U.S. patent application number 09/924612 was filed with the patent office on 2002-02-21 for dual-layered seamless sports bra and camisole.
Invention is credited to Levinson, Michael S., Yeung, Amy Patricia.
Application Number | 20020022433 09/924612 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26918597 |
Filed Date | 2002-02-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020022433 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yeung, Amy Patricia ; et
al. |
February 21, 2002 |
Dual-layered seamless sports bra and camisole
Abstract
Disclosed is a seamless support garment for use in the
active-wear industry and method of making the same. In particular,
the present invention is directed to a dual-layered seamless sports
bra and camisole tailored for exercise, movement, and other
moderate to strenuous physical activities. Furthermore, the
invention provides a system of support for a breast or breasts
during exercise that is comfortable, non-abrasive, stylish and cost
effective to manufacturer.
Inventors: |
Yeung, Amy Patricia; (San
Diego, CA) ; Levinson, Michael S.; (Del Mar,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Holly Logue Prutz
Scott Chambers
ARNOLD & PORTER
555 12th Street, N.W.
Washington
DC
20004-1206
US
|
Family ID: |
26918597 |
Appl. No.: |
09/924612 |
Filed: |
August 9, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60224307 |
Aug 10, 2000 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
450/70 ;
450/93 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41C 3/0057 20130101;
A41C 3/0014 20130101; A41B 2400/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
450/70 ;
450/93 |
International
Class: |
A41C 003/00 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A support garment comprising: a first material layer; and a
second material layer, wherein said support garment is manufactured
without seams.
2. A support garment according to claim 1, wherein said first
material layer comprises: (a) a plurality of molded cups; (b) at
least one uplift panel; and (c) a flexible section of material
positioned in between said plurality of molded cups.
3. A support garment according to claim 2 wherein said second
material layer further comprises a ventilation panel.
4. A support garment according to claim 2, wherein said first
material layer further comprises a ventilation panel.
5. A support garment according to claim 2, wherein said first layer
further comprises a wide ribbed band positioned beneath said
plurality of molded cups.
6. A support garment according to claim 5, wherein said first layer
further comprises a wide hem positioned beneath said wide ribbed
band.
7. A support garment according to claim 1, wherein said first
material layer comprises at least one element selected from the
group consisting of spandex, cotton, and nylon.
8. A support garment according to claim 7, wherein said second
material layer comprises at least one element selected from the
group consisting of spandex, cotton, and nylon.
9. A support garment according to claim 8, wherein said second
material layer is identical to said first material layer.
10. A seamless garment comprising: (a) an outer material layer; and
(b) an inner material layer wherein said inner material layer
further comprises means to provide support to at least one breast
during activity.
11. The seamless garment of claim 10, wherein said outer material
layer further comprises means to ventilate said inner material
layer during activity.
12. The seamless garment of claim 11, wherein said inner material
layer further comprises means to ventilate skin during
activity.
13. A method of making a dual-layered seamless garment comprising:
(a) knitting a seamless inner layer of material; (b) knitting a
seamless outer layer of material; and (c) adhering said inner layer
of material to said outer layer of material.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein said step of knitting said
inner layer of material further comprises the step of providing
maximum support areas, providing medium support areas, and
providing soft support areas.
15. A system of providing support during activity comprising a
first material layer coupled to a second material layer, wherein
said system is manufactured without seams.
16. The system of claim 15, further comprising: (a) at least one
molded cup coupled to said first material layer; (b) at least one
uplift panel coupled to said molded cup; and (c) at least one
flexible material section coupled to said at least one molded
cup.
17. The system of claim 16 further comprising a ribbed support
system coupled to said first material layer and to said at least
one molded cup.
18. The system of claim 17, further comprising a ventilation panel
coupled to said first material layer.
19. The system of claim 17 further comprising a ventilation panel
coupled to said second material layer.
20. The system of claim 15, wherein said first material layer
consists of at least one element selected from the group consisting
of spandex, cotton, or nylon.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein said second material layer
consists of at least one element selected from the group consisting
of spandex, cotton, or nylon.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein said second material layer is
identical to said first material layer.
23. The system of claim 15, further comprising a wide hem coupled
to said first material layer and said second material layer.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to Provisional Application
No. 60/224,307 filed Aug. 10, 2000, which is herein incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERAL-SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The invention relates to women's active apparel and sports
equipment. More specifically, a seamless sports bra is disclosed
having a unique construction that provides ample support for
moderate to strenuous physical activity while also providing
nonabrasive comfort and style.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Support wear for women is known in the art. The bra and
camisole have been standard items in the women's clothing industry
for many years. As women's athletics has become increasingly
popular, an industry has grown in an effort to meet the needs of
female athletes. U.S. Pat. No. 5,996,120, the entirety of which is
herein incorporated by reference, discloses a single layer seamless
liner for a swimsuit and support system; however, this does not
provide sufficient support for other activities. U.S. Pat. No.
6,068,538, the entirety of which is herein incorporated by
reference, discloses a wraparound sports bra for supporting the
breasts and back muscles, but is not dual-layered or seamless.
[0005] Generally, existing every-day wear, seamless bras are
manufactured using a circular knitting technology. Garments
produced in this manner typically fall into the categories of
innerwear and lingerie. Garments manufactured with this technique
lack a support structure to allow for comfortable exercise and
movement. Current seamless bras made using circular knitting
technology are designed and created with aesthetics as the primary
goal and do not evidence the support necessary for active
sports.
[0006] On the other hand, most sport bras are designed by using
cut-and-sew sections of fabric to lift and shape the breasts. Cups
are created with molded technology and are sewn into the paneled
bra structure. Additional support may be provided by sewing
underwire into the cups. While they provide support, sport bras of
this common construction can be uncomfortable due to seams inherent
in the cut-and-sew design as well as the underwire. Moreover, these
bras provide uneven support that concentrates pressure on the chest
area directly beneath the breasts and on the shoulders where the
straps hold the bra up and in place.
[0007] It has been many years since manufacturers first designed
the sport bra as a garment for women to use while they exercise.
Initially, manufacturers thought that women would feel more
comfortable exercising if they were able to reduce the vertical
displacement of the breast and therefore eliminate the "bounce
factor." After many modifications to the to the garment, women
still complain that they can't get enough support or the bra digs
into their shoulders and is too tight around the ribs.
[0008] The breast is essentially a "sophisticated sweat gland"
considered a solid structure with a gelatin-like consistency. It is
composed of fatty lobules with sebaceous glands, ducts and
connective tissue. The arreolar area contains dense nerve
innervation and the vascular supply enters through the anterior
shoulder, axilla and lower lateral breast area. The only muscle
found in the breast is in the ductal system of the nipple and has
an erectile function. The breasts sit on top of the bony thorax
cage and over the pectoralis muscle group. Therefore, the breast
tissue is exposed and when compressed, irritated or subject to
contact, can become irritated, inflamed, bruised and chafed.
[0009] In analyzing garment construction, there are elements that
directly oppose the natural physiology of the breast. The areas of
greatest vascularization are also the areas where shoulder straps
exert pressure or rib bands compress tissue. The sensitive nipple
area is often compressed and subject to seams and fabric ridges.
The lateral breast has the highest accumulation of fatty tissue and
is exposed to compression and pinching from the lateral panels of
the garment. A better match between physiology and garment
construction may ease some breast problems.
[0010] Accordingly, a sports bra that is both fashionable and
functional is desired by the women's fitness apparel industry. The
present invention provides women's support wear that addresses the
needs for an aesthetically pleasing, comfortable, non-irritating
and supportive bra. The present invention is directed to two
embodiments, a bra and a camisole, but the technology described in
this application can be used in other garments. Thus, the
description in terms of a bra or camisole is not limiting.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention provides for a seamless women's
support garment created by utilizing an innovative two-layer
construction system. The dual layers are preferably, but not
necessarily, knitted together using a Santoni.TM. knitting machine.
In a preferred embodiment, the inner layer includes molded cups,
lateral breast uplift panels and inner mesh ventilation panels. The
camisole embodiment incorporates these features as well as an
elastomeric bra liner that surrounds the wearer. Accordingly, an
object of the present invention is to provide a seamless support
garment that is aesthetically pleasing and sturdy enough to permit
comfortable athletic movement. Another object of the invention is
to provide a method of making a dual-layered seamless garment that
will support a person's breasts comfortably during both light and
strenuous exercise as well as other activity. A further object of
the invention is to present a system of providing support during
activity comprising a seamless garment having two material layers.
In a preferred embodiment, the invention also provides a seamless
support structure as defined above wherein the:
[0012] (i) maximum support stitch is used under the bust and on the
sides of the bust;
[0013] (ii) medium support stitch is used above the bust, over the
bust, and on the back of the garment; and
[0014] (iii) soft support stitch is used between the breasts.
[0015] Other and further objects of the invention, together with
additional features of novelty pertinent thereto, will appear in
view of the drawings and in the course of the following
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The disclosed aspects of the present invention may be best
understood by reference to the accompanying drawings of a preferred
embodiment that form a part of the specification and are to be read
in conjunction therewith; and in which like reference numerals and
reference letters are used to indicate like parts in the various
views:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a front view of the inside layer of the sport bra
of a preferred embodiment present invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the inside layer of the sport bra
of a preferred embodiment present invention.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a front view of the outside layer of the sport bra
of a preferred embodiment present invention;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the outside layer of the sport bra
of a preferred embodiment present invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a front view of the inside layer of the sport
camisole of a preferred embodiment present invention;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the inside layer of the sport
camisole of a preferred embodiment present invention;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a front view of the outside layer of the sport
camisole of a preferred embodiment present invention;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a rear view of the outside layer of the sport
camisole of a preferred embodiment present invention;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a detailed expanded view of FIG. 1 showing aspects
of a preferred embodiment preferred embodiments of the sport bra
embodiment; and
[0026] FIG. 10 is a detailed expanded view of FIG. 5 showing
aspects of a preferred embodiment preferred embodiments of the
sport camisole embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0027] As used herein, the term "breast" is preferably defined as
either of two protuberant glandular organs situated on the front of
the chest or thorax in a human. In a most preferred embodiment, the
human is a female and the breast (or breasts in the plurality) are
glandular milk-producing organs and normally function producing
milk only during the period of lactation following pregnancy.
Furthermore, a breast may or may not be surgically altered.
[0028] As used herein, the term "bust" is preferably defined as the
portion of a garment covering the upper area of a human torso, but
especially the breasts.
[0029] In the past, sports bras have featured technology that
depends on using cut and sew panels. These panels utilize sections
of fabric cut to a specific form to surround the breast, lift, and
shape it. Heat-molded cups (i.e., molded technology) are sewn into
the panel to provide support for the breast during vigorous
activity. Past embodiments of the sports bra have generally used
Lycra.RTM. or nylon fabric for a compression effect to provide
additional support to the breasts. In some cases, underwire support
can be sewn into the cups of a cut and sew paneled bra where even
greater support is required. Finally, sports bras of the past have
also featured only one layer of a thick Lycra.RTM., cotton, nylon
fabric or some blend of these fabrics.
[0030] Sports bras featured in the prior art have generally been
designed with functionality in mind. Attempts to make a fashionable
sports bra have relied on varying color schemes or changing some
minor aspect of the exterior design. Another problem of past sports
bras is chafing of the delicate skin in the aorta and underarm
areas of the breasts. Moreover, when thicker fabrics are use to
provide additional support, they can prevent sweat from being
properly drawn away from the skin, resulting in uncomfortable
rashes on users with more sensitive skin. Finally, underwire
designs and sports bras that are constructed with a thick elastic
band to provide greater breast support constrict the area of the
chest directly beneath the breasts. This can cause painful rashes,
scratching, and pinching in this area. Moreover, in underwire
designs, the wire may bend out of shape with regular wear
shortening the useful life of the attire, and may penetrate the
fabric and scratch or poke the user.
[0031] Seamless bras have become available recently in the
innerwear/lingerie industry. These products feature circular
knitting technology that eliminates the need for an obvious seam.
These products have enjoyed widespread popularity with female users
because of the level of comfort and style they provide. Their
popularity is also due in part to their aesthetic appeal. However,
these seamless bras do not provide the necessary support for
vigorous athletic activity. Indeed, it is not clear if the prior
art bras could even hold up to such activity.
[0032] To date, there has not been a seamless sport bra introduced
on the market for active use. The technology used to produce the
seamless bras and liners of the innerwear industry has been limited
to a single layer design because past sewing techniques have been
unable to incorporate a second layer into the seamless design. The
inventors recognized that a second layer is necessary to provide
the appropriate amount of breast support during exercise. The
inventors discovered that a double layer also permits some movement
between the layers. This ability permits the double layer material
to be more adaptable to shape and movement than single layer that
was of similar support. Moreover, it was discovered that the double
layer permitted unexpectedly better wicking of moisture such as
perspiration. This better ability to keep the breasts dry explains
some of the surprising comfort that is associated with the bras of
this invention.
[0033] Two embodiments of a dual-layered seamless support garment
are disclosed. They include novel aspects, which are improvements
over the current states of sports bras and seamless innerwear. The
disclosed embodiments are exemplary only and those of ordinary
skill in the art will readily ascertain alternative implementations
of the current invention.
[0034] One embodiment of the invention may be in the form of a
sports bra. The design shown in FIGS. 1-4 and 9 demonstrates an
innovative 2-layer construction system applied to a sport bra
embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 3 and 4 show the front
and back views, respectively, of the outer layer 200 of the present
invention. This layer is a smooth layer composed of a single or
combination of materials that are known in the art. In a preferred
embodiment, this layer is composed of at least one material
selected from the group consisting of spandex, cotton, nylon, and
comparable materials. In a more preferred embodiment, this layer is
composed of a duality of materials selected from the group
consisting of spandex, cotton, nylon, and comparable materials. The
ratio of these materials may be any combination known in the art,
but will preferably be a ratio of about 50%-50%, more preferably
will be of about 80%-20%, even more preferably will be of about
90%-10%, and most preferably will be of about 93%-7% of
non-stretching material compared to stretching.
[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the duality of materials will be
selected from the group consisting of nylon and spandex
(Tactel.RTM. Nylon and Lycra.RTM. are disclosed in the Example). A
ratio for these materials of about 50%-50% is preferred, a ratio
for these materials of about 80%-20% is more preferred, a ratio for
these materials of about 90%-10% is even more preferred, and a
ratio for these materials of about 93%-7% is most preferred.
[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the back
210 and front shoulders of the outer layer 200 of material, shown
in FIG. 4, comprises an outer mesh ventilation panel 212. The mesh
ventilation panel 212 is a section of woven or knit fabric that has
an open texture and evenly spaced holes. In this embodiment, the
mesh ventilation panel allows an inner layer of material 100 to
have direct access to the outside environment, facilitating heat
transfer away from the user and allowing sweat absorbed by the
inner layer to evaporate more quickly. This helps to keep the
wearer of the garment cool and dry. The mesh ventilation panel 212
may be created using a singular, duality, or plurality of
materials, selected from the group and in the combination(s) and
ratios described above.
[0037] FIGS. 1, 2, and 9 show the inner layer 100 of the present
invention. FIGS. 1 and 2 demonstrate the front and back views,
respectively, while FIG. 9 portrays a more detailed view of FIG. 1.
In a preferred embodiment, this layer is composed of at least one
material selected from the group consisting of spandex, cotton,
nylon, or comparable materials. In a more preferred embodiment,
this layer is composed of a duality of materials selected from the
group consisting of spandex, cotton, nylon, or comparable
materials. The ratio of these materials may be any combination
known in the art.
[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the duality of materials will be
selected from the group consisting of nylon and spandex
(Tactel.RTM. Nylon and Lycra.RTM. are disclosed in the example). A
ratio for these materials of about 50%-50% is preferred, a ratio
for these materials of about 80%-20% is more preferred, a ratio for
these materials of about 90%-10% is even more preferred, and a
ratio for these materials of about 93%-7% is most preferred.
[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, both the
inner and outer layers, and all subparts thereof, will be comprised
of the same material or combination of materials to provide a
consistent texture and touch to the user.
[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the inner layer comprises inner
mesh ventilation panels and an engineered bra, with molded cups and
lateral breast uplift panels. The inner mesh ventilation panel 130
functions as described for the outer mesh ventilation panel. In the
preferred embodiment, the mesh ventilation panel may be created
using a singular, duality, or plurality of materials, selected from
the group and in the combination(s) and ratios described above.
[0041] Items 104, 106, and 110 of FIG. 9 portray the engineered bra
of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Item 104
portrays the molded cups of the present invention. The molded cups
are sections of material knitted to be close fitting to the
breast(s) of the user of the present invention and provide a medium
level of support over the bust. The shape of the cup 104 follows
the shape of the breast and provides an amount of flexibility
sufficient to allow the breast to maintain a comfortable position
during periods of activity or exercise.
[0042] Item 106 portrays the lateral breast uplift panels of a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. A lateral breast
uplift panel is a section of material which provides maximum
support for a breast and is positioned along the lower outside edge
of each of the molded cups, i.e., on the side of the bust as
depicted in FIG. 9. The lateral breast uplift panels of the present
invention function to support and hold a breast in a comfortable
position during activity or exercise.
[0043] Item 110 portrays a flexible section of material used in a
preferred embodiment of the present invention as part of the
engineered bra. This section of material is located between the
breasts, i.e., in the center of the bust, and attaches to each of
the molded cups. This section is sufficiently flexible to allow for
breasts of varying sizes and shapes to occupy the engineered bra
and to adjust the position of the bra and/or breast(s) such that
the wearer of the garment is comfortable during activity or
exercise. Furthermore, the flexibility of item 110 allows for
changes in the size of the breast(s) due to weight gain, weight
loss, water retention, or pregnancy/lactation.
[0044] Item 102 portrays a preferred embodiment of the present
invention wherein a section of material provides medium support
above the bust and in the back of the garment. In an alternative
embodiment, a medium support area may be provided over the
shoulders of the wearer as well. The area depicted by item 102 is a
means of additional support in the garment.
[0045] The combination of the two layers provides the necessary
support of the bust for moderate to strenuous activity.
Furthermore, the dual layered design of the present invention adds
a level of modesty not found in the single layer seamless
construction used for innerwear and lingerie. During exercise,
sweat, skin irritation, and changes in skin temperature can cause
the nipple area of the breasts to become erect. Single layer
seamless designs and even the traditional cut and sew panels that
utilize only one layer of material do not provide adequate coverage
to minimize the visual effects of these changes. However, the dual
layer design of the present invention provides for more modest
coverage of these areas.
[0046] In addition, the inclusion of a dual-layered design negates
the necessity to use thicker materials to support and constrict the
breasts. This allows for sweat to be drawn away from the skin
faster than in traditional sports bra models that use a thick,
single layer of material. Sweat is drawn through the first layer of
material and into the second, where it is exposed to the
surrounding air and quickly evaporates causing less skin irritation
in the wearer. Moreover, the lack of seams precludes those seams
from absorbing moisture and salt from perspiration. This adds to
the low level of irritation from the bra.
[0047] A preferred embodiment of the present invention also
features a maximum support, wide ribbed band for added comfort.
FIGS. 1, 2 and 9 show the wide ribbed band of the present
invention, but its functionality and construction is best portrayed
by item 108 of FIG. 9. The wide ribbed band is a section of
material positioned beneath the breasts, or in a preferred
embodiment positioned below the engineered bra, and is composed of
the same materials used to construct the inner layer of the present
invention. Its function is to provide maximum support under the
bust and to give structure to the garment. Unlike simple elastic
bands wrapped around the upper torso found in some sports bras,
this rib support system provides diffuse pressure over a wider area
of skin. It supplies more support for the breasts without
constricting movement or irritating the skin.
[0048] The two layers of material used in the present invention are
adhered together at the hems, shown in FIGS. 1-4 and 9. In one
embodiment of the present invention, there is a wide hem 120
located directly beneath the ribbed support system. Unlike the
elastic bands found in traditional sports bras, the hem 120 is
seamless and offers more flexibility, comfort and freedom of
movement than is found in the prior art. In one embodiment, this
hem is used along all edges of the garment; in an alternative
embodiment, soft elastic edging may be used to adhere the two
material layers, eliminating the need for either seams or an
elastic band. Sports bras that have seams can have the effect of
cutting into the skin around the shoulders and underarm. The
seamless construction of the bra eliminates chafing, pinching, and
constricting of the delicate skin that surrounds the breasts.
[0049] Moreover, the lack of seams allows the bra to provide
continuous, even and uninterrupted support throughout the upper
torso and especially in the breast area. Because this pressure is
diffused throughout the bra rather than concentrated in areas where
seams or elastic would normally be found, the invention can provide
support that is consistent throughout the garment.
[0050] The design of the seamless sports bra itself generates more
support than designs found in the prior art. The molded cups and
ribbed support system in the bra provide excellent all-around
support that results in less movement or bounce of the breasts
during exercise. The elasticity of the design provides more than
ample pressure on the breasts to restrict vertical movement while
maintaining sufficient flexibility to enhance comfort.
[0051] Another embodiment of the invention is in the form of a
Sport Camisole. The sport camisole embodiment of the present
invention features all the innovations, designs, and advantages of
the sport bra embodiment and incorporates all of the above
definitions, descriptions, and limitations herein. The dual-layered
sport camisole is depicted in FIGS. 5-8 and 10. All of the numbered
elements shown in FIG. 10 correspond to the like numbered elements
of FIG. 9 and so depict the features of the preferred embodiments
of the sport camisole of the present invention.
[0052] The sport camisole embodiment of the present invention
further features an inner 360.degree. bra liner that provides the
functions and features of the inner layer of the corresponding
sport bra embodiments. As used herein, a liner is a supplementary
layer of material over the bust of the wearer, which functions as a
second material layer in this embodiment of the present invention.
In alternative embodiments, the bra liner may or may not feature
the engineered bra and ribbed support systems of the preferred
embodiments of the sport bra.
[0053] The bra liner is adhered to the outer layer of material
preferably along the shoulders, underarms, and/or back of the
garment. In one embodiment, soft elastic edging may be used to
adhere the two material layers together. Furthermore, the bra liner
may or may not be adhered to the outer layer of material at the hem
located directly beneath the bust (or attached at the ribbed
support system in a preferred embodiment).
[0054] The sport camisole may or may not include wide shoulder
straps. As shown in FIG. 10, the camisole embodiment may include
spaghetti straps or use adjustable soft elastic straps to secure
the garment over the shoulders of the wearer. It is contemplated
that either embodiment (i.e., the sport bra or sport camisole) may
eliminate the use of shoulder straps altogether and rely only on
the exceptional support provided throughout the rest of the garment
to adhere the article of clothing to the bust of the wearer.
[0055] Finally, the sport camisole embodiment includes the
additional feature of a modest cover over the midriff and tummy of
the wearer. This embodiment features additional light support over
these areas to keep them in place during activity. An alternative
embodiment may offer a loosely fitting cover over the tummy of the
wearer. In one embodiment, the inner layer of the sport camisole
may extend below the bust and over the tummy of the wearer. In one
embodiment, a flat finish hem 140 may also be included at the base
of the garment.
[0056] Both the sport bra and sport camisole embodiments of the
present invention may be worn alone or underneath other materials
to provide a smooth, attractive silhouette of the wearer.
EXAMPLE
[0057] With regards to FIGS. 9 and 10, the following types of
stitches may be used in the different areas of the inner layer of
the garment in a preferred embodiment according to the present
invention: Maximum support areas (indicated as 106 and 108 in the
figures) used for the following areas of the liner: under the bust
and on the sides of the bust.
[0058] Suggested pattern of stitch:
[0059] 106=1.times.2 in 4 feeds, plain stitch in 4 feeds.
[0060] 108=2.times.2 in 4 feeds, plain stitch in 4 feeds.
[0061] Body: type of yarn: 20 Denier Spandex single covered with 15
diner, 7 filament Nylon (8 feeds) 2 ply 70 diner, 68 filament Nylon
(12 feeds).
[0062] Hem: type of yarn: 360 denier Spandex double covered with 20
denier, 7 filament Nylon, (2 feeds).
[0063] Medium support areas (indicated as 102 and 104 in the
figures) used for the following areas of the liner: above the bust,
over the bust, and the back.
[0064] Suggested pattern of stitch:
[0065] 102=2.times.2 in 8 feeds.
[0066] 104=plain stitch in 8 feeds.
[0067] Body: type of yarn: 20 denier Spandex single covered with 15
denier, 7 filament Nylon (8 feeds) 2 ply 70 denier, 68 filament
Nylon (12 feeds).
[0068] Hem: type of yarn: 360 denier Spandex double covered with 20
denier, 7 filament Nylon, (2 feeds).
[0069] Soft support areas (indicated as 110 in the figures) used
for the following areas of the liner: between the breasts (center
of the bust).
[0070] Suggested pattern of stitch:
[0071] 110=2.times.4 repeat 8, feeds.
[0072] Body: type of yarn: 20 denier Spandex single covered with 15
denier, 7 filament Nylon (8 feeds) 2 ply 70 denier, 68 filament
Nylon (12 feeds).
[0073] Hem: type of yarn: 360 denier Spandex doubled covered with
20 denier, 7 filament Nylon, (2 feeds).
[0074] From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is
one well adapted to attain all ends and objects here and above set
forth, together with other advantages which are obvious and which
are inherent to the structure.
[0075] It will be understood that certain features and
subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without further
reference to other features and subcombinations. This is
contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. Since many
possible embodiments may be made of the invention without departing
from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter
herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be
interpreted as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.
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