechanical or elastic) in response to tension, and therefore the length and / or width of the material remain substantially constant when subjected to tension below the material's fracture / tear point. For example, a discrete cable structure may experience a length variation from about 0% to about 20% of its rest length in response to tension. An example test standard for determining the tensile properties of yarns includes ASTM D2256 / D2256M (2015). The term "zigzag" as used in describing cable structures refers to a shape having alternating linear segments extending along at least a portion of the length of the cable structure in the positive and negative x-directions, wherein the cable structure extends in the y-direction. This document may contemplate that, in addition to zigzag segments, a particular cable structure may have linear segments extending in the y-direction. The term "linear" as used in describing the shape of a cable structure means extending along a straight line or near a straight line.

[0041] Unless otherwise indicated, all measurements provided herein were performed with the support structure and / or breast coverage under standard ambient temperature and pressure (298.15 K and 100 kPa).

[0042] Figure 1 A breast cover portion 100 of a support garment such as a bra is illustrated, wherein, in an illustrative aspect, the breast cover portion 100 is configured for the wearer's left breast. The description of a breast cover portion configured for the wearer's right breast is generally the same. The breast cover portion 100 is shown in a flat, planar form, such as that present after manufacturing. In an illustrative aspect, the breast cover portion 100 includes an upper portion, generally indicated by reference numeral 110, which in some aspects may include a portion of a shoulder strap 112. The breast cover portion 100 also includes a lower portion, generally indicated by reference numeral 114, which in some aspects may include an underbust band 116. The breast cover portion 100 includes an inner or region 118 and an outer or region 120. A central region 122 is located between the inner region 118 and the outer region 120.

[0043] The breast covering portion 100 includes a support structure, generally indicated by reference numeral 124. In illustrative terms, the support structure 124 may be formed from low-stretch or non-stretch materials such as TPU, tightly woven textiles excluding elastic yarns, tightly knitted textiles excluding elastic yarns, nonwoven materials, threads or yarns formed from para-aramid fibers, combinations thereof, etc. As further described below, the support structure 124 may be manufactured in a flat planar form using various methods such as, for example, printing (e.g., extruding liquid TPU from a printhead in a predetermined pattern), cutting textile materials, weaving, embroidering, etc.

[0044] The support structure 124 includes a first plurality of discrete cable structures 126, which have a first shape configuration when the breast covering portion 100 is in a flat planar form and in an unstressed state. The first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 extend generally vertically from the upper portion 110 of the breast covering portion 100, over a central region 122, and to the lower portion 114 of the breast covering portion 100. Figure 1 In the configuration shown, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 includes a first cable structure 126a and a second cable structure 126b that together form one of the discrete cable structures 126. When the breast coverage portion 100 is as follows Figure 1 When shown in a flat planar form, this corresponds to the first cable structure 126a and the second cable structure 126b each including a generally vertical linear segment 128 and a zigzag segment 130 when the breast covering portion 100 is in an untensioned state. In the zigzag segment 130, each of the first cable structure 126a and the second cable structure 126b references... Figure 1 The Cartesian coordinate system shown extends alternately in the positive and negative x-directions. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the amount of extension or displacement 125 in the positive and negative x directions is measured from the centerline of cable structure 126, which includes an imaginary extension of linear segment 128. In various examples herein, zigzag segment 130 is in a first shape configuration. Each of the first cable structure 126a and the second cable structure 126b may be connected in the region where their respective zigzags intersect, such as at point 131. The use of zigzags and other similar shapes with alternating segments extending in the positive and negative x directions increases the total length of each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 when taut.

[0045] The number of zigzags in the zigzag segment 130 can be increased or decreased to accommodate different breast sizes. For example, increasing the number of zigzags in the zigzag segment 130 increases the total length of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 when tensioned, and can be used when the size of the support structure 124 is suitable for larger breasts. Conversely, decreasing the number of zigzags in the zigzag segment 130 relatively decreases the total length of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 when tensioned, and can be used when the size of the support structure 124 is suitable for smaller breasts. In another example, the amount of displacement 125 of the zigzags in the positive x-direction and negative x-direction can be increased or decreased to accommodate different breast sizes. For example, increasing the amount of displacement 125 of the zigzags in the positive x-direction and / or negative x-direction increases the total length of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 when tensioned, and can be used when the size of the support structure 124 is suitable for larger breasts. Conversely, reducing the displacement 125 of the zigzag in the positive x-direction and / or negative x-direction relatively reduces the total length of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 when tensioned, and can be used when the size of the support structure 124 is suitable for a smaller breast. It is also envisioned that the number of zigzags in the zigzag segment 130 and the amount of displacement 125 of the zigzag in the positive x-direction and negative x-direction can be adjusted to increase or decrease the total length of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 when tensioned.

[0046] Figure 1 The first shape configuration shown is illustrative. For example, it is envisioned that the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 may not include the linear segment 128, or the linear segment 128 may be shorter or longer than shown. It is also envisioned that the zigzag segment 130 may take on other shapes that extend alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction to increase the total length of the discrete cable structure 126 when taut. Example shapes include, for example, curves or waves (e.g., sine curves).

[0047] The support structure 124 also includes a second plurality of discrete cable structures 132, which include an inner group 132a located in the inner region 118 of the breast coverage portion 100 and an outer group 132b located in the outer region 120 of the breast coverage portion 100. The inner group 132a of the discrete cable structures has a second shape configuration and extends linearly in a generally vertical orientation from the upper portion 110 of the breast coverage portion 100, along the inner region 118 of the breast coverage portion 100, and extends to the lower portion 114 of the breast coverage portion 100. The outer group 132b of the discrete cable structures also has a second shape configuration and extends linearly in a vertical orientation from the upper portion 110 of the breast coverage portion 100, along the outer region 120 of the breast coverage portion 100, and extends to the lower portion 114 of the breast coverage portion 100. In an example, the second shape configuration includes a single continuous linear segment without any zigzag or other similar shapes. Therefore, because the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 are formed of a low-tensile or non-tensile material, the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 have a relatively fixed length, whether in an untensioned or tensioned state. The vertical orientation of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 aligns the cable structures 126 and 132 with the gravitational force experienced by the wearer's breasts when standing upright.

[0048] Each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 has a first end 134 anchored at the upper portion 110 of the breast coverage portion 100 and a second end 136 anchored at the lower portion 114. In one example aspect, the first end 134 may be anchored to the shoulder strap 112 or an area adjacent to the shoulder strap 112 by sewing, gluing, melting, welding, etc., and the second end 136 may be anchored to the underbust 116. In another example aspect, the shoulder strap 112 and / or the underbust 116 may be integrally formed with the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132, such that the first end 134 extends integrally from the shoulder strap 112 and the second end 136 extends integrally from the underbust 116. Fixedly anchoring the first end 134 and the second end 136 facilitates the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 in supporting the vertical load exerted by the breast when positioned within the breast coverage portion 100.

[0049] Figure 1The spacing between each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 shown is illustrative. In illustrative terms, the spacing between cable structures 126 and 132, as well as the number of cable structures 126 and 132, can be adjusted to provide more or less support. For example, increased support for the central region 122 of the breast coverage portion 100 can be achieved by increasing the number of cable structures in the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 and / or decreasing the spacing between each of the cable structures 126, while less support for the central region 122 can be achieved by decreasing the number of cable structures in the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 and / or increasing the spacing between each of the cable structures 126. Increased support for the inner region 118 and / or outer region 120 of the breast coverage portion 100 can be achieved by increasing the number of cable structures in the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 and / or decreasing the spacing between each of the cable structures 132, while less support for the inner region 118 and / or outer region 120 can be achieved by decreasing the number of cable structures in the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 and / or increasing the spacing between each of the cable structures 132. Similarly, additional plurality of cable structures can be included to increase the total support provided by the support structure 124. For example, the support structure 124 may include a third plurality of discrete cable structures, a fourth plurality of discrete cable structures, etc.

[0050] Figure 2 A second example breast cover portion 200 is depicted. Similar to breast cover portion 100, breast cover portion 200 is configured for the wearer's left breast. The depiction of a breast cover portion configured for the wearer's right breast is generally the same. Breast cover portion 200 is shown in a flat, planar form, such as that present after manufacturing. In an example aspect, breast cover portion 200 includes an upper portion 210, which in some aspects may include a portion of a shoulder strap 212. Breast cover portion 200 also includes a lower portion 214, which in some aspects may include an underbust band 216. Breast cover portion 200 includes an inner region 218 and an outer region 220. A central region 222 is located between the inner region 218 and the outer region 220.

[0051] The breast covering portion 200 includes a support structure 224. Similar to support structure 124, support structure 224 may be formed of a low-strength or non-strength material. Support structure 224 is manufactured in a flat planar form using the example manufacturing method described above for support structure 124.

[0052] The support structure 224 includes a first plurality of discrete cable structures 226, which have a first shape configuration when the breast covering portion 200 is in a flat planar form and in an unstressed state. The first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 extend generally vertically from the upper portion 210 of the breast covering portion 200, over the central region 222, and to the lower portion 214 of the breast covering portion 200. Figure 2 In the example shown, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 comprises a single cable structure. When the breast cover portion 200 is in a flat planar form, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 comprises a linear segment 228 and a waveband 230. In the waveband 230, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 extends alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction, similar to a sine wave. In an example, the waveband 230 comprises a first shape configuration. Similar to the zigzag segment 130 of the breast cover portion 100, the use of waves increases the total length of each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 when taut. Further similar to the zigzag segment 130, the number and / or amplitude 225 of the waves in the waveband 230 can be increased to increase the total length of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 when taut, or the number and / or amplitude 225 of the waves can be decreased to decrease the total length of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 when taut. Figure 2 As shown, amplitude 225 is measured from the centerline of cable structure 226, which includes an imaginary extension of linear segment 228.

[0053] Figure 2 The first shape configuration shown is illustrative. For example, it is envisioned that the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 may not include the linear segment 228, or that the linear segment 228 may be shorter or longer than shown. It is also envisioned that the band 230 may take other shapes that increase the total length of the discrete cable structure 226 when taut.

[0054] The support structure 224 also includes a second plurality of discrete cable structures 232, which include an inner group 232a positioned in the inner region 218 of the breast cover portion 200 and an outer group 232b positioned in the outer region 220 of the breast cover portion 200. The inner group 232a of the discrete cable structures has a second shape configuration and extends generally perpendicularly from the upper portion 210 of the breast cover portion 200 along the inner region 218 of the breast cover portion 200 to the lower portion 214 of the breast cover portion 200. The outer group 232b of the discrete cable structures also has a second shape configuration and extends generally perpendicularly from the upper portion 210 of the breast cover portion 200 along the outer region 220 of the breast cover portion 200 to the lower portion 214 of the breast cover portion 200. In an example, the second shape configuration includes a single continuous linear segment without any waves or other similar shapes. Therefore, since the second plurality of discrete cable structures 232 are formed of a low-tensile or non-tensile material, the second plurality of discrete cable structures 232 have a relatively fixed length, whether in an untensioned or tensioned state.

[0055] Each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 232 has a first end 234 anchored at the upper portion 210 of the breast coverage portion 200 and a second end 236 anchored at the lower portion 214. In one example aspect, the first end 234 may be anchored to the shoulder strap 212 or an area adjacent to the shoulder strap 212 by sewing, gluing, melting, welding, etc., and the second end 236 may be anchored to the underbust 216. In another example aspect, the shoulder strap 212 and / or the underbust 216 may be integrally formed with the first plurality of discrete cable structures 226 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 232, such that the first end 234 extends integrally from the shoulder strap 212 and the second end 236 extends integrally from the underbust 216.

[0056] Similar to support structure 124, the spacing between cable structures 226 and 232, as well as the number of cable structures 226 and 232, can be adjusted to provide more or less support.

[0057] Figure 3 The front portion of a bra 300 in a flat, planar form is depicted, which includes a breast covering portion 100 configured for the wearer's left breast and a breast covering portion 101 configured for the wearer's right breast. Figure 3A portion of the shoulder strap 312 and a portion of the underbust 316 are also depicted. In one example, the bra 300 can be manufactured as a one-piece unit comprising the shoulder strap 312 and the underbust 316. In this aspect, the breast coverage portions 100 and 101 are integrally formed with the shoulder strap 312 and the underbust 316. In other examples, the breast coverage portions 100 and 101 can be manufactured as one-piece units and attached to the shoulder strap 312 and / or the underbust 316 by sewing, bonding, welding, etc. In this example, the shoulder strap 312 and / or the underbust 316 can be formed of a different material than the material used to form the breast coverage portions 100 and 101. For example, the underbust 316 can be formed of a material with a degree of stretchability to facilitate wearing and removing, and to allow expansion during, for example, inhalation and movement. In other examples, the breast coverage portion 100 can be manufactured separately from the breast coverage portion 101, and the breast coverage portions 100 and 101 can be joined together using the attachment / fixation techniques described herein.

[0058] Figure 4 An exploded view of a breast coverage portion 400 is depicted, which includes a support structure 410 positioned outside a base layer 412. The breast coverage portion 400 is configured for the wearer's left breast, but a breast coverage portion for the right breast will include the same or similar features. The support structure 410 has the same... Figure 1 The support structure 124 of the breast covering portion 100 has a similar configuration and includes a first plurality of discrete cable structures 411 and a second plurality of discrete cable structures 413. It is envisioned that the support structure 410 may alternatively have a configuration similar to that of the support structure 224 or other similar configurations.

[0059] In one example, when the breast coverage portion 400 is incorporated into the bra, the support structure 410 forms the outward-facing surface of the bra, and the base layer 412 is configured to be positioned adjacent to (i.e., in contact with or near contact with) the wearer's breast surface. However, in other examples, the support structure 410 may form the inward-facing surface of the bra (i.e., in contact with or near contact with the wearer's breast surface), and the base layer 412 may form the outward-facing surface of the bra. In yet another example, the support structure 410 may be positioned between two layers. For example, the support structure 410 may be positioned between the base layer 412 and an outer layer (not shown), the base layer 412 being positioned adjacent to the wearer's breast surface, and the outer layer providing additional comfort and / or structure as well as different aesthetics for the bra.

[0060] In one example, the base layer 412 may comprise a continuous textile fabric (e.g., knitted, woven, or nonwoven textile) having properties such as a soft hand feel, moisture-wicking characteristics, and stretch and recovery properties, making it suitable for positioning adjacent to the wearer's breast surface. In all aspects herein, the support structure 410 is envisioned to have greater tensile strength than the base layer 412. By imparting stretch properties to the base layer 412, it facilitates the wearing of the breast coverage portion 400 and can enhance wearer comfort during wearer movement. In one example aspect, the base layer 412 may exhibit approximately 30% to approximately 70% more stretch resistance than the support structure 410 in response to tension.

[0061] In one example, the support structure 410 may be fixed to the base layer 412 at a first position 414 located at the upper part 416 of the breast coverage portion 400, as indicated by arrow 418. The support structure 410 may also be fixed to the base layer 412 at a second position 420 located at the lower part 422 of the breast coverage portion 400, as indicated by arrow 424. Fixation may be achieved by suturing, gluing, adhesive, melting, etc. In another example, the first plurality of discrete cable structures 411 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 413 may not be fixed to the base layer 412 between the first position 414 and the second position 420 (i.e., not fixed to the base layer 412), such that when the breast is positioned within the breast coverage portion 400, at least the first plurality of discrete cable structures 411 can transition to a linear shape configuration.

[0062] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The bra 500, worn by wearer 501, is depicted. In an example, the bra 500 may include a first breast coverage portion 510, a second breast coverage portion 512, a pair of shoulder straps 514, an underbust 516, and a back portion 518 (as shown in the image). Figure 6(As shown). A first breast cover portion 510 is configured to cover the right breast of the wearer 501, a second breast cover portion 512 is configured to cover the left breast of the wearer 501, and a rear portion 518 is configured to cover the upper rear torso area of ​​the wearer 501. Shoulder straps 514 are configured to extend over the right and left shoulders of the wearer 501 and connect the first breast cover portion 510 and the second breast cover portion 512 to the rear portion 518. A lower band 516 extends from the lower edges of the first breast cover portion 510 and the second breast cover portion 512 and from the lower edge of the rear portion 518, and is configured to surround the torso area of ​​the wearer 501. For example, the configuration of the pair of shoulder straps 514, the rear portion 518, and the lower band 516 is illustrative, and it is envisioned herein that these portions may have different configurations, such as a T-shaped or cross-I-shaped configuration. This document also envisions that bra 500 may include an adjustment mechanism comprising a slider and a closure, such that, for example, underbust 516 may include a closure mechanism that allows it to engage, for example, at the rear portion 518 of bra 500. According to this document, other types of decorative elements may be incorporated into bra 500.

[0063] In one example, the different portions of the bra 500 described above can be integrally formed in a flat planar form in a single manufacturing process. For example, the different portions of the bra 500 can be formed by a printing process, wherein a material (e.g., TPU) is printed with a pattern corresponding to the different portions of the bra 500. In another example, the different portions of the bra 500 can be cut from a low-stretch or non-stretch material. Once manufactured in a flat planar form, one or more portions of the bra 500 can be attached to one or more other portions of the bra 500 to complete the construction of the bra 500. In this example aspect, it is conceivable that an elastic plate can be incorporated into one or more portions of the underbust 516, as illustrated by reference numeral 517. Incorporating the elastic plate 517 facilitates wearing the bra 500 and also facilitates expansion of the underbust during wear, particularly during exercise. Forming the bra 500 in this manner saves manufacturing costs and time.

[0064] In other examples, the first breast coverage portion 510 and the second breast coverage portion 512 may be formed individually or jointly in a flat planar form using the manufacturing methods described above. Once formed, the first breast coverage portion 510 and the second breast coverage portion 512 may be attached to other portions of the bra 500 (e.g., a pair of shoulder straps 514, underbust 516, and back portion 518) using the fastening techniques described herein. In this example, one or more other portions of the bra 500 (e.g., a pair of shoulder straps 514, underbust 516, and / or back portion 518) may be constructed using materials different from the low-stretch or non-stretch materials used to form the first breast coverage portion 510 and the second breast coverage portion 512. For example, the underbust 516 may be formed of a material with stretch and recovery properties to facilitate easier wearing and movement during use.

[0065] Various aspects of this document envision that bra 500 may include a base layer, such as base layer 412. If used, the base layer may be located inside the first breast coverage portion 510 and the second breast coverage portion 512. If used, the base layer may also be located inside other portions of bra 500, such as a pair of shoulder straps 514, underbust 516, and / or back portion 518. Various aspects of this document also envision that bra 500 may not include the base layer as shown, such that the different portions of the bra 500 are in contact with or close to contact with the wearer's skin surface. Additionally, various aspects of this document envision that the base layer may be located outside the different portions of bra 500. Further examples envision that bra 500 and the base layer may be sold separately, wherein bra 500 and the base layer are not fixed to or attached to each other. In this respect, a wearer may purchase a base layer of a first color and purchase bra 500, wherein bra 500 may include a second color different from the first color to provide an interesting aesthetic effect when bra 500 is worn with the base layer.

[0066] Each of the first breast covering portion 510 and the second breast covering portion 512 includes a first plurality of discrete cable structures 520 having a configuration similar to the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 or 226 and a second plurality of discrete cable structures 522 having a configuration similar to the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 or 232. The description of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 522 is the same as or similar to the description of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 126 / 226 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 132 / 232, and will not be repeated herein.

[0067] Figure 5The bra 500 is depicted in a configuration for wearing, wherein the wearer's breasts are positioned within a first breast cover portion 510 and a second breast cover portion 512. Displacement caused by the wearer's breasts tensions a plurality of discrete cable structures 520 in the first breast cover portion 510 and the second breast cover portion 512, and causes them to undergo a reversible increase in length due to a zigzag and / or wave pattern. For example, in the tensioned state, based on the z-direction... Figure 1 The forces represented by the plotted coordinates can contribute to a reversible change in the cable structure 520 in the x and / or y directions. Therefore, the displacement generated by the wearer's breasts transitions the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520 from a first shape configuration to a second linear shape configuration. In other words, the displacement caused by the wearer's breasts tauts the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520, which transitions the zigzag and / or wave-like shape to a linear shape. Because the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520 are formed of a low-tensile or non-tensile material, once taut, the cable structure 520 provides support at least to the central portion of the wearer's breasts.

[0068] Because of the smaller breast volume on the outer and inner sides of the breast, the displacement and tension caused by the wearer's breast are less when positioned within the first breast coverage portion 510 and the second breast coverage portion 512. Due to the smaller displacement, less reversible increase in length is required for the second plurality of discrete cable structures 522. Therefore, the second plurality of discrete cable structures 522 maintains a second linear shape configuration in both untensioned and tensioned states.

[0069] As described above, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 522 can be modified to provide more or less support and / or accommodate larger or smaller breasts. For example, the lengths of the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520 and the second plurality of discrete cable structures 522 can be increased to accommodate larger breasts. For the second plurality of discrete cable structures 522, this can be achieved by increasing the total length of the cable structures 522, as they have a linear configuration. For the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520, this can be achieved, for example, by increasing the displacement of the zigzag segments in the positive and negative x directions and / or by increasing the number of zigzag segments. To accommodate smaller breasts, the total length of the cable structures 522 can be reduced, and the displacement and / or number of zigzag segments in the first plurality of discrete cable structures 520 can be reduced. An overall increase in support, independent of breast size, can be achieved by increasing the number of discrete cable structures in the first and / or second plurality of discrete cable structures 520 and / or 522.

[0070] Figure 7A flowchart depicts an example method for manufacturing a support structure for the breast coverage portion of supportive garments such as bras, and is generally indicated by reference numeral 700. In this example, the support structure may include... Figure 1 Support structure 124 or Figure 2 The support structure 224, and the support for the clothing may include, for example, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The bra in the middle is 500.

[0071] In step 710, a support structure is formed in a flat planar form, wherein the support structure includes a first plurality of discrete cable structures, such as a first plurality of discrete cable structures 126, 226, or 520, and a second plurality of discrete cable structures, such as a second plurality of discrete cable structures 132, 232, or 522. As explained herein, when in a flat planar form, the first plurality of discrete cable structures have a first shape configuration, and when in a flat planar form, the second plurality of discrete cable structures have a second shape configuration.

[0072] This article envisions various methods for forming the support structure. In one example, the support structure can be printed using a polymer material such as TPU. Once cured, TPU exhibits almost no stretch when subjected to tension. In another example manufacturing method, the support structure can be cut from low-stretch or non-stretch textile materials, including die-cutting. Example textile materials include, for example, tightly woven textiles without elastic yarns, tightly knitted textiles without elastic yarns, nonwoven materials, leather materials, etc.

[0073] In another example manufacturing method, the support structure can be formed by arranging high-tenacity, flexible, and low-stretch or non-stretch yarns or threads in a pattern corresponding to the support structure. Example materials include yarns or threads formed from para-aramid fibers. In this example, the yarns or threads can be coated or wound with materials to improve wearer comfort, particularly when the support structure is in contact with or near contact with the wearer's skin. For example, yarns or threads formed from para-aramid fibers can be coated with TPU materials or wound with polyester yarns, cotton yarns, etc. Regarding this manufacturing method, it is envisioned that the yarns or threads can be embroidered or sewn onto a base layer, as per [reference to...]. Figure 4 The support structure 410 shown is described.

[0074] Various aspects of this disclosure have been described in an illustrative and not restrictive manner. Alternative aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from its scope. Those skilled in the art can develop alternative means to implement the above-described improvements without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0075] It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations, and are contemplated to be within the scope of the claims. Not all steps listed in the various figures need to be performed in the specific order described.

Claims

1. A breast covering portion for supporting clothing, the breast covering portion having an unstretched state and a stretched state and comprising: grassroots level; as well as Support structure, located outside or inside the base layer; The breast-covering portion includes an inner region, an outer region, and a central region located between the inner region and the outer region; The supporting structure includes: A first plurality of discrete cable structures located in the central region, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures having a zigzag segment to be longer in the tensioned state than in the untensioned state; A second plurality of discrete cable structures located in the inner region and the outer region, the second plurality of discrete cable structures being formed of a low-tensile or non-tensile material, the second plurality of discrete cable structures being configured to have a relatively fixed length whether in the untensioned state or the tensioned state.

2. The breast covering portion according to claim 1, wherein the support structure is fixed to the base layer at a first position and a second position, and is not fixed to the base layer between the first position and the second position.

3. The breast covering portion according to claim 2, wherein the first position is located on the upper part of the breast covering portion, and the second position is located on the lower part of the breast covering portion.

4. The breast covering portion according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures extend between the first position and the second position in the central region of the breast covering portion.

5. The breast covering portion according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures are not fixed to the base layer between the first position and the second position.

6. The breast covering portion according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the support structure has greater tensile strength than the base layer.

7. The breast covering portion according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in the untensioned state, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures comprises a plurality of linear segments extending alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction.

8. The breast covering portion according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, in the tensioned state, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures comprises a single continuous linear segment.

9. A breast covering portion for supporting clothing, the breast covering portion including an inner region, an outer region, and a central region located between the inner region and the outer region, and comprising: The support structure includes: Located in the central region are a first plurality of discrete cable structures, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures having a first shape configuration in an untensioned state and a second shape configuration in a tensioned state, the second shape configuration being different from the first shape configuration. A second plurality of discrete cable structures located in the inner region and the outer region, each of the second plurality of discrete cable structures having a second shape configuration in the untensioned state and the tensioned state.

10. The breast cover portion of the garment support according to claim 9, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast cover portion, over the central region of the breast cover portion, and to the lower portion of the breast cover portion.

11. The breast cover portion of the garment support according to claim 10, wherein the second plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast cover portion, over the outer and inner regions of the breast cover portion, and to the lower portion of the breast cover portion.

12. The breast covering portion of the supporting garment according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the supporting structure further includes a lower circumference portion positioned at the lower part of the breast covering portion, and wherein each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures and the second plurality of discrete cable structures extends from the lower circumference portion.

13. The breast-covering portion of the supporting garment according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the first shape configuration comprises a plurality of linear segments extending alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction.

14. The breast coverage portion of the supporting garment according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the second shape configuration comprises a single continuous linear segment.

15. A method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast covering portion of clothing, the breast covering portion including an inner region, an outer region, and a central region located between the inner region and the outer region, the method comprising: Forming a grassroots level; The support structure is formed in the form of a flat plane, and the support structure includes: Located in the central region are a first plurality of discrete cable structures, each of the first plurality of discrete cable structures having a first shape configuration, and A second plurality of discrete cable structures located in the inner region and the outer region, each of the second plurality of discrete cable structures having a second shape configuration different from the first shape configuration; The first shape configuration includes a plurality of linear segments that extend alternately in the positive x-direction and the negative x-direction, and the second shape configuration includes a single continuous linear segment; The support structure is fixed to the base layer at a first position located above the breast coverage portion and at a second position located below the breast coverage portion. The first plurality of discrete cable structures and the second plurality of discrete cable structures are not fixed to the base layer between the first and second positions, such that when the breast is positioned within the breast coverage portion, at least the first plurality of discrete cable structures transition to the second shape configuration.

16. The method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast cover portion of clothing according to claim 15, wherein the first plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast cover portion, over a central region of the breast cover portion, and to the lower portion of the breast cover portion.

17. The method of manufacturing a support structure for supporting a breast cover portion of clothing according to claim 16, wherein the second plurality of discrete cable structures extend from the upper portion of the breast cover portion, over the outer and inner regions of the breast cover portion, and to the lower portion of the breast cover portion.

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