Maternity tights with stretchy front panel and front support zone
The maternity tights with a ventral area and graduated extensibility zones provide effective support and comfort for the pregnant belly by adapting to its changing shape.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2024001959
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-02-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-02-28
AI Technical Summary
Existing maternity tights do not adequately accommodate the changing shape of a pregnant belly during pregnancy, providing insufficient support and comfort.
Maternity tights with a ventral area comprising a central region with high extensibility and intermediate and lateral regions with progressively lower extensibility, along with a ventral support zone having regions with varying extensibilities to provide graduated support, are designed to adapt to the pregnant belly.
The design allows for comfortable and effective support of the pregnant belly, accommodating its changes while distributing support evenly across the abdomen and flanks.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Maternity tights with stretchable ventral area and ventral support zone
[0001] The present invention relates to maternity tights intended to be worn during pregnancy, and an associated manufacturing process.
[0002] Such tights are, for example, compression tights at the leg level.
[0003] This notably helps to promote venous return.
[0004] The shape of the belly of a maternity tight is adapted for a pregnant belly.
[0005] Generally, such maternity tights correspond to classic tights to which a panel has been added at the front, in order to provide ease for the pregnant belly.
[0006] It then offers, for example, no function other than venous return, for compression tights.
[0007] The aim of the invention is therefore to offer maternity tights particularly suitable for pregnancy.
[0008] To this end, the invention relates to maternity tights, comprising a waistband area, a ventral assembly area and a ventral support area,
[0009] the belt area being deformable and extending above the ventral overall area in a vertical direction,
[0010] the ventral overall zone comprising a central region, two intermediate regions and two lateral regions, the two intermediate regions extending on either side of the central region in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, the two lateral regions each extending on one side of a respective intermediate region opposite the central region, the central region having an extensibility strictly greater than an extensibility of the intermediate regions, the extensibility of the intermediate regions being strictly greater than an extensibility of the lateral regions,
[0011] the central region being intended to extend over the stomach of a person wearing the maternity tights,
[0012] the overall ventral area extending between the belt area and the ventral support area in the vertical direction,
[0013] the ventral support zone comprising a pubic region arranged under the overall ventral zone in the vertical direction, and at least two accessory regions extending on either side of the pubic region perpendicular to the vertical direction, the pubic region having an extensibility strictly less than the extensibility of the accessory regions of the ventral support zone,
[0014] the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral support zone being strictly less than each of the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the overall ventral zone.
[0015] The overall ventral zone, through its extensibility, allows for adaptation to the pregnant belly. In particular, this zone evolves during pregnancy due to its extensibility. The central region is particularly extensible, accommodating the central part of the belly, while the intermediate and lateral regions become progressively less extensible, offering progressively more support.
[0016] The ventral support zone, with its lower extensibility, provides support for the abdomen and distributes this support, particularly to the flanks. In particular, the pubic region, arranged beneath the ventral region and adapted to extend under the abdomen, offers increased support due to its lower extensibility compared to other regions.
[0017] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the maternity tights comprise one or more of the following features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:
[0018] - each extensibility is equal to the sum of a longitudinal extensibility along a longitudinal direction and a transverse extensibility along a transverse direction, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction;
[0019] - the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral overall zone are greater than or equal to 260% in any direction;
[0020] - the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral support zone are strictly less than 420% in any direction;
[0021] - the maternity tights include at least one lumbar support zone, the less a lumbar support zone intended to extend in relation to the lumbar region of a person wearing the maternity tights, at least one lumbar support zone having an extensibility strictly less than 10% in any direction;
[0022] - the ventral support zone further comprises at least one rear region, the less a rear region extending from one side of each adjunct region opposite the pubic region, at least one rear region being intended to extend over the sides and back of a person wearing the maternity tights, at least one rear region having an extensibility strictly greater than the extensibility of the adjunct regions of the ventral support zone;
[0023] - the lumbar support zone or zones are surrounded around their entire circumference by at least one back region;
[0024] - the belt area includes a front region exhibiting extensibility according to the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction greater than or equal to 350%; and / or
[0025] - the maternity tights are made of knit fabric.
[0026] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing maternity tights as defined above, comprising a step of knitting a front panel, a step of knitting a right back panel, a step of knitting a left back panel, and a step of assembling the front panel, the right back panel and the left back panel, the front panel comprising a front region of the waistband area, the central region of the ventral overall area and the pubic region of the ventral support area, the right and left back panels comprising a rear region of the waistband area, the intermediate regions and the lateral regions of the ventral overall area, and the accessory regions of the ventral support area.
[0027] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:
[0028] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] is a side view of maternity tights worn according to a example of an embodiment of the invention,
[0029] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a schematic flat-developed view of the structure of the upper part of the tights of [Fig.1],
[0030] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting the ventral region of the ventral overall area,
[0031] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a connection zone,
[0032] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a lateral region of the ventral overall area,
[0033] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a rear region of the ventral support zone,
[0034] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a lumbar support zone,
[0035] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a annex region of the ventral support zone,
[0036] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting the pubic region of the ventral support zone,
[0037] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a intermediate region of the ventral overall zone,
[0038] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a rear region of the belt zone,
[0039] [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a region in front of the belt zone, and
[0040] [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] is a schematic representation of an example of knitting a junction zone.
[0041] An example of maternity tights according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 1 and 2.
[0042] The maternity tights 10 here comprise an upper part 12, also called panties, and two legs 14, each adapted to receive one of the legs of a wearer of the tights.
[0043] Maternity tights 10 are a textile.
[0044] The textile has, for example, a right side and a wrong side.
[0045] Maternity tights 10 are, for example, entirely made of knit fabric.
[0046] Alternatively, only the upper part 12 is made in knitting, as will be described below.
[0047] The two legs 14 of the tights 10 are, for example, adapted to apply a support and / or compression effect to the legs of a person wearing the tights.
[0048] The two legs of the tights 10 are, for example, in conformity with class I, II or III of the French standard NF G30-102 "Hosiery articles - Determination of compression pressure" dated September 1984 and / or the German standard RAL-GZ 387 / 1 "Medical Compression Hosiery" dated January 2008.
[0049] The upper part 12, more particularly all the zones and regions defined below, here the whole of the tights 10, exhibit a symmetry with respect to the median sagittal plane.
[0050] The tights 10, more particularly the upper part 12, includes a waistband area 16, a ventral assembly area 18 and a ventral support area 20.
[0051] In the embodiment shown, the tights 10 further comprise, for example, at least one lumbar support zone 22, optionally.
[0052] The adhesive 10 here includes, for example, in addition at least one bonding zone 24, 26.
[0053] The adhesive 10 further comprises, here for example, at least one joining zone 28.
[0054] The belt area 16 extends above the ventral assembly area 18 in a vertical direction Z.
[0055] The terms "above", "below", "lower" and "upper" are defined with respect to this vertical direction Z in a given sense. The given direction and sense here correspond to the sense usually defined with respect to the vertical of the location, when the person wearing the tights is standing.
[0056] The ventral overall area 18 extends between the belt area 16 and the ventral support area 20 along the vertical direction Z.
[0057] The belt area 16 has a cylindrical shape.
[0058] The waistband area 16 is adapted to extend around the body, over a circumference, of a person wearing the tights, above the belly of said person.
[0059] The belt area 16 is deformable.
[0060] The belt area 16 here comprises a front region 30 and a rear region 32.
[0061] The front region 30 is intended to extend over the belly of a person wearing the tights.
[0062] The region before 30 exhibits extensibility in at least one direction, more particularly in a transverse direction, greater than or equal to 350%.
[0063] The transverse direction here corresponds to a horizontal direction when the tights are worn by a standing user.
[0064] For the remainder, the extensibility, here called total, is equal to the sum of a longitudinal extensibility along a longitudinal direction and a transverse extensibility along a transverse direction, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
[0065] Here, the longitudinal direction corresponds to the vertical direction.
[0066] The region before 30 exhibits, here, more particularly, a transverse extensibility greater than or equal to 350%.
[0067] The region before 30 is thus particularly extensible along the transverse axis of its manufacture, here of knitting.
[0068] The region before 30 is designed to adapt and evolve with the pregnant belly.
[0069] The region before 30 comprises, more specifically, two parts, more specifically an upper part 34 and a lower part 36.
[0070] The lower part 36 extends under the upper part 34 in the vertical direction Z.
[0071] More particularly, the front region 30 is divided into two at the level of an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction Z, here along the transverse direction: the whole of the front region 30 arranged above the axis is the upper part, and that below the axis is the lower part.
[0072] The upper part 34 has a surface area strictly less than that of the lower part, more particularly strictly less than half the surface area of the lower part 36.
[0073] The textile forming the upper part 34 is folded over itself, so that, in the upper part 34, the tights are double.
[0074] In the lower part 36, the textile is not folded, so that it forms a single layer.
[0075] The region before 30 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig. 12].
[0076] The upper part 34 has a knit according to a first pattern A, and the lower part 36 has a knit according to a second pattern B.
[0077] The first motif A corresponds to a plain jersey knit, that is to say a knit based jersey consisting entirely of plain rows (jersey) with stitches on each column.
[0078] The second motif B has a knit consisting of one stitch in every other column, the stitches being, alternately, every other row, on the odd needles or columns and, the other every other row, on the even needles or columns.
[0079] The region before 30 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet said "airjet" with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one to two blankets of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0080] The rear region 32 has an extensibility in at least one direction, more particularly in the transverse direction, greater than or equal to 280%.
[0081] The rear region 32 exhibits, here more particularly, a transverse extensibility greater than or equal to 280%.
[0082] The rear region 32 presents, for example, a classic construction of tights.
[0083] The rear region 32 has a double thickness, formed of an inner layer and an outer layer.
[0084] More particularly, the textile forming the rear region 32 is folded over itself and fixed in this way, so as to define an inner layer and an outer layer.
[0085] The inner layer is intended to lie against the skin of the tights wearer.
[0086] The back region is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig. 11].
[0087] The inner layer has a knit according to a first pattern I, and the outer layer has a knit according to a second pattern E.
[0088] The first motif I corresponds to a plain jersey knit, that is to say a jersey-based knit consisting entirely of plain (jersey) rows with stitches on each column.
[0089] The second motif E corresponds over three consecutive rows to a plain stockinette stitch, that is to say, a stockinette-based knit consisting entirely of plain (stockinette) rows with stitches in each column, then a row with point loads, for example on two adjacent columns every eight columns, then three consecutive rows of plain stockinette stitch, then a row with point loads in a location opposite to the row with the preceding loads, for example on two adjacent columns every eight columns, the two loads being arranged on the two columns opposite the center of the six columns not showing any charges on the row with previous charges.
[0090] The back region 32 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet said "airjet" with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one to two blankets of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0091] Alternatively, the back region is knitted with alternating elastic and non-elastic yarns.
[0092] In the rest of the pant, apart from upper part 34 and rear region 32, the textile is not folded and forms a single layer.
[0093] The ventral overall area 18 comprises a central region 38, two intermediate regions 40 and two lateral regions 42.
[0094] The central region 38 is intended to extend over the belly, more particularly so as to cover the entire belly, of a person wearing the maternity tights 10.
[0095] The two intermediate regions 40 extend on either side of the central region perpendicularly to the vertical direction Z. More particularly, each intermediate region 40 extends on a respective side of the central region 38.
[0096] The two lateral regions 42 each extend from one side of a respective intermediate region 40 opposite the central region, here perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.
[0097] The central region 38 here presents, when the tights are not worn, a rectangular shape, two sides of the rectangle being, for example, here along the vertical direction Z.
[0098] The central region 38 has a total extensibility between 600% and 1000%.
[0099] The central region 38 exhibits, here, more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility of between 250% and 450% and a transverse extensibility of between 350% and 550%.
[0100] The central region 38 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig.3].
[0101] The pattern corresponds to a plain stockinette knit, that is to say a stockinette-based knit consisting entirely of plain (stockinette) rows with stitches on each column.
[0102] The central region 38 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single, double-covered or air-jet interlaced elastic yarn with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one to two blankets made of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0103] Each intermediate region 40 is adjacent to one side of the central region, more particularly a side extending along the vertical direction Z.
[0104] Each intermediate region 40 has, for example, a circular segment shape, the adjacent side of the central region 38 comprising the chord delimiting the circular segment.
[0105] More specifically, the rope extends only over a portion of said adjacent side.
[0106] Each intermediate region 40 is intended to extend over one side of the person.
[0107] The two intermediate regions 40 are identical and have the same features.
[0108] Each intermediate region 40 has a total extensibility between 570% and 970%.
[0109] Each intermediate region 40 exhibits, here, more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility between 250% and 450% and a transverse extensibility between 320% and 520%.
[0110] Each intermediate region 40 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig. 10].
[0111] The pattern corresponds to a plain stockinette stitch, that is to say a stockinette stitch consisting entirely of plain (stockinette) rows with stitches on each column.
[0112] Each intermediate region 40 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet said "airjet" with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one to two blankets of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0113] Each lateral region 42 is adjacent to the side of the corresponding intermediate region 40 opposite the central region 38, more particularly perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.
[0114] Each lateral region 42 has, for example, a circular segment shape from which the intermediate region 40 is removed, the side of the central region 38 adjacent to the corresponding intermediate region 40 comprising the chord delimiting said circular segment.
[0115] More particularly, the cord delimiting said circular segment extends over the entire adjacent side.
[0116] Each intermediate region 40 is surrounded by the central region and one of the lateral regions.
[0117] Each lateral region 42 is adjacent to the central region 38 above and below the intermediate region 40 in the vertical direction Z.
[0118] Each lateral region 42 is intended to extend over one side of the person.
[0119] The two lateral regions 42 are identical and have the same features.
[0120] Each lateral region 42 has a total extensibility between 560% and 960%.
[0121] Each lateral region 42 exhibits, here more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility between 260% and 460% and a transverse extensibility between 300% and 500%.
[0122] Each lateral region 42 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig.5].
[0123] The pattern corresponds, one row out of two, to a plain stockinette knit, that is to say a stockinette-based knit consisting entirely of plain (stockinette) rows with stitches on each column, and, the other row out of two to a stockinette-based knit consisting of one stitch three columns out of four.
[0124] The location without a stitch is successively offset by one column.
[0125] Each lateral region 42 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet, known as "airjet", with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one or two blankets of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0126] The extensibility of the central region 38, that is to say here the sum of its longitudinal extensibility and its transverse extensibility, exhibits an extensibility strictly greater than the extensibility of the intermediate regions 40, the extensibility of the intermediate regions 40 being strictly greater than the extensibility of the lateral regions 42.
[0127] The transverse direction here corresponds to the direction of a row of the knitting.
[0128] More particularly, the transverse extensibility of the central region 38 is greater than the transverse extensibility of the intermediate regions 40, the transverse extensibility of the intermediate regions 40 being strictly greater than the transverse extensibility of the lateral regions 42.
[0129] Furthermore, the longitudinal extensibility of the central region 38 is greater than the longitudinal extensibility of the intermediate regions 40, the longitudinal extensibility of the intermediate regions 40 being strictly greater than the longitudinal extensibility of the lateral regions 42.
[0130] The yarns used for knitting are, for example, identical between the central region, the intermediate regions and the lateral regions, the evolution of extensibility being, for example, obtained by changing the mesh structure, i.e. the alternation in the direction of rows and / or columns between meshes, loads and floats.
[0131] The respective total extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral overall zone 18 are greater than or equal to 560%, the longitudinal extensibility being greater than or equal to 260% and the transverse extensibility being greater than or equal to 300%.
[0132] The ventral support zone 20 comprises a pubic region 44 arranged under the overall ventral zone 18 along the vertical direction Z, and at least two accessory regions 46 extending on either side of the pubic region 44 perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.
[0133] The ventral support area includes 20 in addition at least a rear region 48.
[0134] The pubic region 44 is intended to extend to the level of the person's pubis wearing tights 10.
[0135] The pubic region 44 is adjacent to the central region 38.
[0136] The pubic region 44 extends over the entire lower extremity along the vertical direction Z of the central region 38.
[0137] Thus, the pubic region 44 provides support under the whole of the central region 38 which accommodates the belly.
[0138] The central region 38 over the entire upper extremity along the vertical direction Z of the pubic region 44.
[0139] The support provided by the pubic region 44 is thus concentrated at the level of the support of the belly, so that it is particularly suitable and comfortable to help support the pregnancy belly, without discomfort otherwise.
[0140] The pubic region 44 here presents, when the tights are not worn, a rectangular shape, two sides of the rectangle being, for example, here along the vertical direction Z.
[0141] The upper side of the rectangle forming the pubic region 44 is common with the lower side of the central region 38.
[0142] The pubic region 44 exhibits a total extensibility between 160% and 560%.
[0143] The pubic region 44 exhibits, here, more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility between 30% and 230% and a transverse extensibility between 130% and 330%.
[0144] The pubic region 44 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig.9].
[0145] The pattern corresponds to a knitted design, presenting, for each row, only stitches in one column out of four, that is to say that, for each row, there are successively one mesh, three columns without mesh or other (load...), one mesh, three columns without mesh or other, and so on.
[0146] The pattern shown in [Fig.9] includes at least one iteration of the following two rows: first row with one stitch on a first column out of four given, and second row with one stitch on a second column out of four, said second column being in the median position between two consecutive first columns.
[0147] In other words, if in the first row the stitches are present in columns i modulo 4, then in the second row the stitches are present in columns i+2 modulo 4.
[0148] More specifically, here, the pattern shown in [Fig.9] is repeated every sixteen rows.
[0149] It comprises seven repetitions of a first rank and a second rank, as defined previously.
[0150] It further comprises, between the first and second repetitions, a row in which the stitches are present in the previous column relative to the stitches of the second row of the first repetition. In the preceding notation, the stitches are therefore present in columns i+1 modulo 4.
[0151] It further comprises, between the first and second rows of the fifth repetition, a row in which the stitches are present in the previous column relative to the stitches of the first row of said repetition. In the preceding notation, the stitches are therefore present in columns i+3 modulo 4.
[0152] The motif shown in [Fig.9] thus comprises the following rows in this order:
[0153] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0154] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0155] - meshes only on columns i+1 modulo 4,
[0156] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0157] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0158] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0159] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0160] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0161] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0162] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0163] - meshes only on columns i+3 modulo 4,
[0164] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0165] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0166] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0167] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4, and
[0168] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4.
[0169] The pubic region 44 is preferably made of an elastic thread associated with a rigid thread having a count between 17 decitex and 156 decitex.
[0170] The rigid wire is synthetic, artificial or natural.
[0171] Each accessory region 46 is adjacent to one side of the pubic region 44, more particularly one side extending along the vertical direction Z.
[0172] Each accessory region 46 presents, for example, a circular segment shape, the adjacent side of the pubic region 44 comprising the cord delimiting the circular segment.
[0173] More specifically, the rope extends along the entire length of said adjacent side.
[0174] The two annex regions 46 are identical and have the same characteristics.
[0175] Each Annex 46 region has a total extensibility between 320% and 720%.
[0176] Each Annex 46 region exhibits, here more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility between 160% and 360% and a transverse extensibility between 160% and 360%.
[0177] The pubic region 44 exhibits a total extensibility, here the sum of its longitudinal extensibility and its transverse extensibility, strictly less than the extensibility of the accessory regions 46 of the ventral support zone.
[0178] Each annex region 46 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig.8].
[0179] The pattern corresponds to a knit, presenting, for each row, only stitches one column out of four, that is to say that, for each row, there is successively one stitch, three columns without stitch or other (load...), one stitch, three columns without stitch or other, and so on.
[0180] The pattern shown in [Fig.8] includes at least one iteration of the following two rows: first row with one stitch on a first column out of four given, and second row with one stitch on a second column out of four, said second column being in the median position between two consecutive first columns.
[0181] In other words, if in the first row the stitches are present in columns i modulo 4, then in the second row the stitches are present in columns i+2 modulo 4.
[0182] More specifically, here, the pattern shown in [Fig.8] is repeated every sixteen rows.
[0183] The motif shown in [Fig.8] thus comprises the following rows in this order:
[0184] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0185] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0186] - meshes only on columns i+1 modulo 4,
[0187] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0188] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0189] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0190] - meshes only on columns i+3 modulo 4,
[0191] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0192] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0193] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0194] - meshes only on columns i+1 modulo 4,
[0195] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0196] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0197] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0198] - meshes only on columns i+3 modulo 4, and
[0199] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4.
[0200] Each Annex 46 region is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet, known as "airjet", with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one or two blankets of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0201] At least one rear region 48 extends from one side of each accessory region 46 opposite the pubic region 44, more particularly in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.
[0202] At least one rear region 48 is intended to extend over the sides and back of a person wearing the maternity tights.
[0203] Here, the tights comprise a single rear region 48, said rear region 48 connecting the sides of each adjunct region 46 opposite the pubic region 44.
[0204] The rear region 48 extends from each side of the accessory regions 46 opposite the pubic region 44, more particularly along its entire length, then on either side partially over the hips of the wearer, and finally over the back.
[0205] The dimension of the rear region 48 along the vertical direction Z is maximum in a dorsal portion, intended to extend against the back of the wearer.
[0206] At least one back region 48 has a total extensibility between 420% and 820%.
[0207] The at least one rear region 48 exhibits, here, more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility of between 220% and 420% and a transverse extensibility of between 200% and 400%.
[0208] At least one rear region 48 has an extensibility strictly greater than the extensibility of the accessory regions 46 of the ventral support zone.
[0209] Each back region 48 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig.6].
[0210] The motif comprises a first sub-motif and a second sub-motif.
[0211] Each sub-motif consists of four rows.
[0212] The first sub-motif comprises:
[0213] - over three consecutive rows, twice the following sequence: stitches on two consecutive columns, then a column without a mesh or load, then a mesh, then a column without a mesh or load, then a mesh, then a column without a mesh or load, and
[0214] - on the fourth row: once the previous sequence is complete, then stitches on all columns for which the sequence is repeated in the three preceding rows.
[0215] The second sub-motif comprises:
[0216] - over three consecutive rows, twice the previous sequence, and
[0217] - on the fourth row: stitches in all columns corresponding to the first sequence for the three previous rows, then the previous sequence.
[0218] The motif of [Fig.6] comprises, more particularly, is made up, in this order, of a given number, here six, repetitions of the first sub-motif, then of the given number of repetitions of the second sub-motif.
[0219] The back region 48 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet, called "airjet", with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one to two blankets of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0220] The total extensibility of each rear region 48 exhibits an extensibility strictly greater than the extensibility of the accessory regions 46, the extensibility of the accessory regions 46 being strictly greater than the extensibility of the pubic region 44.
[0221] In particular, the transverse extensibility of each rear region 48 is greater than the transverse extensibility of the accessory regions 46, the transverse extensibility of the accessory regions 46 being strictly greater than the transverse extensibility of the pubic region 44.
[0222] In addition, the longitudinal extensibility of each rear region 48 is greater than the longitudinal extensibility of the accessory regions 46, the longitudinal extensibility of the accessory regions 46 being strictly greater than the longitudinal extensibility of the pubic region 44.
[0223] The respective total extensibilities, the respective longitudinal extensibilities and the respective transverse extensibilities of each of the regions 44, 46, 48 of the ventral support zone 20 are, respectively, strictly less than each of the respective total, longitudinal and transverse extensibilities of each of the regions 38, 40, 42 of the overall ventral zone 18.
[0224] Thus, the ventral support zone 20 provides support under the abdomen, which also has a gradient so that the support is maximal under the abdomen, while the overall ventral zone 18 is capable of extending to accommodate the pregnant abdomen, in particular with a gradient so that the extensibility is maximal at the level of the abdomen. The ventral support zone 20 distributes the load from the pubis to the flanks.
[0225] The extensibility gradients are reversed between the ventral support zone 20 and the ventral overall zone 18.
[0226] In the presence of at least one lumbar support zone 22, at least one lumbar support zone 22 is intended to extend over the lumbar region of a person wearing the maternity tights.
[0227] The maternity tights 10 here comprise a plurality of lumbar support zones, for example an even number.
[0228] The maternity tights 10 include, for example, a given number, here two, lumbar support zones provided on each side of the wearer's spine.
[0229] The lumbar support zone or zones 22 here presents a main extension along a direction forming an angle of less than 5° with the vertical direction Z.
[0230] The lumbar support zone or zones 22 extends within the dorsal portion of the back region 48.
[0231] The lumbar support zone or zones have a dimension along the vertical Z direction greater than or equal to three-quarters of the maximum dimension along the vertical Z direction of the dorsal portion of the rear region 48.
[0232] The lumbar support zone 22 is surrounded on its entire circumference, i.e. entirely surrounded, by at least one rear region 48.
[0233] At least one lumbar support zone 22 has a longitudinal extensibility strictly less than 10% and a transverse extensibility less than 10%.
[0234] The lumbar support zone 22 thus provides support at the lumbar level.
[0235] The lumbar support zone 22 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig.7].
[0236] The pattern corresponds to a knit, presenting, for each row, only stitches one column out of four, that is to say that, for each row, there is successively one stitch, three columns without stitch or other (load...), one stitch, three columns without stitch or other, and so on.
[0237] The pattern shown in [Fig.7] includes at least one iteration of the following two rows: first row with one stitch on a first column out of four given, and second row with one stitch on a second column out of four, said second column being in the median position between two consecutive first columns.
[0238] In other words, if in the first row the stitches are present in columns i modulo 4, then in the second row the stitches are present in columns i+2 modulo 4.
[0239] More specifically, here, the pattern shown in [Fig.7] is repeated every twelve rows.
[0240] It comprises five repetitions of a first rank and a second rank, as defined previously.
[0241] It further includes, between the first and second repetitions, a row in which the stitches are present in the previous column relative to the stitches of the second row of the first repetition. In the preceding notation, the stitches are therefore present in columns i+1 modulo 4.
[0242] It further includes, between the first and second rows of the fourth repetition, a row in which the stitches are present in the previous column relative to the stitches of the first row of said repetition. In the preceding notation, the stitches are therefore present in columns i+3 modulo 4.
[0243] The pattern shown in [Fig.7] thus comprises the following rows in this order:
[0244] - stitches only on columns i modulo 4,
[0245] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0246] - meshes only on columns i+1 modulo 4,
[0247] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0248] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0249] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0250] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0251] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4,
[0252] - meshes only on columns i+3 modulo 4,
[0253] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4,
[0254] - meshes only on columns i modulo 4, and
[0255] - meshes only on columns i+2 modulo 4.
[0256] At least one lumbar support zone 22 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet said "airjet" with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one to two covers of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0257] Alternatively, at least one lumbar support zone 22 is, for example, knitted with alternating elastic and non-elastic yarns.
[0258] The at least one junction zone 28 here forms the junction between the panties and the legs.
[0259] More specifically, the upper part 12 includes a junction zone per leg.
[0260] Each junction zone 28 is designed to extend over the entire circumference of one leg of the wearer at the level of a lower end of the breeches.
[0261] At least one junction zone 28 has a total extensibility between 420% and 820%.
[0262] The at least one junction zone 28 exhibits, here, more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility between 160% and 360% and a transverse extensibility between 260% and 460%.
[0263] The or each junction zone 28 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig. 13].
[0264] The pattern includes every other row of plain stockinette stitch, with stitches in all columns, and every other row an alternation between stitches and ribs.
[0265] More particularly, the pattern includes a first row with alternately meshes and charges, for example meshes on odd columns and charges on even columns, a second row with meshes on all columns, a third row with alternately meshes and charges, the meshes being present on the columns where there were charges in the first row, for example meshes on even columns and charges on odd columns, and a fourth row with meshes on all columns.
[0266] At least one junction zone 28 is preferably knitted with elastic yarns, more particularly a single elastic yarn, double wrapped or interlaced by air jet said "airjet" with an elastic core ranging from 17 to 78 decitex and one to two blankets of synthetic or natural or artificial yarn ranging from 17 decitex to 156 decitex.
[0267] At least one connecting zone 24, 26 links the previously defined zones and regions together, more particularly in such a way as to have a panty without an opening.
[0268] Here, the adhesive includes a first bonding zone 24 extending between the rear region 32, the rear region 48 and the lateral regions 42.
[0269] The tights further comprise a second connecting zone 26 below the pubic area 44 and between the rear region 48 and the connecting zones 28.
[0270] The first connection zone 24 and the second connection zone 26 are here, for example, identical.
[0271] At least one bonding zone 24, 26 has a total extensibility between 500% and 900%.
[0272] The at least one connection zone 24, 26 exhibits, here, more particularly, a longitudinal extensibility between 250% and 450% and a transverse extensibility between 250% and 450%.
[0273] The or each linking zone 24, 26 is, for example, knitted, more particularly according to a pattern shown in [Fig.4].
[0274] The pattern comprises, more specifically is made up of, rows with stitches in every other column.
[0275] More specifically, the pattern includes an alternation of rows, in which every other row includes stitches only on even columns and every other row includes stitches only on odd columns.
[0276] In the embodiment shown, the pant 12 comprises, herein is formed, a plurality of panels F, R, L, for example a front panel F, a right rear panel R and a left rear panel L.
[0277] The panels are, for example, made separately, here by knitting, then assembled, for example by sewing.
[0278] More specifically here, the right back panel R is knitted with the right leg of the tights, and the left back panel L is knitted with the left leg of the tights.
[0279] The right back panel R and the left back panel L are here adapted to extend together against the sides and back of the person wearing the tights.
[0280] The right rear panel R and the left rear panel L are here each intended to extend against the flank, respectively right or left, and the side, respectively right or left, of the back of a person wearing the tights.
[0281] The right rear panel R and the left rear panel L are symmetrical to each other.
[0282] The front panel F here includes the front region 30 of the belt area 16, the central region 38 of the ventral overall area 18 and the pubic region 44 of the ventral support area 20, and here further a portion of the second connecting area 26.
[0283] The R, L panels comprise the rear region 32 of the belt area 16, the intermediate regions 40 and the lateral regions 42 of the ventral overall area 18, and the adjunct regions 46 of the ventral support area 20, and herein further the rear region 48 of the ventral support area 20, at least one lumbar support area 22, at least one junction area 28, the first linking area 24 and a portion of the second linking area 26.
[0284] An example of a manufacturing process for maternity tights will now be described.
[0285] The manufacturing process includes a knitting step for each of the panels as defined above, more particularly for the front panel F, the right rear panel R, and the left rear panel L, and a step for assembling the panels together, here by making, for example by sewing.
[0286] The right rear panel R and left rear panel L are here each knitted with the corresponding leg.
[0287] More specifically, the front panel F is positioned between the left rear panel L and the right rear panel R, so that each of the right or left rear panels extends from one side of the front panel F.
[0288] The right rear panel R and the left rear panel L are assembled opposite the front panel F, more particularly here from the upper end to the bottom of the corresponding junction area 28.
[0289] The front panel F, the right rear panel R and the left rear panel F are each knitted in one piece, without assembly.
[0290] More specifically, each panel is manufactured on a simple cylindrical circular knitting machine.
[0291] Such tights, thanks to the stretch in the overall ventral area, adapt to the pregnant belly and also gradually offer more support on the sides. The ventral support zone provides support for the belly and distributes this support gradually.
Claims
Demands
1. Maternity tights (10), comprising a waistband area (16), a ventral support area (18), and a ventral support area (20), the waistband area (16) being deformable and extending over the ventral support area (18) in a vertical direction (Z), the ventral support area (18) comprising a central region (38), two intermediate regions (40), and two lateral regions (42), the two intermediate regions (40) extending on either side of the central region (38) in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z), the two lateral regions (42) each extending from one side of a respective intermediate region (40) opposite the central region (38), the central region (38) having a strictly greater extensibility than the extensibility of the intermediate regions (40), the extensibility of the intermediate regions (40) being strictly greater to an extensibility of the lateral regions (42),the central region (38) being intended to extend over the belly of a person wearing the maternity tights (10), the ventral overall zone (18) extending between the waistband zone (16) and the ventral support zone (20) in the vertical direction (Z), the ventral support zone (20) comprising a pubic region (44) arranged under the ventral overall zone (18) in the vertical direction (Z), and at least two accessory regions (46) extending on either side of the pubic region (44) perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z), the pubic region (44) having an extensibility strictly less than the extensibility of the accessory regions (46) of the ventral support zone (20), the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral support zone (20) being strictly less than each of the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral overall zone (18).
2. Maternity tights according to claim 1, wherein each stretch is equal to the sum of a longitudinal stretch along a longitudinal direction and a transverse stretch along a transverse direction, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
3. Maternity tights according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral overall area (18) are greater than or equal to 260% in any direction.
4. Maternity tights according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the respective extensibilities of each of the regions of the ventral support area (20) are strictly less than 420% in any direction.
5. Maternity tights according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising at least one lumbar support zone (22), the at least one lumbar support zone (22) being intended to extend opposite the lumbar region of a person wearing the maternity tights (10), the at least one lumbar support zone (22) having an extensibility strictly less than 10% in any direction.
6. Maternity tights according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ventral support area (20) further comprises at least one rear region (48), the at least one rear region (48) extending from one side of each adjunct region (46) opposite the pubic region (44), the at least one rear region (48) being intended to extend over the sides and back of a person wearing the maternity tights (10), the at least one rear region (48) having an extensibility strictly greater than the extensibility of the adjunct regions (46) of the ventral support area (20).
7. Maternity tights according to claims 5 and 6, wherein the lumbar support area or areas (22) is surrounded around its entire circumference by at least one back region (48).
8. Maternity tights according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the waistband area (16) includes a front region (30) having an extensibility along the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z) greater than or equal to 350%.
9. Maternity tights according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the maternity tights (10) are made of knit fabric.
10. A method for manufacturing maternity tights (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a step of knitting a front panel (F), a step of knitting a straight back panel (R), a step of knitting a panel rear left (L) and an assembly step of the front panel (F), the rear right panel (R) and the rear left panel (L), the front panel (F) comprising a front region (30) of the waist area (16), the central region (38) of the ventral assembly area (18) and the pubic region (44) of the ventral support area (20), the rear right and left panels (R, L) comprising a rear region (32) of the waist area (16), the intermediate regions (40) and the lateral regions (42) of the ventral assembly area (18), and the adjunct regions (46) of the ventral support area (20).