Adjustable strap system

Abstract

Aspects herein relate to a belt system having adjustable stretch that is suitable for use in upper body garments, lower body garments, and articles such as bags and footwear. The belt system includes a pair of belts that are coupled together in a face-sharing relationship by a coupling mechanism. One of the pair of belts has greater stretch properties than the other. By moving the coupling mechanism along the length of the belt system, the overall stretch of the belt system can be adjusted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This article relates in various aspects to a belt system for clothing or articles, wherein the belt system has adjustable stretch characteristics. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, clothing straps have adjustable lengths but not the ability to adjust the stretch properties of the strap itself. Summary of the Invention

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

[0004] Clause 1. A belt system comprising: a first belt having a first end and a second end, the first belt being secured to a first fabric element at the first end; a second belt having a third end and a fourth end, the second belt being secured to a second fabric element at the fourth end, wherein the first belt and the second belt are in a face-sharing relationship; and a coupling mechanism for securing the first belt to the second belt, the coupling mechanism being slidable along the lengths of the first belt and the second belt, wherein the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt are positioned on a first side of the coupling mechanism, and wherein the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt are positioned on opposite second sides of the coupling mechanism.

[0005] Clause 2. The belt system according to Clause 1, wherein the second end of the first belt is not secured to the second fabric element, and wherein the third end of the second belt is not secured to the first fabric element.

[0006] Clause 3. The belt system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 2, wherein the first belt has a first tensile amount greater than the second tensile amount of the second belt.

[0007] Clause 4. The belt system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the amount of tension of the belt system depends on the position of the coupling mechanism along the length of the first belt and the second belt.

[0008] Clause 5. A belt system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the belt system has a first tension when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt, and wherein the belt system has a second tension greater than the first tension when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt.

[0009] Clause 6. The belt system according to Clause 5, wherein when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt, a first distance measured from the first end of the first belt to the first side of the coupling mechanism is less than a second distance measured from the fourth end of the second belt to the second side of the coupling mechanism.

[0010] Clause 7. The belt system according to any one of Clauses 5 to 6, wherein when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt, the third distance measured from the fourth end of the second belt to the second side of the coupling mechanism is less than the fourth distance measured from the first end of the first belt to the first side of the coupling mechanism.

[0011] Clause 8. The belt system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the second belt is formed of a low-strength or non-strength material.

[0012] Clause 9. The belt system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein when the coupling mechanism is positioned at different locations along the lengths of the first belt and the second belt, the first belt and the second belt maintain the surface-sharing relationship.

[0013] Clause 10. A garment comprising: a first fabric element forming a first portion of the garment; a second fabric element forming a second portion of the garment; and a belt system comprising: a first belt having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first belt being secured to the first fabric element of the garment; a second belt having a third end and a fourth end, the fourth end of the second belt being secured to the second fabric element of the garment, wherein the first belt and the second belt are in a face-sharing relationship; and a connecting mechanism for securing the first belt to the second belt, wherein the connecting mechanism is slidable along the lengths of the first belt and the second belt.

[0014] Clause 11. The upper garment as described in Clause 10, wherein when the connecting mechanism is positioned at different locations along the lengths of the first and second straps, the first and second straps maintain a surface-sharing relationship.

[0015] Clause 12. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 10 to 11, wherein the first end of the first strap and the third end of the second strap are positioned on a first side of the connecting mechanism, and wherein the second end of the first strap and the fourth end of the second strap are positioned on opposite second sides of the connecting mechanism.

[0016] Clause 13. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 10 to 12, wherein the second end of the first strap is not secured to the second fabric element of the upper garment, and wherein the third end of the second strap is not secured to the first fabric element of the upper garment.

[0017] Clause 14. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 10 to 13, wherein the upper garment is a bra, and wherein the strap system forms at least a portion of the shoulder straps of the bra.

[0018] Clause 15. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 10 to 13, wherein the upper garment is a bra, and wherein the first fabric element forms the apex portion of the breast-covering surface of the bra, and wherein the second fabric element forms the shoulder straps of the bra.

[0019] Clause 16. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 10 to 15, wherein the first band has a first stretch greater than the second stretch of the second band.

[0020] Clause 17. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 10 to 16, wherein the stretch of the belt system depends on the position of the connecting mechanism along the length of the first belt and the second belt.

[0021] Clause 18. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 10 to 17, wherein the belt system has a first stretch when the connecting mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt, and wherein the belt system has a second stretch greater than the first stretch when the connecting mechanism is located closer to the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt.

[0022] Clause 19. A method of assembling a belt system, comprising: attaching a first end of a first belt to a first fabric element, wherein the first belt further includes a second end; attaching a fourth end of a second belt to a second fabric element, wherein the second belt further includes a third end; positioning the first belt and the second belt such that the first belt and the second belt are in a face-sharing relationship; and securing the first belt and the second belt using a coupling mechanism such that the coupling mechanism is slidable along the length of the first belt and the second belt, wherein the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt are positioned on a first side of the coupling mechanism, and the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt are positioned on opposite second sides of the coupling mechanism.

[0023] Clause 20. The method of assembling a belt system according to Clause 19, wherein the second end of the first belt is not secured to the second fabric element, and wherein the third end of the second belt is not secured to the first fabric element. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Examples of various aspects of this article are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 The illustration shows a perspective view of a belt system in an untensioned state according to various aspects of this article;

[0026] Figure 2A The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 1 The side view of the belt system shown has a coupling mechanism positioned closer to the first side of the belt system than the second side of the belt system;

[0027] Figure 2B The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 1 The side view of the belt system shown has a coupling mechanism positioned closer to a second side of the belt system than a first side of the belt system.

[0028] Figure 3A The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 2A The diagram shows a perspective view of a belt system in a taut state.

[0029] Figure 3B The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 2B The diagram shows a perspective view of a belt system in a taut state.

[0030] Figure 4A The diagram illustrates the various aspects of this article, such as... Figure 2A Front view of the clothing with system support configured in the middle;

[0031] Figure 4BThe diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 4A The rear view showing the support for the clothing;

[0032] Figure 5A The diagram illustrates the various aspects of this article, such as... Figure 2B Front view of the clothing with system support configured in the middle;

[0033] Figure 5B The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 5A The rear view showing the support for the clothing;

[0034] Figure 6A The illustration shows a front view of an alternative support garment with a belt system as described herein, with the belt system in an unconnected state, according to various aspects of this article.

[0035] Figure 6B The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 6A The rear view shown indicates that the support system for the clothing is in the connected state.

[0036] Figure 7A The illustration shows a front perspective view of a lower garment with a belt system as described herein, with the belt system in an unconnected state, according to various aspects of this article;

[0037] Figure 7B The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 7A The diagram shows a perspective view of the lower body clothing, with the system in a connected state;

[0038] Figure 8A The illustration shows a perspective view of a footwear product having a belt system as described herein, with the belt system in an unconnected state, according to various aspects of this article.

[0039] Figure 8B The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 8A The perspective view of the footwear shown indicates that the belt system is in a connected state; and

[0040] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the assembly process according to various aspects of this article. Figure 1 The flowchart shown is for a method with a system. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The subject matter of this invention has been specifically described herein to satisfy legal requirements. However, the specification itself is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the inventors have envisioned that the claimed or disclosed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, in conjunction with other prior or future techniques, to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to those described in this document. 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 except as expressly stated.

[0042] Traditionally, adjustable straps used in clothing or products (such as bras, tank tops, trousers, bags, wallets, footwear, etc.) are made of a single material with limited tensile properties. Therefore, while the length of these straps can usually be adjusted, the overall elasticity or tensile properties of the straps cannot be adjusted. In some cases, this can lead to discomfort, especially in cases such as bra straps.

[0043] Therefore, this paper provides a belt system with adjustable tensile properties. The belt system comprises two belts connected by a coupling mechanism in a face-sharing relationship, wherein one belt has tensile properties different from the other. For example, the first belt of the belt system may have high tensile properties, meaning that when a force is applied in a direction parallel to its length, its length can increase by at least 10% of its original length. The second belt of the belt system may have no tensile properties or minimal tensile properties, meaning that when a force is applied in a direction parallel to its length, its length changes minimally or not at all, or its length changes less than the length change of the first belt.

[0044] When the belt system is incorporated into a garment article, a first end of the first belt is attached to a first element of the garment article, such as a first fabric element, by means of sewing or otherwise. Similarly, a second end of the second belt is also attached to a second element of the garment article, such as a second fabric element, by means of sewing or otherwise. In some cases, the distance between the first end of the first belt and the second end of the second belt can define the length of the belt system (e.g., as measured along the first and second belts). In an example, the first and second fabric elements are located at opposite ends of the belt system. For example, the first fabric element may be part of the front of the garment article, while the second fabric element may be part of the back of the garment article, although other configurations are contemplated herein.

[0045] Based on the examples provided herein, because the first belt has a greater tensile strength than the second belt, and because only the first end of the first belt is attached to the first fabric element, the "unlocked" length of the first belt determines how much the belt system can stretch. In other words, for a given length of belt system, the position of the coupling mechanism along the length of the belt system determines the amount of the first belt that can be stretched (i.e., the available length) when tension is applied to either the first or second fabric element. For example, for a given length of belt system, the available length of the first belt is less when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt attached to the first fabric element than when the coupling mechanism is located further away from the first end of the first belt (or closer to the second end of the second belt attached to the second fabric element). In other words, when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt, a large portion of the length of the belt system is "locked" by the second belt and the coupling mechanism. Thus, when tension is applied to either the first or second fabric element along its length, the belt system will stretch by only a small amount. When the connecting mechanism moves away from the first end of the first belt, a larger portion of the first belt is "unlocked," thus allowing the belt system to gradually stretch to a greater extent when tension is applied.

[0046] As used herein, the term "clothing article" is intended to encompass a variety of different configurations suitable for covering the wearer's body when the clothing article is worn. These configurations may include, for example, upper garments, lower garments, socks, footwear (i.e., shoes, boots, sandals, etc.), gloves, hats, face masks, bodysuits, dresses, pullovers, work clothes, etc. As used herein, the term "upper garment" is intended to encompass a variety of different configurations suitable for covering the upper torso area of ​​the wearer when the upper garment is worn. These configurations may include jackets or coats, pullovers, hoodies, vests, shirts, uniforms, t-shirts, sweatshirts, bras, etc. As used herein, the term "lower garment" is intended to encompass a variety of different configurations suitable for covering the lower body area of ​​the wearer when the garment is worn. These configurations may include shorts, trousers, capris, jeans, pants, skirts, culottes, leggings, bodysuits, etc. Terms used to describe the position or orientation of upper and lower garments, such as front, back, inside, outside, upper, lower, center, inner side, outer side, front, back, etc., refer to garments intended to be worn by an upright wearer. Thus, for example, the term "front" means configured to cover the front torso area of ​​the wearer, and the term "back" means configured to cover the rear torso area of ​​the wearer. The term "upper" refers to the area closer to the neck opening of the upper garment or the torso opening of the lower garment, and the term "lower" refers to the area closer to the torso opening of the upper garment or the leg opening of the lower garment. The term "right side portion" means the upper right side of the garment when worn by the wearer, and the term "left side portion" means the upper left side of the garment when worn by the wearer.

[0047] When describing material layers forming a belt system, the term "inner" means the layer positioned closest to the wearer's body surface relative to the other layers forming the belt system. When describing material layers forming a belt system, the term "outer" means the layer furthest from the wearer's body surface compared to the other layers of the belt system. As used herein, the term "fabric" means any type of flexible fabric or cloth that can be used to produce garments such as those described herein, whether woven, nonwoven, knitted, or braided.

[0048] When referring to a belt system, the term "tensile property" refers to the property of being able to reversibly / temporarily deform along its length to elongate (i.e., become longer or increase in length). In an example context, relative to at least the first belt of the belt system, the term tensile property means that when a tensile or tension force is applied to the first belt in the length direction, the first belt reversibly stretches by at least 10% of its original length (i.e., unstretched state). Once the applied force is removed, the first belt is able to return substantially or completely to its original length, or in other words, to its unstretched state. In an example context, the second belt may exhibit little or no stretching in response to a tension force. In other words, when a tensile or tension force is applied to the second belt in the length direction, the second belt may not exhibit stretching or may exhibit stretching less than 10% of its original length (i.e., unstretched state).

[0049] In an example, the tensile properties of the first and second belts of the belt system can be determined by the presence and / or weight percentage of the elastic yarn used to form the first and second belts. The term "elastic yarn" refers to a yarn capable of being elastically stretched from its original length (e.g., under tension) and substantially returning to its original length (e.g., when the tension is removed). For example, an elastic yarn can stretch to at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, or up to about 200% of its original length in response to tension, and substantially return to its original length when the tension is removed. Some example elastic yarns include spandex. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) yarns, rubber, etc. Elastic yarns can come in various forms, such as monofilaments (e.g., bicomponent yarns with a core / sheath or side-by-side components) or multifilaments. Therefore, in one example, the first belt may contain a larger weight percentage of elastic yarn compared to the second belt. Various aspects of this document also envision that the second belt may not contain elastic yarn. In other examples, elastomeric materials with tensile properties can be used to form, for example, the first belt. The term "end" refers to the outermost short edge of the belt that defines the belt width. The belt length is defined by the outermost long edge of the belt.

[0050] As used herein, the terms “approximately” or “about” mean within plus or minus 10% of the indicated value.

[0051] When describing the edges of the belts in a belt system, the use of positional terms assumes that each belt is properly positioned relative to each other. When used to describe an edge, the term "inner" means an edge located closer to, for example, the center line of a garment including the belt system disclosed herein. Therefore, when the belt system is incorporated into a garment, the inner edge of the belt system is closer to the center line of the garment. When used to describe an edge, the term "outer" means an edge located away from the center line of the garment. Therefore, the outer edge of the belt system is located further away from the center line of the garment and closer to, for example, the outer edge of the garment. When describing the relationship between the first and second belts of the belt system, the term "face-sharing relationship" means, for example, that the first planar surface of the first belt is positioned such that it faces, for example, the second planar surface of the second belt. In other words, the term "face-sharing relationship" means that the belts are positioned relative to each other such that the first planar surface of the first belt and the second planar surface of the second belt are in contact with or nearly in contact with each other.

[0052] Unless otherwise specified, all measurements provided herein were performed with the belt system at standard ambient temperature and pressure (298.15 K and 100 kPa) and with the belt components of the belt system in a static state (i.e., not stretched).

[0053] Figure 1 A belt system 100 is depicted, comprising a first belt 30 and a second belt 40, which are connected to each other by a coupling mechanism 50. In illustrative terms, although other suitable sliding coupling mechanisms are contemplated without departing from the general principles of this document, the coupling mechanism 50 may include a sliding latch (i.e., a "sliding" or three-way sliding latch). Depending on the required rigidity, the coupling mechanism 50 may be constructed of plastic, metal, or polymer materials. Furthermore, depending on the application, the overall shape of the coupling mechanism 50 may be circular or rectangular (as shown in the figure).

[0054] The coupling mechanism 50 is slidable along the length 102 of the belt system 100 in the length direction 250. The first belt 30 and the second belt 40 are in a face-sharing relationship, meaning that the inner surface 33 of the first belt 30 is positioned facing or adjacent to the outer surface 41 of the second belt 40. The inner surface 43 of the second belt 40 is configured to face the inside of the wearer or article when the belt system 100 is attached to clothing or articles. It is contemplated that the first belt 30 and the second belt 40 may have the same length, or one of the first belt 30 or the second belt 40 may be longer than the other. Although the belt system 100 is depicted as having a first belt 30 placed on top of the second belt 40 for the intended use, it is also contemplated, without departing from the nature of this document, that the belt system 100 may be configured to have a second belt 40 on top of the first belt 30 when attached by the coupling mechanism 50. In other words, it is also envisioned that the belt system 100 may have an inner surface 43 of a second belt 400, which is positioned facing or adjacent to the outer surface 31 of the first belt 30.

[0055] In terms of examples, the first band 30 may have stretch properties and may be formed from a stretch knitted or woven material incorporating elastic yarns (e.g., elastic fibers). For example, the first band 30 may be formed from nylon and elastic fibers and / or polyester and elastic fibers. Alternatively, the first band 30 may be formed from a stretchable elastomeric polymer material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, silicone, polyethylene, etc., or any combination of these materials that would be suitable according to various aspects herein). The second band 40 may be formed from a low-stretch or non-stretch material (e.g., polyester and / or nylon) to form a tightly woven or braided material that does not include elastic yarns / fibers. Alternatively, the second band 40 may be formed from a low-stretch or non-stretch polymer or a natural material (e.g., leather).

[0056] When incorporated into an article, the first end 32 of the first band 30 is attached (e.g., by sewing, bonding, welding, integral knitting, or other attachment / fixation) to the first fabric element 10 at the first attachment point 36, while the second end 34 of the first band 30 remains separate / unfixed (i.e., free). The fourth end 42 of the second band 40 is attached (e.g., by sewing, bonding, welding, integral knitting, or other attachment / attachment) to the second fabric element 20 at the second attachment point 46, while the third end 44 of the second band 40 remains separate / unfixed. As depicted, the first fabric element 10 and the second fabric element 20 are located on opposite sides of the coupling mechanism 50. In terms of examples, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the first fabric element 10 and the second fabric element 20 are indirectly connected by means of a connecting mechanism 50, which connects the first belt 30 to the second belt 40 to form a belt system 100.

[0057] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the belt system 100 can be adjusted in a variety of different ways by adjusting the position of the coupling mechanism 50 relative to one or both belts 30 and 40. For example, the tensile properties and overall length 102 of the belt system can be increased, decreased, or maintained depending on how the coupling mechanism 50 is adjusted (e.g., sliding relative to one or two attachment points 36 and 46). In the embodiments, the tensile properties of the belt system 100 are relative to the overall length 102 of the belt system, such as measured from one attachment point 36 to another attachment point 46. For example, if the overall length 102 is x (e.g., 10 cm) and the belt system 100 can reversibly stretch to y (e.g., 12 cm), the tensile properties can be quantified as y exceeding x (e.g., 1.2). Thus, the belt system 100 includes at least eight different adjustment elements that can be made to change the characteristics of the belt system 100: increasing the overall length 102 and increasing the tensile properties; increasing the overall length 102 and maintaining the tensile properties; increasing the overall length 102 and decreasing the tensile properties; decreasing the overall length 102 and increasing the tensile properties; decreasing the overall length 102 and maintaining the tensile properties; decreasing the overall length 102 and increasing the tensile properties; maintaining the overall length 102 and increasing the tensile properties; and maintaining the overall length 102 and decreasing the tensile properties.

[0058] To illustrate the adjustability provided by system 100, refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B .For example, Figure 2A The first state or configuration 200 of the system is described, and Figure 2B The second state or configuration 200 of the system is depicted. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In this system, the belt system includes the same given length 102 (e.g., the length 102 is maintained from one state to another), and embodiments of this disclosure provide adjustable stretching characteristics for this given length 102. Figure 2A As shown, the first belt 30 has a length of 38, and the second belt 40 has a length of 48, wherein the first belt 30 and the second belt 40 are connected to each other in a face-sharing relationship by a connecting mechanism 50. In this example, the tensile characteristics of the belt system 100 can be determined based on the position of the connecting mechanism 50 along the length 102 of the belt system 100. That is, the tensile characteristics of the belt system 100 can be based on the amount (e.g., length) of the first belt 30 between the attachment point 36 and the connecting mechanism 50 and the amount (e.g., length) of the second belt 40 between the attachment point 46 and the connecting mechanism 50.

[0059] like Figure 2AAs shown, in the lower tension configuration 200 (e.g., based on a given length 102), the coupling mechanism 50 is located closer to attachment point 36 and further away from attachment point 46, such that less of the first band 30 forms the overall length 102, and more of the second band 40 forms the length 102. That is, the lower tension configuration 200 results in a first distance 220 measured from the first attachment point 36 to the first side 54 of the coupling mechanism being less than a second distance 210 measured from the second side 52 of the coupling mechanism 50 to the second attachment point 46.

[0060] like Figure 2B As shown, in the higher tension configuration 202 of the belt system 100, the coupling mechanism 50 has moved along the length direction 250 (while maintaining a similar length 102 of the belt system), such that the second side 52 of the coupling mechanism 50 is located further away from the first attachment point 36 of the first belt 30. In the higher tension configuration 202, the resulting "unlocked" third distance 240 of the first belt 30 measured from the first attachment point 36 of the first belt 30 to the first side 54 of the coupling mechanism 50 is greater than the fourth distance 230 measured from the second attachment point 46 to the second side 52 of the coupling mechanism 50. Thus, when tension is applied to the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20 along the length direction 250 due to the tensile characteristics of the first belt 30, Figure 2B The belt system 100 in the middle will stretch to a greater extent (with Figure 2A Compared to the configuration in [the original text]. That is, as in [the original text]. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Between these points, the given length 102 of the belt system 100 can remain relatively constant, while the tensile characteristics can be adjusted (e.g., decreased or increased) according to the position of the coupling mechanism 50 relative to the attachment point.

[0061] In some cases, the belt system 102 can be classified based on the ratio of (a) the untensioned length (e.g., 220 or 240) of the first belt 30 between the first attachment point 36 and the coupling mechanism 50 to (b) the untensioned length (e.g., 210 or 230) of the second belt 40 between the second attachment point 46 and the coupling mechanism 50. For example, when the ratio of (a) to (b) is less than 1, the belt system can be classified as “low tension”; when the ratio of (a) to (b) is 1, the belt system can be classified as “medium tension”; and when the ratio of (a) to (b) is greater than 1, the belt system can be classified as “high tension”. For example, if the belt system comprises a total length of 10 cm (e.g., 102), where the ratio of (a) to (b) is 2:3 (e.g., 4 cm to 6 cm), then the first belt system can be classified as "low tensile"; and similarly, if the belt system comprises a total length of 8 cm, where the ratio of (a) to (b) is 3:5 (e.g., 3 cm to 5 cm), then the belt system can be classified as "low tensile". In another example, if the belt system comprises a total length of 10 cm (e.g., 102), where the ratio of (a) to (b) is 4:1 (e.g., 8 cm to 2 cm), then the first belt system can be classified as "high tensile"; and similarly, if the belt system comprises a total length of 8 cm, where the ratio of (a) to (b) is 3:1 (e.g., 6 cm to 2 cm), then the belt system can be classified as "high tensile". Based on the system used for classification, Figure 2A The belt system in this context can be classified as a "low-stretch" system, and Figure 2B The belt system in the middle can be classified as a "high tensile" system.

[0062] To further explain, in some instances, in the low-tension configuration 200, only the first distance 220 (or length) of the first belt 30 is "unlocked" and freely stretched. Because the first belt 30 has a greater tensile strength than the second belt 40, and because only the first end 32 of the first belt 30 is attached to the first fabric element 10, the available length of the first belt 30 (i.e., the first distance 220) determines how much the belt system 100 stretches when tension is applied to either the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20. In the low-tension configuration 200, the available length of the first belt 30 is limited to a relatively small first distance 220 by the coupling mechanism 50. In other words, a large portion of the length 38 of the first belt 30 is "locked" by the position of the coupling mechanism 50 relative to the first belt 30. Thus, when tension is applied to either the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20 in the length direction 250 (e.g., compared to a different configuration in which the coupling mechanism 50 slides closer to the second end 34 of the first belt 30), the belt system 100 will stretch by only a small amount. Because the second belt 40 has low or no tension, and because only the fourth end 42 of the second belt 40 is attached or secured to the second fabric element 20, the available length of the first belt 30 (i.e., the first distance 220) will determine how much the belt system 100 will stretch when tension is applied to the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20. Because the second distance 210 is relatively larger than the first distance 220, the belt system 100 will stretch only a small amount when tension is applied to the second fabric element 20 or the first fabric element 10 (e.g., compared to different configurations where the first distance 220 is more equal to or greater than the second distance 210). In other words, when the ratio of the first distance 220 to the second distance 210 is less than 1 or when the ratio of the second distance 210 to the first distance 220 is greater than 1, such as... Figure 2A As shown, when tension is applied to the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20 in the length direction 250, the belt system 100 will exhibit a relatively small amount of stretch (e.g., compared to when the ratio of the first distance 220 to the second distance 210 is greater than or equal to 1).

[0063] Reference Figure 2BAs described above, since the second belt 40 has low or no tension, and because only the fourth end 42 of the second belt 40 is attached or secured to the second fabric element 20, the available length of the first belt 30 (i.e., the third distance 240) will determine how much the belt system 100 will stretch when tension is applied to the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20 in the length direction 250. Because the third distance 240 is relatively larger than the fourth distance 230, the belt system 100 will stretch by a greater amount when tension is applied to the second fabric element 20 or the first fabric element 10 in the length direction 250. In other words, when the ratio of the third distance 240 to the fourth distance 230 is greater than 1, or when the ratio of the fourth distance 230 to the third distance 240 is less than 1, such as Figure 2B As shown, when tension is applied to the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20 in the length direction 250, the belt system 100 will stretch to a greater extent (e.g., compared to when the ratio of the third distance 240 to the fourth distance 230 is less than 1).

[0064] In some instances, the tensile properties of a belt system can be determined based on the length to which the belt system can reversibly elongate. For example, Figure 3A A belt system 200b is depicted, which may include a low-tension configuration 200 when tension is applied to the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20. Figure 2A The system. Furthermore. Figure 3A The stretch length 302 to which the belt system 200b can be reversibly stretched is depicted. That is, in Figure 2A In the middle, the belt system includes a length of 102, while Figure 3A In this system, the belt has been reversibly elongated to include length 302. In some instances, the length can be based on length 102 and length 302. Figure 2A and Figure 3A The system is categorized based on the length of the belt. For example, if the length 102 is x (e.g., 10 cm) and the reversibly elongated length 302 is y (e.g., 12 cm), then the tensile property can be quantified as y exceeding x (e.g., 1.2). Similarly, Figure 3B A belt system 202b is depicted, which may include a high-tension configuration 202 when tension is applied to the first fabric element 10 or the second fabric element 20. Figure 2B The system. Furthermore. Figure 3B The stretch length 304 to which the belt system 202b can be reversibly stretched is depicted. That is, in Figure 2B In the middle, the belt system includes a length of 102, while Figure 3B In this system, the belt has been reversibly elongated to include length 304. As described above, the lengths 102 and 304 can be used to... Figure 2B and Figure 3BThe system is classified according to the length of the belt. For example, if the length 102 is x (e.g., 10 cm) and the reversibly elongated length 302 is y' (e.g., 15 cm), then the tensile property can be quantified as y' exceeding x (e.g., 1.5). Based on these examples, such as in... Figure 2A / Figure 3A and Figure 2B / Figure 3B Between the two, the configuration in 2B / 3B provides greater stretching properties.

[0065] To further explain, based on the fact that the connecting mechanism 50 is closer to the first end 32 of the first belt 30, the tension length 320 of the second belt 40 is greater than the tension length 310 of the first belt 30. Therefore, the ratio of the tension length 310 of the first belt 30 to the tension length 320 of the second belt 40 is less than 1, which results in the belt system 100 being in a low-tension configuration 200 (e.g., Figure 2A It exhibits lower tensile properties (as shown). Figure 3B In this configuration, because the connecting mechanism 50 is closer to the fourth end 42 of the second belt 40, the tension length 330 of the first belt 30 is greater than the tension length 340 of the second belt 40. Therefore, the ratio of the tension length 330 of the first belt 30 to the tension length 340 of the second belt 40 is greater than 1. This results in the belt system 100 being in a high-tension configuration 202 (e.g., ...). Figure 2B As shown, the belt system 100 exhibits high tensile properties. In other words, the tensile properties of the belt system 100 increase when the connecting mechanism 50 moves away from the first attachment point 36, and decrease when the connecting mechanism 50 moves closer to the first attachment point 36 of the first belt 30.

[0066] Figure 4A A front view 402 depicts an example garment 400 with a pair of belt systems 100. Figure 4B A rear view 404 of garment 400 is depicted. As shown, garment 400 can be configured as a bra, and strap system 100 can form bra straps for the bra. Therefore, the first end 32 of the first strap 30 in each strap system 100 can be secured to the front fabric element 10 of garment 400 (e.g., ...). Figure 4A (as shown), and the fourth end 42 of the second belt 40 in each belt system 100 can be secured to the rear fabric element 20 of the garment 400 (as shown). Figure 4B (As shown). Depending on the required amount of stretch, the wearer 406 can place the coupling mechanism 50 closer to the first end 32 of the first belt 30 (as shown). Figure 4A and Figure 4B (as shown in both), or at any other location along the length of the first belt 30 or the second belt 40, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown. For example, as Figure 4AAs shown in the front view 402 of the supporting garment 400, the connecting mechanism 50 is closer to the first end 32 of the first belt 30, thus giving the belt system 100 more "locking". Figure 5B As shown in the rear view 504 of the supporting garment 400, the connecting mechanism 50 is closer to the fourth end 42 of the second belt 40 of the belt system 100, thereby giving the belt system 100 a greater amount of stretch. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The configuration shown enables each belt system 100 to be more than Figure 5A and Figure 5B Each belt system shown is stretched less than 100.

[0067] like Figures 4A to 5B As further shown, the inner surface 43 of the second strap 40 is configured to contact the wearer's skin, while the inner surface 33 of the first strap 30 is configured to contact the outer surface 41 of the second strap 40. This particular configuration allows the first strap 30 to be positioned above the second strap 40, allowing it to stretch freely to the amount permitted by the coupling mechanism 50 and its position along the length direction 250 of the strap system 100. In other words, if the first strap 30 is sandwiched between the wearer 406 and, for example, the second strap 40, the possible stretching of the first strap 30 will not be hindered or interfered with by the increased friction.

[0068] Figures 4A to 5B Examples are depicted, and in at least some cases, the relative positions of the first tape 30 and the second tape 40 can be interchanged, such that the first tape is attached to the rear of the fabric element 20, and the second tape can be attached to the front of the fabric element 10. Furthermore, in at least some instances, the second tape 40 can be attached to another fabric element extending from the rear to the front, rather than to the rear of the garment (e.g., the second tape 40 does not necessarily have to extend all the way to the rear of the garment, but can instead be connected at the front to another fabric element extending to the rear).

[0069] Figure 6A and Figure 6B An additional example of support garment 600 is depicted, wherein the belt system 100 is used as a bottom belt. Figure 6A A front view 602 depicts a support garment 600 in an open configuration ready for wear. As shown, a first strap 30 of the strap system 100 is secured to a first side 606 of the support garment 600, and a second strap 40 of the strap system 100 is secured to a second side 608 of the support garment 600. As shown, a coupling mechanism 50 may be initially coupled to the second strap 40, or alternatively, may be initially coupled to the first strap 30 (not shown). Figure 6BA rear view of the support garment 600 in a closed configuration is depicted, wherein the coupling mechanism 50 connects the first strap 30 to the second strap 40. The total stretch of the strap system 100 can be configured such that, combined with the inherent stretch characteristics of the rest of the support garment 600, the total stretch can provide a comfortable fit of the support garment 600 around the wearer's torso. In other respects, the strap system 100 can be configured such that the support garment 600 can be put on or taken off without separating the first strap 30 and the second strap 40 from each other.

[0070] Figure 7A and Figure 7B A perspective view of lower garment 700 is depicted, in which belt system 100 is used as a waist support system. Figure 7A A front perspective view 702 depicts a lower garment 700 in an open configuration ready for wear by a wearer. As shown, a first strap 30 of the strap system 100 is secured to a first side 706 of the lower garment 700, and a second strap 40 of the strap system 100 is secured to a second side (not shown) of the lower garment 700. As shown, a coupling mechanism 50 may be initially coupled to the second strap 40, or alternatively, may be initially coupled to the first strap 30 (not shown). Figure 7B A perspective view 704 depicts a lower garment 700 in a closed configuration, wherein a connecting mechanism 50 is configured to connect a first strap 30 to a second strap 40. The total stretch of the strap system 100 can be configured such that, combined with the inherent stretch characteristics of the fabric material forming the lower garment 700, the total stretch provides a comfortable fit for the lower garment 700. In other respects, the strap system 100 can be configured such that the lower garment 700 can be put on or taken off without separating the first strap 30 and the second strap 40 from each other.

[0071] Figure 8A and Figure 8B A perspective view of footwear 800 is depicted. As shown, a strap system 100 is used as a fastening system configured to extend through the instep portion of the footwear 800. Figure 8A A perspective view 802 depicts a footwear article 800 in an open configuration ready for wear. A first strap 30 of the strap system 100 is secured to a first (inner) side 806 of the footwear article 800, and a second strap 40 of the strap system 100 is secured to a second (outer) side 808 of the footwear article 800. As shown, a coupling mechanism 50 may be initially coupled to the second strap 40, or alternatively, may be initially coupled to the first strap 30 (not shown). Figure 8BA perspective view 804 depicts a footwear article 800 in a closed configuration, wherein a connecting mechanism 50 is configured to connect a first strap 30 to a second strap 40. The total tension of the strap system 100 can be configured such that, in conjunction with the inherent tensile properties of the material forming the footwear article 800, the total tension provides a comfortable fit for the footwear article 800. In other respects, the strap system 100 can be configured such that the footwear article 800 can be put on or taken off without separating the first strap 30 and the second strap 40 from each other.

[0072] Figure 9 A flowchart 900 illustrates a method for assembling the tape system 100 described herein. Initially, in step 902, the first end of the first tape, for example, the first end 32 of the first tape 30 (as shown in the diagram)... Figure 1 As shown), it can be fixed to a fabric element, such as the first fabric element 10. Similarly, in step 904, the fourth end of the second belt, such as the fourth end 42 of the second belt 40, can be fixed to a fabric element, such as the second fabric element 20 (as shown). Figure 1 (As shown). In step 906, the first and second belts are positioned with a face-sharing relationship. This can be achieved, for example, by having a third end of the second belt (such as third end 44) ​​pass through a coupling mechanism (e.g., coupling mechanism 50) in the first direction. Figure 1 As shown), this is achieved by starting from the second side of the connecting mechanism and moving towards the first side. Then, the second end of the first belt, for example, the second end 34 (as shown) Figure 1 The first and second belts pass through a connecting mechanism (e.g., connecting mechanism 50, as shown) in a second direction, starting from a first side of the connecting mechanism above the second belt and moving towards a second side. This results in the first and second belts being connected to each other via the connecting mechanism, as shown at step 908, wherein the connecting mechanism is slidable along the length of the belt system, including the length of the first belt and / or the length of the second belt. As described above, the total tensile strength of the belt system is determined based on the position of the connecting mechanism. For example, the total tensile strength of the belt system is less when the connecting mechanism is closer to the first end of the first belt than when the connecting mechanism is closer to the fourth end of the second belt.

[0073] Various aspects of this disclosure have been intended to be described in an illustrative rather than 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 achieve the above improvements without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0074] 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 system comprising: A first belt having a first end and a second end, the first belt being fixed to a first fabric element at the first end; A second belt having a third end and a fourth end, the second belt being secured to a second fabric element at the fourth end, wherein the first belt and the second belt are in a face-sharing relationship; and a connecting mechanism for securing the first belt to the second belt, the connecting mechanism being slidable along the lengths of the first belt and the second belt, wherein the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt are positioned on a first side of the connecting mechanism, wherein the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt are positioned on opposite second sides of the connecting mechanism, and wherein the amount of tension of the belt system depends on the position of the connecting mechanism along the lengths of the first belt and the second belt.

2. The belt system of claim 1, wherein the second end of the first belt is not secured to the second fabric element, and wherein the third end of the second belt is not secured to the first fabric element.

3. The belt system according to claim 1, wherein the first belt has a first tensile amount that is greater than the second tensile amount of the second belt.

4. The belt system of claim 1, wherein the belt system has a first stretch when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt, and wherein the belt system has a second stretch greater than the first stretch when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt.

5. The belt system of claim 4, wherein when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt, a first distance measured from the first end of the first belt to the first side of the coupling mechanism is less than a second distance measured from the fourth end of the second belt to the second side of the coupling mechanism.

6. The belt system of claim 4, wherein when the coupling mechanism is located closer to the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt, a first distance measured from the fourth end of the second belt to the second side of the coupling mechanism is less than a second distance measured from the first end of the first belt to the first side of the coupling mechanism.

7. The belt system of claim 1, wherein the second belt is formed of a low-strength or non-strength material.

8. The belt system of claim 1, wherein when the connecting mechanism is positioned at different locations along the lengths of the first belt and the second belt, the first belt and the second belt maintain a surface-sharing relationship.

9. An upper garment, comprising: A first fabric element forming the first part of the upper garment; The second fabric element that forms the second part of the upper garment; And a belt system comprising: a first belt having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first belt being secured to the first fabric element of the upper garment; A second strap having a third end and a fourth end, the fourth end of the second strap being fixed to a second fabric element of the upper garment, wherein the first strap and the second strap are in a face-sharing relationship; and a connecting mechanism for fixing the first strap to the second strap, wherein the connecting mechanism is slidable along the length of the first strap and the second strap, and wherein the amount of stretch of the strap system depends on the position of the connecting mechanism along the length of the first strap and the second strap.

10. The upper garment according to claim 9, wherein when the connecting mechanism is positioned at different positions along the lengths of the first strap and the second strap, the first strap and the second strap maintain a surface-sharing relationship.

11. The upper garment of claim 9, wherein the first end of the first strap and the third end of the second strap are positioned on a first side of the connecting mechanism, and wherein the second end of the first strap and the fourth end of the second strap are positioned on opposite second sides of the connecting mechanism.

12. The upper garment of claim 9, wherein the second end of the first strap is not secured to the second fabric element of the upper garment, and wherein the third end of the second strap is not secured to the first fabric element of the upper garment.

13. The upper garment of claim 9, wherein the upper garment is a bra, and wherein the strap system forms at least a portion of the shoulder straps of the bra.

14. The upper garment of claim 9, wherein the upper garment is a bra, and wherein the first fabric element forms the apex portion of the breast-covering surface of the bra, and wherein the second fabric element forms the shoulder straps of the bra.

15. The upper garment according to claim 9, wherein the first band has a first stretch amount greater than the second stretch amount of the second band.

16. The upper garment of claim 9, wherein the belt system has a first stretch when the connecting mechanism is located closer to the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt, and wherein the belt system has a second stretch greater than the first stretch when the connecting mechanism is located closer to the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt.

17. A method for assembling a tape system, comprising: Attaching a first end of a first belt to a first fabric element, wherein the first belt also includes a second end; attaching a fourth end of a second belt to a second fabric element, wherein the second belt also includes a third end; positioning the first belt and the second belt such that the first belt and the second belt are in a face-sharing relationship; and securing the first belt and the second belt using a coupling mechanism such that the coupling mechanism can slide along the length of the first belt and the second belt, wherein the first end of the first belt and the third end of the second belt are positioned on a first side of the coupling mechanism, and the second end of the first belt and the fourth end of the second belt are positioned on opposite second sides of the coupling mechanism, and wherein the amount of stretch of the belt system depends on the position of the coupling mechanism along the length of the first belt and the second belt.

18. The method of assembling a belt system according to claim 17, wherein the second end of the first belt is not secured to the second fabric element, and wherein the third end of the second belt is not secured to the first fabric element.

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