Fabric article with engineered support structure

Abstract

A breast support garment is described that includes a front portion for covering at least a portion of a chest region of a wearer and extending from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment. The front portion has three or more layers including: an outer layer having an outer face and an opposing inner face; the lining layer is provided with a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; the spacing cloth layer is provided with a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. These layers may be joined by an adhesive lattice pattern. In some embodiments, pockets may be formed between the layers of the breast support garment. Tension elements attached within the pockets may help retain articles within the pockets.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to fabric articles, and more particularly, to breast support garments having engineered support structures. Background Art

[0002] Fabric articles can include a variety of different types and forms, including clothing articles and footwear articles. One type of clothing article is a breast support garment or a bra. Conventional breast support garments, such as sports bras, while capable of providing adequate support and movement management for specific activities, are often also found to be bulky and overly restrictive.

[0003] There is a need in the art for a fabric article, including sportswear and footwear, that is lightweight while still providing good support for the wearer during athletic activities. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment that includes a front portion configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest region and extend from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment. The front portion includes three or more layers, the layers including: an outer layer having an outer face and an opposing inner face; a lining layer having a first face and an opposing second face; and a spacer fabric layer having a first face and an opposing second face.

[0005] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment that includes a front portion configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest region and extend from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment. The front portion includes three or more layers, the layers including: an outer layer having an outer face and an opposing inner face; an inner layer including a first face and an opposing second face; and a pocket lining layer including a first face and an opposing second face. The pocket lining layer forms a front pocket on the front portion of the breast support garment.

[0006] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment that includes a front portion configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest region and extend from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment. The front portion includes a front pocket disposed between two layers of the breast support garment. The front portion further includes a tension element disposed within the front pocket of the breast support garment. The tension element is configured to generate a tension line to press on an item within the front pocket, thereby restricting movement of the item within the front pocket.

[0007] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, wherein the engineered support structure includes at least one third zone having a third support level defined by a third adhesive dot density or a third adhesive dot size in the adhesive dot matrix pattern.

[0008] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, wherein the spacer fabric layer includes two separate breast cup portions.

[0009] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, further comprising: a rear portion configured to cover at least a portion of the wearer's back region; and a rear pocket disposed on the rear portion of the breast support garment.

[0010] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, wherein the rear portion includes: an outer layer; an inner layer; and a rear pocket lining layer; wherein the rear pocket lining layer is disposed between the outer layer and the inner layer to form the rear pocket.

[0011] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, further comprising: a first wing portion extending from a first side of the breast support garment; a second wing portion extending from a second side of the breast support garment; and wherein at least one of the first wing portion or the second wing portion includes a side pocket.

[0012] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, wherein the front pocket is a chest pocket located between a first breast cup and a second breast cup of the breast support garment.

[0013] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, wherein the adhesive dot matrix pattern includes: at least one first zone having a first support level defined by a first adhesive dot density or a first adhesive dot size in the adhesive dot matrix pattern; and at least one second zone having a second support level defined by a second adhesive dot density or a second adhesive dot size in the adhesive dot matrix pattern, the first support level being different from the second support level.

[0014] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a breast support garment, wherein the first zone is disposed at a central intermediate portion of the tension element, and wherein the second zone is disposed along a perimeter of the tension element.

[0015] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be or become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon study of the following drawings and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are intended to be included within this specification and this summary, are within the scope of the present disclosure, and are protected by the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. Throughout the drawings, reference numerals may be reused to indicate correspondence between reference elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate the exemplary embodiments described herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The dimensions and relative positions of the elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the shapes and dimensions of various elements and the angles are not drawn to scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve the readability of the drawings.

[0017] Figure 1 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0018] Figure 2 is a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0019] Figure 3 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a spacer fabric layer;

[0020] Figure 4 is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a spacer fabric layer;

[0021] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a process for applying an adhesive dot pattern to a portion of a breast support garment;

[0022] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a first adhesive dot pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0023] Figure 7A is Figure 3 a schematic cross-sectional view of a breast support garment;

[0024] Figure 7B is Figure 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of a breast support garment;

[0025] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of an exemplary embodiment of a first adhesive dot pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0026] Figure 9Schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of an outer layer and an inner layer joined by an adhesive dot pattern;

[0027] Figure 10 Schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a second adhesive dot pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0028] Figure 11 Schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a third adhesive dot pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0029] Figure 12 Exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including a second adhesive dot pattern;

[0030] Figure 13 Exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including a second adhesive dot pattern;

[0031] Figure 14 Exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including a second adhesive dot pattern;

[0032] Figure 15 Exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including two spaced fabric layers;

[0033] Figure 16 Is Figure 15 Cross-sectional view of the cup of a breast support garment including two spaced fabric layers;

[0034] Figure 17 Exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including a modified form of a second adhesive dot pattern;

[0035] Figure 18 Exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including a third adhesive dot pattern;

[0036] Figure 19 Exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including a third adhesive dot pattern;

[0037] Figure 20A Cross-sectional view of a first exemplary embodiment of an edge trimming option for a support garment;

[0038] Figure 20B Cross-sectional view of a second exemplary embodiment of an edge trimming option for a breast support garment;

[0039] Figure 20C Cross-sectional view of a third exemplary embodiment of an edge trimming option for a breast support garment;

[0040] Figure 20D is a cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a hem finish option for a breast support garment;

[0041] Figure 20E is a cross-sectional view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of a hem finish option for a breast support garment;

[0042] Figure 20F is a cross-sectional view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of a hem finish option for a breast support garment;

[0043] Figure 20G is a cross-sectional view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of a hem finish option for a breast support garment;

[0044] Figure 20H is a cross-sectional view of an eighth exemplary embodiment of a hem finish option for a breast support garment;

[0045] Figure 20I is a cross-sectional view of a ninth exemplary embodiment of a hem finish option for a breast support garment;

[0046] Figure 21 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket;

[0047] Figure 22 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a side panel pocket;

[0048] Figure 23 is a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0049] Figure 24 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket;

[0050] Figure 25 is a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket, showing a water bottle inserted into the front panel pocket;

[0051] Figure 26 is a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket, showing the water bottle secured within the front panel pocket;

[0052] Figure 27 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket, the front panel pocket being attached using an adhesive dot pattern;

[0053] Figure 28 is Figure 27 a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket;

[0054] Figure 29 Front view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a full - size front panel pocket;

[0055] Figure 30 Rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a rear panel pocket;

[0056] Figure 31 Is Figure 29 Exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a full - size front panel pocket;

[0057] Figure 32 Is Figure 29 Schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with one or more items placed in the full - size front panel pocket;

[0058] Figure 33 Is Figure 30 Exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a rear panel pocket;

[0059] Figure 34 Is Figure 30 Schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with an ice pack placed in the rear panel pocket;

[0060] Figure 35 Schematic view of a first exemplary embodiment of a tension element of a breast support garment;

[0061] Figure 36 Schematic view of a second exemplary embodiment of a tension element of a breast support garment;

[0062] Figure 37 Schematic view of a third exemplary embodiment of a tension element of a breast support garment;

[0063] Figure 38 Is of a breast support garment including a third embodiment of a tension element Figure 37 Exploded view;

[0064] Figure 39 Is for Figure 37 Schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of an adhesive dot matrix pattern for a third embodiment of a tension element;

[0065] Figure 40 Front view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment including a fourth exemplary embodiment of a tension element;

[0066] Figure 41 Is Figure 40 Exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0067] Figure 42 is a schematic view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a tension element separated from a breast support garment Figure 40 ;

[0068] Figure 43 is Figure 40 an enlarged view of one side of a breast support garment

[0069] Figure 44 illustrating the forces applied to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the tension element; Figure 40 is an enlarged view of a pocket tab associated with an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment

[0070] Figure 45 is a schematic view of a pocket tab for assisting in opening a pocket of a breast support garment;

[0071] Figure 46 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment with a front pocket for holding a nipple covering;

[0072] Figure 47 is Figure 46 an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0073] Figure 48 is a schematic view of a first exemplary embodiment for inserting a nipple covering into an opening in a breast support garment Figure 46 ;

[0074] Figure 49 is a schematic view of a second exemplary embodiment for inserting a nipple covering into an opening in a breast support garment Figure 46 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] Described herein are fabric articles including breast support garments having engineered support structures. The techniques of the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a support garment that distributes pressure in a manner comfortable to the wearer while effectively managing and reducing movement and acceleration of the wearer's breast tissue. In some aspects, the breast support garments of the present disclosure provide an engineered support structure having different support zones over the entire area of the garment to allow support of breast tissue and management of breast movement. In other aspects, the breast support garments of the present disclosure incorporate one or more layers of spacer fabric to provide additional support and comfort. In still other aspects, the breast support garments of the present disclosure provide built-in pockets reinforced by an engineered support structure to prevent or reduce sagging and bunching.

[0076] In the following description, details are provided to assist in understanding the present application. In some cases, certain structures, techniques, and methods are not described or shown in detail to avoid obscuring the present application. In the context of the present disclosure, various terms are used in their generally understood meanings.

[0077] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives corresponding to the illustrated embodiments are employed throughout the detailed description. It should be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to a garment or clothing article, as well as to individual components within the clothing or garment. Directional terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "upper", "lower", "outer", and "inner" are used in the following description for the sole purpose of providing relative reference and are not intended to imply any limitation on how any article or garment is positioned during use, or how it is mounted in a component or relative to the environment. In this document, when the indefinite article "a" or "an" is used in conjunction with the term "comprising", it can mean "one", but it also conforms to the meanings of "one or more", "at least one", and "more than one". Any element expressed in the singular form also includes its plural form. Any element expressed in the plural form also includes its singular form. The term "plurality" as used herein means more than one, such as two or more, three or more, four or more, etc.

[0078] According to the techniques described herein, an embodiment of a breast support garment having an engineered support structure is provided. Figures 1 to 20I An embodiment of a breast support garment including spacer fabric is shown. Figures 21 to 39 An embodiment of a breast support garment having a built-in pocket is shown. It should be understood that other embodiments of breast support garments can be provided that include the engineered support structures and / or built-in pockets described herein. It should also be understood that the techniques described herein can be applied to other fabric articles, such as shoe uppers, shirts, pants, leggings, and other types of clothing.

[0079] Now referring to Figure 1 , a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 100 is shown. In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 100 can include a front portion 102 that is configured to cover at least a portion of the wearer's chest region. In some embodiments, the front portion 102 extends from a first side 104 to a second side 106 of the breast support garment 100. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 102 of the breast support garment 100 includes a front portion outer surface 108 that forms an outer surface of the breast support garment 100 that extends away from the wearer's chest region.

[0080] In the present embodiment, the breast support garment 100 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 110 and a second strap 112. The first strap 110 and the second strap 112 are configured to extend over the shoulders of the wearer of the breast support garment 100. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 102 of the breast support garment 100 extends from a top edge 114 to a bottom edge 116. The top edge 114 may form a neckline that extends between the wearer's breasts from above. The bottom edge 116 may form a lower band that extends beneath the wearer's breasts. Additionally, in some embodiments, the front portion 102 of the breast support garment 100 may further include a pair of breast cups configured to receive the wearer's breasts, including a first breast cup 118 and a second breast cup 120. In one embodiment, the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120 on the front portion 102 of the breast support garment 100 may be molded into the material forming the front portion 102. For the purposes of the present application, those skilled in the art will understand that the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120 on the front portion 102 of the breast support garment 100 may be molded as separate first and second breast cups, or the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120 on the front portion 102 of the breast support garment 100 may be molded as a single one-piece cup, in which the first breast cup and the second breast cup are molded together as a single piece.

[0081] Now referring Figure 2 , a rear view of the breast support garment 100 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 100 may include a rear portion 200 that is configured to cover at least a portion of the wearer's back region. The rear portion 200 of the breast support garment 100 engages and is attached to the front portion 102 along each of a first side 104 and a second side 106. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 200 may be formed by a continuous rear band segment 202 that extends from each side of the breast support garment 100 and wraps around the wearer's torso. In other embodiments, the rear portion 200 may be formed by a pair of separate rear band segments that extend from each side of the breast support garment 100 and are joined together using a closure system to wrap around the wearer's back region.

[0082] In some embodiments, the rear portion 200 of the breast support garment 100 may include rear straps that are attached or joined at one end to the shoulder straps of the front portion 102 and at the opposite end to the rear girth strap section 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 200 of the breast support garment 100 includes a pair of rear straps, namely a first rear strap 204 and a second rear strap 206. The first rear strap 204 is joined at one end to the first shoulder strap 110 and extends in a diagonal direction to be joined to the rear girth strap section 202 at the opposite end from the first shoulder strap 110. The second rear strap 206 is connected at one end to the second shoulder strap 112 and extends in a diagonal direction to be joined to the rear girth strap section 202 at the opposite end from the second shoulder strap 112.

[0083] The rear portion 200 of the breast support garment 100 further includes a top middle edge 208 that is located between the first rear strap 204 and the second rear strap 206 of the rear girth strap section 202. In the present embodiment, the top middle edge 208 is generally in a V-shaped configuration and travels in the diagonal direction of the first rear strap 204 and the second rear strap 206. The rear portion 200 further includes a top first side edge 210 and a top second side edge 212. The top first side edge 210 extends from the first rear strap 204 toward the first side 104, and the top second side edge 212 extends from the second rear strap 206 toward the second side 106. Additionally, the rear girth strap section 202 includes a bottom edge 214 that extends continuously around the wearer's back region and is joined to the bottom edge 116 of the front portion 102.

[0084] Now referring to Figure 3 , an exploded view of the breast support garment 100 is shown. In some embodiments, the breast support garment 100 may include multiple layers, including an outer layer 300, a lining layer 310, and a spacer fabric layer 320. In the present embodiment, the outer layer 300 is configured to face outward and away from the wearer, and the spacer fabric layer 320 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 100. The lining layer 310 is configured to be located between the outer layer 300 and the spacer fabric layer 320. In one embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 320 may directly contact the skin of the wearer of the breast support garment 100.

[0085] Each layer of the breast support garment 100 can be made of a separate fabric or textile. In an exemplary embodiment, the fabric or textile forming the outer layer 300 and / or the lining layer 310 can have four-way stretchability, moisture-wicking performance, and quick-drying characteristics. In one embodiment, the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310 can be made of knitted textiles. In some cases, the fabric or textile of the outer layer 300 can be different from that of the lining layer 310. For example, the outer layer 300 can be made of a knitted textile containing a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., spandex or similar fibers / yarns) compared to the lining layer 310. In other cases, the fabric or textile of the outer layer 300 can be the same as that of the lining layer 310. In still other cases, the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310 can be made of any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and / or fabrics.

[0086] In an exemplary embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 320 can be made of spacer fabric. Generally, spacer fabric is a three-dimensionally manufactured textile structure in which two outer fabric layers are connected by a layer of spacer yarns or pile yarns. Due to these layers of spacer yarns, a defined distance is formed between the two outer fabric layers, thereby forming the three-dimensional structure. Compared to traditional textiles that typically exhibit a two-dimensional arrangement (e.g., length and width), spacer fabric also has a thickness defined by the spacer yarns and thus exhibits a three-dimensional arrangement. Due to this 3D structure, spacer fabric is breathable, provides cushioning, and is a multi-faced fabric. Spacer fabric can be produced by different textile manufacturing techniques, including weaving and knitting.

[0087] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer layer 300 of the front portion 102 of the breast support garment 100 includes an inner face 304 of the front portion that faces the wearer's chest region and is opposite to the outer face 108 of the front portion. That is, when the lining layer 310 and the outer layer 300 are joined together to form the breast support garment 100, the inner face 304 of the front portion of the outer layer 300 faces the first face 312 of the lining layer 310. The lining layer 310 also includes a second face 314 that is opposite to the first face 312 and faces the first face 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320. The spacer fabric layer 320 further includes a second face 324 that is opposite to the first face 322 and, when the breast support garment 100 is worn, faces the wearer's chest region.

[0088] Now refer to Figure 4, a exploded view showing an alternative arrangement of the layers of the breast support garment 100 is shown. In the present embodiment, the outer layer 300 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer, and the lining layer 310 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 100. The spacer fabric layer 320 is configured to be located between the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310. In one embodiment, the lining layer 310 may be in direct contact with the skin of the wearer of the breast support garment 100.

[0089] In the present embodiment, when the spacer fabric layer 320 and the outer layer 300 are joined together to form the breast support garment 100, the inner face 304 of the front portion of the outer layer 300 faces the first face 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320. The second face 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320 faces the first face 312 of the lining layer 310, and the second face 314 of the lining layer 310 faces the chest region of the wearer when wearing the breast support garment 100. Figure 4 The arrangement of the breast support garment 100 shown Figure 3 compared to the arrangement shown, the lining layer 310 is directly adjacent to the skin of the wearer, while in Figure 3 the arrangement shown, the spacer fabric layer 320 is directly adjacent to the skin of the wearer.

[0090] According to the technology of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a support garment (including the breast support garment 100) may be provided with an engineered support structure that allows the garment to have zones of different support (i.e., stretch resistance) over different regions of the garment. In certain embodiments, the engineered support structure may be formed by selectively applying adhesive drops or dots in different patterns between the layers of the garment to create zones of different support. When these layers of the garment are joined, the pattern of the adhesive allows the garment to stretch to different degrees or amounts, depending on the spacing distance between the drops or dots of the adhesive forming each zone. With this arrangement, a garment with an engineered support structure can be formed that provides zones of different support for breast tissue and provides management of breast movement.

[0091] Now refer to Figure 5, shows a process 500 for forming an engineered support structure on a breast support garment 100. In certain embodiments, process 500 can be implemented using a glue or adhesive deposition printer that allows individual drops or dots of glue or adhesive to be directly deposited in a predetermined pattern on the surface of a fabric (such as breast support garment 100). In the present embodiment, process 500 is implemented by an adhesive deposition printer 502 having a nozzle 504 that deposits drops or dots 506 of glue or adhesive at specific locations on the second side 314 of the lining layer 310. Printer 502 can be pre-programmed to apply a predetermined pattern of adhesive dots to breast support garment 100. In an exemplary embodiment, each drop or dot 506 of glue or adhesive can have a predetermined volume. For example, the drop or dot 506 of glue or adhesive can have a volume of about 0.5 cubic millimeters. In other embodiments, the volume of each drop or dot can vary. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the size or volume of each drop or dot 506 of glue or adhesive can be varied as described below to change or modify the support level of the area of the garment where the adhesive dots are applied.

[0092] As Figure 5 shown, printer 502 deposits a plurality of adhesive dots 508 in a specific pattern in an area that travels along the contour of the first breast cup 118 on the second side 314 of the lining layer 310 of the front portion 102 of breast support garment 100. The spacing distance between each of the plurality of adhesive dots 508 can vary in different areas of breast support garment 100 to provide a partitioned engineered support structure with different support levels (i.e., different levels of tensile resistance). Process 500 can form an engineered support structure with different support partitions by using printer 502 to cover all, substantially all, or most of the front portion 102 with adhesive dots having different spacing distances.

[0093] In one embodiment of process 500, once process 500 has been completed (e.g., printer 502 has deposited a plurality of adhesive dots 508 according to a predetermined dot matrix pattern), the layers of breast support garment 100 can be joined together by aligning and placing the opposing faces of the respective layers together to form breast support garment 100. It should be understood that in one or more embodiments of process 500, the adhesive dot matrix pattern can be applied to different faces of the respective layers. For example, as shown here, the second side 314 of the lining layer 310 can be joined to the first side 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320 such that the adhesive dot matrix pattern is deposited between the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 to form breast support garment 100 (as Figure 3as shown). Then, the outer layer 300 can be laminated on the first side 312 of the lining layer 310 and attached using conventional attachment mechanisms (e.g., stitching or gluing along the edges) to join the outer layer 300 to the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320.

[0094] In another embodiment, the process 500 can be used to deposit an adhesive dot matrix pattern including a plurality of adhesive dots 508 on the second side 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320. Then, the first side 312 of the lining layer 310 can be placed together with the second side 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320 such that the adhesive dot matrix pattern is deposited between the opposing sides (e.g., 324, 312) of the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 to form the breast support garment 100 as Figure 4 shown). Then, the outer layer 300 can be laminated on the first side 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320 and attached using conventional attachment mechanisms (e.g., stitching or gluing along the edges) to join the outer layer 300 to the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320.

[0095] In other embodiments, each drop or dot 506 in the adhesive dot matrix pattern can be deposited on a face on either side of either of the two layers to be joined together by the adhesive dot matrix pattern. That is, for example, in Figure 3 the embodiment of the breast support garment 100 shown where the adhesive dot matrix pattern is located between the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320, the process 500 can be used to apply the adhesive dot matrix pattern to the second side 314 of the lining layer 310 or the first side 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320. In another example, in Figure 4 the embodiment of the breast support garment 100 shown where the adhesive dot matrix pattern is located between the spacer fabric layer 320 and the lining layer 310, the process 500 can be used to apply the adhesive dot matrix pattern to the second side 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320 or the first side 312 of the lining layer 310. It should be understood that the same principle applies to the various embodiments and implementations of the breast support garment described in the present disclosure such that when the adhesive dot matrix pattern is located between two layers, the adhesive dot matrix pattern can be applied to either one or both of the two opposing sides.

[0096] Adhesive dots (e.g., a plurality of adhesive dots 508) arranged in a dot matrix pattern bond two layers (e.g., spacer layer 320 and lining layer 310) together at positions corresponding to the pattern of drops or dots of the adhesive, forming an engineered support structure between the spacer layer 320 and the lining layer 310. At the locations where the adhesive is present, the spacer layer 320 and the lining layer 310 are adhered to each other, and relative movement of these layers at these locations is restricted, thereby restricting stretching. By varying the spacing distance between the discrete drops or dots of the adhesive that bond the two layers, the amount or degree of tensile resistance can be correspondingly varied. That is, in regions where the spacing distance between the drops or dots of the adhesive is small (i.e., the drops or dots of the adhesive are spaced closely), the tensile resistance will be greater in these regions (i.e., less stretching is allowed) to provide a greater amount of support. Conversely, in regions where the spacing distance between the drops or dots of the adhesive is large (i.e., the drops or dots of the adhesive are spaced far apart), the tensile resistance will be smaller in these regions (i.e., more stretching is allowed), thereby providing a lesser amount of support.

[0097] In addition, in certain embodiments, the amount or degree of tensile resistance can also be varied by changing the size or volume of the adhesive dots that form the adhesive dot matrix pattern. For example, by using adhesive dots of a first size that are larger than adhesive dots of a second size, the larger-sized adhesive dots bond more material of the opposing layers together, thereby allowing less stretching in regions where the adhesive dot size is larger compared to regions where the adhesive dot size is smaller. In other embodiments, the engineered support structure can utilize variations in the spacing distance and the adhesive dot size to vary the support level (e.g., tensile resistance) in different regions of the breast support garment 100.

[0098] In one embodiment, each drop or dot 506 of the adhesive dot matrix pattern can have a rounded or circular shape, e.g., as Figure 5 shown. In other embodiments, the shape or configuration of each drop or dot of the adhesive dot matrix pattern can be different, including but not limited to oval, straight line, dashed line, and other regular or irregular shapes. In some cases, the adhesive dot matrix pattern can include drops or dots having the same shape or configuration. In other cases, the adhesive dot matrix pattern can include drops or dots having different shapes and configurations throughout the pattern.

[0099] Now referring to Figure 6 , an exemplary embodiment of a first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 for forming the engineered support structure of the breast support garment 100 is shown. In this embodiment, the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 includes four levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes), and these four levels of adhesive dot density are arranged in different regions of the breast support garment 100 to provide zoning with different support levels.

[0100] As Figure 6 shown, the adhesive dot pattern 600 includes a first adhesive dot density 602 that is associated with a low adhesive dot density having a maximum spacing distance and / or a minimum adhesive dot size to provide a minimum level of support. That is, the first adhesive dot density 602 binds the opposing layers (e.g., the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4 ), such that the regions of the breast support garment 100 having the first adhesive dot density 602 provide a minimum resistance to stretching. In the present embodiment, the first adhesive dot density 602 may be used for at least a portion of the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120, a region along a portion of the top edge 114, and regions extending into the first strap 110 and the second strap 112.

[0101] The adhesive dot pattern 600 further includes a second adhesive dot density 604 that is associated with a low-to-medium adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than the spacing distance of the first adhesive dot density 602 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than the adhesive dot size of the first adhesive dot density 602) to provide a level of support greater than the level of support provided by the first adhesive dot density 602. That is, the second adhesive dot density 604 binds the opposing layers (e.g., the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4 ), such that the amount or degree of resistance to stretching provided by the regions of the breast support garment 100 having the second adhesive dot density 604 is greater than the amount or degree of resistance to stretching provided by the first adhesive dot density 602.

[0102] In the present embodiment, the second adhesive dot density 604 may be used in at least one region extending in a lower region surrounding the first adhesive dot density 602 below the central portions of the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120. The second adhesive dot density 604 may also be used in at least those regions of the first strap 110 and the second strap 112 that are above the regions where the first adhesive dot density 602 is located.

[0103] The adhesive dot pattern 600 further includes a third adhesive dot density 606 associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than the spacing distances of the second adhesive dot density 604 and the first adhesive dot density 602 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than the adhesive dot sizes of the second adhesive dot density 604 and the first adhesive dot density 602) to provide a support level greater than the support levels provided by the second adhesive dot density 604 and the first adhesive dot density 602. That is, the third adhesive dot density 606 binds the opposing layers (e.g., the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4 ), such that the amount or degree of tensile resistance provided by the region of the breast support garment 100 having the third adhesive dot density 606 is greater than the amount or degree of tensile resistance provided by the second adhesive dot density 604 and the first adhesive dot density 602.

[0104] In this embodiment, the third adhesive dot density 606 can be used in at least one region extending peripherally around the region of the second adhesive dot density 604 and the first adhesive dot density 602 below the central portions of the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120. The third adhesive dot density 606 can also be used in at least those regions of the first strap 110 and the second strap 112 that are above the regions where the second adhesive dot density 604 and the first adhesive dot density 602 are located.

[0105] In this embodiment, the adhesive dot pattern 600 further includes a fourth adhesive dot density 608 associated with a high adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than the spacing distances of the third adhesive dot density 606, the second adhesive dot density 604, and the first adhesive dot density 602 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than the adhesive dot sizes of the third adhesive dot density 606, the second adhesive dot density 604, and the first adhesive dot density 602) to provide a support level greater than the support levels provided by the third adhesive dot density 606, the second adhesive dot density 604, and the first adhesive dot density 602. That is, the fourth adhesive dot density 608 binds the opposing layers (e.g., the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4 ), such that the amount or degree of tensile resistance provided by the region of the breast support garment 100 having the fourth adhesive dot density 608 is greater than the amount or degree of tensile resistance provided by the third adhesive dot density 606, the second adhesive dot density 604, and the first adhesive dot density 602.

[0106] In the present embodiment, the fourth adhesive dot density 608 can be used to extend around the bottom and sides of the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120, and around at least one region extending peripherally around the third adhesive dot density 606, the second adhesive dot density 604, and the first adhesive dot density 602, such that when the breast support garment 100 is worn, the fourth adhesive dot density 608 is positioned along the bottom portion of the breast tissue of each breast of the wearer. The fourth adhesive dot density 608 can also extend upward along each of the first side 104 and the second side 106. Additionally, the fourth adhesive dot density 608 can be used in regions along the periphery of the bottom edge 116, and in regions near the tops of the first strap 110 and the second strap 112. With this arrangement, the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 forms an engineered support structure between the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 of the breast support garment 100.

[0107] Figure 7A and Figure 7B respectively illustrate Figure 3 and Figure 4 exemplary cross-sectional views of an embodiment of the breast support garment 100 shown. Referring Figure 7A , in the present embodiment, the layers of the breast support garment 100 include an outer layer 300, a lining layer 310, and a spacer fabric layer 320, wherein the first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 is located between the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320. In the present embodiment, the outer face 108 of the outer layer 300 faces outward and away from the wearer of the breast support garment 100, and the second face 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320 is configured to contact or be near the skin of the wearer. As Figure 7A shown, the first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 bonds or joins the second face 314 of the lining layer 310 to the first face 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320. As described above, in some cases, the process 500 can be used to apply the first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 to the second face 314 of the lining layer 310 or the first face 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320.

[0108] Referring Figure 7B , in the present embodiment, the layers of the breast support garment 100 include an outer layer 300, a spacer fabric layer 320, and a lining layer 310, wherein the first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 is located between the spacer fabric layer 320 and the lining layer 310. In the present embodiment, the outer face 108 of the outer layer 300 faces outward and away from the wearer of the breast support garment 100, and the second face 314 of the lining layer 310 is configured to contact or be near the skin of the wearer. As Figure 7BAs shown, the first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 joins or bonds the second side 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320 to the first side 312 of the lining layer 310. As described above, in some cases, the process 500 can be used to apply the first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 to the second side 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320 or the first side 312 of the lining layer 310.

[0109] As Figure 7A and Figure 7B shown, compared to the two-dimensional structure of the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310, the spacer fabric layer 320 has a three-dimensional structure defined by the thickness between the first side 322 and the second side 324. In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the spacer fabric layer 320 can be between 1 mm and 2 mm. In other embodiments, the thickness of the spacer fabric layer 320 can range from 1 mm to 5 mm. It should be understood that in various embodiments of the breast support garment, including the breast support garment 100 and other embodiments described herein, the thickness of the spacer fabric layer can vary to be greater or smaller. In some other embodiments, the spacer fabric layer can have a variable thickness on one or more portions of the spacer fabric. For example, as described below Figure 20D , Figure 20E , Figure 20F and Figure 20I shown, the portions of the spacer fabric layer near the edges have a thickness that tapers as it approaches the edges.

[0110] Now referring to Figure 8 , an enlarged view of the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 on a portion of the breast support garment 100 is shown. In this embodiment, the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 provides an engineered support structure that has a progressive support profile 800 on a portion of the breast support garment 100 that includes the first breast cup 118 (the portion of the breast support garment 100 on the opposite side that includes the second breast cup 120 can have a similar arrangement). In an exemplary embodiment, the support level of the progressive support profile 800 decreases as it extends into the region of the breast support garment 100 that covers the wearer's breast, such that the density of the adhesive dots in the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 gradually decreases from the regions around the bottom and outer sides of each breast towards the region of the garment that covers the wearer's breast.

[0111] For example, as Figure 8As shown, the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 has a progressive support profile 800 on the first breast cup 118. The progressive support profile 800 includes: a first zone 802 having a fourth adhesive dot density 608, which has a first support level; a second zone 804 having a third adhesive dot density 606, which has a second support level; a third zone 806 having a second adhesive dot density 604, which has a third support level; and a fourth zone 808 having a first adhesive dot density 602, which has a fourth support level. As the progressive support profile 800 moves from the bottom region of the first breast cup 118 towards the central portion of the first breast cup 118, the corresponding support level of each zone decreases. That is, the first support level of the first zone 802 (associated with the fourth adhesive dot density 608) is greater than the second support level of the second zone 804 (associated with the third adhesive dot density 606). The second support level of the second zone 804 is greater than the third support level of the third zone 806 (associated with the second adhesive dot density 604), and the third support level of the third zone 806 is greater than the fourth support level of the fourth zone 808 (associated with the first adhesive dot density 602). With this arrangement, the support level of the progressive support profile 800 decreases as it extends into the region of the breast support garment 100 that covers the wearer's breast, such that the density of the adhesive dots in the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 gradually decreases from the bottom region under each breast towards the region of the breast support garment 100 that covers the wearer's breast.

[0112] As Figure 8 shown, a close-up view of the first breast cup 118 of the breast support garment 100 shows different spacing distances between adjacent adhesive dots in each zone, which are related to different adhesive dot densities of the adhesive dot matrix pattern 600. In this embodiment, adjacent adhesive dots having the first adhesive dot density 602 are spaced apart by a first spacing distance D1. For example, as Figure 8 shown, in the zone having the first adhesive dot density 602, the first adhesive dot 810 and the second adhesive dot 812 are spaced apart from each other by the first spacing distance D1. Adjacent adhesive dots having the second adhesive dot density 604 are spaced apart by a second spacing distance D2 that is less than the first spacing distance D1. For example, as Figure 8 shown, in the zone having the second adhesive dot density 604, the third adhesive dot 814 and the fourth adhesive dot 816 are spaced apart from each other by the second spacing distance D2. Adjacent adhesive dots having the third adhesive dot density 606 are spaced apart by a third spacing distance D3 that is less than the first spacing distance D1 and the second spacing distance D2. For example, as Figure 8 shown, in the zone having the third adhesive dot density 606, the fifth adhesive dot 818 and the sixth adhesive dot 820 are spaced apart from each other by the third spacing distance D3.

[0113] In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing distance between adjacent adhesive points in each partition decreases outward from the central portion of the first breast cup 118, such that a first spacing distance D1 is greater than a second spacing distance D2 and a third spacing distance D3, and the second spacing distance D2 is greater than the third spacing distance D3. In one embodiment, the first spacing distance D1 is about 4 millimeters (mm), the second spacing distance D2 is about 2 mm, and the third spacing distance D3 is about 1 mm. In other embodiments, the specific spacing distances may vary. The same variation in the spacing distance between adjacent adhesive points can also be applied in different directions. For example, by changing the spacing distance between adjacent adhesive points in the direction of travel along the curves of different partitions, the same effect can be achieved (e.g., adjacent adhesive points along each curve have the same spacing distance in a partition having a first adhesive point density 602, and in a partition having a second adhesive point density 604, are further separated from adjacent adhesive points having the same spacing distance in an adjacent partition).

[0114] In addition, in certain embodiments, a partition having a fourth adhesive point density 608 may extend around a portion of a partition having a first adhesive point density 602, a second adhesive point density 604, and a third adhesive point density 606 at a portion of the first breast cup 118. In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing distance between adhesive points in the partition having the fourth adhesive point density 608 may be less than each of the first spacing distance D1, the second spacing distance D2, and the third spacing distance D3. For example, in Figure 8 the illustrated embodiment, the spacing distance between adhesive points in the partition having the fourth adhesive point density 608 may be about 0.5 mm.

[0115] With this arrangement, regions of the breast support garment 100 where the partition has an adhesive point density such that there is a relatively large spacing distance between the adhesive points provide a lower amount or degree of tensile resistance (e.g., allowing more stretch), while regions of the breast support garment 100 where the partition has an adhesive point density such that there is a relatively small spacing distance between the adhesive points provide a higher amount or degree of tensile resistance (e.g., allowing less stretch). That is, as Figure 8As shown, compared to a partition having a second adhesive dot density 604 associated with a second spacing distance D2 and a third adhesive dot density 606 associated with a third spacing distance D3, the partition of the first breast cup 118 having a first adhesive dot density 602 associated with a first spacing distance D1 provides less support and allows more stretching. Compared to the partition having the first adhesive dot density 602, the partition of the first breast cup 118 having a second adhesive dot density 604 associated with a second spacing distance D2 provides more support and allows less stretching, but provides less support and allows more stretching compared to the partition having a third adhesive dot density 606 associated with a third spacing distance D3. With this arrangement, regions of the breast support garment 100 can be provided with an engineered support structure having varying levels of support determined by a specific adhesive dot matrix pattern applied between layers (e.g., Figure 3 or Figure 4 the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in

[0116] In some embodiments, the adhesive dots of the adhesive dot matrix pattern forming the engineered support structure of the breast support garment 100 can penetrate or pierce the fabric or textile of the opposing layers forming the breast support garment 100 to join or bond the opposing faces together. Figure 9 Shown are the outer layer 300, the lining layer 310, and the spacer fabric layer 320 of the breast support garment 100, with the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 joined or bonded together by a plurality of adhesive dots 900 arranged according to a first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 having a first adhesive dot density 602, a second adhesive dot density 604, and a third adhesive dot density 606 as described above. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer layer 300 includes an outer face 108 of the front portion, which forms the outer surface of the breast support garment 100, and a second face 324 of the spacer fabric layer 320 faces the wearer's chest region when the breast support garment 100 is worn.

[0117] As Figure 9 shown, a plurality of adhesive dots 900 are joined or attached to the opposing faces of the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320. In this embodiment, the plurality of adhesive dots 900 are directly bonded between the second face 314 of the lining layer 310 and the first face 322 of the spacer fabric layer 320. That is, the plurality of adhesive dots 900 are arranged in a thin layer between the opposing faces of the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320. With this arrangement, the plurality of adhesive dots 900 form an engineered support structure between the lining layer 310 and the spacer fabric layer 320 of the breast support garment 100.

[0118] In some embodiments, different engineered support structures can be provided by using different adhesive dot matrix patterns applied between one or more layers of a breast support garment to provide zones of different support levels to the breast support garment. Figure 10 and Figure 11 Alternative embodiments of adhesive dot matrix patterns are shown that provide zones of different support levels to regions of a breast support garment, such as Figures 12 to 19 the embodiment of the breast support garment shown. Other adhesive dot matrix patterns can also be provided according to the techniques described herein. Other embodiments of breast support garments using various adhesive dot matrix patterns can also be formed according to the techniques described herein.

[0119] Now referring to Figure 10 , an exemplary embodiment of a second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 for forming an engineered support structure of a breast support garment is shown, including a breast support garment 100, and / or other embodiments of breast support garments formed using the techniques described herein. In this embodiment, the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 includes four levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes), and these four levels of adhesive dot density are arranged in different regions of the breast support garment to provide zones of different support levels. As Figure 10 shown, the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 includes a first adhesive dot density 1002 that is associated with a low adhesive dot density having a larger spacing distance and / or a smaller adhesive dot size to provide a smaller support level. In this embodiment, the first adhesive dot density 1002 can be used in at least a top portion of a first breast cup 1018 and a second breast cup 1020 that extends in a region following the contour of a top edge 1014.

[0120] The second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 further includes a second adhesive dot density 1004 that is associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than that of the first adhesive dot density 1002 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than that of the first adhesive dot density 1002) to provide a support level greater than the support level provided by the first adhesive dot density 1002. In this embodiment, the second adhesive dot density 1004 can be used in at least one region below the top portion of the first breast cup 1018 and the second breast cup 1020 that extends along a portion of the region of the first adhesive dot density 1002.

[0121] The second adhesive dot density 1004 can also be used in regions along the sides of the breast support garment, including a first side portion 1022 and a second side portion 1024. For example, as Figure 10As shown, the second adhesive dot density 1004 extends generally through the central regions of the first side portion 1022 and the second side portion 1024.

[0122] The second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 further includes a third adhesive dot density 1006 associated with a medium-high adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than the spacing distances of the second adhesive dot density 1004 and the first adhesive dot density 1002 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than the adhesive dot sizes of the second adhesive dot density 1004 and the first adhesive dot density 1002) to provide a support level greater than the support levels provided by the second adhesive dot density 1004 and the first adhesive dot density 1002. In the present embodiment, the third adhesive dot density 1006 can be used in at least one region of the first breast cup 1018 and the second breast cup 1020 that is below the regions of the second adhesive dot density 1004 and the first adhesive dot density 1002. The third adhesive dot density 1006 can also be used in regions along the sides of the breast support garment, including the first side portion 1022 and the second side portion 1024. For example, as Figure 10 shown, the third adhesive dot density 1006 extends generally along the top and bottom of the first side portion 1022 and the second side portion 1024 to be above and below the central region of the second adhesive dot density 1004.

[0123] In the present embodiment, the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 further includes a fourth adhesive dot density 1008 associated with a highest adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than the spacing distances of the third adhesive dot density 1006, the second adhesive dot density 1004, and the first adhesive dot density 1002 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than the adhesive dot sizes of the third adhesive dot density 1006, the second adhesive dot density 1004, and the first adhesive dot density 1002) to provide a support level greater than the support levels provided by the third adhesive dot density 1006, the second adhesive dot density 1004, and the first adhesive dot density 1002.

[0124] In the present embodiment, the fourth adhesive dot density 1008 can be used in at least those regions of the portion along the bottom edge 1016 below the first breast cup 1018 and the second breast cup 1020. As Figure 10 shown, the fourth adhesive dot density 1008 also extends between the first breast cup 1018 and the second breast cup 1020. With this arrangement, the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 forms an engineered support structure between the layers of the breast support garment.

[0125] In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing distance of the adhesive dots in each region of different adhesive dot densities 1002, 1004, 1006, 1008 decreases from the top portion of the first breast cup 1018 and the second breast cup 1020 downward through each region. In one embodiment, the spacing distance of the adhesive dots in the partition having the first adhesive dot density 1002 is about 4 mm, the spacing distance of the adhesive dots in the partition having the second adhesive dot density 1004 is about 3 mm, the spacing distance of the adhesive dots in the partition having the third adhesive dot density 1006 is about 2 mm, and the spacing distance of the adhesive dots in the partition having the fourth adhesive dot density 1008 is about 1 mm. In other embodiments, the specific spacing distance may vary.

[0126] Now referring Figure 11 , an exemplary embodiment of a third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 of an engineered support structure for forming a breast support garment is shown. In the present embodiment, the third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 includes four levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes), which are arranged in different regions of the breast support garment to provide partitions with different support levels. As Figure 11 shown, the third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 includes a first adhesive dot density 1102, which is associated with a low adhesive dot density having a larger spacing distance and / or a smaller adhesive dot size to provide a smaller support level. In the present embodiment, the first adhesive dot density 1102 can be used in at least the top portion of the first breast cup 1118 and the second breast cup 1120 that extends along a region following the contour near the top edge 1114.

[0127] The third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 further includes a second adhesive dot density 1104, which is associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a spacing distance smaller than that of the first adhesive dot density 1102 (and / or an adhesive dot size larger than that of the first adhesive dot density 1102) to provide a support level greater than the support level provided by the first adhesive dot density 1102. In the present embodiment, the second adhesive dot density 1104 can be used in at least one region below the top portion of the first breast cup 1118 and the second breast cup 1120 that extends along a part of the region of the first adhesive dot density 1102.

[0128] The second adhesive dot density 1104 can also be used in the regions along the sides of the breast support garment, including the first side portion 1122 and the second side portion 1124. For example, as Figure 11 shown, the second adhesive dot density 1104 generally extends through the central regions of the first side portion 1122 and the second side portion 1124.

[0129] The third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 further includes a third adhesive dot density 1106 associated with a medium-high adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than the spacing distances of the second adhesive dot density 1104 and the first adhesive dot density 1102 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than the adhesive dot sizes of the second adhesive dot density 1104 and the first adhesive dot density 1102) to provide a support level greater than the support levels provided by the second adhesive dot density 1104 and the first adhesive dot density 1102. In this embodiment, the third adhesive dot density 1106 can be used in at least one region of the first breast cup 1118 and the second breast cup 1120 that is located below the regions of the second adhesive dot density 1104 and the first adhesive dot density 1102. In this embodiment, the third adhesive dot density 1106 also extends along the perimeters of the first side edge 1126 and the second side edge 1128 and the perimeter of the top edge 1114. As Figure 11 shown, the third adhesive dot density 1106 extends above the first adhesive dot density 1102 along the perimeter of the top edge 1114 at the top portions of the first breast cup 1118 and the second breast cup 1120.

[0130] The third adhesive dot density 1106 can also be used in regions along the sides of the breast support garment, including the first side portion 1122 and the second side portion 1124. For example, as Figure 11 shown, the third adhesive dot density 1106 extends generally along the top and bottom of the first side portion 1122 and the second side portion 1124 to be located above and below the central region of the second adhesive dot density 1104.

[0131] In this embodiment, the third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 further includes a fourth adhesive dot density 1108 associated with a maximum adhesive dot density having a spacing distance less than the spacing distances of the third adhesive dot density 1106, the second adhesive dot density 1104, and the first adhesive dot density 1102 (and / or an adhesive dot size greater than the adhesive dot sizes of the third adhesive dot density 1106, the second adhesive dot density 1104, and the first adhesive dot density 1102) to provide a support level greater than the support levels provided by the third adhesive dot density 1106, the second adhesive dot density 1104, and the first adhesive dot density 1102.

[0132] In this embodiment, the fourth adhesive dot density 1108 can be used in at least one region that is located below the first breast cup 1118 and the second breast cup 1120 and extends along those portions of the bottom edge 1116. As Figure 11As shown, the fourth adhesive dot density 1108 also extends between the first breast cup 1118 and the second breast cup 1120. With this arrangement, the third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 forms an engineered support structure between the layers of the breast support garment.

[0133] In one embodiment, the spacing between the adhesive dots in the zone having the first adhesive dot density 1102 is about 4 mm, the spacing between the adhesive dots in the zone having the second adhesive dot density 1104 is about 3 mm, the spacing between the adhesive dots in the zone having the third adhesive dot density 1106 is about 2 mm, and the spacing between the adhesive dots in the zone having the fourth adhesive dot density 1108 is about 1 mm. In other embodiments, the specific spacing may vary.

[0134] Now referring Figures 12 to 19 , an embodiment of a breast support garment including the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 and the third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 is shown, which patterns are used to join the layers of the breast support garment together. Figure 12 An exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 1200 having layers joined using the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is shown. In this embodiment, the breast support garment 1200 includes a lining layer 1202, a spacer fabric layer 1204, and an outer layer 1206. The second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is disposed between the lining layer 1202 and the spacer fabric layer 1204 and joins the opposing faces of the lining layer 1202 and the spacer fabric layer 1204 together. As described above, process 500 can be used to apply the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either the lining layer 1202 or the spacer fabric layer 1204 prior to joining the lining layer 1202 and the spacer fabric layer 1204.

[0135] In this embodiment, the shape of the spacer fabric layer 1204 includes two breast cups, including a first breast cup 1210 and a second breast cup 1212, and a connecting portion 1214 extending between the first breast cup 1210 and the second breast cup 1212. With this arrangement, the spacer fabric layer 1204 is a one-piece element whose shape corresponds to the shapes of the lining layer 1202 and the outer layer 1206. In this embodiment, the lining layer 1202 is configured to face the wearer's chest region, and the outer layer 1206 is configured to face outward and away from the wearer's chest region. In some cases, the lining layer 1202 may contact or abut the wearer's skin.

[0136] In some embodiments, the breast support garment 1200 may further include additional components that are configured to provide support and / or shaping to the breast support garment 1200. As Figure 12As shown, the breast support garment 1200 includes an additional support structure 1208. In certain embodiments, the additional support structure 1208 can function as a support structure and / or a shaping structure, which can provide support to manage the acceleration of breast tissue during the wearer's movement. In certain embodiments, the additional support structure 1208 can be an underwire structure and / or a memory foam support structure. In certain embodiments, the support structure 1208 can be made of a compressible material. In one embodiment, the compressible material can be a foam, including but not limited to a shape memory polymer foam or a similar material. In certain embodiments, the support structure 1208 can include two or more layers stacked on top of each other to provide a feathering effect. The two or more layers can include the same or different materials, including combinations of materials. In other embodiments, the support structure 1208 can be optional and can be omitted from the breast support garment (breast support garment 1200).

[0137] Next, referring to Figure 13 , an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 1300 including a second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is shown. In the present embodiment, the breast support garment 1300 includes a lining layer 1302, a spacer fabric layer 1304, and an outer layer 1306. The second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is disposed between the lining layer 1302 and the spacer fabric layer 1304 and joins the opposing faces of the lining layer 1302 and the spacer fabric layer 1304 together. As described above, the process 500 can be used to apply the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either the lining layer 1302 or the spacer fabric layer 1304 before joining the lining layer 1302 and the spacer fabric layer 1304 together.

[0138] In the present embodiment, the shape of the spacer fabric layer 1304 includes separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup portion 1310 and a second breast cup portion 1312. Different from the breast support garment 1200, in the present embodiment, the first breast cup portion 1310 and the second breast cup portion 1312 are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of spacer fabric material. In the present embodiment, the shape of each of the first breast cup portion 1310 and the second breast cup portion 1312 corresponds to the shape of the breast cup region of the breast support garment 1300. In the present embodiment, the lining layer 1302 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 1300, and the outer layer 1306 is configured to face the outside and away from the chest region of the wearer. In some cases, the lining layer 1302 can contact or be adjacent to the wearer's skin. Additionally, as Figure 13 shown, the breast support garment 1300 also includes an additional support structure 1308, which can be optional in certain embodiments.

[0139] Now referring to Figure 14 FIG. 4, there is shown an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 1400 including a second adhesive dot pattern 1000. In this embodiment, the breast support garment 1400 includes a spacer fabric layer 1402, a lining layer 1404, and an outer layer 1406. The second adhesive dot pattern 1000 is disposed between the spacer fabric layer 1402 and the lining layer 1404 and joins the opposing faces of the spacer fabric layer 1402 and the lining layer 1404 together. As described above, the process 500 can be used to apply the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 to either the spacer fabric layer 1402 or the lining layer 1404 prior to joining the spacer fabric layer 1402 and the lining layer 1404 together.

[0140] In this embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 1402 is shaped to include separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup portion 1410 and a second breast cup portion 1412, which are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of spacer fabric material. In this embodiment, the shape of each of the first breast cup portion 1410 and the second breast cup portion 1412 corresponds to the shape of the breast cup region of the breast support garment 1400. As Figure 14 shown, the breast support garment 1400 also includes a fabric cradle 1414 associated with the spacer fabric layer 1402. The fabric cradle 1414 is configured to hold and support the separate pieces of the first breast cup portion 1410 and the second breast cup portion 1412 of the spacer fabric layer 1402. In this embodiment, the fabric cradle 1414 is made of a thin textile material that is not spacer fabric. However, in other embodiments, the fabric cradle 1414 can be made of spacer fabric material.

[0141] The lining layer 1404 is also shaped to include separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup lining portion 1422 and a second breast cup lining portion 1424, which are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of fabric material. As with the spacer fabric layer 1402, the shape of each of the first breast cup lining portion 1422 and the second breast cup lining portion 1424 of the lining layer 1404 corresponds to the shape of the breast cup region of the breast support garment 1400. Additionally, the shape of the first breast cup lining portion 1422 and the second breast cup lining portion 1424 corresponds to the shape of the first breast cup portion 1410 and the second breast cup portion 1412 of the spacer fabric layer 1402.

[0142] In the present embodiment, the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 is shown as having multiple parts, including a main body part 1416 corresponding to the breast cup area of the breast support garment 1400, and a first flank part 1418 and a second flank part 1420 located on opposite sides of the breast support garment 1400. In the present embodiment, since the spacer fabric layer 1402 includes a first breast cup part 1410 and a second breast cup part 1412 that are independent of each other and separated from the fabric base 1414, and the lining layer 1404 also includes a separate first breast cup lining part 1422 and a second breast cup lining part 1424, the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 can be applied to these separate parts respectively.

[0143] For example, the main body part 1416 of the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 can be used to join the first breast cup part 1410 and the second breast cup part 1412 to the first breast cup lining part 1422 and the second breast cup lining part 1424. The first flank part 1418 and the second flank part 1420 of the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 can be used to join the corresponding flank parts of the fabric base 1414 of the spacer fabric layer 1402 to the flank parts of the outer layer 1406.

[0144] In the present embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 1402 is configured to face the chest area of the wearer of the breast support garment 1400, and the outer layer 1406 is configured to face the outside and away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, the spacer fabric layer 1402 can contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, as Figure 14 shown, the breast support garment 1400 further includes an underwire structure 1408, which can be optional in some embodiments.

[0145] Now referring to Figure 15 , an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 1500 including two spacer fabric layers is shown. In the present embodiment, the breast support garment 1500 includes a first spacer fabric layer 1502, a second spacer fabric layer 1504, and an outer layer 1506. In the present embodiment, the shape of the first spacer fabric layer 1502 includes separate breast cup parts, including a first breast cup part 1510 and a second breast cup part 1512, which are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of spacer fabric material. In the present embodiment, the shape of each of the first breast cup part 1510 and the second breast cup part 1512 corresponds to the shape of the breast cup area of the breast support garment 1500.

[0146] As Figure 15As shown, the breast support garment 1500 also includes a fabric base 1514 associated with the first spacer fabric layer 1502. The fabric base 1514 is configured to hold and support separate pieces of the first breast cup portion 1510 and the second breast cup portion 1512 of the first spacer fabric layer 1502. In this embodiment, the fabric base 1514 is made of a thin textile material that is not spacer fabric. However, in other embodiments, the fabric base 1514 may be made of spacer fabric material.

[0147] The shape of the second spacer fabric layer 1504 also includes separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup portion 1516 and a second breast cup portion 1518, which are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of fabric material. Similar to the first spacer fabric layer 1502, the shapes of the first breast cup portion 1516 and the second breast cup portion 1518 of the second spacer fabric layer 1504 correspond to the shape of the breast cup region of the breast support garment 1500. Additionally, the shapes of the first breast cup portion 1516 and the second breast cup portion 1518 of the second spacer fabric layer 1504 correspond to the shapes of the first breast cup portion 1510 and the second breast cup portion 1512 of the first spacer fabric layer 1502.

[0148] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the breast support garment 1500 also includes an additional support structure 1508 associated with the second spacer fabric layer 1504, and the additional support structure 1508 corresponds to the shape of the fabric base 1514 of the first spacer fabric layer 1502. In this embodiment, the support structure 1508 is configured to hold and support separate pieces of the first breast cup portion 1516 and the second breast cup portion 1518 of the second spacer fabric layer 1504. In other embodiments, the support structure 1508 may be optional.

[0149] In this embodiment, an adhesive or other bonding material is disposed along the perimeters of the first breast cup portion 1510 and the second breast cup portion 1512 of the first spacer fabric layer 1502 to join or bond the first breast cup portion 1510 to the first breast cup portion 1516, and the second breast cup portion 1512 to the second breast cup portion 1518. As Figure 15As shown, the first bonding material 1520 extends around the perimeter of the first breast cup portion 1510, and the second bonding material 1522 extends around the perimeter of the second breast cup portion 1512. In some cases, the first bonding material 1520 and the second bonding material 1522 can be applied using a deposition printer (such as the printer 502 described above). In other cases, the first bonding material 1520 and the second bonding material 1522 can be applied using other techniques, or can be strips of adhesive film or other bonding materials laid on the perimeters of the first breast cup portion 1510 and the second breast cup portion 1512. For example, the adhesive film can be a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material.

[0150] In this embodiment, the breast support garment 1500 includes only a portion of the second adhesive dot pattern 1000. For example, as Figure 15 shown, the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 includes a first flank portion 1524 and a second flank portion 1526 located on opposite sides of the breast support garment 1500. The first flank portion 1524 and the second flank portion 1526 of the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 can be used to join the corresponding flank portions of the fabric base 1514 of the first spacer fabric layer 1502 to the flank portions of the outer layer 1506.

[0151] In this embodiment, the first spacer fabric layer 1502 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 1500, and the outer layer 1506 is configured to face outward and away from the chest region of the wearer. In some cases, the first spacer fabric layer 1502 can contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. The breast support garment 1500 includes two spacer fabric layers (e.g., the first spacer fabric layer 1502 and the second spacer fabric layer 1504) to provide additional support and cushioning to the breast support garment 1500, particularly in each breast cup region of the breast support garment 1500.

[0152] Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the first breast cup 1600 of the breast support garment 1500 is shown, with the outer layer 1506 omitted. In this embodiment, the first breast cup 1600 of the breast support garment 1500 is composed of a first breast cup portion 1510 and a first breast cup portion 1516, which are joined or attached at the top end 1602 and the bottom end 1604 by the first bonding material 1520. Additionally, gaps 1606 are formed between the layers in the spacer fabric layer due to the rigidity of the spacer fabric material caused by spacer yarns that provide thickness to the spacer fabric in the region of the first cup 1600. For example, as Figure 16As shown, a gap 1606 is formed between opposite faces of the first breast cup portion 1510 and the first breast cup portion 1516 at positions spaced from each of the top end 1602 and the bottom end 1604. With this arrangement, the gap 1606 formed by the spacer fabric material can provide additional cushioning and / or padding for the first cup 1600 of the breast support garment 1500.

[0153] Now referring Figure 17 , an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 1700 including a modified version of the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 is shown. In this embodiment, the breast support garment 1700 includes a spacer fabric layer 1702 and an outer layer 1704. In this embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 1702 is shaped to include two breast cups, including a first breast cup 1710 and a second breast cup 1712, and a connecting portion 1714 extending between the first breast cup 1710 and the second breast cup 1712. The breast support garment 1700 further includes a fabric base 1706 associated with the spacer fabric layer 1702. The fabric base 1706 is configured to hold and support the first breast cup 1710, the second breast cup 1712, and the connecting portion 1714 of the spacer fabric layer 1702. In this embodiment, the fabric base 1706 is made of a thin textile material that is not spacer fabric. However, in other embodiments, the fabric base 1706 can be made of spacer fabric material.

[0154] With this arrangement, the shapes of the spacer fabric layer 1702 and the fabric base 1706 correspond to the shape of the outer layer 1704. In this embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 1702 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 1700, and the outer layer 1704 is configured to face outward and away from the wearer's chest region. In some cases, the spacer fabric layer 1702 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer.

[0155] In this embodiment, a modified version of the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 is disposed between the spacer fabric layer 1702 and the outer layer 1704 and joins the opposite faces of the spacer fabric layer 1702 and the outer layer 1704 together. In this embodiment, the modified version of the second adhesive dot pattern 1000 includes a first breast cup portion 1716 and a second breast cup portion 1718. Figure 17A modified form of the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 shown does not include a flank portion or an adhesive dot area along the bottom edge. In this embodiment, the first breast cup portion 1716 corresponds to the first breast cup 1710 of the spacer fabric layer 1702, and the second breast cup portion 1718 corresponds to the second breast cup 1712 of the spacer fabric layer 1702. As described above, the process 500 can be used to apply portions of the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either side of the spacer fabric layer 1702 and the outer layer 1704 before joining the spacer fabric layer 1702 and the outer layer 1704 together. Additionally, as Figure 17 shown, the breast support garment 1700 also includes an additional support structure 1708, which can be optional in some embodiments.

[0156] Figure 18 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 1800, the layers of which are joined using a third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100. In this embodiment, the breast support garment 1800 includes a spacer fabric layer 1802 and an outer layer 1804. The third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 is disposed between the spacer fabric layer 1802 and the outer layer 1804 and joins the opposing faces of the spacer fabric layer 1802 and the outer layer 1804 together. As described above, the process 500 can be used to apply the third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 to either side of the spacer fabric layer 1802 and the outer layer 1804 before joining the spacer fabric layer 1802 and the outer layer 1804 together.

[0157] In this embodiment, the shape of the spacer fabric layer 1802 includes two breast cups, including a first breast cup 1806 and a second breast cup 1808, and a connecting portion 1810 extending between the first breast cup 1806 and the second breast cup 1808. With this arrangement, the spacer fabric layer 1802 is a one-piece element, the shape of which corresponds to the shape of the outer layer 1804. In this embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 1802 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 1800, and the outer layer 1804 is configured to face outward and away from the chest region of the wearer. In some cases, the spacer fabric layer 1802 can contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, as Figure 18 shown, the breast support garment 1800 also includes an additional support structure 1812, which can be optional in some embodiments.

[0158] Figure 19FIG. 0 is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 1900 that includes a third adhesive dot pattern 1100. In this embodiment, the breast support garment 1900 includes a lining layer 1902 and an outer layer 1904, but no spacer fabric layer. The third adhesive dot pattern 1100 is disposed between the lining layer 1902 and the outer layer 1904 and joins the opposing faces of the lining layer 1902 and the outer layer 1904 together. As described above, process 500 can be used to apply the third adhesive dot pattern 1100 to either the lining layer 1902 or the outer layer 1904 before joining the lining layer 1902 and the outer layer 1904 together.

[0159] In this embodiment, the lining layer 1902 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 1900, and the outer layer 1904 is configured to face outward and away from the chest region of the wearer. In some cases, the lining layer 1902 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, as Figure 19 shown, the breast support garment 1900 also includes an additional support structure 1906, which may be optional in some embodiments.

[0160] In some embodiments, a breast support garment (including the exemplary embodiments described herein or other breast support garments formed in accordance with the disclosed technology) may include various edge finishing options for closing or refining the edges of the breast support garment. The edge finishing options for the breast support garment provide a neat, refined appearance to the breast support garment and cover and protect the various layers joined in accordance with the techniques described herein. The edge finishing options referenced Figures 20A to 20I can be used in combination with any type or embodiment of breast support garment. In the following embodiment, a side of the breast support garment (e.g., the first side 104 of the breast support garment 100) is shown to include an outer layer 300, a spacer fabric layer 320, and a lining layer 310. It should be understood that a similar arrangement of edge finishing options can also be applied to the opposite side (e.g., the second side 106) and other embodiments of the breast support garment.

[0161] First referring to Figure 20A , a cross-sectional view of a first exemplary embodiment of an edge finishing option for a breast support garment is shown. In this embodiment, the spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310. At the edge of the first side 104, a wedge-shaped construction 2000 is provided to gradually transition the edge from the thickness of the outer layer 300, the spacer fabric layer 320, and the lining layer 310 to a smooth edge 2002. In one embodiment, the wedge-shaped construction 2000 is made of a compressible foam material.

[0162] In addition, a wrapping layer 2004 made of textile or fabric material covers the wedge-shaped structure 2000 and portions of the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310. For example, as Figure 20A shown, a first end 2006 of the wrapping layer 2004 extends onto a portion of the outer face 108 of the outer layer 300 on one side of the breast support garment 100, and a second end 2008 of the wrapping layer 2004 extends onto a portion of the second face 314 of the lining layer 310 on the opposite side. The first end 2006 and the second end 2008 may be joined or attached to the outer face 108 and the second face 314, respectively.

[0163] Figure 20B is a cross-sectional view of a second exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of the breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310. At the edge of the first side 104, a wedge-shaped structure 2000 is provided to gradually transition the edge from the thickness of the outer layer 300, the spacer fabric layer 320, and the lining layer 310 to a smooth edge 2010. In one embodiment, the wedge-shaped structure 2000 is made of a compressible foam material. In this embodiment, the outer layer 300 extends over the wedge-shaped structure 2000 and wraps around to the opposite side to the first end 2012, and the first end 2012 engages or attaches to the second face 314 of the lining layer 310. In addition, the lining layer 310 extends past the outer side of the spacer fabric layer 320 to be located below the wedge-shaped structure 2000.

[0164] Figure 20C is a cross-sectional view of a third exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of the breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between the outer layer 300 and the lining layer 310. Different from Figure 20B the previous one, this embodiment does not include a wedge-shaped structure 2000. That is, at the edge of the first side 104, an empty space 2014 is provided at the smooth edge 2010. The outer layer 300 extends over the empty space 2014 and wraps around to the opposite side to the first end 2012, and the first end 2012 engages and attaches to the second face 314 of the lining layer 310, and the lining layer 310 extends past the outer side of the spacer fabric layer 320 to be located below the empty space 2014.

[0165] Figure 20DA cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of a breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between an outer layer 300 and a lining layer 310. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the spacer fabric layer 320 near the smooth edge 2010 has a tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it extends toward the smooth edge 2010. The outer layer 300 extends over the empty space 2014 and wraps around to the opposite side to the first end 2012, which is joined and attached to the second side 314 of the lining layer 310, below the portion of the spacer fabric layer 320 having the tapered thickness 2016. The lining layer 310 extends past the spacer fabric layer 320 to be located below the empty space 2014.

[0166] Figure 20E A cross-sectional view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of a breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between an outer layer 300 and a lining layer 310. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the spacer fabric layer 320 near the smooth edge 2010 has a tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it extends toward the smooth edge 2010. The outer layer 300 extends over the empty space 2014 and wraps around to the opposite side to the first end 2012, which is joined and attached to the second side 314 of the lining layer 310, below the portion of the spacer fabric layer 320 having the tapered thickness 2016. The lining layer 310 extends to the end of the spacer fabric layer 320. Compared with Figure 20D the embodiment shown, in this embodiment, the lining layer 310 does not extend below the empty space 2014.

[0167] Figure 20F A cross-sectional view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of a breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between an outer layer 300 and a lining layer 310. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the spacer fabric layer 320 near the smooth edge 2010 has a tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it extends toward the smooth edge 2018. The outer layer 300 extends over the portion of the spacer fabric layer 320 having the tapered thickness 2016 and folds back onto itself at the folded end 2020 near the end of the spacer fabric layer 320. The lining layer 310 extends past the end of the spacer fabric layer 320 to be located below the folded end 2020 of the outer layer 300.

[0168] Figure 20GIt is a cross-sectional view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of a breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between an outer layer 300 and a lining layer 310. At the edge of the first side 104, a U-shaped film layer 2026 is provided to gradually transition the edge from the thicknesses of the outer layer 300, the spacer fabric layer 320, and the lining layer 310 to a smooth edge 2022. In one embodiment, the U-shaped film layer 2026 is made of an adhesive film material, such as a TPE or TPU material. In this embodiment, the outer layer 300 extends above the U-shaped film layer 2026 and wraps around to the opposite side to the first end 2024, which is joined or attached to the second face 314 of the lining layer 310, below the spacer fabric layer 320.

[0169] Figure 20H It is a cross-sectional view of an eighth exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of a breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between an outer layer 300 and a lining layer 310. At the edge of the first side 104, a stacked arrangement of film layers is provided, including a first film layer 2030 and a second film layer 2032, to gradually transition the edge from the thicknesses of the outer layer 300, the spacer fabric layer 320, and the lining layer 310 to a smooth edge 2028. In one embodiment, each of the first film layer 2030 and the second film layer 2032 is made of an adhesive film material, such as a TPE or TPU material. In an exemplary embodiment, the first film layer 2030 is shorter than the second film layer 2032 to provide a stepped arrangement that facilitates the transition of the thickness at the smooth edge 2028. In this embodiment, the outer layer 300 extends above the stacked arrangement of film layers and wraps around to the opposite side to the first end 2024, which is joined or attached to the second face 314 of the lining layer 310, below the spacer fabric layer 320.

[0170] Figure 20I It is a cross-sectional view of a ninth exemplary embodiment of the edge finishing option of a breast support garment. In this embodiment, a spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between an outer layer 300 and a lining layer 310. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the spacer fabric layer 320 near the smooth edge 2034 has a tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it extends towards the smooth edge 2034. The outer layer 300 extends above the second film layer 2032 and wraps around to the opposite side to the first end 2024, which is joined or attached to the second face 314 of the lining layer 310, below the spacer fabric layer 320.

[0171] In some embodiments, a breast support garment may provide a pocket feature formed between layers of the fabric or textile of the breast support garment. In various embodiments, the pocket feature may be located in the front portion, side or wing portions, and / or back panel of the breast support garment to provide one or more storage capabilities for the wearer of the breast support garment. Now referring to Figures 21 to 39 , an embodiment of a breast support garment with a pocket feature is shown.

[0172] Now referring to Figure 21 , a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 2100 with a pocket feature is shown. In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 2100 may include a front portion 2102 for covering at least a portion of the wearer's chest region. In some embodiments, the front portion 2102 extends from a first side 2104 to a second side 2106 of the breast support garment 2100. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 2102 of the breast support garment 2100 includes an outer surface of the front portion 2108, which forms an outer surface of the breast support garment 2100 extending away from the wearer's chest region.

[0173] In the present embodiment, the breast support garment 2100 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 2110 and a second strap 2112. The first strap 2110 and the second strap 2112 are configured to extend over the wearer's shoulders. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 2102 of the breast support garment 2100 extends from a top edge 2114 to a bottom edge 2116. The top edge 2114 may form a neckline that extends between the wearer's breasts from above. The bottom edge 2116 may form a lower band that extends beneath the wearer's breasts. Additionally, in some embodiments, the front portion 2102 of the breast support garment 2100 may further include a pair of breast cups configured to receive the wearer's breasts, including a first breast cup 2118 and a second breast cup 2120. In one embodiment, the first breast cup 2118 and the second breast cup 2120 on the front portion 2102 of the breast support garment 2100 may be molded into the material forming the front portion 2102.

[0174] In an exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 2100 includes a chest pocket 2122 in the front portion 2102. The chest pocket 2122 is disposed between the fabric layers forming the front portion 2102. In this embodiment, the chest pocket 2122 is located between the first breast cup 2118 and the second breast cup 2120 at the middle of the top edge 2114. Additionally, in some embodiments, the chest pocket 2122 may include an opening 2124 that is located near the top edge 2114 of the breast support garment 2100. In this embodiment, the opening 2124 has a front lip 2126 that extends further downward from the top edge 2114 than the rear lip 2128. With this arrangement, the front lip 2126 can facilitate placing an item into the opening 2124 of the chest pocket 2122 by making it easier to open the space between the layers of the breast support garment 2100 that form the chest pocket 2122.

[0175] Now referring to Figure 22 , a side view of the breast support garment 2100 is shown. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the breast support garment 2100 may include one or more side pockets that are disposed on the side wing portions of the breast support garment. In an exemplary embodiment, the side wing portion 2200 on the second side 2106 of the breast support garment 2100 extends from the top side edge 2202 to the bottom edge 2116. As Figure 22 shown, in some embodiments, a side pocket 2204 may be disposed on the side wing portion 2200 of the breast support garment 2100. In this embodiment, the side pocket opening 2206 is located at a position spaced a certain distance from the top side edge 2202. In other embodiments, the opening 2206 may be positioned along one of the sides of the side pocket opening 2204. It should also be understood that although the side pocket 2204 is shown to be on the side wing portion 2200 of the second side 2106 of the breast support garment 2100, additionally or alternatively, a similar side pocket may be located on the opposite side of the breast support garment 2100 (e.g., on the side wing portion on the first side 2104 of the breast support garment 2100).

[0176] Now referring to Figure 23, showing a rear view of the breast support garment 2100. In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 2100 may include a rear portion 2300 configured to cover at least a portion of the wearer's back region. The rear portion 2300 of the breast support garment 2100 is joined and attached to the front portion 2102 along each of a first side 2104 and a second side 2106. In one exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 2300 may be formed by a continuous back band segment 2302 that extends from each side of the breast support garment 2100 and encircles the wearer's torso. In other embodiments, the rear portion 2300 may be formed by a pair of separate back band segments that extend from each side of the breast support garment 2100 and are joined together with a closure system to wrap around the wearer's back region.

[0177] In certain embodiments, the rear portion 2300 of the breast support garment 2100 may include back straps that are attached or joined to the shoulder straps of the front portion 2102 at one end and are attached or joined to the back band segment 2302 at an opposite end. In one exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 2300 of the breast support garment 2100 includes a pair of back straps, including: a first back strap 2304 that is joined to the first shoulder strap 2110 at one end and extends diagonally to be joined to the back band segment 2302 at an end opposite the first shoulder strap 2110; and a second back strap 2306 that is joined to the second shoulder strap 2112 at one end and extends diagonally to be joined to the back band segment 2302 at an end opposite the second shoulder strap 2112.

[0178] The rear portion 2300 of the breast support garment 2100 further includes a top middle edge 2308 that is located between the first back strap 2304 and the second back strap 2306 of the back band segment 2302. In the present embodiment, the top middle edge 2308 is generally V-shaped and extends along the diagonal direction of the first back strap 2304 and the second back strap 2306. The rear portion 2300 further includes: a top first side edge 2310 that extends from the first back strap 2304 toward the first side 2104; and a top second side edge 2202 that extends from the second back strap 2306 toward the second side 2106. The back band segment 2302 includes a bottom edge 2312 that extends continuously around the wearer's back region and is joined to the bottom edge 2116 of the front portion 2102. In the present embodiment, the rear portion 2300 includes a center gusset portion 2314 that is located in the region where the first back strap 2304 and the second back strap 2306 are joined to the back band segment 2302.

[0179] Now refer to Figure 24, a exploded view of the front portion 2102 of a breast support garment 2100 having a chest pocket 2122 is shown. In this embodiment, the front portion 2102 includes an outer layer 2400 and an inner layer 2402. The outer layer 2400 is configured to face outward and away from the wearer, and the inner layer 2402 is configured to face the chest area of the wearer of the breast support garment 2100. In one embodiment, the inner layer 2402 may directly contact the skin of the wearer of the breast support garment 2100. In certain embodiments, the breast support garment 2100 may also include a spacer fabric layer as described above (refer to Figures 1 to 20I the garment shown).

[0180] In an exemplary embodiment, a pocket lining layer 2404 is configured to be located between the outer layer 2400 and the inner layer 2402, at a position corresponding to the chest pocket 2122. The shape of the pocket lining layer 2404 corresponds to the shape of the chest pocket 2122 and includes a top lip 2406 corresponding to the shape of the front lip 2126 of the outer layer 2400. Each layer of the breast support garment 2100 may be made of a separate fabric or textile. In an exemplary embodiment, the fabric or textile forming the outer layer 2400, the inner layer 2402, and / or the pocket lining layer 2404 may have four-way stretch ability, moisture-wicking performance, and quick-drying characteristics. In one embodiment, the outer layer 2400, the inner layer 2402, and / or the pocket lining layer 2404 may be made of a knitted textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of the pocket lining layer 2404 may be different from that of the outer layer 2400 and / or the inner layer 2402. For example, the pocket lining layer 2404 may be made of a knitted textile having a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., spandex or similar fibers / yarns) compared to the outer layer 2400 and / or the inner layer 2402. In other cases, the outer layer 2400, the inner layer 2402, and / or the pocket lining layer 2404 may be made of any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and / or fabrics.

[0181] In the present embodiment, the outer layer 2400 includes an outer surface 2408 and an opposite inner surface 2410, and the outer surface 2408 is configured to face outward and away from the wearer. The pocket lining layer 2404 includes: a first surface 2412 facing the inner surface 2410 of the outer layer 2400; and an opposite second surface 2414 facing the first surface 2416 of the inner layer 2402. In the present embodiment, the pocket lining layer 2404 is configured to be joined to the outer layer 2400 such that a portion of the first surface 2412 of the pocket lining layer 2404 is joined to a portion of the inner surface 2410 of the outer layer 2400. The bonding regions 2418 (including the first side bonding strip 2420, the bottom bonding strip 2422, and the second side bonding strip 2424) on the inner surface 2410 of the outer layer 2400 correspond to the perimeter 2426 of the pocket lining layer 2404 to join the pocket lining layer 2404 to the inner surface 2410 of the outer layer 2400. In one embodiment, the first side bonding strip 2420, the bottom bonding strip 2422, and the second side bonding strip 2424 may be film adhesives or bonding materials, including any bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesives or bonding materials.

[0182] With this arrangement, the chest pocket 2122 can be formed in the front portion 2102 of the breast support garment 2100 such that the opening 2124 provides an entrance to the internal void of the chest pocket 2122 formed between the first surface 2412 of the pocket lining layer 2404 and the inner surface 2410 of the outer layer 2400. A similar arrangement can be provided between the layers of the breast support garment 2100 to form side pockets on the flank portions of the breast support garment 2100, such as the side pocket 2204 described above.

[0183] Now referring Figure 25 , an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 2100 having a chest pocket 2122 on the front portion 2102 is shown, where a water bottle 2500 is inserted in the chest pocket 2122. In certain embodiments, the wearer of the breast support garment 2100 can use the chest pocket 2122 on the front portion 2102 to store various items. In the present embodiment, the water bottle 2500 is shown inserted into the opening 2124 of the chest pocket 2122 on the front portion 2102 in a direction from above the top edge 2114. In some cases, the front lip 2126 can assist in placing an item, such as the water bottle 2500, into the opening 2124 on the chest pocket 2122.

[0184] Figure 26Illustrated is that the water bottle 2500 is fixed in the chest pocket 2122 on the front portion 2102 of the breast support garment 2100. As shown in this embodiment, the chest pocket 2122 is sized to closely fit the water bottle 2500 such that the top portion of the water bottle 2500 protrudes from the opening 2124. In one embodiment, the chest pocket 2122 may have a width of approximately 9 centimeters. In other embodiments, the size of the chest pocket 2122 may be larger or smaller. With this arrangement, the wearer of the breast support garment 2100 can easily access the water bottle 2500 in the chest pocket 2122 by pulling on the top portion of the water bottle 2500 that protrudes from the opening 2124. In other embodiments, other items may be stored or fixed in the chest pocket 2122 on the front portion 2102, including but not limited to keys, mobile phones, credit cards, identification cards, wallets, etc.

[0185] Figure 27 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the front portion 2700 of the breast support garment 2100, where an adhesive dot matrix pattern is used to attach the chest pocket 2122. In this embodiment, the front portion 2700 includes an outer layer 2400, an inner layer 2402, and a pocket lining layer 2404, as described previously with reference to the front portion 2102. In this embodiment, the pocket lining layer 2404 is attached or joined to the outer layer 2400 by using an adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702 at positions corresponding to the perimeter 2426 of the pocket lining layer 2404, thereby forming the chest pocket 2122. That is, in this embodiment, a plurality of adhesive dots (as described above) of the adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702 are applied to the inner face 2410 of the outer layer 2400, including the first side portion 2704, the bottom portion 2706, and the second side portion 2708. The pocket lining layer 2404 is configured to be joined to the outer layer 2400 such that a portion of the first face 2412 of the pocket lining layer 2404 is joined to a portion of the inner face 2410 of the outer layer 2400 by the adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702. With this arrangement, the amount or degree of support provided to the area around the chest pocket 2122 can be changed by adjusting or varying the spacing distance (or adhesive dot size) between the plurality of adhesive dots forming the first side portion 2704, the bottom portion 2706, and the second side portion 2708.

[0186] Figure 28 Illustrated is Figure 27Cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the front portion 2700 of a breast support garment having a chest pocket 2122 as shown. In this embodiment, a pocket lining layer 2404 is disposed between an inner layer 2402 and an outer layer 2400. A second side portion 2708 of an adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702 is disposed between a first face 2412 of the pocket lining layer 2404 and an inner face 2410 of the outer layer 2400 and bonds or joins a perimeter 2426 of the pocket lining layer 2404 to the outer layer 2400. By this arrangement, the chest pocket 2122 is formed by an internal void between the first face 2412 of the pocket lining layer 2404 and the inner face 2410 of the outer layer 2400, which internal void is accessed through an opening 2124.

[0187] In addition, in certain embodiments, a second adhesive dot matrix pattern 2800 formed by a plurality of adhesive points may be located between the inner layer 2402 and portions of the pocket lining layer 2404 and the outer layer 2400 to bond or join the layers of the front portion 2700 of the breast support garment 2100 together. As Figure 28 shown, the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 2800 joins together a first face 2416 of the inner layer 2402, a second face 2414 of the pocket lining layer 2404, and a portion of the inner face 2410 of the outer layer 2400. For example, the process 500 described above may be used to apply the second adhesive dot matrix pattern 2800 to the first face 2416 of the inner layer 2402.

[0188] Now referring to Figure 29 , a front view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 2900 having a full-sized front panel pocket feature is shown. In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 2900 may include a front portion 2902 that is configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest region. In certain embodiments, the front portion 2902 extends between a first side 2904 and a second side 2906 of the breast support garment 2900. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900 includes a front portion outer face 2908 that forms an outer surface of the breast support garment 2900 that extends away from the wearer's chest region.

[0189] In the present embodiment, the breast support garment 2900 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 2910 and a second strap 2912. The first strap 2910 and the second strap 2912 are configured to extend over the shoulders of a wearer of the breast support garment 2900. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900 extends from a top edge 2914 to a bottom edge 2916. The top edge 2914 may form a neckline that extends between the wearer's breasts from above. The bottom edge 2916 may form a lower band that extends beneath the wearer's breasts. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900 may further include a pair of breast cups configured to receive the wearer's breasts, including a first breast cup 2918 and a second breast cup 2920. In one embodiment, the first breast cup 2918 and the second breast cup 2920 on the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900 may be molded into the material forming the front portion 2902.

[0190] In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 2900 includes a full - panel front pocket 2922 in the front portion 2902. The full - panel front pocket 2922 is disposed between layers of the fabric forming the front portion 2902. In the present embodiment, the full - panel front pocket 2922 extends over a majority of the front portion 2902, including the first breast cup 2918 and the second breast cup 2920. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the full - panel front pocket 2922 may include an opening 2924 adjacent to the top edge 2914 of the breast support garment 2900. In the present embodiment, the internal void forming the full - panel front pocket 2922 between the layers of the front portion 2902 extends from the opening 2924 to a bottom border 2926, which is adjacent to and spaced from the bottom edge 2916.

[0191] In the present embodiment, the opening 2924 has a front lip 2928 that extends further downward from the top edge 2914 than a rear lip 2930. With this arrangement, the front lip 2928 makes it easier to open the space between the layers of the breast support garment 2900 forming the full - panel front pocket 2922, thereby assisting in placing an item into the opening 2924 of the full - panel front pocket 2922.

[0192] Now refer to Figure 30, showing a rear view of the breast support garment 2900. In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 2900 may include a rear portion 3000 for covering at least a portion of the wearer's back region. The rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900 is joined and attached to the front portion 2902 along each of a first side 2904 and a second side 2906. In one exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 3000 may be formed by a continuous rear band section 3002 that extends from each side of the breast support garment 2900 and encircles the wearer's torso. In other embodiments, the rear portion 3000 may be formed by a pair of separate rear band sections that extend from each side of the breast support garment 2900 and are joined together using a closure system to wrap around the wearer's back region.

[0193] In certain embodiments, the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900 may include rear straps that are attached or joined to the shoulder straps of the front portion 2902 at one end and attached or joined to the rear band section 3002 at an opposite end. In one exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900 includes a pair of rear straps, the pair of rear straps including: a first rear strap 3004 that is joined to the first shoulder strap 2910 at one end and extends diagonally to join the rear band section 3002 at an end opposite the first shoulder strap 2910; and a second rear strap 3006 that is joined to the second shoulder strap 2912 at one end and extends diagonally to join the rear band section 3002 at an end opposite the second shoulder strap 2912.

[0194] The rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900 further includes a top middle edge 3008 that is located between the first rear strap 3004 and the second rear strap 3006 of the rear band section 3002. In the present embodiment, the top middle edge 3008 is generally Y-shaped and extends along the diagonal directions of the first rear strap 3004 and the second rear strap 3006. The rear portion 3000 further includes: a top first side edge 3010 that extends from the first rear strap 3004 toward the first side 2904; and a top second side edge 3012 that extends from the second rear strap 3006 toward the second side 2906. The rear band section 3002 includes a bottom edge 3014 that extends continuously around the wearer's back region and is joined to the bottom edge 2916 of the front portion 2902. In the present embodiment, the rear portion 3000 includes a center gusset portion 3016 that is located in the region where the first rear strap 3004 and the second rear strap 3006 are joined to the rear band section 3002.

[0195] In one exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900 may include a rear pocket feature. AsFigure 30 As shown, the rear pocket 3018 is located in the central gusset portion 3016 in the region where the first rear strap 3004 and the second rear strap 3006 are joined to the rear girth strap segment 3002. In one embodiment, the rear pocket 3018 has an opening 3020 along the top of the rear pocket 3018, which allows access to the interior void of the rear pocket 3018 formed between the layers of fabric forming the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900.

[0196] Now referring to Figure 31 , an exploded view of the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900 with a full gusset front pocket 2922 is shown. In the present embodiment, the front portion 2902 includes an outer layer 3100 and an inner layer 3102. The outer layer 3100 is configured to face the outside and away from the wearer of the breast support garment 2900, and the inner layer 3102 is configured to face the wearer's chest region. In one embodiment, the inner layer 3102 may be in direct contact with the wearer's skin.

[0197] In an exemplary embodiment, a pocket lining layer 3104 is located between the outer layer 3100 and the inner layer 3102 to form the full gusset front pocket 2922. The shape of the pocket lining layer 3104 corresponds to the shape of the full gusset front pocket 2922 and includes a top lip 3106 that corresponds to the shape of the front lip 2928 of the outer layer 3100. Each layer of the breast support garment 2900 may be made of a separate fabric or textile. In an exemplary embodiment, the fabric or textile forming the outer layer 3100, the inner layer 3102, and / or the pocket lining layer 3104 may have four-way stretchability, moisture-wicking performance, and quick-drying characteristics. In one embodiment, the outer layer 3100, the inner layer 3102, and / or the pocket lining layer 3104 may be made of a knitted textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of the pocket lining layer 3104 may be different from that of the outer layer 3100 and / or the inner layer 3102. For example, the pocket lining layer 3104 may be made of a knitted textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., spandex or similar fibers / yarns) compared to the outer layer 3100 and / or the inner layer 3102. In other cases, the outer layer 3100, the inner layer 3102, and / or the pocket lining layer 3104 may be made of any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and / or fabrics.

[0198] In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive dot pattern 3108 is disposed between the inner layer 3102 and the pocket lining layer 3104 and joins the opposing faces of the inner layer 3102 and the pocket lining layer 3104 together. In one embodiment, the adhesive dot pattern 3108 may have a uniform spacing distance and / or adhesive dot size between adjacent adhesive dots among the plurality of adhesive dots forming the adhesive dot pattern 3108. In other embodiments, the adhesive dot pattern 3108 may have different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different regions, e.g., as described above in the previous embodiments regarding the adhesive dot pattern. As described above, the process 500 may be used to apply the adhesive dot pattern 3108 to either the inner layer 3102 or the pocket lining layer 3104 before joining the inner layer 3102 and the pocket lining layer 3104 together.

[0199] In the present embodiment, the outer layer 3100 includes: an outer face 2908 configured to face outwards and away from the wearer of the breast support garment 2900; and an opposing inner face 3110. The pocket lining layer 3104 includes: a first face 3112 facing the inner face 3110 of the outer layer 3100; and an opposing second face 3114 facing the first face 3116 of the inner layer 3102. In the present embodiment, the pocket lining layer 3104 is configured to be joined to the inner layer 3102 such that the second face 3114 of the pocket lining layer 3104 is joined to the first face 3116 of the inner layer 3102 using the adhesive dot pattern 3108. With this arrangement, an internal void is formed between the first face 3112 of the pocket lining layer 3104 and the inner face 3110 of the outer layer 3100 before forming the all-in-one front pocket 2922.

[0200] As Figure 31 shown, the breast support garment 2900 includes an additional support structure 3120. In certain embodiments, the additional support structure 3120 may serve as a support structure and / or a shaping structure, which may provide support to manage the acceleration of breast tissue during wearer movement. In certain embodiments, the additional support structure 3120 may be made of a compressible material. In one embodiment, the compressible material may be a foam, including but not limited to shape memory polymer foam or similar materials. In other embodiments, the additional support structure 3120 may be optional and may be omitted from the breast support garment 2900.

[0201] In addition, bonding strips can be used to bond or join portions of the inner layer 3102 to the outer layer 3100. In the present embodiment, the bottom bonding strip 3122 extends along the underlying support structure 3120 and can be used to seal the bottom boundary 2926 of the full-panel front pocket 2922. The first side bonding strip 3124 and the second side bonding strip 3126 can also be used to bond portions of the inner layer 3102 to the outer layer 3100, extending upwardly along each side of the breast support garment 2900. In one embodiment, the bottom bonding strip 3122, the first side bonding strip 3124, and the second side bonding strip 3126 can be film adhesives or bonding materials, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesives or bonding materials.

[0202] Figure 32 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the breast support garment 2900, in which one or more items are placed in the full-panel front pocket 2922. In certain embodiments, a wearer of the breast support garment 2900 can use the full-panel front pocket 2922 on the front portion 2902 to store various items. In the present embodiment, the water bottle 2500 is shown extending upwardly from the opening 2924 of the full-panel front pocket 2922 on the front portion 2902. Compared with the chest pocket 2122, the full-panel front pocket 2922 can allow the wearer to store more or larger items. For example, the full-panel front pocket 2922 can also hold the mobile phone 3200. The bottom boundary 2926 of the full-panel front pocket 2922 prevents items stored in the full-panel front pocket 2922 from falling out of the full-panel front pocket 2922. In the present embodiment, the width of the full-panel front pocket 2922 extends across the entire width of the front portion 2902 from the first side 2904 to the second side 2906. In other embodiments, the size of the full-panel front pocket 2922 can be smaller. With this arrangement, the wearer of the breast support garment 2900 can easily remove items, such as the water bottle 2500 and / or the mobile phone 3200, from the full-panel front pocket 2922 through the opening 2924. In other embodiments, other items can be stored or secured in the full-panel front pocket 2922 on the front portion 2902, including but not limited to keys, credit cards, identification cards, wallets, and the like.

[0203] As described above, in one embodiment, a full - panel front pocket 2922 is formed between the outer layer 3100 and the pocket lining layer 3104. In other embodiments, the arrangement of the layers of the front portion 2902 can be reversed such that the full - panel front pocket 2922 is formed between the inner layer 3102 and the pocket lining layer 3104. With this arrangement, the full - panel front pocket 2922 is positioned closer to the body of the wearer of the breast support garment 2900, and the adhesive dot pattern 3108 that joins the inner layer 3102 and the pocket lining layer 3104 can apply tension to the items within the full - panel front pocket 2922 to help keep them in place during the wearer's activity or movement.

[0204] Now referring to Figure 33 , an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 2900 with a rear pocket 3018 is shown. In this embodiment, the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900 includes an outer layer 3300 and an inner layer 3302. The outer layer 3300 is configured to face outward and away from the wearer of the breast support garment 2900, and the inner layer 3302 is configured to face the wearer's back region. In one embodiment, the inner layer 3302 can directly contact the skin of the wearer of the breast support garment 2900.

[0205] In one exemplary embodiment, a rear pocket lining layer 3304 is located between the outer layer 3300 and the inner layer 3302 to form the rear pocket 3018. The shape of the rear pocket lining layer 3304 corresponds to the shape of the rear pocket 3018. Each layer of the breast support garment 2900 can be made of a separate fabric or textile. In one exemplary embodiment, the fabric or textile forming the outer layer 3300, the inner layer 3302, and / or the rear pocket lining layer 3304 can have four - way stretch ability, moisture - wicking performance, and quick - drying characteristics. In one embodiment, the outer layer 3300, the inner layer 3302, and / or the rear pocket lining layer 3304 can be made of a knitted textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of the rear pocket lining layer 3304 can be different from that of the outer layer 3300 and / or the inner layer 3302. For example, the rear pocket lining layer 3304 can be made of a knitted textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., spandex or similar fibers / yarns) compared to the outer layer 3300 and / or the inner layer 3302. In other cases, the outer layer 3300, the inner layer 3302, and / or the rear pocket lining layer 3304 can be made of any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and / or fabrics.

[0206] In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 is disposed between the inner layer 3302 and the back pocket lining layer 3304 and joins together the opposing faces of the inner layer 3302 and the back pocket lining layer 3304. In one embodiment, the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 may have a uniform spacing distance and / or adhesive dot size between adjacent adhesive dots among the plurality of adhesive dots forming the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306. For example, in one embodiment, the spacing distance of the plurality of adhesive dots of the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 is 3 mm. In other embodiments, the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 may have different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different regions, e.g., as described in the previous embodiments of the adhesive dot matrix pattern above. As described above, the process 500 can be used to apply the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 to either the inner layer 3302 or the back pocket lining layer 3304 before joining the inner layer 3302 and the back pocket lining layer 3304 together.

[0207] In the present embodiment, the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 includes a plurality of portions, including a body portion 3308 configured to cover a central panel portion 3016 in a region where the back pocket lining layer 3304 is joined or adhered to the inner layer 3302 to form the back pocket 3018. The adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 further includes a first shoulder portion 3310 and a second shoulder portion 3312 configured to attach the shoulder straps of the outer layer 3300 and the inner layer 3302 to form a first strap 2910 and a second strap 2912 of the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900.

[0208] In certain embodiments, bonding strips may be used to bond or join portions of the inner layer 3302 to the outer layer 3300. In the present embodiment, a bottom bonding strip 3314 extends along the bottom edge 3014, and the shoulder bonding strips 3316 are cross-arranged to join the inner layer 3302 to the outer layer 3300 in regions corresponding to the first strap 2910 and the second strap 2912. In one embodiment, the bottom bonding strip 3314 and the shoulder bonding strips 3316 may be film adhesives or bonding materials, including any bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesives or bonding materials.

[0209] With this arrangement, the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900 can be provided with a back pocket 3018 that can be used to store various items. For example, as Figure 34As shown, the wearer of the breast support garment 2900 can place the ice pack 3400 into the rear pocket 3018 of the breast support garment 2900 through the opening 3020 below the central panel portion 3016. In one exemplary embodiment, the rear pocket 3018 is sized approximately 6 centimeters by 6 centimeters. In other embodiments, the rear pocket 3018 can be larger or smaller. It should be understood that the ice pack 3400 is exemplary, and other items can also be placed into the rear pocket 3018 of the rear portion 3000 of the breast support garment 2900.

[0210] In certain embodiments, the breast support garment can include a tension element to provide tension to a pocket formed between layers in the front portion of the breast support garment. The tension provided by the tension element helps to keep the fabric of the breast support garment close to the wearer's body and prevents items stored in the pocket from falling out or popping out during movement or other activities. Figures 35 to 39 An exemplary embodiment of a tension element that can be used with any of the pockets described herein is shown.

[0211] Now referring Figure 35 , a schematic view of a first exemplary embodiment of a tension element 3500 associated with the full-panel front pocket 2922 of the breast support garment 2900 is shown. In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3500 is incorporated into the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922 and can be invisible on the outer face 2908 of the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, the tension element 3500 extends horizontally across the wearer's chest region from the first side 2904 across the front portion 2902 to the second side 2906 in the lateral direction. The first end 3502 of the tension element 3500 is located on the first side 2904 of the breast support garment 2900, and the opposite second end 3504 is located on the second side 2906 of the breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, the tension element 3500 extends below the front lip 2928 of the front portion 2902.

[0212] In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3500 is incorporated into the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922. For example, the tension element 3500 can be bonded to one of the inner face 3110 of the outer layer 3100 or the first face 3112 of the pocket lining layer 3104. The tension element 3500 can be a film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesives or bonding materials. The tension element 3500 resists stretching in the area where the tension element 3500 is located to create tension lines that press against the items within the full-panel front pocket 2922. With this arrangement, the tension element 3500 can help to limit or reduce the movement of items within the full-panel front pocket 2922.

[0213] Now referring to Figure 36 , a schematic view of a second exemplary embodiment of a tension element 3600 associated with a full-panel front pocket 2922 of a breast support garment 2900 is shown. In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3600 is incorporated into the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922 and may be invisible on the outer face 2908 of the front portion of the breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, the tension element 3600 has an X-shaped configuration that crosses over the wearer's chest region on the front portion 2902. As Figure 36 shown, the tension element 3600 includes a first portion 3602 that extends from a first end 3604 near or adjacent to the bottom edge 2916 on the second side 2906 to a second end 3606 near or adjacent to the top edge 2914 on the first side 2906; the tension element 3600 further includes a second portion 3608 that extends from a first end 3610 near or adjacent to the bottom edge 2916 on the first side 2904 to a second end 3612 located at or near the top edge 2914 on the second side 2906. The first portion 3602 and the second portion 3608 cross each other at a crossing region 3614 that is located between the first breast cup 2918 and the second breast cup 2920 in the middle of the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900.

[0214] In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3600 is incorporated into the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922. For example, the tension element 3600 may be incorporated onto one of the inner face 3110 of the outer layer 3100 or the first face 3112 of the pocket lining layer 3104. The tension element 3600 may be a film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials. The tension element 3600 resists stretching in the region where the tension element 3600 is located to create tension lines that press against the items within the full-panel front pocket 2922. With this arrangement, the tension element 3600 can help limit or reduce the movement of the items within the full-panel front pocket 2922.

[0215] Now referring to Figure 37 , a schematic view of a third exemplary embodiment of a tension element 3700 associated with a full-panel front pocket 2922 of a breast support garment 2900 is shown. In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3700 is incorporated into the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922 and may be invisible on the outer face 2908 of the front portion of the breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, the tension element 3700 has a Y-shaped configuration that extends across the wearer's chest region on the front portion 2902. As Figure 37As shown, the tension element 3700 includes a central peripheral portion 3702 that extends along the contour of each of the first breast cup 2918 and the second breast cup 2920. The tension element 3700 further includes a first portion 3704 that extends peripherally along the top edge 2914 on the first side 2904; and a second portion 3706 that extends peripherally along the top edge 2914 on the second side 2906. The tension element 3700 further includes a top portion 3710 that extends between the first portion 3704 and the second portion 3706 and extends peripherally along the top edge 2914 at the front lip 2928 below the opening 2924 of the full-panel front pocket 2922; and an opposite bottom portion 3708 that extends near or adjacent to the bottom edge 2916 between the central peripheral portions 3702. The tension element 3700 further includes a central intermediate portion 3712 that is in the middle of the front portion 2902 of the breast support garment 2900 and is located between the first breast cup 2918 and the second breast cup 2920.

[0216] In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3700 is incorporated into the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922. For example, the tension element 3700 can be incorporated into either the inner surface 3110 of the outer layer 3100 or the first surface 3112 of the pocket lining layer 3104. In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3700 can include an adhesive dot matrix pattern as described above to bond or attach the tension element 3700 to the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922. With this arrangement, the tension element 3700 can help limit or reduce the movement of items within the full-panel front pocket 2922.

[0217] Figure 38 An exploded view of the breast support garment 2900 is shown, with the full-panel front pocket 2922 with the tension element 3700 shown. In this embodiment, the front portion 2902 includes an outer layer 3100 and an inner layer 3102, where the pocket lining layer 3104 is located between the outer layer 3100 and the inner layer 3102 to form the full-panel front pocket 2922 as described above. An adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108 is provided between the inner layer 3102 and the pocket lining layer 3104 and joins the opposing surfaces of the inner layer 3102 and the pocket lining layer 3104 together. In this embodiment, the pocket lining layer 3104 joins the inner layer 3102 such that the second surface 3114 of the pocket lining layer 3104 is joined to the first surface 3116 of the inner layer 3102 using the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108. With this arrangement, an internal void is formed between the first surface 3112 of the pocket lining layer 3104 and the inner surface 3110 of the outer layer 3100, and this internal void defines the full-panel front pocket 2922.

[0218] In an exemplary embodiment, the tension element 3700 is located between the pocket lining layer 3104 and the outer layer 3100. As described above, the tension element 3700 is attached or bonded to the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922 to help apply tension or pressure to the items within the pocket. In this embodiment, the tension element 3700 includes a fabric layer 3800 that is joined or bonded to the inner face 3110 of the outer layer 3100 by an adhesive dot pattern 3802. In an exemplary embodiment, the adhesive dot pattern 3802 may have different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different regions, for example, as described above in the previous embodiments regarding the adhesive dot pattern. As described above, the process 500 can be used to apply the adhesive dot pattern 3802 to the face of the fabric layer 3800 or the inner face 3110 of the outer layer 3100 before joining the fabric layer 3800 and the outer layer 3100 together.

[0219] Figure 39 A schematic diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of the adhesive dot pattern 3802 of the tension element 3700 is shown. In this embodiment, the adhesive dot pattern 3802 includes two levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes), and these two levels of adhesive dot density are arranged in different regions of the adhesive dot pattern 3802 to provide zoning with different support levels for the tension element 3700 on the breast support garment 2900.

[0220] As Figure 39 shown, the adhesive dot pattern 3802 includes a first adhesive dot density 3900, which is associated with a low adhesive dot density having the largest spacing distance and / or the smallest adhesive dot size to provide the lowest support level. That is, the first adhesive dot density 3900 joins the opposing layers (e.g., Figure 38 the fabric layer 3800 and the outer layer 3100 shown therein) together such that the region of the full-panel front pocket 2922 of the breast support garment 2900 having the first adhesive dot density 3900 provides the lowest tensile resistance. In this embodiment, the first adhesive dot density 3900 can be used in the central middle portion 3712.

[0221] The adhesive dot pattern 3802 further includes a second adhesive dot density 3902, which is associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a spacing distance smaller than that of the first adhesive dot density 3900 (and / or an adhesive dot size larger than that of the first adhesive dot density 3900) to provide a support level greater than the support level provided by the first adhesive dot density 3900. That is, the second adhesive dot density 3902 joins the opposing layers (e.g., Figure 38The fabric layer 3800 and the outer layer 3100 shown in [Figure] are combined such that the amount or degree of tensile resistance provided by the area of the full-panel front pocket 2922 of the breast support garment 2900 having the second adhesive dot density 3902 is greater than the amount or degree of tensile resistance provided by the first adhesive dot density 3900.

[0222] In the present embodiment, the second adhesive dot density 3902 can be used at least along the perimeter of the tension element 3700, including the central perimeter portion 3702, the first portion 3704, the second portion 3706, the top portion 3710 (between the first portion 3704 and the second portion 3706), and the bottom portion 3708. In one embodiment, the spacing distance between the adhesive dots in the partition having the first adhesive dot density 3900 is about 3 mm, while the spacing distance between the adhesive dots in the partition having the second adhesive dot density 3902 is about 1 mm. In other embodiments, the spacing distance can be larger or smaller. With this arrangement, the tension element 3700, which is bonded to the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 2922 using the adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802, can help limit or reduce the movement of items within the full-panel front pocket 2922.

[0223] Now referring to Figure 40 , a front view of another exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 4000 with a full-size front panel pocket feature is shown. In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 4000 can include a front portion 4002 that is configured to cover at least a portion of the wearer's chest region. In certain embodiments, the front portion 4002 extends between a first side 4004 and a second side 4006 of the breast support garment 4000. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 4002 of the breast support garment 4000 includes an outer surface of the front portion 4008 that forms an outer surface of the breast support garment 4000 that extends away from the wearer's chest region.

[0224] In the present embodiment, the breast support garment 4000 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 4010 and a second strap 4012. The first strap 4010 and the second strap 4012 are configured to extend over the shoulders of the wearer. In an exemplary embodiment, the front portion 4002 of the breast support garment 4000 extends from a top edge 4014 to a bottom edge 4016. The top edge 4014 may form a neckline that extends between the wearer's breasts from above. The bottom edge 4016 may form a lower band that extends beneath the wearer's breasts. Additionally, in some embodiments, the front portion 4002 of the breast support garment 4000 may further include a pair of breast cups configured to receive the wearer's breasts, including a first breast cup 4018 and a second breast cup 4020. In one embodiment, the first breast cup 4018 and the second breast cup 4020 on the front portion 4002 of the breast support garment 4000 may be molded into the material forming the front portion 4002.

[0225] In an exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 4000 includes a full-panel front pocket 4022 in the front portion 4002. The full-panel front pocket 4022 is disposed between the fabric layers forming the front portion 4002. In the present embodiment, the full-panel front pocket 4022 extends over a majority of the front portion 4002, including the first breast cup 4018 and the second breast cup 4020. Additionally, in some embodiments, the full-panel front pocket 4022 may include an opening 4024 that is adjacent to the top edge 4014 of the breast support garment 4000. In the present embodiment, the internal void forming the full-panel front pocket 4022 between the layers of the front portion 4002 extends from the opening 4024 to a bottom boundary that is adjacent to and spaced from the bottom edge 4016.

[0226] In the present embodiment, the breast support garment 4000 includes a front lip 4026 that includes a pull tab 4028 along the top edge 4014 to allow access to the opening 4024 of the full-panel front pocket 4022. In an exemplary embodiment, the front portion 4002 of the breast support garment 4000 further includes a plurality of perforations 4030 that are located in the region of the breast support garment 4000 between the first breast cup 4018 and the second breast cup 4020 and above the bottom edge 4016. The plurality of perforations 4030 are holes or openings in the layer forming the outer face 4008 of the front portion such that the full-panel front pocket 4022 can have additional stretch in this region to accommodate an item or object within the full-panel front pocket 4022. In some cases, the plurality of perforations may also allow additional airflow into the full-panel front pocket 4022, for example, to assist in evaporating sweat and / or condensation from a water bottle.

[0227] Figure 40 Also shown is a schematic view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a tension element 4040 associated with the full-panel front pocket 4022 of the breast support garment 4000. In one exemplary embodiment, the tension element 4040 is incorporated into the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 4022 and may be invisible on the outer face 4008 of the front portion of the breast support garment 4000. In this embodiment, the tension element 4040 has a pair of crossed Y-shaped portions that cross over the wearer's chest region on the front portion 4002. In this embodiment, the tension element 4040 includes a first Y-shaped portion 4042 that extends from the first shoulder strap 4010 and the first side 4004 above the chest region to a position adjacent the bottom edge 4016 below the second breast cup 4020 on the opposite side; the tension element 4040 also includes a second Y-shaped portion 4044 that extends from the second shoulder strap 4012 and the second side 4006 above the chest region to a position adjacent the bottom edge 4016 below the first breast cup 4018 on the opposite side.

[0228] Figure 41 An exploded view of the breast support garment 4000 is shown, which shows the full-panel front pocket 4022 including the tension element 4040. In this embodiment, the front portion 4002 includes an outer layer 4100 (i.e., facing away from the wearer) and an inner layer 4102 (i.e., facing the wearer), wherein a pocket lining layer 4104 is located between the outer layer 4100 and the inner layer 4102 to form the full-panel front pocket 4022, similar to that described above with respect to the full-panel front pocket 2922. In this embodiment, the outer layer 4100 includes an outer face 4008 and an opposite inner face 4108. The pocket lining layer 4104 includes a first face 4110 and an opposite second face 4112, and the inner layer 4102 includes a first face 4114 and an opposite second face 4116. In certain embodiments, the second face 4116 of the inner layer 4102 may contact or be adjacent to the chest of the wearer of the breast support garment 4000.

[0229] In one embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern 4106 is provided between the inner layer 4102 and the pocket lining layer 4104 to join the opposing faces of the inner layer 4102 and the pocket lining layer 4104 together. In this embodiment, the pocket lining layer 4104 is joined to the inner layer 4102 such that the second face 4112 of the pocket lining layer 4104 is joined to the first face 4114 of the inner layer 4102 using the adhesive dot matrix pattern 4106. With this arrangement, an internal void is formed between the first face 4110 of the pocket lining layer 4104 and the inner face 4108 of the outer layer 4100, which internal void defines the full-panel front pocket 4022.

[0230] In an exemplary embodiment, the tension element 4040 is located between the pocket lining layer 4104 and the outer layer 4100. As described above, the tension element 4040 is attached or bonded to the inner side of the full-panel front pocket 4022 to help apply tension or pressure to the items within the pocket. For example, the tension element 4040 may be bonded to one of the inner face 4108 of the outer layer 4100 or the first face 4110 of the pocket lining layer 4104. The tension element 4040 may be a film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials. The tension element 4040 resists stretching in the area where the tension element 4040 is located to create tension lines that press against the items within the full-panel front pocket 4022. With this arrangement, the tension element 4040 can help limit or reduce the movement of the items within the full-panel front pocket 4022.

[0231] Now referring to Figure 42 , an isolated view of the tension element 4040 is shown. In this embodiment, the tension element 4040 has a pair of intersecting Y-shaped portions, including a first Y-shaped portion 4042 and a second Y-shaped portion 4044. The first Y-shaped portion 4042 includes a first upper segment 4200 that extends from a first end 4202 to a first merging location 4204, the first end 4202 being configured to attach to the first shoulder strap 4010. At the first merging location 4204, the first upper segment 4200 joins or combines with a first side segment 4206. The first side segment 4206 extends from a second end 4208 to the first merging location 4204 where it joins or combines with the first upper segment 4200, the second end being configured to attach to the first side 4004 of the breast support garment 4000. The first Y-shaped portion 4042 continues to extend in a downward diagonal direction from the first merging location 4204 through an intersection region 4210 where the first Y-shaped portion 4042 and the second Y-shaped portion 4044 intersect, and the first Y-shaped portion 4042 includes a first lower segment 4212 that extends from the intersection region 4210 to a third end 4214. In an exemplary embodiment, the first lower segment 4212 is configured to attach to the breast support garment 4000 adjacent to the bottom edge 4016 (as Figure 40 shown) on the side opposite the side to which the first side segment 4206 is attached.

[0232] In the present embodiment, the second Y-shaped portion 4044 includes a second upper segment 4220 that extends from a first end 4222 to a second merging location 4224, the first end 4222 being configured to attach to the second shoulder strap 4012. At the second merging location 4224, the second upper segment 4220 joins or combines with a second side segment 4226. The second side segment 4226 extends from a second end 4228 to the second merging location 4224 where it joins or combines with the second upper segment 4220, the second end 4228 being configured to attach to the second side 4006 of the breast support garment 4000. The second Y-shaped portion 4044 continues to extend from the second merging location 4224 in a downward diagonal direction through an intersection region 4210 where the first Y-shaped portion 4042 and the second Y-shaped portion 4044 intersect, and the second Y-shaped portion 4044 includes a second lower segment 4230 that extends from the intersection region 4210 to a third end 4232. In one exemplary embodiment, the second lower segment 4230 is configured to attach to the breast support garment 4000 adjacent the bottom edge 4016 on a side opposite the side to which the second side segment 4226 is attached.

[0233] In one exemplary embodiment, the intersection region 4210 where the first Y-shaped portion 4042 and the second Y-shaped portion 4044 intersect is located between the first breast cup 4018 and the second breast cup 4020 in the middle of the front portion 4002 of the breast support garment 4000. The first Y-shaped portion 4042 attaches to the bottom portion of the first shoulder strap 4010 (e.g., at the first end 4202 of the first upper segment 4200), along the first side 4004 (e.g., at the second end 4208 of the first side segment 4206), and adjacent the bottom edge 4016 on the second side 4006 (e.g., at the third end 4214 of the first lower segment 4212). The second Y-shaped portion 4044 attaches to the bottom portion of the second shoulder strap 4012 (e.g., at the first end 4222 of the second upper segment 4220), along the second side 4006 (e.g., at the second end 4228 of the second side segment 4226), and adjacent the bottom edge 4016 on the first side 4004 (e.g., at the third end 4232 of the second lower segment 4230). With this arrangement, a Y-shaped tension element 4040 is formed.

[0234] Now referring Figure 43 , an enlarged view of the second side 4006 of the breast support garment 4000 is shown, showing the forces of a fourth exemplary embodiment applied to the tension element 4040. As Figure 43As shown, the second Y-shaped portion 4044 is attached to the bottom portion 4300 of the second shoulder strap 4012 at the first end 4222 of the second upper segment 4220. The second Y-shaped portion 4044 is also attached to the side portion 4302 at the second end 4228 of the second side segment 4226 on the second side 4006. Additionally, as shown in this embodiment, the first lower segment 4212 of the first Y-shaped portion 4042 is attached at the third end 4214 adjacent to the bottom edge 4016 at the lower portion 4304. The opposite side of the breast support garment 4000 (e.g., the first side 4004) has a substantially similar arrangement of the first Y-shaped portion 4042. Through this arrangement, tension can be applied to the full-panel front pocket 4022.

[0235] For example, the second upper segment 4220 of the second Y-shaped portion 4044 applies tension in the first direction 4310 between the first end 4222 attached to the bottom portion 4300 of the second shoulder strap 4012 and the second merging position 4224. In this embodiment, the first direction 4310 is related to the vertical direction extending from the top edge 4014 to the bottom edge 4016. The second side segment 4226 applies tension in the second direction 4312 between the second end 4228 (which is attached to the side portion 4302 on the second side 4006) and the second merging position 4224. In this embodiment, the second direction 4312 is related to the horizontal direction extending from the first side 4004 to the second side 4006. Through this arrangement, the tension element 4040 assists in applying tension to the full-panel front pocket 4022 of the breast support garment 4000 in the vertical and horizontal directions to help hold an item or object within the full-panel front pocket 4022.

[0236] Now referring to Figure 44 , an enlarged view of the pocket tab 4028 associated with the breast support garment 4040 in Figure 40 is shown. In this embodiment, the inner face 4108 of the outer layer 4100 is shown to illustrate the connection of the pocket tab 4028 to the breast support garment 4040. In an exemplary embodiment, the tab 4028 can be made of an elastic cord or other stretchable material. In other embodiments, the tab 4028 can be made of other materials. As Figure 44 shown, the pocket tab 4028 includes a first end 4400 and a second end 4402, which are attached along the top edge 4014 on opposite sides of the front lip 4026. In this embodiment, the front lip 4026 has a notch or incision located below the tab 4028, which helps to allow the wearer to grasp the tab 4028 to open the full-panel front pocket 4022 of the breast support garment 4000.

[0237] In one embodiment, the tab 4028 can be attached along the top edge 4014 using stitches. For example, as Figure 44As shown, the first end 4400 is attached using the first suture 4404, and the second end 4402 is attached using the second suture 4406. In other embodiments, the first end 4400 and the second end 4402 may be attached using adhesives and / or suturing. Additionally, in certain embodiments, a covering 4408 may be disposed on the inner face 4108 of the outer layer 4100 along the periphery of the top edge 4014 to cover the first end 4400 and the second end 4402 and reduce any irritation or roughness that may be caused by the first suture 4404 and the second suture 4406 and / or the adhesive. The covering 4408 may be a film adhesive or a bonding material, including any bonding material described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials.

[0238] Figure 45 is a schematic view of a pocket tab 4028 that is used to assist in opening the full-panel front pocket 4022 of the breast support garment 4000. As shown in this embodiment, the tab 4028 allows the wearer to easily pull the front lip 4026 away from the wearer's chest to open the full-panel front pocket 4022. With this arrangement, the tab 4028 on the front lip 4026 makes it easier to open the space between the layers of the breast support garment 4000 that form the full-panel front pocket 4022, thereby assisting in placing an item into the opening 4024 of the full-panel front pocket 4022.

[0239] For example, as Figure 45 shown, when using the tab 4028 to pull the front lip 4026 away from the wearer's chest to open the full-panel front pocket 4022, a water bottle 2500 can be easily inserted into the full-panel front pocket 4022. Additionally, as described above, in certain embodiments, the tab 4028 may be made of an elastic cord. In these embodiments, when the water bottle 2500 is inserted into the full-panel front pocket 4022, the tab 4028 can wrap around the lid 4500 of the water bottle 2500 to hold it in place within the full-panel front pocket 4022 and prevent the water bottle 2500 from falling or moving during physical activity.

[0240] Figure 46 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a breast support garment 4600 with a front pocket for holding a nipple covering. In one exemplary embodiment, the breast support garment 4600 may include a front portion 4602 that is configured to cover at least a portion of the wearer's chest region. In certain embodiments, the front portion 4602 extends between a first side 4604 and a second side 4606 of the breast support garment 4600. In one exemplary embodiment, the front portion 4602 of the breast support garment 4600 includes an outer face 4608 of the front portion that forms an outer surface of the breast support garment 4600 that extends away from the wearer's chest region.

[0241] In this embodiment, the breast support garment 4600 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 4610 and a second strap 4612. The first strap 4610 and the second strap 4612 are configured to extend over the shoulders of the wearer of the breast support garment 4600. In an exemplary embodiment, the front portion 4602 of the breast support garment 4600 extends from a top edge 4614 to a bottom edge 4616. The top edge 4614 may form a neckline that extends over the wearer's breasts from above. The bottom edge 4616 may form a lower band that extends under the wearer's breasts.

[0242] In an exemplary embodiment, the front portion 4602 of the breast support garment 4600 includes a front pocket 4620 located between layers of the fabric forming the front portion 4602. The front pocket 4620 has an internal void 4622 for holding a pair of nipple covers, including a first nipple cover 4624 and a second nipple cover 4626, which are configured to cover the wearer's nipples. In one embodiment, the first nipple cover 4624 and the second nipple cover 4626 may be made of a foam material. In an exemplary embodiment, the first nipple cover 4624 and the second nipple cover 4626 have a tapered configuration with a thicker middle portion that tapers to a thin peripheral section around the edge, such that the first nipple cover 4624 and the second nipple cover 4626 provide a relatively smooth appearance to the outer face 4608 of the front portion of the breast support garment 4600. In other embodiments, the first nipple cover 4624 and the second nipple cover 4626 may be made of other cushioning materials, including spacer fabrics, which may have a tapered thickness that decreases in thickness as it extends towards the edge, e.g., as Figure 20D 、 20E 、shown in 20F and 20I.

[0243] Now referring to Figure 47 , an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the front portion 4602 of a breast support garment 4600 with a front pocket 4620 is shown. In this embodiment, the front portion 4602 includes an outer layer 4700 and an inner layer 4702. The outer layer 4700 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer, and the inner layer 4702 is configured to face the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment 4600. In one embodiment, the inner layer 4702 may directly contact the wearer's skin.

[0244] In an exemplary embodiment, a pocket lining layer 4704 is located between an outer layer 4700 and an inner layer 4702 to form a front pocket 4620. The pocket lining layer 4704 is shaped to correspond to the shape of the front pocket 4620 and is configured to hold a first nipple covering 4624 and a second nipple covering 4626. Each layer of the breast support garment 4600 can be made of a different fabric or textile. In an exemplary embodiment, the fabric or textile forming the outer layer 4700, the inner layer 4702, and / or the pocket lining layer 4704 can have four-way stretchability, moisture-wicking performance, and quick-drying characteristics. In one embodiment, the outer layer 4700, the inner layer 4702, and / or the pocket lining layer 4704 can be made of a knitted textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of the pocket lining layer 4704 can be different from the outer layer 4700 and / or the inner layer 4702. For example, the pocket lining layer 4704 can be made of a knitted textile having a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., spandex or similar fibers / yarns) compared to the outer layer 4700 and / or the inner layer 4702. In other cases, the outer layer 4700, the inner layer 4702, and / or the pocket lining layer 4704 can be made of any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and / or fabrics.

[0245] In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive dot pattern 4706 is disposed between the inner layer 4702 and the pocket lining layer 4704 and a portion of the outer layer 4700. The adhesive dot pattern 4706 joins together opposite faces of the inner layer 4702 and the pocket lining layer 4704 and a portion of the inner face 4710 of the outer layer 4700. In one embodiment, the adhesive dot pattern 4706 can have a uniform spacing distance and / or adhesive dot size between adjacent adhesive dots in the plurality of adhesive dots forming the adhesive dot pattern 4706. In other embodiments, the adhesive dot pattern 4706 can have different spacing distances and / or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different regions, e.g., as described in the previous embodiments of the adhesive dot pattern above. As described above, the process 500 can be used to apply the adhesive dot pattern 4706 to the first face of the inner layer 4702 before joining with the pocket lining layer 4704 and the outer layer 4700.

[0246] In the present embodiment, the outer layer 4700 includes: an outer surface 4608 configured to face the exterior and away from the wearer of the breast support garment 2900; and an opposite inner surface 4710. The pocket lining layer 4704 includes: a first surface 4712 facing the inner surface 4710 of the outer layer 4700; and an opposite second surface 4714 facing the first surface 4716 of the inner layer 4702. In the present embodiment, the pocket lining layer 4704 is configured to be joined to the inner layer 4702 such that the second surface 4714 of the pocket lining layer 4704 is joined to the first surface 4716 of the inner layer 4702 using an adhesive dot pattern 4706. Additionally, portions of the adhesive dot pattern 4706 applied to the first surface 4716 of the inner layer 4702 that are not covered by the pocket lining layer 4704 (i.e., portions that extend beyond the outer perimeter of the pocket lining layer 4704) join the inner surface 4710 of the outer layer 4700 to the first surface 4716 of the inner layer 4702 to form a closed edge around the outer perimeter of the front pocket 4620. By this arrangement, an internal void 4622 is formed between the first surface 4712 of the pocket lining layer 4704 and the inner surface 4710 of the outer layer 4700, which internal void defines the front pocket 4620 for receiving the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626.

[0247] As Figure 47 shown, the breast support garment 4600 includes an additional support structure 4720. In certain embodiments, the additional support structure 4720 can serve as a support structure and / or a shaping structure, which can provide support for managing the acceleration of breast tissue during the wearer's activities. In certain embodiments, the additional support structure 4720 can be made of a compressible material. In one embodiment, the compressible material can be a foam, including but not limited to shape memory polymer foam or similar materials. In other embodiments, the additional support structure 4720 can be optional and can be omitted from the breast support garment 4600.

[0248] Additionally, bonding strips can be used to bond or join portions of the inner layer 4702 to the outer layer 4700. In the present embodiment, a bottom bonding strip 4722 extends along the underlying support structure 4720. First side bonding strips 4724 and second side bonding strips 4726 can also be used to bond portions of the inner layer 4702 to the outer layer 4700 that extend upward along each side of the breast support garment 4600. In one embodiment, the bottom bonding strip 4722, the first side bonding strips 4724, and the second side bonding strips 4726 can be film adhesives or bonding materials, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesives or bonding materials.

[0249] In some embodiments, one or more openings may be provided to access the front pocket 4620 of the breast support garment 4600 to allow the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626 to be removably inserted into the internal void 4622, and / or removed from the internal void 4622. Now referring to Figure 48 , a schematic view of a first exemplary embodiment of an opening 4800 for inserting the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626 into the front pocket 4620 of the breast support garment 4600 is shown. In this embodiment, the opening 4800 is provided along the top edge 4614 of the breast support garment 4600. The opening 4800 is located generally midway between the wearer's breasts along the top edge 4614. As Figure 48 shown, the opening 4800 provides an entrance to the internal void 4622 of the front pocket 4620 so that the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626 can be inserted into the front pocket 4620, and / or removed from the front pocket 4620.

[0250] In some embodiments, the opening 4800 may be provided between layers of fabric forming the front portion 4602 of the breast support garment 4600. In one embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 for joining the layers of the breast support garment 4600 together may omit the adhesive dots at the location corresponding to the opening 4800 such that the inner face 4710 of the outer layer 4700 remains unattached or unjoined to the first face 4716 of the inner layer 4702 at the location corresponding to the opening 4800. With this arrangement, the inner layer 4702 and the outer layer 4700 can be separated or moved apart from each other at the opening 4800 to access the internal void 4622 of the front pocket 4620, thereby inserting or removing the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626.

[0251] In another embodiment, the opening 4800 may be formed by including an additional portion of fabric on the pocket lining layer 4704 that extends upward through the location corresponding to the opening 4800 to the top edge 4614. The additional portion of the pocket lining layer 4704 covers the adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 at the location corresponding to the opening 4800 such that the inner face 4710 of the outer layer 4700 remains unattached or unjoined to the first face 4716 of the inner layer 4702. With this arrangement, the inner layer 4702 and the outer layer 4700 can be separated or moved apart from each other at the opening 4800 to access the internal void 4622 of the front pocket 4620, thereby inserting or removing the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626.

[0252] Now referring to Figure 49, showing a schematic diagram of a second exemplary embodiment of an opening for inserting a first nipple covering 4624 and a second nipple covering 4626 into a front pocket 4620 of a breast support garment 4600. In this embodiment, the front pocket 4620 is formed as described above, having a closed edge that extends completely around the outer perimeter and encloses an internal void 4622. During the assembly of the breast support garment 4600 or in a separate process after assembly, an opening is cut in the fabric on the back surface of the front portion 4602 facing the wearer's chest.

[0253] In this embodiment, a first opening 4900 leading to the front pocket 4620 is provided on a first side 4604 of the breast support garment 4600, and a second opening 4902 leading to the front pocket 4620 is provided on a second side 4606 of the breast support garment 4600. As Figure 49 shown, the first opening 4900 and the second opening 4902 are located below the wearer's breasts, toward the bottom edge 4616 of the breast support garment 4600. With this arrangement, the first nipple covering 4624 can be inserted into the front pocket 4620 through the first opening 4900 and / or removed from the front pocket 4620, and the second nipple covering 4626 can be inserted into the front pocket 4620 through the second opening 4902 and / or removed from the front pocket 4620.

[0254] In one embodiment, the first opening 4900 and the second opening 4902 are cut into the fabric on the side of the inner layer 4702 facing the wearer's chest and the second side 4714 of the pocket lining layer 4704 (as Figure 47 shown) to form the first opening 4900 and the second opening 4902. With this arrangement, when the wearer is wearing the breast support garment 4600, the first opening 4900 and the second opening 4902 remain hidden on the inner portion of the breast support garment 4600, such that the openings are not visible on the outer surface 4608 of the front portion of the breast support garment 4600.

[0255] In certain embodiments, the nipple coverings (e.g., the nipple coverings 4624, 4626 described above) can be directly bonded or attached to one or more layers forming the breast support garment, including any breast support garment embodiments described herein. For example, in one embodiment, a pair of nipple coverings (e.g., a first nipple covering 4624 and a second nipple covering 4626) can be bonded to the face of a spacer fabric layer of the breast support garment. The size and shape of the nipple coverings can be designed to cover the nipple area of the wearer of the breast support garment, but not cover most of the remaining area of the wearer's breasts. For example, the shape and size of the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626 are smaller than the other layers in the breast support garment embodiments described above.

[0256] In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern having a plurality of adhesive dots (the shapes of which generally correspond to the shapes of the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626) may be disposed between the outer face (i.e., the face facing away from the wearer's chest) of a spacer fabric layer (e.g., any of the spacer fabric layers described above) and the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626 to directly bond or attach the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626 to the outer face of the spacer fabric layer.

[0257] In certain embodiments, one or more adhesive dot matrix patterns may be disposed between the spacer fabric layer and the nipple covering. The nipple covering (e.g., the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626) may be formed from one or more pieces of fabric, including any of the fabrics used to form the layers of the breast support garment embodiments described above. Additionally, the combined spacer fabric layer in combination with the first nipple covering 4624 and the second nipple covering 4626 (bonded or attached to the spacer fabric layer by one or more adhesive dot matrix patterns) may be joined or attached to one or more additional layers of fabric pieces to form an outer layer and / or an inner layer of the breast support garment. By providing a breast support garment in which the nipple covering is directly bonded or attached to the spacer fabric layer, the nipple covering can be held in place on the wearer's chest and wrinkles or sagging caused by movement or displacement of the nipple covering within a pocket in the breast support garment can be avoided.

[0258] Although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, not restrictive, and those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there may be additional embodiments and implementations within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited except as by the appended claims and their equivalents. Additionally, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A breast support garment, comprising: A front portion configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest region and extend from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment; The front portion includes three or more layers, the three or more layers including: An outer layer including an outer face and an opposite inner face of the breast support garment; A lining layer including a first face and an opposite second face; A spacer fabric layer including a first face and an opposite second face; and An engineered support structure including an adhesive dot pattern disposed between the spacer fabric layer and the outer layer or between the spacer fabric layer and the lining layer.

2. The breast support garment according to claim 1, wherein the lining layer is located between the outer layer and the spacer fabric layer such that the second face of the spacer fabric layer is configured to be adjacent to the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment.

3. The breast support garment according to claim 1, wherein the spacer fabric layer is located between the outer layer and the lining layer such that the second face of the lining layer is configured to be adjacent to the chest region of the wearer of the breast support garment.

4. The breast support garment according to claim 1, further comprising: An engineered support structure including an adhesive dot pattern disposed between the spacer fabric layer and the lining layer.

5. The breast support garment according to claim 1, wherein the engineered support structure comprises: At least one first zone having a first support level defined by a first adhesive dot density or a first adhesive dot size in the adhesive dot pattern; And at least one second zone having a second support level defined by a second adhesive dot density or a second adhesive dot size in the adhesive dot pattern, the first support level being different from the second support level.

6. The breast support garment according to claim 1, wherein the spacer fabric layer includes a first spacer fabric layer and the lining layer includes a second spacer fabric layer.

7. The breast support garment according to claim 1, further comprising an underwire structure; Wherein the underwire structure extends beneath a first breast cup and a second breast cup of the breast support garment.

8. The breast support garment according to claim 1, further comprising a hem finish along at least one of the first side or the second side of the breast support garment to transition the outer layer, the spacer fabric layer, and the lining layer to a smooth edge along the first side or the second side.

9. A breast support garment, comprising: A front portion configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest region and extend from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment; The front portion includes three or more layers, the three or more layers including: An outer layer, the outer layer including an outer face and an opposite inner face of the breast support garment; Inner layer, the inner layer including a first side and an opposite second side; Pocket lining layer, the pocket lining layer including a first side and an opposite second side; and An adhesive dot matrix pattern disposed on the pocket lining layer, wherein the pocket lining layer forms a front pocket on the front portion of the breast support garment, and wherein the adhesive dot matrix pattern is disposed along the perimeter of the front pocket near the closure edge to provide support for an item stored in the front pocket.

10. The breast support garment according to claim 9, wherein the first side of the pocket lining layer is joined to the inner face of the outer layer to form the front pocket between the outer layer and the pocket lining layer.

11. The breast support garment according to claim 9, wherein the front pocket is a full-panel front pocket that extends from a first side of the breast support garment to an opposite second side of the breast support garment.

12. The breast support garment according to claim 9, wherein the adhesive dot matrix pattern is disposed between the inner layer and the pocket lining layer to join the inner layer to the pocket lining layer.

13. The breast support garment according to claim 9, wherein the outer layer includes a front lip that extends further from the top edge of the front portion of the breast support garment than a rear lip of the inner layer; and wherein an opening of the front pocket is disposed between the front lip and the rear lip.

14. The breast support garment according to claim 9, further comprising a tension element disposed on an inner side of the front pocket.

15. The breast support garment according to claim 14, wherein the tension element includes a section attached to a bottom portion of a shoulder strap and a section attached along a side of the breast support garment.

16. The breast support garment according to claim 9, further comprising a pair of nipple covers disposed within the front pocket.

17. The breast support garment according to claim 16, wherein the front pocket includes an opening at a top edge of the breast support garment to provide access to the front pocket.

18. The breast support garment according to claim 16, further comprising an opening disposed along a dorsal side of the inner layer to provide access to the front pocket.

19. A breast support garment, comprising: A front portion configured to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest area and extending from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment; The front portion including a front pocket disposed between two layers of the breast support garment; And A tension element disposed within the front pocket of the breast support garment, wherein the tension element is configured to generate a tension line that presses on an item within the front pocket to restrict movement of the item within the front pocket.

20. The breast support garment according to claim 19, wherein the tension element is made of a film adhesive or a bonding material.

21. The breast support garment according to claim 19, wherein the tension element extends horizontally from the first side of the breast support garment to the second side on the front portion across the chest region of the wearer in the lateral direction.

22. The breast support garment according to claim 19, wherein the tension element has an X - shape that crosses over the chest region of the wearer on the front portion of the breast support garment.

23. The breast support garment according to claim 22, wherein the tension element extends between a first breast cup and a second breast cup of the breast support garment.

24. The breast support garment according to claim 19, wherein the tension element has a Y - shape that extends through the chest region of the wearer on the front portion of the breast support garment.

25. The breast support garment according to claim 24, wherein the tension element comprises: a central peripheral portion that follows the contours of the first breast cup and the second breast cup; a first portion that extends along the periphery of the top edge of the front portion on the first side; and a second portion that extends along the periphery of the top edge of the front portion on the second side.

26. The breast support garment according to claim 25, further comprising an adhesive dot matrix pattern to bond the tension element to the inner side of the front pocket of the breast support garment.

27. The breast support garment according to claim 26, wherein the tension element further comprises a fabric layer that is joined or bonded to the inner face of the outer layer of the front portion of the breast support garment through the adhesive dot matrix pattern.

28. The breast support garment according to claim 1, wherein the lining layer comprises a pair of nipple covers; and wherein the adhesive dot matrix pattern is provided between the spacer fabric layer and the nipple covers.

Images