Supporting garment

Abstract

A method of 3D printing an article of clothing can include 3D printing a first filament layer extending in a first direction, and 3D printing a second filament layer over the first filament layer. The second filament layer can extend in a second direction different from the first direction, such that the first filament layer and the second filament layer overlap one another at a plurality of contact points and collectively define a plurality of open cells.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Application No. 19 / 008,298, filed January 2, 2025, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 618,071, filed January 5, 2024, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to support garments, and more specifically to support garments comprising one or more sections having different characteristics, and methods of manufacturing the same. Background Technology

[0003] Support garments are configured to support the wearer's chest and back, and typically include a chest or cup area, a band region, a back area, and one or more strap regions. Improvements in the design and / or function of support garments are always desirable.

[0004] The printing system can be used to print 2D structures or ink layers, as well as 3D structures formed from a variety of 3D printing materials. 3D printed clothing enables higher garment manufacturing efficiency, less overall waste, and a unibody material construction, which helps improve sustainability and increase the recyclability potential at the end of the garment's life, while also enhancing support, fit, and comfort through greater customizability and adjustability. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1 The illustration shows a support garment in a flattened configuration, based on an example.

[0006] Figure 2 The diagram shows... Figure 1 A portion of the supporting garment, which is schematically shown to illustrate the amount and direction of stretching.

[0007] Figure 3 The diagram shows... Figure 1 Part of the supporting garment, which shows a distribution diagram of vertical stretch.

[0008] Figure 4 The diagram shows... Figure 1 A portion of the supporting garment is shown, illustrating the distribution of horizontal stretch.

[0009] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Another illustration of clothing support.

[0010] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A magnified cross-sectional view of the material supporting the clothing.

[0011] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A partial view of the strip area supporting the clothing.

[0012] Figure 8 The diagram shows... Figure 1 The first and third layers of clothing provide support.

[0013] Figure 9 The diagram shows... Figure 1 The second and fourth layers that support the clothing.

[0014] Figure 10 Various exemplary stretch patterns are illustrated.

[0015] Figure 11 The diagram shows... Figure 1 The diagram shows the distribution of support clothing and illustrates the amount of stretch.

[0016] Figure 12 Another example of a support garment is shown in a flattened configuration.

[0017] Figure 13 Another example of a support garment is shown in a flattened configuration.

[0018] Figure 14 The illustration shows a fastening mechanism for supporting clothing, based on an example.

[0019] Figures 15 to 17 The illustration shows an example of supporting clothing.

[0020] Figures 18 to 21 The illustration shows an example of supporting clothing.

[0021] Figures 22 to 25 Various other examples of support garments are illustrated, shown in a flattened configuration.

[0022] Figure 26 The diagram shows... Figure 1 The supporting clothing shows a close-up image of a specific unit.

[0023] Figure 27 The diagram shows... Figure 1 The illustration shows the amount and direction of stretch bias when the garment is in a relaxed configuration.

[0024] Figure 28 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary method for manufacturing support clothing. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The garments and individual components described herein should not be construed as being limited in any way to the specific uses described herein. Rather, this disclosure relates to all novel and non-obvious features and aspects of the various disclosed embodiments (individually and in various combinations and sub-combinations with each other). For example, any feature or aspect of the disclosed embodiments may be used in various combinations and sub-combinations with each other, as would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the information disclosed herein. Furthermore, the disclosed garments, methods, and components are not limited to any particular aspect or feature or combination thereof, nor are the disclosed garments and methods required to have any one or more particular advantages or problems solved.

[0026] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Additionally, the term “includes” means “comprises.” Furthermore, the terms “connect” or “fix” cover mechanical and chemical connections, as well as other practical ways of joining or attaching objects together, and do not exclude the presence of intermediate elements between the connected objects, unless otherwise specified, such as by reference to elements or surfaces of the “direct” connection or fixation. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “and / or” means any one or a combination of objects in the phrase.

[0027] As used herein, the term "exemplary" means used as a non-limiting instance, example, or illustration. As used herein, the term "for example" (eg / for example) introduces a list of one or more non-limiting embodiments, instances, examples, and / or illustrations. As used herein, "for example" (eg) means "for example," and "that is" (ie) means "that is."

[0028] As used herein, directional terms (e.g., “up” and “down”) generally correspond to the orientation of clothing when it is configured for wear by a wearer. For example, “upward-facing surface” and / or “upper surface” refers to a surface oriented in an “upper” anatomical direction (i.e., toward the wearer’s head) when the clothing is worn by a wearer. Similarly, the directional terms “downward-facing surface” and / or “lower surface” refer to a surface oriented in a “lower” anatomical direction (i.e., toward the ground and away from the wearer’s head). “Front” means “in front” (e.g., toward the toes), and “back” means “back” (e.g., toward the heel). “Inner” means “towards the midline of the body,” and “outer” means “away from the midline of the body.”

[0029] As used herein, the terms "fixedly attached" and "fixedly joined" refer to two components joined in a manner that makes them difficult to separate from each other without damaging and / or harming one or both of the components. Exemplary forms of fixed attachment may include joining with permanent adhesives, stitching, welding, or other thermal bonding and / or other joining techniques. Furthermore, two components may be "fixedly attached" or "fixedly joined" by, for example, integrally forming them in a molding process.

[0030] Unless otherwise explained, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. While similar or equivalent methods and materials may be used in practice or testing of this disclosure, suitable methods and materials are described below. These materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting. Other features of this disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, abstract, and drawings.

[0031] This article describes examples of various support garments that include zones or sections designed to have different characteristics, such as different vertical and horizontal tensile moduli. These zones can be positioned to provide a desired level of support or "locking" in certain areas of the support garment (also referred to herein as "zones") while allowing greater stretch in other zones to allow the garment to pull over the wearer's head and be flush with the wearer's body where needed.

[0032] The garment may also include multiple open units that can be oriented differently depending on the corresponding sections within the garment. The orientation of these open units results in different stretch bias directions. This stretch bias provides the garment with the necessary locking or stretch, thereby increasing support, fit, and / or comfort for the wearer.

[0033] In some instances, the garment can be 3D printed using a variety of 3D printing systems and methods associated with technologies including fused deposition modeling (FDM), electron beam freeform fabrication (EBF), selective laser sintering (SLS), and other types of 3D printing techniques. Accordingly, the garment can be composed of multiple layers that are printed stacked on top of each other with gaps between them to allow for orientation freedom.

[0034] 3D printing also allows for customization of the garment to fit the wearer's body. Locking and stretch zones can be customized based on the wearer's body and / or fit preferences to provide specific support and / or stretch. For example, potential wearers or customers can be measured or scanned in-store. The supportive garment can then be customized and printed based on their specific measurements and / or fit or color preferences.

[0035] Refer to the attached diagram. Figures 1 to 9 An exemplary support garment 100 is illustrated. Although the garment 100 is shown in a flattened configuration, it should be understood that the various parts of the garment can be joined together to form a three-dimensional wearable garment. In some instances, such as Figures 1 to 9 In the examples shown, the support garment 100 can be an upper garment worn on the wearer's upper torso, such as a bra or a cropped shirt. In other examples, the support garment can be worn on the wearer's lower body, such as underwear, shorts, leggings, etc. In still other examples, the support garment can be full-body or full-body clothing, such as a bodysuit, full-body leotard, or swimsuit.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 The supporting garment 100 includes a body 102 and bands 104 (also referred to as "band areas"). The body 102 includes one or more sections, such as a cup area 106 including one or more cups 108, a back area 110, and a band area 112 including one or more straps 114. In some instances, the cup area 106 may also include a central front area 116 disposed between the first cup 108 and the second cup 108 and configured to rest on the wearer's sternum. The garment 100 is bilaterally symmetrical about a central axis 101.

[0037] In some instances, the entire garment 100 comprises a homogeneous material. That is, the entire garment may be formed from the same material (e.g., a selected polymer), but different parts of the garment may include different densities, moduli of elasticity, stiffness (Shore hardness), etc. In some instances, the material comprises a polymer, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), such as TPU-70A, TPU-60A, and / or TPU-85A. In other instances, the material may comprise polyurethane (PU).

[0038] The garment, formed from the homogeneous material described above, can advantageously contribute to improved sustainability and / or recyclability due to reduced waste (e.g., no cutting of the garment from larger pieces of material). In some instances, the garment itself may include recycled materials and / or may be recyclable at the end of the garment's lifespan.

[0039] The garment can move between a relaxed configuration (e.g., when not worn), a stretched configuration (e.g., when put on or taken off), and a use configuration (also known as a “partially stretched” configuration) (e.g., when worn by a wearer). Still refer to Figure 1 The garment 100 may include a mesh material comprising a plurality of open units 120 (e.g., see...). Figure 5The mesh material can advantageously provide increased breathability and increased sweat evaporation, as well as reduced weight. The shape, orientation, and density of these cells 120 can be varied depending on the location of the cells (i.e., zones) to provide selected properties (e.g., desired amount of stretch) in certain zones.

[0040] In some instances (see example) Figure 26 When in a relaxed configuration, the smallest open unit among these open units may have a minimum width W1 of about 1.2 mm to about 2 mm, about 1.3 mm to about 1.9 mm, or about 1.4 mm to about 1.8 mm. In some instances, when in a relaxed configuration, the smallest open unit among these open units may have a minimum height H1 of about 0.8 mm to about 1.4 mm, about 0.9 mm to about 1.3 mm, or about 1 mm to about 1.2 mm. In some instances, when in a relaxed configuration, the largest open unit among these open units may have a minimum width W2 of about 3.0 mm to about 4.0 mm, about 3.2 mm to about 3.8 mm, or about 3.4 mm to about 3.6 mm. In some instances, when in a relaxed configuration, the largest open unit among these open units may have a minimum height H2 of about 4.6 mm to about 5.6 mm, about 4.8 mm to about 5.4 mm, or about 5.0 mm to about 5.2 mm.

[0041] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, certain areas of garment 100 may have areas with increased stretch in both the vertical and horizontal directions relative to other areas of the garment. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the overall perspective of the stretching direction in the specified areas. The percentages refer to the overall relative percentage of the stretch; the larger the number, the greater the stretch in those areas.

[0042] refer to Figure 3 Each cup 108 may have a central cup area 122, an upper cup area 124, a first lower cup area 126, a second lower cup area 128 (also referred to as a “support area”), and side areas 130. The central cup area 122 may be configured to have greater stretch (i.e., lower modulus of elasticity) in both the vertical and horizontal directions than the surrounding areas 112, 124, 126, 128, such that the central cup area 122 can stretch / deform to conform to the contours of the wearer’s breasts. The back area 110 and the side areas 130 may also be configured to have greater stretch (i.e., lower modulus of elasticity) in both the vertical and horizontal directions than areas 112, 124, 126, 128, which may advantageously allow the wearer to deform / stretch the garment when putting it on (e.g., by pulling the garment over their head), and then allow the garment to conform to the contours of the wearer’s body during wear.

[0043] Figure 3 The relative vertical stretch of each zone is also illustrated, with the vertical direction indicated by arrow 132. Typically, the amount of vertical stretch (referred to herein as "vertical stretch") can be performed in the following order from the maximum vertical stretch to the minimum vertical stretch, which is... Figure 3 The numbers 1 to 6 are used to indicate: (1) back area 110, (2) central cup area 122, (3) first undercup area 126, (4) side area 130, (5) upper cup area 124, and (6) strip area 112 and second undercup area 128, which have substantially the same vertical stretch. That is, back area 110 has a greater vertical stretch than central cup area 122, central cup area 122 has a greater vertical stretch than first undercup area 126, and so on.

[0044] Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the relative horizontal stretch for each zone, with the horizontal direction indicated by arrow 134. Typically, the amount of horizontal stretch (referred to herein as "horizontal stretch") can be performed in the following order from the maximum horizontal stretch to the minimum horizontal stretch, which is... Figure 4 The numbers 1 through 6 are used to indicate: (1) the back area 110 and the central cup area 122 (which have substantially the same horizontal stretch), (2) the side area 130, (3) the first undercup area 126, (4) the upper cup area 124, (5) the strip area 112, and (6) the second undercup area 128. That is, both the back area 110 and the central cup area 122 have a greater horizontal stretch than the side area 130, the side area 130 has a greater horizontal stretch than the first undercup area 126, and so on.

[0045] This configuration of the vertical and horizontal stretch zones advantageously allows for maximum stretch in the cups 108 and back 110, thus allowing the garment to conform to the contours of the wearer's chest. The relatively smaller stretch in the second lower cup zone 128 provides support below the wearer's breast area, mimicking the support of underwires in a conventional bra. Similarly, the relatively small stretch in the band zone 112 advantageously provides support for the garment during the wearer's movement. Although Figures 2 to 4 The bandage area 104 or the central front area 116 is not illustrated, but it should be understood that the bandage area 104 and / or the central front area 116 may be incorporated as part of any garment described herein. Figure 11 The illustration further shows the stretching sections of garment 100, including vertical and horizontal stretching.

[0046] Refer again Figure 1As previously described, garment 100 may include a band area 104. This band area 104 may be attached to the bottom edge 136 of the body 102. The band area 104 provides high stretchability in both the vertical and horizontal directions to allow the wearer to put on and take off the garment. The band area 104 may also include a low modulus of elasticity, allowing it to easily return to its original shape. This allows the bottom edge 138 of the garment to remain in place when in a usage configuration. In some instances, as described further in detail herein, the band area 104 may include a stretch design configured to prevent vertical collapse (i.e., narrowing) when subjected to horizontal stretching.

[0047] Additionally, as previously mentioned, garment 100 includes a central front section 116 disposed between the two cups 108. This central front section 116 may be an elongated unit strip extending from the upper edge 140 of the body 102 to the lower edge 136 of the body. In some instances, the central front section 116 may be configured to provide minimal or no stretch, thereby allowing for increased support and / or locking.

[0048] refer to Figure 5 The garment includes multiple struts that define multiple open units 120 constituting the garment 100. These units 120 can be oriented in different directions depending on the desired amount and direction of stretch. For example, the units 120 of the body 102 can have a generally square or rectangular shape. This can also be referred to as a rhombus, depending on the orientation of the unit relative to the top edge 140 of the body 102. A “square” orientation, in which the struts of the unit are aligned with the top edge 148 of the garment (i.e., substantially parallel to the top edge 148 of the garment), provides less stretch, while a “rhombus” orientation, in which the vertices of the unit (i.e., where two struts meet) are oriented toward the top edge 148 of the garment, provides greater stretch. Depending on the desired amount of stretch, the units can be rotatably oriented at any position between square and rhombus.

[0049] Figure 27 A garment 100 with units 120 is shown in enlarged views of different sections 1 to 4 corresponding to the band area 112 (section 1), side section 130 (section 2), cup section 106 (section 3), and bandage section 104 (section 4). For illustrative purposes only. Figure 27 The unit 120 includes a shape (e.g., a circle or an ellipse) disposed within the unit, which indicates the amount and direction of stretching of the unit when the garment 100 is in a relaxed configuration. It should be understood that these shapes are for illustrative purposes only and do not exist in the final garment.

[0050] As shown in the figure, when the garment is in a relaxed configuration, the units in sections 1 and 2 are typically neutral, while the units in section 3 include a certain degree of stretch bias even in a relaxed configuration. This configuration allows for increased stretch in section 3 and increased support in sections 1 and 2.

[0051] Figure 5 Labels A and B illustrate the orientation of the units in the strip area 112 and the cup area 106, respectively. As shown in label A, the units 120 in the strip area 112 are oriented in a “square” direction. As shown in label B, the units 120 in the cup area 106 are oriented in a “diamond” direction, or in other words, each unit 120 is offset relative to the uppermost edge 148 of the garment. Referring to label C, the units 120 in the center front area 116 are positioned in a square orientation, but the lower portion 142 of the center front area 116 has an increased unit density (i.e., the number of units per square inch). This increased unit density provides additional support (e.g., reduced stretch) at the lower portion 142.

[0052] Still referencing Figure 5 Selected areas of the garment can have different cell densities. Higher cell densities provide additional support by reducing the amount of stretch in the selected area. Areas with higher cell densities can have smaller cells to provide that density. For example, Figure 5 The markings D, E, and F indicate areas with higher unit density in the upper cup area 124 (marked D), the underarm area 125 (marked E), and the second lower cup area 128 (marked F). Although in Figure 5 Only one upper cup area 124, an underarm area 125, and a second lower cup area 128 are indicated; however, it should be understood that because the garment is bilaterally symmetrical, the unit density is mirrored on both sides. The smaller stretch along the underarm area 125 allows the armhole 144 to fit snugly against the wearer's body without gaps. The smaller stretch along the upper cup area 124 reduces upward movement of the wearer's breasts during exercise, which can cause pain or distraction. The smaller stretch along the second lower cup area helps to lift and support the wearer's breasts during exercise.

[0053] As previously described, the banding region 104 includes a tensile pattern configured to prevent vertical collapse (i.e., narrowing) of the banding region 104 when subjected to horizontal stretching. The tensile patterns have a negative Poisson's ratio, meaning that when they are stretched, these tensile patterns become thicker perpendicular to the applied force. Figure 5 The label G in the figure shows an example of a stretching pattern in the circumferential zone 104.

[0054] Figure 10Various stretch patterns numbered (1) to (18) are illustrated. In some instances, the shroud region 104 may include... Figure 10 One or more of the expansion patterns shown. In other instances, the banding region 104 may include any other expansion patterns to prevent the banding region 104 from narrowing during horizontal stretching. Reference Figure 10 The dimensions below each pattern refer to the height and width of each unit when the material is in a relaxed configuration. For example, pattern (1) includes units that are 4 mm high and 3 mm wide when in a relaxed configuration, and pattern (14) includes units that are 4 mm high and 2 mm wide when in a relaxed configuration. Each tension pattern includes multiple units arranged such that when they are stretched, these units become thicker perpendicular to the applied force. For example, pattern (1) includes multiple rhomboid units combined with various bow-shaped units (also referred to herein as butterfly units). Patterns (10) through (18) each include multiple bow-shaped units arranged such that these rows are offset from each other to form an interlocking pattern.

[0055] In some instances (e.g., such as) Figure 26 As shown, the expansion pattern may include a plurality of bow-shaped units having a width, a first height at the first and second ends of units 125 and 127, and a second height at the center of unit 129, the second height being smaller than the first height. In a relaxed configuration, the smallest unit of the expansion pattern has a minimum width W3 of approximately 2.0 mm to approximately 4.0 mm, approximately 2.5 mm to approximately 3.5 mm, and approximately 2.8 mm to approximately 3.2 mm. In a relaxed configuration, the smallest unit of the expansion pattern has a minimum first height H3 of approximately 1.4 mm to approximately 2.2 mm, approximately 1.6 mm to approximately 2.0 mm, and approximately 1.7 mm to approximately 1.9 mm. In a relaxed configuration, the smallest unit of the expansion pattern has a minimum second height H4 of approximately 0.2 mm to approximately 1.0 mm, approximately 0.4 mm to approximately 0.8 mm, and approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 0.7 mm.

[0056] In some instances (e.g., such as) Figure 26As shown, when in the relaxed configuration, the largest unit of the expansion pattern has a minimum width W4 of about 4.2 mm to about 5.0 mm, about 4.4 mm to about 4.8 mm, and about 4.5 mm to about 4.7 mm. When in the relaxed configuration, the largest unit of the expansion pattern has a minimum first height H5 of about 1.4 mm to about 2.2 mm, about 1.6 mm to about 2.0 mm, and about 1.7 mm to about 1.9 mm. When in the relaxed configuration, the largest unit of the expansion pattern has a minimum second height H6 of about 0.2 mm to about 1.0 mm, about 0.4 mm to about 0.8 mm, and about 0.5 mm to about 0.7 mm.

[0057] Now for reference Figure 6 In some instances, the garment comprises multiple filament layers 150. The layers 150 may be stacked on top of each other such that the filaments of the first layer 150a extend in a direction different from that of the filaments of the adjacent second layer 150b. In the illustrated example, the garment 100 comprises four filament layers 150, including two first layers 150a extending in a first direction and two second layers 150b extending in a second direction different from the first direction. However, in other instances, the garment may comprise more or fewer filament layers, such as one, two, three, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten layers. Additional filament layers may be added to the garment to provide, for example, additional stretch and / or support in selected areas, or increased durability in selected areas. In some instances, the different filament layers may comprise different materials, which may be used to achieve different garment properties.

[0058] like Figure 6 As shown, the first layer 150a and the second layer 150b are arranged in an alternating pattern and overlap each other at multiple overlap points 151. The distance between the center point of each first filament layer 150a and the center point of each adjacent second filament layer 150b is referred to as H1. In some instances, H1 is approximately 0.1 mm. The distance between the center points of two adjacent first filament layers 150a and two adjacent second filament layers 150b is referred to as H2. In some instances, H2 is approximately 0.15 mm. The filament layers 150a and 150b together define a plurality of units 120.

[0059] Figure 8 The illustration shows garment 100, which only shows the first filament layer 150a. In a garment with four layers, the first filament layer 150a can be, for example, the first layer and the third layer. Figure 9 The illustration shows garment 100, which only shows the second filament layer 150b. In a garment with four layers, the second filament layer 150b can be, for example, the second and fourth layers. Figures 8 to 9As shown, filament 150a extends in a different direction than filament 150b, such that when they are stacked on top of each other, they define a plurality of units 120.

[0060] For example, refer to Figure 8 The first filament layer 150a includes a plurality of first filaments 154 that conform to the curvature of the armhole 156 and extend radially from the armhole 156 toward the central front region 116. (See reference) Figure 9 The second filament layer 150b includes a plurality of second filaments 158 that extend from the armhole 156 in a radial pattern.

[0061] refer to Figure 7 The garment 100 also includes a plurality of connecting portions 152 (also referred to herein as “seams”) for connecting the various parts of the garment together to form the garment into a three-dimensional structure. Figure 7 As shown, the connecting portions 152 can be extensions of the clothing pattern. In other words, they can be formed using a filament layer 150. Figures 3 to 4 An exemplary location of the connecting portion 152 is shown. In some instances, the garment 100 may include six connecting portions 152, indicated by reference numerals 152a to 152f. Connecting portions 152a, 152d, 152e, and 152f extend from the back region 110, and connecting portions 152b and 152c extend from the strip 114, respectively. Connecting portion 152a is configured to connect to connecting portion 152b, connecting portion 152c is configured to connect to connecting portion 152d, and connecting portion 152e is configured to connect to connecting portion 152f.

[0062] These connecting parts 152 can be connected to each other using any known method. For example, the connecting parts 152 can be ultrasonically welded, fused together using a hot press, sewn together, and / or connected together using fasteners (e.g., buttons, hook-and-eye closures, snaps, etc.).

[0063] In some instances, a 3D printer is used to print filament layers 150 stacked on top of each other to form garment 100. In such instances, garment 100 can be printed as a two-dimensional monolithic or continuous garment, which can then be assembled into a three-dimensional garment using connecting parts 152. In other instances, molding can be used to form garment 100.

[0064] An exemplary method 800 for forming clothing 100 is described in Figure 28As shown, the process can be performed as follows: In step 802, a first filament layer 150a is printed, extending in a first direction. In step 804, a second filament layer 150b is printed over the first filament layer, extending in a second direction. The second filament layer 150b may overlap with the first filament layer 150a at a plurality of first overlap points. In step 806, a third filament layer 150a is printed over the second filament layer 150b, extending in the first direction. The third filament layer may overlap with the second filament layer at a plurality of second overlap points. In step 808, a fourth filament layer 150b is printed over the third filament layer 150a, extending in the second direction. The fourth filament layer 150b may overlap with the third filament layer 150a at a plurality of third overlap points. The overlying and overlapping filament layers 150a and 150b form the various unit structures described herein.

[0065] As previously described, garment 100 includes one or more additional layers. In some instances, these additional layers are layers of printed material oriented in a manner that creates areas of increased coverage. For example, multiple layers may be printed stacked on top of each other in a “cross-hatching” configuration to create areas of increased opacity (e.g., to provide increased coverage in cup area 106). In other instances, these additional layers may be one or more fabric layers 160. The fabric layer 160 may extend over the entire area of ​​garment 100 or may be positioned in specific areas (e.g., for coverage and / or to prevent friction). For example, Figure 12 The illustration shows garment 100 including a fabric layer 160, which includes two covering areas 162. In some instances, the fabric layer 160 may include a knitted material that may be bonded and / or adhered to cup areas 106 or each particular cup 108.

[0066] In some instances, garment 100 includes one or more bags 164 configured to receive and hold inserts (e.g., body covering inserts) in desired positions. Bags 164 can be formed, for example, by positioning a removable barrier in a selected area during the deposition of filament layers 150. After layer deposition is complete, the removable barrier can be removed, leaving bags 164 configured to receive inserts between selected layers. The insert can be a fabric insert (such as a knitted or woven material) or a 3D-printed insert comprising the same 3D-printed material as garment 100. In some instances, bag 164 can be sealed after the insert is inserted. However, in other instances, bag 164 can remain open to allow the wearer to remove and / or replace the insert as needed.

[0067] refer to Figure 14In some instances, in place of or in addition to the connecting portion 152, any garment described herein includes one or more fasteners 166. In some instances, these fasteners 166 may be integrally formed with the garment 100 (e.g., during a 3D printing process), and in some instances may comprise the same material as the garment 100. In other instances, these fasteners 166 may be separate structures permanently or removably attached to the garment 100. In such instances, these fasteners may be formed of the same material as the garment 100, or they may be formed of a different material.

[0068] These fasteners 166 can be used, for example, to form garments into a three-dimensional structure and / or to allow garments to be adjusted to different sizes. For example, fasteners 166 can be located on the bandle area 104 and / or the strips 114 to allow the wearer to adjust the length of the bandle area 104 and / or the strips 114 as needed. Figure 14 As shown, in some instances, fastener 166 may include one or more buttons 168 and one or more buttonholes 170 through which the one or more buttons may be inserted. In other instances, these fasteners may be ties (e.g., for wearing a corset), hook-and-eye closures, zippers, snaps, hooks and loops (e.g., Velcro).

[0069] Figures 15 to 17 An example of a lower garment 200 is illustrated. In the illustrated example, the lower garment 200 is a pair of shorts, comprising a waistband 202, a brief region 204, and a leg section 206, the leg section 206 including two leg straps 208. The lower garment 200 comprises a mesh open-cell material (similar to the mesh open-cell material described earlier for garment 100). As previously mentioned, this mesh material offers the wearer a range of potential benefits, including increased breathability and sweat evaporation, improved fit and comfort, increased sustainability and / or recyclability, and greater customization potential. The shape, orientation, and density of the cells in specific areas of the lower garment 200 can be selected based on the desired characteristics in those areas, such as the required amount of stretch and / or support.

[0070] In some instances, the lower garment 200 includes both open-unit material and fabric material. For example, the waistband 202 and leg bands 208 may include open-unit material, and the crotch area 204 may include fabric material, such as knitted material. This configuration provides enhanced breathability and moisture-wicking efficiency at the waistband 204 (a high-heat / sweat zone), while also providing a better silhouette and fit to the wearer's body than conventional fabric materials. Using open-unit material to form the leg bands 208 helps keep the garment's legs in place and prevents them from rolling up or riding up over the body. The fabric material at the crotch area 204 provides an increased level of coverage. In other instances, the entire garment 200 may include open-unit material. Still in other instances, portions of the garment 200 may optionally include additional fabric layers, such as those described herein and Figure 12 The fabric layer shown is (160).

[0071] Figures 18 to 21 Another example of a lower garment 300 is illustrated. In the illustrated example, the lower garment 300 is a pair of leggings, which includes a waistband 302, a crotch area 304, and a leg section 306, the leg section 306 including two leg members 308. As described herein with respect to lower garment 200, lower garment 300 also includes a mesh open-cell material. The shape, orientation, and density of the cells in specific areas of lower garment 300 can be selected based on the desired properties in these areas, such as the required amount of stretch and / or support.

[0072] In some instances, the waistband 302 and leg section 308 comprise open-cell material, and the crotch area 304 comprises fabric material. The portions of the waistband 302 and leg section 308 can be configured (e.g., these cells can be sized, shaped, oriented, and provided with a specific density) to provide different properties. For example, the waistband 304 and the back-of-the-knee area 310, both high-heat, sweating areas, can be configured to provide increased breathability.

[0073] refer to Figure 21 In some instances, selected areas may be configured to provide support and / or compression (e.g., by having a higher modulus of elasticity, which allows for lower stress), while other selected areas may be configured to provide increased tension (e.g., by having a lower modulus of elasticity). For example, thigh / hip area 310 and shin area 312 may be configured to provide support / compression, and knee area 314 may be configured to provide increased tension. In another instance, the anterior portion of lumbar region 302 may provide more support (e.g., less tension) than the posterior portion of lumbar region 302.

[0074] like Figure 21As shown, in some instances, garment 300 may include one or more patterned areas 316, which may be designed to provide areas of higher or lower support. For example, garment 300 may include patterned areas 316 along the thigh portion of leg member 308, above and below knee area 314, on the back of knee area 314, and / or adjacent to the wearer's ankle. In some instances, these patterned areas 316 may be configured to provide additional stretch. In other instances, the patterned areas 316 may be configured to provide additional support.

[0075] Figures 1 to 13 An example of garment 100 with selected stretch and support areas defined by unit orientation, unit density, and unit pattern is illustrated. However, it should be understood that the unit orientation, unit density, and unit pattern can be modified and rearranged to provide selected stretch and support amounts. For example, Figures 22 to 25 Exemplary garments 400, 500, 600, and 700 are illustrated with different cell orientations, stretching zones, support zones, etc. Darker areas indicate areas with increased cell density and / or areas with stretching patterns. For example, Figure 23 The illustration shows a garment 500 with increased cell density in the side rear area 502, which can provide additional back support. Figure 24 The illustration shows a garment 600 with a shortened band area 602.

[0076] In view of the above-described embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, this application discloses the following additional examples. It should be noted that a single feature of an example, or a combination of features of that example (and optionally combined with one or more features of one or more other examples), constitutes more than one example that also falls within the scope of the disclosure of this application.

[0077] Example 1. A support garment comprising: material constituting a plurality of zones, each zone comprising a plurality of open units arranged in a pattern, wherein when the support garment is in a relaxed configuration, each of the plurality of open units has a minimum width of 1.8 mm and a minimum height of 1.2 mm, and a maximum width of 3.5 mm and a maximum height of 5.1 mm.

[0078] Example 2. According to any example of this document, particularly the garment described in Example 1, wherein the plurality of zones include a band area configured to surround the wearer’s chest, and wherein the plurality of open units in the band area include a stretch pattern.

[0079] Example 3. Garment according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 2, including each of the plurality of open units of the stretch pattern having a bow shape.

[0080] Example 4. According to any example of this document, particularly the garment described in Example 3, each unit having a bow shape has a width, a first height at a first end portion and a second end portion of the unit, and a second height at a center portion of the unit, the second height being less than the first height.

[0081] Example 5. According to any example of this document, particularly the garment described in Example 4, wherein when in the relaxed configuration, each unit comprising the stretched pattern has a minimum width of 3.0 mm, a minimum first height of 1.8 mm, and a minimum second height of 0.6 mm.

[0082] Example 6. According to any example in this article, particularly the garment described in Example 1, wherein the material has a homogeneous composition.

[0083] Example 7. According to any example in this document, particularly the garment described in Example 1, wherein the material includes thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0084] Example 8. A support garment comprising: a plurality of open units arranged in one or more patterns to form one or more zones; wherein each zone includes a selected modulus of elasticity; and wherein at least one of the one or more zones is a first zone including a stretching pattern.

[0085] Example 9. Support garments according to any example in this document, particularly Example 8, wherein the first area is a band area configured to surround the wearer's chest.

[0086] Example 10. Support garment according to any example of this document, particularly Example 8, wherein each of the units in the first region has a bow shape.

[0087] Example 11. Support garment according to any example in this document, particularly any one of Examples 8 to 10, wherein the support garment is a single piece of material.

[0088] Example 12. The garment according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 8 to 11, wherein the one or more sections further include a second section configured to be disposed above the sternum of the wearer, and wherein each of the units in the second section is positioned in a square orientation.

[0089] Example 13. The garment according to any example herein, particularly any one of Examples 8 to 12, wherein the one or more zones include a third zone configured as a cup zone, and wherein the elastic modulus of the plurality of units constituting the cup zone is less than the elastic modulus of the units constituting the second zone.

[0090] Example 14. The garment according to any example herein, particularly Example 13, wherein the one or more zones include a fourth zone configured as a strip zone, and wherein the elastic modulus of the plurality of units constituting the strip zone is greater than the elastic modulus of the units constituting the third zone.

[0091] Example 15. The garment according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 8 to 14, wherein the one or more areas further include a third area configured as a cup area, and wherein the cup area includes one or more integrated pockets configured to receive one or more body cover inserts.

[0092] Example 16. Garments according to any example herein, particularly any one of Examples 7 to 14, wherein the material comprises thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0093] Example 17. A garment comprising: a material constituting a plurality of open units, the plurality of open units being arranged in one or more patterns to form a breast cup area, a central front area, a band area, and a strip area, each area having a different elastic modulus; wherein the breast cup area includes a first breast cup portion and a second breast cup portion; wherein the central front area is disposed between the first breast cup portion and the second breast cup portion; wherein the band area is configured to extend around the wearer's ribcage; and wherein the strip area includes a first strip portion and a second strip portion.

[0094] Example 18. The upper garment described in any example of this document, particularly Example 16, wherein the bandage area includes a structure with a negative Poisson's ratio.

[0095] Example 19. The upper garment according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 17 to 18, wherein the breast cup area, the central front area, the band area and the strip area each comprise different unit densities.

[0096] Example 20. The upper garment according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 17 to 19, wherein the elastic modulus of the bra cup area is less than the elastic modulus of each of the central front area, the band area, and the strip area.

[0097] Example 21. A method comprising: 3D printing clothing, the clothing comprising: material constituting a plurality of open units arranged in one or more patterns to form a first region, a second region, a third region, and a fourth region, each region having an elastic modulus different from the elastic modulus of each of the other regions; the first region being configured as a cup region including a first cup portion and a second cup portion; the second region being disposed between the first cup portion and the second cup portion; the third region being configured as a bandage region being configured to extend around the chest of a wearer; and the fourth region being configured as a stripe region including a first stripe portion and a second stripe portion.

[0098] Example 22. According to any example of this document, particularly Example 21, the method of 3D printing the garment includes printing a first filament layer extending in a first direction, and printing a second filament layer on top of the first filament layer, the second filament layer extending in a second direction other than the first direction, such that the first filament layer and the second filament layer overlap each other at a plurality of overlap points.

[0099] Example 23. The method described in any of the examples herein, particularly Example 22, further includes printing a third filament layer on top of the second filament layer, the third filament layer extending in the first direction.

[0100] Example 24. The method described in any of the examples herein, particularly Example 23, further includes printing a fourth filament layer on the third filament layer, the fourth filament layer extending in the second direction.

[0101] Example 25. A method for 3D printing clothing, comprising: 3D printing a first filament layer extending in a first direction; and 3D printing a second filament layer on top of the first filament layer, the second filament layer extending in a second direction different from the first direction, such that the first filament layer and the second filament layer overlap each other at a plurality of contact points and together define a plurality of open units.

[0102] Example 26. The method according to any example of this document, particularly Example 25, further includes printing a third filament layer on top of the second filament layer, the third filament layer extending in the first direction.

[0103] Example 27. The method according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 26, further includes printing a fourth filament layer on the third filament layer, the fourth filament layer extending in the second direction.

[0104] Example 28. The method according to any example herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 27, wherein when the garment is in a relaxed configuration, each of the plurality of open units has a minimum width of 1.8 mm and a minimum height of 1.2 mm, and a maximum width of 3.5 mm and a maximum height of 5.1 mm.

[0105] Example 29. The method according to any of the examples herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 28, further includes 3D printing a band area of ​​the garment including a stretch pattern.

[0106] Example 30. According to any example of this document, particularly Example 29, the method described therein comprises a plurality of units, each of which comprises a bow shape.

[0107] Example 31. According to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 30, one or more filament layers comprise thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0108] Example 32. The method according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 31, further includes 3D printing a plurality of connecting portions, wherein each connecting portion is configured to connect to one or more additional connecting portions to form the garment into a three-dimensional structure.

[0109] Example 33. The method described in any example of this document, particularly Example 32, further includes using ultrasonic welding to join each connection portion to the one or more additional connection portions.

[0110] Example 34. The method described in any example of this document, particularly Example 32, further includes using a hot press to attach each connecting part to the one or more additional connecting parts.

[0111] Example 35. A method for 3D printing clothing, comprising: 3D printing a first filament layer extending in a first direction; and 3D printing a second filament layer on top of the first filament layer, the second filament layer extending in a second direction different from the first direction, such that the first layer and the second layer overlap each other at a plurality of contact points and together define a plurality of open units forming a body of the clothing, wherein the plurality of open units are arranged in one or more patterns to form a plurality of regions, each region having an elastic modulus different from the elastic modulus of each of the other regions; 3D printing a third filament layer on top of the second filament layer, the third filament layer extending in the first direction; 3D printing a fourth filament layer on top of the third filament layer, the fourth filament layer extending in the second direction; 3D printing a plurality of connecting portions connected to the body; and connecting each of the plurality of connecting portions to one or more other connecting portions to form the clothing as a three-dimensional structure.

[0112] Example 36. According to any example of this document, particularly Example 35, the method wherein the plurality of zones includes a first zone, a second zone, a third zone, and a fourth zone, the first zone being configured as a cup zone including a first cup portion and a second cup portion; the second zone being disposed between the first cup portion and the second cup portion; the third zone being configured as a bandage zone being configured to extend around the wearer's chest; and the fourth zone being configured as a strip zone including a first strip portion and a second strip portion.

[0113] Example 37. According to any example of this document, particularly Example 36, the method wherein the circumferential region includes a structure having a negative Poisson's ratio.

[0114] Example 38. The method according to any of the examples herein, particularly any one of Examples 35 to 37, further includes 3D printing one or more additional masking layers in a selected area of ​​the garment, the masking layers being configured to increase the opacity of the garment in the selected area.

[0115] Example 39. The method according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 35 to 38, further includes 3D printing one or more bags onto the garment.

[0116] Example 40. According to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 35 to 39, the method wherein the connecting portion comprises a plurality of fasteners that are 3D printed as part of the garment.

[0117] Example 41. The method according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 35 to 40, wherein the distance between the center points of two adjacent first filament layers is 0.1 mm, and the distance between the center points of two adjacent second filament layers is 0.1 mm.

[0118] Example 42. The method according to any example herein, particularly any one of Examples 35 to 41, further includes attaching one or more fabric layers to the garment.

[0119] Example 43. A garment formed by a method comprising the steps of: 3D printing a first filament layer extending in a first direction; and 3D printing a second filament layer on top of the first filament layer, the second filament layer extending in a second direction different from the first direction, such that the first layer and the second layer overlap each other at a plurality of contact points and together define a plurality of open units forming the body of the garment, wherein the plurality of open units are arranged in one or more patterns to form a plurality of regions, each region having an elastic modulus different from the elastic modulus of each of the other regions; and 3D printing a third filament layer on top of the second filament layer. The device comprises a third filament layer extending in the first direction; a fourth filament layer 3D-printed on top of the third filament layer extending in the second direction; wherein the plurality of regions include a first region, a second region, a third region, and a fourth region, the first region being configured as a cup region, the cup region including a first cup portion and a second cup portion; the second region being disposed between the first cup portion and the second cup portion; the third region being configured as a bandage region, the bandage region being configured to extend around the wearer's chest; and the fourth region being configured as a strip region, the strip region including a first strip portion and a second strip portion.

[0120] Example 44. According to any example of this document, particularly the garment described in Example 43, wherein when the garment is in a relaxed configuration, each of the plurality of open units has a minimum width of 1.8 mm and a minimum height of 1.2 mm, and a maximum width of 3.5 mm and a maximum height of 5.1 mm.

[0121] Example 45. A garment formed by a method comprising the following steps: molding the garment, wherein the garment comprises a plurality of zones, each zone comprising a plurality of open units arranged in a pattern, wherein when the garment is supported in a relaxed configuration, each of the plurality of open units has a minimum width of 1.8 mm and a minimum height of 1.2 mm, and a maximum width of 3.5 mm and a maximum height of 5.1 mm.

[0122] Example 46. The garment according to any example of this document, particularly Example 45, wherein the plurality of zones include a first zone, a second zone, a third zone, and a fourth zone, the first zone being configured as a cup zone, the cup zone including a first cup portion and a second cup portion; the second zone being disposed between the first cup portion and the second cup portion; the third zone being configured as a bandage zone, the bandage zone being configured to extend around the wearer's chest; and the fourth zone being configured as a stripe zone, the stripe zone including a first stripe portion and a second stripe portion.

[0123] Example 47. Garment according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 45 to 46, wherein the unit in the band area comprises a stretch pattern.

[0124] Example 48. Garment according to any example of this document, particularly any one of Examples 45 to 47, comprising each of the plurality of open units of the stretch pattern having a bow shape.

[0125] Example 49. A garment formed by a method comprising the steps of: molding the garment; wherein the garment includes a plurality of zones, the plurality of zones including a first zone, a second zone, a third zone, and a fourth zone, the first zone being configured as a cup zone, the cup zone including a first cup portion and a second cup portion; the second zone being disposed between the first cup portion and the second cup portion; the third zone being configured as a bandage zone, the bandage zone being configured to extend around the chest of a wearer; and the fourth zone being configured as a stripe zone, the stripe zone including a first stripe portion and a second stripe portion; and wherein the bandage zone includes a stretch pattern.

[0126] Example 50. The garment described in any example of this document, particularly Example 49, includes each of the plurality of open units of the stretch pattern having a bow shape.

[0127] Example 51. A garment according to any example herein, particularly any one of Examples 49 to 50, wherein each unit having a bow shape has a width, a first height at a first end portion and a second end portion of the unit, and a second height at a center portion of the unit, the second height being less than the first height.

[0128] Example 52. Garment according to any example herein, particularly any one of Examples 49 to 51, wherein, when in the relaxed configuration, each unit comprising the stretched pattern has a minimum width of 3.0 mm, a minimum first height of 1.8 mm, and a minimum second height of 0.6 mm.

[0129] Given the many possible ways in which the principles of this disclosure can be applied, it should be understood that the illustrated configurations depict examples of the disclosed technology and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure or the claims. Rather, the scope of the claimed subject matter is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for 3D printing clothing, comprising: 3D printing of the first filament layer extending in the first direction; as well as A second filament layer is 3D printed on top of the first filament layer, the second filament layer extending in a second direction different from the first direction, such that the first filament layer and the second filament layer overlap each other at multiple contact points and together define multiple open units.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising printing a third filament layer on the second filament layer, the third filament layer extending in the first direction.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising printing a fourth filament layer on the third filament layer, the fourth filament layer extending in the second direction.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the garment is in a relaxed configuration, each of the plurality of open units has a minimum width of 1.8 mm and a minimum height of 1.2 mm, and a maximum width of 3.5 mm and a maximum height of 5.1 mm.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising 3D printing a band area including a stretch pattern on the garment.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the stretch pattern comprises a plurality of units, each of the plurality of units comprising a bow shape.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein one or more filament layers comprise thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising 3D printing a plurality of connecting portions, wherein each connecting portion is configured to connect to one or more additional connecting portions to form the garment into a three-dimensional structure.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising using ultrasonic welding to join each connection portion to the one or more additional connection portions.

10. The method of claim 8, further comprising using a hot press to attach each connecting portion to the one or more additional connecting portions.

11. A method for 3D printing clothing, comprising: 3D printing of the first filament layer extending in the first direction; as well as A second filament layer is 3D printed on top of the first filament layer, the second filament layer extending in a second direction different from the first direction, such that the first layer and the second layer overlap each other at multiple contact points and together define multiple open units forming the body of the garment, wherein the multiple open units are arranged in one or more patterns to form multiple regions, each region having an elastic modulus different from the elastic modulus of each of the other regions. A third filament layer is 3D printed on top of the second filament layer, the third filament layer extending in the first direction; A fourth filament layer is 3D printed on top of the third filament layer, the fourth filament layer extending in the second direction; Multiple connecting parts are 3D printed and connected to the main body; as well as Each of the plurality of connecting parts is connected to one or more other connecting parts to form the garment into a three-dimensional structure.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of zones includes a first zone, a second zone, a third zone, and a fourth zone, the first zone being configured as a cup zone, the cup zone including a first cup portion and a second cup portion; the second zone being disposed between the first cup portion and the second cup portion; the third zone being configured as a bandage zone, the bandage zone being configured to extend around the wearer's chest; and the fourth zone being configured as a strip zone, the strip zone including a first strip portion and a second strip portion.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the surrounding region comprises a structure having a negative Poisson's ratio.

14. The method of any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising 3D printing one or more additional cover layers in a selected area of ​​the garment, the cover layers being configured to increase the opacity of the garment in the selected area.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, further comprising 3D printing one or more bags onto the garment.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the connecting portion comprises a plurality of fasteners, the plurality of fasteners being 3D printed as part of the garment.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the distance between the center points of two adjacent first filament layers is 0.1 mm, and the distance between the center points of two adjacent second filament layers is 0.1 mm.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, further comprising attaching one or more fabric layers to the garment.

19. A garment, said garment being formed by a method comprising the following steps: 3D printing of the first filament layer extending in the first direction; as well as A second filament layer is 3D printed on top of the first filament layer, the second filament layer extending in a second direction different from the first direction, such that the first layer and the second layer overlap each other at multiple contact points and together define multiple open units forming the body of the garment, wherein the multiple open units are arranged in one or more patterns to form multiple regions, each region having an elastic modulus different from the elastic modulus of each of the other regions. A third filament layer is 3D printed on top of the second filament layer, the third filament layer extending in the first direction; A fourth filament layer is 3D printed on top of the third filament layer, the fourth filament layer extending in the second direction; The plurality of zones include a first zone, a second zone, a third zone, and a fourth zone. The first zone is configured as a cup zone, which includes a first cup portion and a second cup portion. The second zone is disposed between the first cup portion and the second cup portion. The third zone is configured as a bandage zone, which is configured to extend around the wearer's chest. Furthermore, the fourth region is configured as a strip region, which includes a first strip portion and a second strip portion.

20. The garment of claim 19, wherein when the garment is in a relaxed configuration, each of the plurality of open units has a minimum width of 1.8 mm and a minimum height of 1.2 mm, and a maximum width of 3.5 mm and a maximum height of 5.1 mm.

Images