U.S. patent application number 11/104479 was filed with the patent office on 2006-10-19 for bicycle riding apparel.
This patent application is currently assigned to Shimano Inc.. Invention is credited to Shinpei Okajima.
Application Number | 20060230490 11/104479 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37076474 |
Filed Date | 2006-10-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060230490 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Okajima; Shinpei |
October 19, 2006 |
Bicycle riding apparel
Abstract
A cycling jersey is described that includes a front panel, a
back panel, symmetrical sleeve panels and a pair of non-stretching
portions. The back panel is coupled to portions of the front panel.
The symmetrical sleeve panels are coupled to respective portions of
the front and back panels. Each sleeve panel defines a portion of a
shoulder covering area of the cycling jersey. The non-stretching
portions are fixed to respective sleeve panels. The non-stretching
portions extend from the front panel toward the back panel and at
least partially over the shoulder covering area of the cycling
jersey. The front panel, the back panel and the sleeve panels are
formed of respective materials having a first level of elasticity.
The non-stretching portions have a second level of elasticity. The
first level of elasticity is elastic and the second level of
elasticity is generally non-elastic.
Inventors: |
Okajima; Shinpei; (Izumi
City, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GLOBAL IP COUNSELORS, LLP
1233 20TH STREET, NW, SUITE 700
WASHINGTON
DC
20036-2680
US
|
Assignee: |
Shimano Inc.
Sakai
JP
|
Family ID: |
37076474 |
Appl. No.: |
11/104479 |
Filed: |
April 13, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/77 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 13/0015 20130101;
A41D 2600/104 20130101; A41D 1/04 20130101; A41D 31/18
20190201 |
Class at
Publication: |
002/077 |
International
Class: |
A41B 1/00 20060101
A41B001/00 |
Claims
1. A cycling jersey comprising: a front panel; a back panel coupled
to portions of the front panel; a pair of symmetrical sleeve panels
coupled to respective portions of the front panel and the back
panel, each sleeve panel defining at least a portion of a shoulder
covering area of the cycling jersey; and a pair of non-stretching
portions, one non-stretching portion for a right side of the
cycling jersey and one non-stretching portion for a left side of
the cycling jersey, the non-stretching portions being fixed to at
least the sleeve panels, the non-stretching portions extending in a
direction generally from the front panel toward the back panel and
extending at least partially over the shoulder covering area of the
cycling jersey; wherein the front panel, the back panel and the
sleeve panels are formed of respective materials having a first
level of elasticity, the non-stretching portions having a second
level of elasticity, the first level of elasticity being elastic
and the second level of elasticity being generally non-elastic.
2. The cycling jersey as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
non-stretching portions comprise respective stitching seams that
fix respective portions of the sleeve panels to the respective
portions of the front panel.
3. The cycling jersey as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
non-stretching portions comprise respective non-stretching panels
fixed to and overlaying portions of respective of ones of the
sleeve panels.
4. The cycling jersey as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
non-stretching portions comprise respective non-stretching panels
having first and second sides, a first side of the non-stretching
panels being fixed to respective portions of the sleeve panels and
the second side of the non-stretching panels being fixed to the
respective portions of the front panel.
5. The cycling jersey as set forth in claim 1, wherein the front
panel is formed with respective first sleeve mounting portions and
first front-rear mounting portions, each of the first sleeve
mounting portions having curved edges, and the first front-rear
mounting portions extend downward from respective first sleeve
mounting portions; the back panel is formed with left and right
second sleeve mounting portions and left and right second
front-rear mounting portions, the second sleeve mounting portions
each having sloping curved edges, and the second front-rear
mounting portions each extend downward from respective ones of the
second sleeve mounting portions and are coupled to respective ones
of the first front-rear mounting portions of the front panel; and
the sleeve panels further each include a sleeve edge portion, first
and second sleeve forming portions, a first stitching portion and a
second stitching portion, the first and second sleeve forming
portions coupled to each other to at least partially define a
sleeve of the bicycle jersey, the first stitching portion being
located between the first forming sleeve portion and the second
stitching portion, the first stitching portion of each of the
sleeve panels being coupled to respective first sleeve mounting
portions of the front panel, the second stitching portion of each
of the sleeve panels extending from the second sleeve forming
portion and being stitched to respective second sleeve mounting
portions of the back panel.
6. The cycling jersey as set forth in claim 5, wherein the
non-stretching portions comprise stitching seams that couple
respective ones of the first stitching portion of each of the
sleeve panels to respective ones of the first sleeve mounting
portions of the front panel.
7. The cycling jersey as set forth in claim 5, wherein the
non-stretching portions comprise non-stretching panels, each
non-stretching panel having first and second stitching portions,
the first stitching portion of the non-stretching panel being fixed
to the first stitching portion a respective one of the sleeve
panels, and the second stitching portion of the non-stretching
panel being fixed to the first sleeve mounting portion of the front
panel.
8. The cycling jersey as set forth in claim 5, wherein the
non-stretching portions comprise non-stretching panels fixed to and
overlaying respective portions of the sleeve panels.
9. The cycling jersey according to claim 6, further comprising: a
pair of side panels, each panel having a back panel attachment
portion and a front panel attachment portion, respective back panel
attachment portions of the side panels being connected to
respective second front-rear mounting portions of the back panel,
and respective front panel attachment portions being connected to
respective first front-rear mounting portions of the front panel,
the side panels coupling the back panel to the front panel.
10. The cycling jersey according to claim 9, wherein each of the
side panels further includes sleeve forming portions, respective
sleeve forming portions of the side panels being connected to
respective first and second sleeve forming portions of the sleeve
panels.
11. The cycling jersey according to claim 7, further comprising: a
pair of side panels, each panel having a back panel attachment
portion and a front panel attachment portion, respective back panel
attachment portions of the side panels being connected to
respective second front-rear mounting portions of the back panel,
and respective front panel attachment portions being connected to
respective first front-rear mounting portions of the front panel,
the side panels coupling the back panel to the front panel.
12. The cycling jersey according to claim 11, wherein each of the
side panels further includes sleeve forming portions, respective
sleeve forming portions of the side panels being connected to
respective first and second sleeve forming portions of the sleeve
panels.
13. The cycling jersey according to claim 8, further comprising: a
pair of side panels, each panel having a back panel attachment
portion and a front panel attachment portion, respective back panel
attachment portions of the side panels being connected to
respective second front-rear mounting portions of the back panel,
and respective front panel attachment portions being connected to
respective first front-rear mounting portions of the front panel,
the side panels coupling the back panel to the front panel.
14. The cycling jersey according to claim 13, wherein each of the
side panels further includes sleeve forming portions, respective
sleeve forming portions of the side panels being connected to
respective first and second sleeve forming portions of the sleeve
panels.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention generally relates to a bicycle riding
apparel. More specifically, the present invention relates to a
cycling jersey with non-stretching portions provided in shoulder
covering areas of the cycling jersey.
[0003] 2. Background Information
[0004] Cycling is becoming an increasingly more popular form of
recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover, cycling
has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and
professionals. Whether a bicycle is used for recreation,
transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly
improving the various components of the bicycle as well as the
apparel worn by casual cyclists and serious cycling enthusiasts
alike.
[0005] Cycling apparel, such cycling jerseys are well known.
Cycling jerseys are typically worn by cyclists when riding in both
amateur and professional competitions, such as a road race or an
off-road mountain trail course race. Many conventional cycling
jerseys are produced with designs that include raglan sleeves. Such
jerseys include a sleeve panel that extends from the neck of the
cyclist towards the wrist covering at least a portion of the top of
the shoulder of the cyclist. Such a jersey is disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 5,210,877.
[0006] The conventional jersey is constructed with a front panel
and a back panel that extend upward to just below the shoulders of
the cyclist. The front and back panels are configured with smooth
curved lines that join with a pair of left and right sleeve panels
that are positioned to cover the top of the shoulders on both sides
of the torso of the cyclist. Each of the sleeve panels is formed
with a sleeve edge, a neck portion, a pair of sleeve forming
portions and a pair of suture portions.
[0007] Such cycling jerseys are typically made of a flexible,
stretchable material or fabric. When the rider wears a bag or
backpack, the cycling jersey stretches and wrinkles in the area
around the shoulders. Such stretching can cause discomfort for the
cyclist and increases wind or air resistance.
[0008] In view of the above, it will be apparent to those skilled
in the art from this disclosure that there exists a need for an
improved cycling jersey that reduces or eliminates the formation of
wrinkles or rucks in the area of the shoulders in order to improve
wind resistance characteristics of the jersey and to improve the
comfort of the cyclist. This invention addresses this need in the
art as well as other needs, which will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from this disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] One object of the present invention is to provide cycling
jersey apparel with specific areas where the fabric is prevented
from stretching.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to improve the
comfort level of a cyclist wearing cycling jersey with the cyclist
carrying a backpack or small bag over the shoulder or
shoulders.
[0011] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a
cycling jersey includes a front panel, a back panel, a pair of
symmetrical sleeve panels and a pair of non-stretching portions.
The back panel is coupled to portions of the front panel. The
symmetrical sleeve panels are coupled to respective portions of the
front panel and the back panel, each sleeve panel defining at least
a portion of a shoulder covering area of the cycling jersey. The
non-stretching portions includes one non-stretching portion for a
right side of the cycling jersey and one non-stretching portion for
a left side of the cycling jersey. The non-stretching portions are
fixed to at least the sleeve panels. Further each of the
non-stretching portions extends in a direction generally from the
front panel toward the back panel and extending at least partially
over the shoulder covering area of the cycling jersey. As well, the
front panel, the back panel and the sleeve panels are formed of
respective materials having a first level of elasticity. The
non-stretching portions have a second level of elasticity. The
first level of elasticity is elastic, while the second level of
elasticity is generally non-elastic.
[0012] The bicycle jersey of the present invention provides a
greater level of comfort to the cyclist and reduced air resistance
because of the inclusion of the non-stretching portions. Since the
non-stretching portions extend to the top of the shoulder covering
area of the cycling jersey, the fabric around the non-stretching
portions does not stretch when a backpack or bag is worn. Since the
fabric does not stretch, wrinkles and rucks are less likely to
form, thereby reducing air resistance.
[0013] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,
the non-stretching portions are stitching seams that fix respective
portions of the sleeve panels to the respective portions of the
front panel.
[0014] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, the non-stretching portions are non-stretching panels
fixed to and overlaying portions of respective of ones of the
sleeve panels.
[0015] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, the non-stretching portions are non-stretching panels
having first and second sides. The first side of the non-stretching
panels is fixed to respective portions of the sleeve panels. The
second side of the non-stretching panels is fixed to respective
portions of the front panel.
[0016] These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of
the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the
art from the following detailed description, which, taken in
conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of
this original disclosure:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a front side diagrammatic perspective view of a
cycling jersey in accordance with a first embodiment of the present
invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a back side diagrammatic perspective view of the
cycling jersey depicted in FIG. 1, in accordance with the first
embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a top view showing a pattern layout of all panels
of cut fabric that are subsequently assembled to form the cycling
jersey depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, in accordance with the first
embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of one piece of the cut fabric
shown in FIG. 3, the panel of the cut fabric corresponding to a
right side sleeve panel of the cycling jersey, in accordance with
the first embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a bicycle and a cyclist
with the cyclist in a riding posture wearing the cycling jersey in
accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the cycling jersey in
accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a front side diagrammatic perspective view of a
cycling jersey in accordance with a second embodiment of the
present invention;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a front side diagrammatic perspective view of a
cycling jersey in accordance with a third embodiment of the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a top view showing a pattern layout of all panels
of cut fabric that are subsequently assembled to form the cycling
jersey depicted in FIG. 8, in accordance with the third embodiment
of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the cycling jersey in
accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 11 is a front side diagrammatic perspective view of a
cycling jersey in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0029] FIG. 12 is a top view showing a pattern layout of all panels
of cut fabric that are subsequently assembled to form the cycling
jersey depicted in FIG. 11, in accordance with the fourth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 13 is a front side diagrammatic perspective view of a
cycling jersey in accordance with fifth and sixth embodiments of
the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the cycling jersey in
accordance with the fifth and sixth embodiments of the present
invention; and
[0032] FIG. 15 is a front side diagrammatic perspective view of a
cycling jersey in accordance with seventh and eighth embodiments of
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0033] Selected embodiments of the present invention will now be
explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to
those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following
descriptions of the embodiments of the present invention are
provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting
the invention as defined by the appended claims and their
equivalents.
[0034] Referring initially to FIG. 1, a cycling jersey 10 is
illustrated in accordance with a first embodiment of the present
invention. The cycling jersey 10 includes non-stretching portions
12 that extend over shoulder covering areas 14 of the cycling
jersey 10.
[0035] In the description below, the terms "inward" and "outward",
"upper" and "lower" are with reference to general locations on the
cycling jersey 10 relative to a torso T of a cyclist C (see FIG.
5). For instance, an upper area or direction would correspond to
the upper portion of the torso T toward the neck area of the
cyclist C. An inward area or inward direction would generally
correspond to the center of the chest or center of the back of the
torso T. An outward area or direction would correspond to the sides
of the torso T or in the direction away from the sides of the torso
T. The shoulder covering areas 14 of the cycling jersey 10
correspond to those portions of the cycling jersey 10 that cover at
least the top of shoulders of the cyclist C. Optionally, shoulder
covering areas 14 can also include areas immediately around the
tops of the shoulders of the cyclist C. It should further be
understood that the terms sutures and stitching are used
interchangeably and are conventional terms known in textile and
garment related arts.
[0036] One of the features of the cycling jersey 10 of the first
embodiment of the present invention is its shape, which is
dimensioned to conform to the shape of a cyclist C in a riding
posture. For example, FIG. 5 shows the cyclist C in the riding
posture, leaning forward on a bicycle 50 with upper arms 53
extending downward relative to the bicycle (forward relative to the
cycling jersey 10), as the cyclist's forearms 54 extend forward to
grip the handlebar 51 of the bicycle 50. As is described below,
various panels are sutured together to form the cycling jersey 10
of the present invention. These panels are geometrically shaped to
mimic and conform the riding posture of the cyclist C in an
unstretched state, as is described in greater detail below. The
cycling jersey 10 is provided with the non-stretching portions 12
that extend over the shoulder covering areas 14 to limit stretching
of the shoulder covering areas 14 when the cyclist C carries a
backpack or rucksack (not shown) over one or both of the shoulder
covering areas 14. Further each of the non-stretching portions 12
extend in a direction generally from a front portion 20 toward a
back panel 23 and extend at least partially to and possibly over
the shoulder covering area 14 of the cycling jersey 10.
[0037] In FIGS. 1 and 2, the cycling jersey 10 in one embodiment of
the present invention is a type of sports apparel that the cyclist
C wears primarily when riding the bicycle 50 either for exercise or
for racing, such as road racing or a mountain bicycle racing. The
cycling jersey 10 includes symmetrical left and right sleeve panels
24 and 25 that extend from opposite sides of the neck area of the
cyclist C and over the shoulders of the cyclist. Each of the left
and right sleeve panels 24 and 25 also includes raglan sleeves that
are short sleeves in the depicted embodiment, and has a placket in
a front portion thereof. Further, as show in FIGS. 1 and 2, the
left and right sleeve panels 24 and 25 are cut and fitted so that
the shape and contour of the sleeves of the cycling jersey 10 mimic
the relative position of a cyclists arms when the cyclist C is in a
riding posture holding handlebars of a bicycle, as is described in
greater detail below.
[0038] The cycling jersey 10 depicted in FIGS. 1, 2 and 6 is shown
in an unstretched state. More specifically, the shape of the
cycling jersey 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is an unmolested state in
that the fabric is neither stretched nor is the fabric wrinkled or
folded in any way. The orientation of the cycling jersey 10 in
FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a desired contour, where the sleeves are
extending forward and outward the portion of the cycling jersey 10
that covers the torso T of the cyclist C.
[0039] The cycling jersey 10 basically includes a front panel 20, a
back panel 23, the above mentioned pair of the left and right
sleeve panels 24 and 25, a pair of the left and right side panels
26 and 27, a pair of bottom sleeves panels 28 and 29 and a neck
panel 30. The front panel 20 is split into two smaller panels, a
left front panel 21 and a right front panel 22 that are
symmetrically shaped being mirror images of one another thereby
forming the front panel 20.
[0040] As is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the left and right side panels
26 and 27 are positioned between respective portions of the left
and right front panels 21 and 22 and the back panel 23. Further,
the bottom sleeves panels 28 and 29 are positioned at a lower
portion of respective ones of the left and right sleeve panels 24
and 25. The various panels of the cycling jersey 10 are joined
together by sutures (i.e. garment sewing sutures).
[0041] At a lower portion of the back panel 23, a pocket 31 is
formed for carrying items such as a water bottle. Further, the
front panels 21 and 22 are each attached to respective portions of
a mechanical zipper 32 that allows joining and separation of the
front panels 21 and 22.
[0042] The individual panels of the cycling jersey 10 are now
described individually with specific reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3
shows each of the separate panels that are sutured together to form
the cycling jersey 10 in a layout corresponding to cutouts from
fabric. The panels of the cycling jersey 10 can be cut from any of
a variety of fabric or fabric-like materials, such as a polyester
material, that includes a mesh configuration that is able to
breathe or vent moisture. The panels of the cycling jersey 10 are
preferably cut out using a pre-configured pattern such that the
panels shown in FIG. 3 are obtained. The panels of the cycling
jersey 10 shown in FIG. 3 are laid out such that an outward side of
the cut material is shown. Specifically, the panels of the cycling
jersey 10 depicted in FIG. 3 subsequently form the outer side of
the garment. It should be recognized by one of ordinary skill in
the art that the additional flaps of material around the periphery
of each panel of the cycling jersey 10 and the corresponding line
spaced slightly apart from the periphery of each panel represents a
suture line, a fold line or sewing line where adjacent panels of
the cycling jersey 10 are joined. More specifically, the lines
spaced slightly apart from the periphery of each panel represent
preferred locations of seams between adjacent panels of the cycling
jersey 10.
[0043] As shown in the lower right in FIG. 3, the left and right
front panels 21 and 22 are symmetrically shaped being mirror images
of one another. Each of the left and right front panels 21 and 22
is formed with a corresponding pair of left and right first sleeve
mounting portions 21a and 22a, with first front-rear mounting
portions 21b and 22b, first neckline portions 21c and 22c, zipper
mounting portions 21d and 22d, and front lower hem portions 21e and
22e.
[0044] The left and right first sleeve mounting portions 21a and
22a include sloping curved lines that are positioned such that the
tops of the shoulders of the cyclist C wearing the cycling jersey
10 are not covered by the left and right front panels 21 and 22.
The first sleeve mounting portions 21a and 22a are configured with
an almost S-shaped curved contour or serpentine contour that
extends obliquely downward toward outer respective sides thereof,
and after curving outward in a convex fashion, curves in a concave
fashion.
[0045] The first front-rear mounting portions 21b and 22b are
located on respective sides of the left and right front panel 21
and 22 extending from and below the first sleeve mounting portions
21a and 22a. The first front-rear mounting portions 21b and 22b are
formed to be folded downward from the first sleeve mounting
portions 21a and 22a, and configured with a compound shape, having
a curved portion and a straight portion.
[0046] The first neckline portions 21c and 22c extend inward from
the first sleeve mounting portions 21a and 21b and have a curved
contour that is generally semi-circular in shape. The first
neckline portions 21c and 22c are configured with a circular-shaped
curved edge that extends toward the inner side of the cycling
jersey 10.
[0047] The zipper mounting portions 21d and 22d extend downward
from the inside of the first neckline portions 21c and 22c. The
zipper 32 (FIG. 1) is mounted on the zipper mounting portions 21d
and 22d releasably linking both the left and right front panels 21
and 22.
[0048] The front lower hem portions 21e and 22e extend between the
zipper mounting portions 21d and 22d and respective first
front-rear mounting portions 21b and 22b. The front lower hem
portions 21e and 22e are configured with curved edges that curve
upward in a convex fashion toward the center of the cycling jersey
10. Even if a rider slouches, rucks hardly appear on the cycling
jersey 10.
[0049] The back panel 23, as shown in the top middle in FIG. 3, is
provided with a pair of the left and right second sleeve mounting
portions 23a and 23b, a pair of the left and right second
front-rear mounting portions 23c and 23d, a rear lower hem portion
23e and a second neckline portion 23f.
[0050] The left and right second sleeve mounting portions 23a and
23b are each formed with a sloping curved contour that are
dimensioned to extend just below the shoulders of the cyclist, such
that the shoulders are not completely covered by the back panel 23.
The left and right second front-rear mounting portions 23c and 23d
extend downward from the left and right second sleeve mounting
portions 23a and 23b, respectively, to rear lower hem portion 23e.
The left and right second front-rear mounting portions 23c and 23d
are fixed by sutures to respective ones of the first front-rear
mounting portions 21b and 22b of the left and right front panels 21
and 22, and are also fixed by sutures to the side members 26 and
27.
[0051] The rear lower hem portion 23e of the back panel 23 extends
between the bottom edges of the left and right second front-rear
mounting portions 23c and 23d. The second neckline portion 23f is
formed as a projection that extends upward between the upper ends
of the left and right second front-rear mounting portions 23c and
23d.
[0052] The second sleeve mounting portions 23a and 23b are formed
with a curving contour extending outward in a convex fashion, and
going obliquely downward toward the left and right second
front-rear mounting portions 23c and 23d. The second front-rear
mounting portions 23c and 23d are configured with a curved line
that is slightly concaved inward. The rear lower hem portion 23e is
configured with a curved contour that swells circularly toward its
center. Therefore, the back 23 is longer than the left and right
front panels 21 and 22. Even with the rider or cyclist C slouching
or leaning forward, the cycling jersey 10 can cover an upper
portion of pants worn by the cyclist. The second neckline portion
23f projects upward and has a concave circular contour.
[0053] As shown in the lower left in FIG. 3, in a preferred
embodiment the left and right sleeve panels 24 and 25 are short
sleeves that are symmetrical to one another (left and right hand
mirror images of one another). The sleeve panels 24 and 25 are
dimensioned and located to cover the shoulders of the rider/cyclist
C along with the left and right front panels 21 and 22 and the back
panel 23.
[0054] The sleeve panels 24 and 25 basically include sleeve edges
24a and 25a, first sleeve forming portions 24b and 25b, second
sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c, first suture portions 24d and
25d, second suture portions 24e and 25e, and sleeve neck edges 24f
and 25f. The first sleeve forming portions 24b and 25b and the
second sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c bend and curve away from
the sleeve edges 24a and 25a and are coupled by suture with the
bottom sleeve panels 28 and 29 to form sleeves for the cycling
jersey 10. The first suture portions 24d and 25d are formed with
V-shaped cutout portions 33 and 34, cut from the first sleeve
forming portions 24b and 25b. The first suture portions 24d and 25d
are sutured to the first sleeve mounting portions 21a and 22a of
the left and right front panels 21 and 22, respectively. The second
suture portions 24e and 25e extend from the second sleeve forming
portions 24c and 25c and are sutured in the second sleeve mounting
portions 23a and 23b at respective sides of the back panel 23. The
sleeve neck edges 24f and 25f extend between the first suture
portions 24d and 25d and the second suture portions 24e and 25e,
respectively.
[0055] The sleeve edges 24a and 25a are configured with generally
straight edges to form the end of the sleeves of the cycling jersey
10. The first sleeve forming portions 24b and 25b and the second
sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c are slightly concaved, as shown
in FIG. 3, and extend from opposite ends of respective sleeve edges
24a and 25a. The first sleeve forming portions 24b and 25b are
placed in front by the second sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c.
The first sleeve forming portions 24b and 25b are shorter than the
second sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c. The difference in
length between the first sleeve forming portions 24b and 25b and
the second sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c is due to the sleeve
edges 24a and 25a being positioned toward the front of the cycling
jersey 10 forming the front edge of the sleeves.
[0056] The left and right sleeve panels 24 and 25 are generally
mirror images of one another and are therefore functionally the
same due to their symmetry. Therefore, description of one applies
to both. FIG. 4 shows only the right sleeve panel 25 in order to
provide a description thereof, and in particular, a description of
the first suture portion 25d. Since the left sleeve panel 24 is
symmetrical to but otherwise the same as the right sleeve panel 25,
the description of the first suture portion 24d is omitted for the
sake brevity.
[0057] The first suture portion 25d of the left sleeve panel 25
includes a V-shaped cut portion 34. The cut portion 34 includes a
small curving portion 34a and a pair of large curving portions 34b
and 34c that extend from the small curving portion 34a. The large
curving portions 34b and 34c diverge away from one another such
that the space defined therebetween becomes gradually wider from
both edges of the small curving portion 34a. The curvature radius
R1 from the center O1 of the small curving portion 34a is, for
example, set in the range of 3 mm to 20 mm, which is in the
preferred range of 5 mm to 10 mm. In the depicted embodiment, the
curvature radius R1 is 7 mm. The large curving portion 34b extends
toward the first sleeve forming portion 25b curving from a first
end of the small curving portion 34a. The curvature radius R2 from
the center O2 of the large curving portion 34b is set in the range
of 200 mm to 600 mm, which is in the preferred range of 300 mm to
400 mm. In the depicted embodiment, the curvatures radius R2 is 333
mm. In addition, the large curving portion 34c extends toward the
sleeve neck edge 25f curving from the other end of the small
curving portion 34a. The curvature radius R3 from the center O3 of
the large curving portion 34c is in the range of 200 mm to 600 mm,
which is in the preferred range of 300 mm to 400 mm. In the
depicted embodiment the curvature radius R3 is 333 mm. An angle
.alpha.2 is defined by an intersection between tangent lines of the
large curving portions 34b and 34c. Specifically, a tangent line C2
of the radius R2 drawn from the center of the large curving portion
34b, and another tangent line C3 of the radius R3 drawn from the
center of the large curving portion 34c intersect to define the
angle .alpha.2. The angle .alpha.2 is preferably a small angle in
the range of between 20 degrees to 80 degrees. In the depicted
embodiment, the angle .alpha.2 is approximately 45 degrees.
[0058] With the V-shaped cut portion 34 formed with the angle
.alpha.2 within the preferred range, the sleeve panel 25 is cut and
sized to join with other panels of the cycling jersey 10 such that
the sleeve panel 25 extends outwardly to the side and forward from
the right front panel 22, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. More
specifically, the first sleeve forming portion 25b of the sleeve
panel 25 faces downward but extends forward from the front panel
22. The sleeve neck edge 25f of the sleeve panel 25 faces upward
extending along the neckline of the cycling jersey 10. The first
sleeve forming portion 25b and the sleeve neck edge 25f extend away
from one another about the small curving portion 34a of the jersey
10. Hence, the sleeve portion 25a does not face downward but rather
faces upward and forward. The separate extending directions of the
sleeve forming portion 25b and the sleeve neck edge 25f becomes
more apparent when the second angle .alpha.2 is reduced.
[0059] Referring again to FIG. 4 (and FIG. 1), a first angle
.alpha.1 is defined between and first line L1 and a second line L2.
The first line L1 is perpendicular bisector for the sleeve edge 25a
of the sleeve panel 25. More specifically, the first line L1
extends from a central of the sleeve edge 25a and perpendicular to
the sleeve edge 25a. The second line L2 extends from a point
proximate the center of the sleeve neck edge 25f in the direction
corresponding to the peak of a cyclist's shoulder when wearing the
cycling jersey 10. The first angle .alpha.1 is set in the range of
30 to 90 degrees, which is in the preferred range of 30 to 60
degrees. In the depicted embodiment, first angle .alpha.1 is set to
57 degrees. When the first angle .alpha.1 exceeds 90 degrees, the
cyclist C wearing the cycling jersey 10 may have the feeling of
tightness from the garment. Further, when the first angle .alpha.1
is below 30 degrees, the sleeve panel 25 faces the side, rucks
easily appear, and it becomes easy for it to be stretched when a
rider wears it. By making the first and second lines L1 and L2
cross in this first angle .alpha.1, the entire sleeve panel 25
faces the inward of a vertical line of the cloth, specifically the
front according to the crossing angle, and the sleeve portion 25a
faces the front.
[0060] The second suture portions 24e and 25e, as shown in FIG. 3,
are formed with a smooth curvature that is sutured in the second
sleeve mounting portions 23a and 23b of the back panel 23. The seam
line part of the second suture portions 24e and 25e and the second
sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c intersect at a sharp angle.
[0061] The sleeve neck edges 24f and 25f are curved toward the
first neckline portions 21c and 22c of the front panels 21 and 22
and the second neckline portions 23f of the back panel 23. The neck
panel 30 is sutured to couple to these portions of the panels.
[0062] The the left and right side members 26 and 27 are
symmetrical to one another. The left and right side members 26 and
27 are formed with first connecting portions 26a and 27a, second
connecting portions 26b and 27b, first armhole portions 26c and
27c, side lower hem portions 26f and 27f and third sleeve mounting
portions 26e and 27e. The first connecting portions 26a and 27a are
sutured to the first front-rear mounting portions 21b and 22b of
the front panels 21 and 22. The second connecting portions 26b and
27b are placed facing the first connecting portions 26a and 27a and
sutured to the second front-rear mounting portions 23c and 23d of
the back panel 23. The first armhole portions 26c and 27c are
placed at the top and concaved to be circular. The side lower hem
portions 26f and 27f are placed at a lower portion thereof, but are
angled extending upward. The third sleeve mounting portions 26e and
27e are shaped with a curved contour extending from the second
connecting portions 26b and 27b and intersect the first armhole
portions 26c and 27c at a sharp angle. By forming the side members
26 and 27 with the above features, it is easy for the cycling
jersey 10 to fit a cyclist's body. Increases in air resistance by
formation of rucks, wrinkles or folds is prevented and stretching
of the front panels 21 and 22 and the back panel 23 is less likely
since the cycling jersey 10 confirms to the riding posture of the
cyclist. Further, the comfort of the cyclist C is improved by
inclusion of these features.
[0063] The left and right bottom sleeve panels 28 and 29 are
symmetrical mirror images of one another. The left and right bottom
sleeve panels 28 and 29 are formed with bottom sleeve edges 28a and
29a, third connecting portions 28b and 29b, fourth connecting
portions 28c and 29c, second armhole portions 28d and 29d and third
armhole portions 28e and 29e.
[0064] Each end of the bottom sleeve edges 28a and 29a is sutured
respective ends of the sleeve edges 24a and 25a of the sleeve
panels 24 and 25 such that the bottom sleeve edges 28a and 29a form
the bottom of sleeves of the cycling jersey 10. The third
connecting portions 28b and 29b extend from the front of the bottom
sleeve edges 28a and 29a along the first sleeve forming portions
24b and 25b of the sleeve panels 24 and 25. The fourth connecting
portions 28c and 29c extend from the back side of the bottom sleeve
edges 28a and 29a along the second sleeve forming portions 24c and
25c of the sleeve panels 24 and 25. The second armhole portions 28d
and 29d and the third armhole portions 28e and 29e extend between
the third connecting portions 28b and 29b and the fourth connecting
portions 28c and 29c, respectively and have a convex shape.
[0065] The third connecting portions 28b and 29b are sutured to the
first sleeve forming portions 24b and 25b. The fourth connecting
portions 28c and 29c are sutured to portions of the second sleeve
forming portions 24c and 25c except for the armhole side. The
second armhole portions 28d and 29d are sutured to the first
armhole portions 26c and 27c of the side members 26 and 27. The
third armhole portions 28e and 29e are sutured on the armhole side
of the second sleeve forming portions 24c and 25c of the sleeve
panels 24 and 25. In addition, the edge part of the second sleeve
forming portions 24c and 25c are sutured to the third sleeve
mounting portions 26e and 27e of the side members 26 and 27. By
including the bottom sleeve panels 28 and 29, it becomes easy for
the sleeve panels 24 and 25 to fit the upper arm, air resistance is
reduced by a reduction or elimination of rucks, the sleeve panels
24 and 25 are not likely to be stretched, and the comfort of the
cyclist C is improved.
[0066] In the cycling jersey 10 by the first embodiment of this
invention with a configuration as described above, by forming the
sleeve panels 24 and 25 for the first line L1 and the second line
L2 to with the preferred the first angle .alpha.1, when the sleeve
panels 24 and 25 are sutured to the front panels 21 and 22 and the
back panel 23, the entire part faces inward of the vertical line of
the cloth, specifically the front according to the first angle
.alpha.1, and the sleeve edge 25a faces forward. Moreover, by
optimizing the V-shaped cut portion 34 intersecting the second
angle .alpha.2, and suturing it to the front panels 21 and 22, the
front sleeve panels 24 and 25 face further forward with respect to
left and right vertical lines of the jersey 10. Thereby, as shown
in FIG. 5, since the sleeve panels 24 and 25 face the front of the
cycling jersey 10, even if a cyclist C slouches while the cyclist C
rides the bicycle 50, and holds with both hands the handlebar such
as the handlebar 51, and the forearms 53 go to the front of the
cycling jersey 10, it remains loose in the back and side of
shoulders (does not stretch), and rucks hardly appear in the front
and side of the shoulder. Therefore, the comfort of the cycling
jersey 10 is improved while the cyclist C holds the handlebar 51,
and air resistance is also reduced.
[0067] As a result of the specific configuration of the V-shaped
cut portion 34 in the left and right sleeve panels 24 and 25, the
sleeves of the cycling jersey 10 extend forward from the torso T of
the cyclist C, as indicated in FIGS. 1 and 2. As a result, when the
cyclist C assumes the riding posture shown in FIG. 5, the cyclist's
torso T is generally horizontally inclined and the sleeves of the
cycling jersey 10 extend downward with the cyclist C holding on to
the handlebars 51 of the bicycle 50.
[0068] The various panels of the cycling jersey 10 are preferably
made from fabric that is able to stretch in a conventional manner.
For example, the cycling jersey 10 is designed to fit comfortably
onto a variety of bodily shapes and sizes, within a certain size
range. More specifically, the front panels 21 and 22, the back
panel 23, the sleeve panels 24 and 25, the side panels 26 and 27,
the bottom sleeves panels 28 and 29, the neck panel 30 and the
pocket 31 are all cut from a somewhat elastic fabric or materials
that has a first level of elasticity that can be resiliently
stretched such that the cycling jersey 10 returns approximately to
its original size and shape. However, the cycling jersey 10 is
fitted with the non-stretching portions 12 having a second level of
elasticity. The non-stretching portions 12 are fabric panels
preferably made of a material that does not easily stretch, and
more preferably a material that does not stretch at all under
cycling conditions. Further, the first level of elasticity is
elastic and the second level of elasticity is generally
non-elastic.
[0069] There are two non-stretching portions 12 in the embodiment
depicted in FIG. 1. There is one non-stretching portion 12 on a
right side of the cycling jersey 10 and one non-stretching portion
12 on a left side of the cycling jersey 10. The non-stretching
portions 12 overlay respective portions of the sleeve panels 24 and
25. Further, the non-stretching portions 12 are fixed to the sleeve
panels 24 and 25 and extend in an upward direction from the front
panels 21 and 22 toward the back panel 23, as shown in FIGS. 1 and
6. The non-stretching portions 12 extend from approximately the
small curving portion 34a of respective sleeve panels 24 and 25,
over the shoulder covering areas 14 of the cycling jersey 10 to the
back panel 23. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the non-stretching
portions 12 extend to the back panel 23. However, it should be
understood that the non-stretching portions 12 can be lengthened so
that they extend over an upper portion of the back panel 23.
[0070] As used herein to describe the present invention, the
following directional terms "forward, rearward, above, downward,
vertical, horizontal, below and transverse" as well as any other
similar directional terms refer to those directions of a cyclist
using the present invention. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized
to describe the present invention should be interpreted relative to
a cyclist and the cyclist's apparel that includes the present
invention.
Second Embodiment
[0071] A second embodiment will now be explained. In view of the
similarity between the first embodiment and the second embodiment,
the parts of the second embodiment that are identical to the parts
of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals
as the parts of the first embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of
the parts of the second embodiment that are identical to the parts
of the first embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The
parts of the second embodiment that differ from the parts of the
first embodiment will be indicated with a single prime (').
[0072] As shown in FIG. 7, a cycling jersey 10' is depicted that is
generally the same as the cycling jersey 10' except that a front
panel 20' is formed as a single piece of material or fabric. More
specifically, the front panel 20' does not include a mechanical
zipper, such as the mechanical zipper 32 in the first embodiment
depicted in FIG. 1. Otherwise, all aspects of the cycling jersey
10' are the same as the cycling jersey 10 depicted in FIG. 1. More
specifically, the cycling jersey 10', in addition to the front
panel 20', also includes non-stretching portions 12 that extend
over at least a portion of the sleeve covering areas 14, the back
panel 23, the sleeve panels 24 and 25, the side panels 26 and 27,
the bottom sleeve panels 28 and 29 and the neck panel 30 as
described in the first embodiment.
Third Embodiment
[0073] A third embodiment will now be explained. In view of the
similarity between the various embodiments, the parts of the third
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment
will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first
embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of the third
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment
may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The parts of the third
embodiment that differ from the parts of the first embodiment will
be indicated with a single prime ('), or will be provided with a
new reference numeral.
[0074] Various aspects of a cycling jersey 110 in accordance with
the third embodiment of the present invention are shown in FIGS. 8,
9 and 10. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the cycling jersey 110
and FIG. 9 is a basic layout showing an example of cut out panels
of fabric sutured or stitched together to form the cycling jersey
110. FIG. 9 shows each of the separate panels cutout from fabric
prior to their being sutured together to form the cycling jersey
110. The panels of the cycling jersey 110 can be cut from any of a
variety of fabric or fabric-like materials, such as a polyester
material, that includes a mesh configuration that is able to
breathe or vent moisture. The panels of the cycling jersey 110 are
preferably cut out using a pre-configured pattern such that the
panels shown in FIG. 9 are obtained. The panels of the cycling
jersey 110 shown in FIG. 9 are laid out such that an outward side
of the cut material is shown. It should be recognized by one of
ordinary skill in the art that the additional flaps of material
around the periphery of each panel of the cycling jersey 110 are
used to join the various panels together. Further, the
corresponding line spaced slightly apart from the periphery of each
panel represents a suture line, stitching line or sewing line where
adjacent panels of the cycling jersey 10 are preferably sewn
together. More specifically, the lines spaced slightly apart from
the periphery of each panel represent preferred locations of seams
between adjacent panels of the cycling jersey 10.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 8, the cycling jersey 110 includes two
non-stretching portions 112, a front portion 120, a back panel 123,
a pair of symmetrical sleeve panels 124 and 125, a pair of side
panels 126 and 127 and a neck panel 130. Further, the cycling
jersey 110 can optionally include a pocket (not shown) attached to
the back panel 123.
[0076] The front portion 120 is split into two smaller panels, a
left front panel 121 and a right front panel 122 that are
symmetrically shaped being mirror images of one another thereby
forming the front portion 120. Each of the left and right front
panels 121 and 122 is formed with a corresponding pair of left and
right first sleeve mounting portions 121a and 122a, first
front-rear mounting portions 121b and 122b, first neckline portions
121c and 122c, zipper mounting portions 121d and 122d, and front
lower hem portions 121e and 122e.
[0077] The left and right first sleeve mounting portions 121a and
122a include sloping curved lines that are positioned such that the
tops of the shoulders of the cyclist C wearing the cycling jersey
10 are partially covered by the left and right front panels 121 and
122. The first sleeve mounting portions 121a and 122a are
configured with an almost S-shaped curved contour or serpentine
contour that extends obliquely downward toward outer respective
sides thereof, and after curving outward in a convex fashion,
curves in a concave fashion from upper end to lower end.
[0078] The first front-rear mounting portions 121b and 122b are
located on respective sides of the left and right front panel 121
and 122 extending from and below the first sleeve mounting portions
121a and 122a. The first front-rear mounting portions 121b and 122b
extend downward from the first sleeve mounting portions 121a and
122a, and configured with a compound shape, having a curved portion
and a straight portion.
[0079] The first neckline portions 121c and 122c extend inward from
the first sleeve mounting portions 121a and 121b and have a curved
contour that is generally semi-circular in shape. The first
neckline portions 121c and 122c are configured with a
circular-shaped curved edge that extends toward the inner side of
the cycling jersey 10.
[0080] The zipper mounting portions 121d and 122d extend downward
from the inside of the first neckline portions 121c and 122c. The
zipper 132 (FIG. 8) is mounted on the zipper mounting portions 121d
and 122d releasably linking both the left and right front panels
121 and 122.
[0081] The front lower hem portions 121e and 122e extend between
the zipper mounting portions 121d and 122d and respective first
front-rear mounting portions 121b and 122b. The front lower hem
portions 121e and 122e are configured with slightly curved edges
that curve upward in a convex fashion toward the center of the
cycling jersey 10.
[0082] The back panel 123, as shown in the top middle in FIG. 9, is
provided with a pair of the left and right second sleeve mounting
portions 123a and 123b, a pair of the left and right second
front-rear mounting portions 123c and 123d, a rear lower hem
portion 123e and a second neckline portion 123f.
[0083] The left and right second sleeve mounting portions 123a and
123b are each formed with a sloping curved contour that are
dimensioned to extend just below the shoulders of the cyclist, such
that shoulder covering areas 14' (FIGS. 8 and 10) are not
completely covered by the back panel 123. The left and right second
front-rear mounting portions 123c and 123d extend downward from the
left and right second sleeve mounting portions 123a and 123b,
respectively, to rear lower hem portion 123e. The left and right
second front-rear mounting portions 123c and 123d are fixed by
sutures to respective ones of the first front-rear mounting
portions 121b and 122b of the left and right front panels 121 and
122, and are also fixed by sutures to the side panels 126 and
127.
[0084] The rear lower hem portion 123e of the back panel 123
extends between the bottom edges of the left and right second
front-rear mounting portions 123c and 123d. The second neckline
portion 123f is formed as a projection that extends upward between
the upper ends of the left and right second front-rear mounting
portions 123c and 123d.
[0085] The second sleeve mounting portions 123a and 123b are formed
with a curving contour extending outward in a convex fashion, and
going obliquely downward toward the left and right second
front-rear mounting portions 123c and 123d. The second front-rear
mounting portions 123c and 123d are configured with a curved line
that is slightly concaved inward. The rear lower hem portion 123e
is configured with a curved contour that swells circularly downward
from a central portion thereof. Therefore, the back panel 123 is
longer than the left and right front panels 121 and 122. Even with
the rider or cyclist C slouching or leaning forward, the cycling
jersey 110 can cover an upper portion of pants worn by the cyclist.
The second neckline portion 123f projects upward and has a concave
circular contour.
[0086] As shown in the lower left in FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, the left
and right sleeve panels 124 and 125 are short sleeves that are
symmetrical to one another (left and right hand mirror images of
one another). The sleeve panels 124 and 125 are dimensioned to at
least partially define the shoulder covering areas 14' of the
cycling jersey 110. Specifically, the sleeve panels 124 and 125 at
least partially cover shoulders of the cyclist C along with the
left and right front panels 121 and 122 and the back panel 23.
[0087] The sleeve panels 124 and 125 basically include sleeve edges
124a and 125a, first sleeve forming portions 124b and 125b, second
sleeve forming portions 124c and 125c, back connecting suture
portions 124d and 125d, and front connecting suture portions 124e
and 125e.
[0088] The first sleeve forming portions 124b and 125b and the
second sleeve forming portions 124c and 125c extend and curve away
from the sleeve edges 124a and 125a. The first sleeve forming
portions 124b and 125b and the second sleeve forming portions
together with portions of the pair of side panels 126 and 127 form
sleeves for the cycling jersey 110, as is described in greater
detail below.
[0089] The back connecting suture portions 124d and 125d extend
from the second sleeve forming portions 124c and 125c and are
sutured to the second sleeve mounting portions 123a and 123b at
respective sides of the back panel 123. The front connecting suture
portions 124e and 125e extend between the first sleeve forming
portions 124b and 125b and the back connecting suture portions 124d
and 125d, respectively.
[0090] The sleeve edges 124a and 125a are configured with generally
straight edges to partially form the end of the sleeves of the
cycling jersey 110. The first sleeve forming portions 124b and 125b
and the second sleeve forming portions 124c and 125c are slightly
concaved, as shown in FIG. 8 and extend from opposite ends of
respective sleeve edges 124a and 125a. The first sleeve forming
portions 124b and 125b are shorter than the second sleeve forming
portions 124c and 125c.
[0091] The front connecting suture portions 124e and 125e are
curved to conform to the sleeve mounting portions 121a and 122b of
the front panels 121 and 122.
[0092] The left and right side members 126 and 127 are symmetrical
to one another. The left and right side members 126 and 127 are
formed with first connecting portions 126a and 127a, second
connecting portions 126b and 127b, third sleeve bottom portions
126c and 127c, fourth sleeve bottom portions 126d and 127d, bottom
sleeve edges 126e and 127e and side lower hem portions 126f and
127f.
[0093] The first connecting portions 126a and 127a are sutured to
the first front-rear mounting portions 121b and 122b of the front
panels 121 and 122. The second connecting portions 126b and 127b
are sutured to the second front-rear mounting portions 123c and
123d of the back panel 123. The third sleeve bottom portions 126c
and 127c are sutured to respective first sleeve forming portions
124b and 125b of the sleeve panels 124 and 125. The fourth sleeve
bottom portions 126d and 127d are sutured to respective second
sleeve forming portions 124c and 125c of the sleeve panels 124 and
125, thereby forming sleeves of the cycling jersey 110. The bottom
sleeve edges 126e and 127e along with the sleeve edges 124a and
125a of the sleeve panels 124 and 125 form a sleeve edge or cuff of
the cycling jersey 110.
[0094] The side lower hem portions 126f and 127f along with the
front lower hem portions 121e and 122e of the front panels 121 and
122 and the rear lower hem portion 123e of the back panel 123 forms
a lower hem of the cycling jersey 110.
[0095] The various panels of the cycling jersey 110 are preferably
made from fabric that is able to stretch in a conventional manner.
For example, the cycling jersey 110 is designed to fit comfortably
onto a variety of bodily shapes and sizes, within a certain size
range. More specifically, the front panels 121 and 122, the back
panel 123, the sleeve panels 124 and 125, the side panels 126 and
127, the neck panel 130 and the pocket (not shown) are all cut from
a somewhat elastic fabric or materials that has a first level of
elasticity that can be resiliently stretched such that the cycling
jersey 110 returns approximately to its original size and
shape.
[0096] The cycling jersey 110 is formed with the non-stretching
portions 112 having a second level of elasticity. In the third
embodiment, the non-stretching portions 112 includes stitching
between the front connecting suture portions 124e and 125e of the
sleeve panels 124 and 125 and the first sleeve mounting portions
121a and 122a of the front panels 121 and 122. In other words, the
non-stretching portions 112 are the stitching in the seam between
portions of the sleeve panels 124 and 125 and the front panels 121
and 122. As such, the non-stretching portions 112 are connected to
respective ones of the front panels 121 and 122 and respective ones
of the sleeve panels 124 and 125. More specifically, there is one
non-stretching portion 112 on the right side of the cycling jersey
110 located between a portion of the front panel 121 and a portion
of the sleeve panel 124. Similarly, there is a second
non-stretching portion 112 on the left side of the cycling jersey
110 located between a portion of the front panel 122 and a portion
of the sleeve panel 125, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 10.
[0097] The stitching of the non-stretching portions 112 can be any
of a variety of stitching patterns or stitching material that
restricts or prevents stretching of the non-stretching portions
112. Preferably stitching of the non-stretching portions 112 does
not easily stretch, and more preferably does not stretch at all
under cycling conditions. Further, the first level of elasticity is
elastic and the second level of elasticity is generally
non-elastic.
[0098] As indicated in FIG. 8, the non-stretching portions 112 do
not necessarily need to extend the entire length of the seam
between respective ones of the front panels 121 and 122 and
respective ones of the sleeve panels 124 and 125. As shown in FIG.
8, the non-stretching portions 112 extends from at least the top of
the shoulder covering areas 14' of the cycling jersey 110 (from the
back panel 123) to approximately a mid-point in the seam between
the front connecting suture portions 124e and 125e of the sleeve
panels 124 and 125 and first sleeve mounting portions 121a and 122a
of the front panels 121 and 122. The non-stretching portions 112
are not limited to the length depicted. Depending upon the fabric
used and the desired cycling jersey requirements, the
non-stretching portions 112 can be longer or shorter than shown in
FIG. 8. The remainder of the seams between the front panels 121 and
122 and the sleeve panels 124 and 125 have stitching that is more
flexible and stretchable in accordance with stitching or sutures in
the other seams between the various panels of the cycling jersey
110.
Fourth Embodiment
[0099] A fourth embodiment will now be explained. In view of the
similarity between the various embodiments, the parts of the fourth
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the third embodiment
will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the third
embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of the fourth
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the third embodiment
may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The parts of the fourth
embodiment that differ from the parts of the earlier embodiments
will be indicated with a single prime ('), or will be provided with
a new reference numeral.
[0100] The fourth embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12. In the
fourth embodiment, a cycling jersey 110' is depicted that includes
the back panel 123, sleeve panels 124 and 125, side panels 126 and
127 and neck panel 130 as described above with respect to the third
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8, 9 and 10. However, in the fourth
embodiment, the front panel 120' is a single piece of fabric and
has no mechanical zipper.
[0101] The front panel 120' includes a left and right sleeve
mounting portions 121a' and 122a', first front-rear mounting
portions 121b' and 122b', neckline portion 121c' and front lower
hem portion 121e'. The various portions of the front panel 120'
serve similar functions as in the third embodiment. For instance,
the left and right sleeve mounting portions 121a' and 122a' are
sutured or stitched to respective ones of the front connecting
suture portions 124e and 125e of the sleeve panels 124 and 124. The
first front-rear mounting portions 121b' and 122b' are sutured or
stitched to respective ones of the first connecting portions 126a
and 127a of the side panels 126 and 127. The neckline portion 121c'
is sutured to the neck panel 130. The front lower hem portion 121e'
along with the side lower hem portions 126f and 127f and the rear
lower hem portion 123e of the back panel 123 form a lower hem of
the cycling jersey 110'.
[0102] Otherwise, the cycling jersey 110' has generally the same
features as the third embodiment, including the non-stretching
portions 112 formed between portions of the front panel 120' and
the sleeve panels 124 and 125.
Fifth Embodiment
[0103] A fifth embodiment will now be explained. In view of the
similarity between the various embodiments, the parts of the fifth
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the third embodiment
will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the third
embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of the fifth
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the third embodiment
may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The parts of the fifth
embodiment that differ from the parts of the earlier embodiments
will be indicated with a single prime ('), or will be provided with
a new reference numeral.
[0104] A cycling jersey 210 is shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 that very
similar to the cycling jersey 110 of the third embodiment. For
example, the cycling jersey 210 includes the front portion 120
(front panels 121 and 122), the back panel 123, the sleeve panels
124 and 125, the side panels 126 and 127 and the neck panel 130 as
described above with respect to the third embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 8, 9 and 10. However, in the fifth embodiment the
non-stretching portions are non-stretching panels 212. Each
non-stretching panel 212 includes a first side 212a and a second
side 212b. The first side 212a defines a first stitching portion
and the second side 212b defines a second stitching portion, as
shown in FIG. 13.
[0105] The first side 212a of the non-stretching panels 212 are
fixed or sutured to respective front connecting suture portions
124e and 125e of the sleeve panels 124 and 125. The second side
212b of the non-stretching panels 212 are fixed or sutured to
respective sleeve mounting portions 121a and 122a of the front
panels 121 and 122.
[0106] In the fifth embodiment the front panels 121 and 122 and the
sleeve panels 124 and 125 can be slightly alerted or resized to
accommodate the panels of the non-stretching panels 212, but such
alterations are not necessarily required.
Sixth Embodiment
[0107] A sixth embodiment will now be explained. In view of the
similarity between the various embodiments, the parts of the sixth
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the fifth embodiment
will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the fifth
embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of the sixth
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the fifth embodiment
may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The parts of the sixth
embodiment that differ from the parts of the earlier embodiments
will be indicated with a single prime ('), or will be provided with
a new reference numeral.
[0108] As should be understood from the description and the
drawings, the depiction of a cycling jersey 210' of sixth
embodiment is identical to depiction of the cycling jersey 210 of
the fifth embodiment. Therefore, the sixth embodiment is also
described with specific reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. In the sixth
embodiment, non-stretching panels 212' are not inserted into the
seams between the front panels 121 and 122 and the sleeve panels
124 and 125. Rather, the non-stretching panels 212' overlay a
portion of the seam between the front panels 121 and 122 and the
sleeve panels 124 and 125. Further, the non-stretching panels 212'
also overlay at least one or the other of a portion of the front
panels 121 and 122 and the sleeve panels 124 and 125. At the very
least, the non-stretching panels 212' are sutured to the respective
portions of the front panels 121 and 122 and the sleeve panels 124
and 125.
Seventh Embodiment
[0109] A seventh embodiment will now be explained. In view of the
similarity between the various embodiments, the parts of the
seventh embodiment that are identical to the parts of the fifth
embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as the parts
of the fifth embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of
the seventh embodiment that are identical to the parts of the fifth
embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The parts of the
seventh embodiment that differ from the parts of the earlier
embodiments will be indicated with a single prime ('), a double
prime ('') or will be provided with a new reference numeral.
[0110] As shown in FIG. 15, a cycling jersey 210'' is shown that
includes the non-stretching panels 212 as set forth in the fifth
embodiment described above. However, a front panel 120' of the
cycling jersey 210'' is formed from a single piece of fabric and is
therefore without a mechanical zipper. All other panels of the
cycling jersey 210'' are otherwise the same as in the fifth
embodiment.
[0111] Further, the non-stretching panels 212 are the same as in
the fifth embodiment. Specifically, the first side 212a of the
non-stretching panels 212 are fixed or sutured to respective front
connecting suture portions 124e and 125e of the sleeve panels 124
and 125. The second side 212b of the non-stretching panels 212 are
fixed or sutured to respective sleeve mounting portions 121a and
122a of the front panels 121 and 122.
Eighth Embodiment
[0112] An eighth embodiment will now be explained. In view of the
similarity between the various embodiments, the parts of the eighth
embodiment that are identical to the parts of the seventh
embodiments will be given the same reference numerals as the parts
of the seventh embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts
of the eighth embodiment that are identical to the parts of the
seventh embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The
parts of the eighth embodiment that differ from the parts of the
earlier embodiments will be indicated with a single prime ('), a
double prime (''), a triple prime (''') or will be provided with a
new reference numeral.
[0113] As should be understood from the description and the
drawings, the depiction of a cycling jersey 210''' of eighth
embodiment is identical to depiction of the cycling jersey 210''of
the seventh embodiment. Therefore, the eighth embodiment is also
described with specific reference to FIG. 15.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 12, a cycling jersey 210''' is shown that
includes the non-stretching panels 212' as set forth in the sixth
embodiment described above and the front panel 120' of the seventh
embodiment, formed from a single piece of fabric without a
mechanical zipper. All other panels of the cycling jersey 210'''
are otherwise the same as in the seventh embodiment except that the
non-stretching panels 212' are not inserted into the seams between
the front panel 120' and the sleeve panels 124 and 125. Rather, the
non-stretching panels 212' overlay a portion of the respective
seams between the front panel 120 and the sleeve panels 124 and 125
and are sutured to the respective portions of the front panel 120
and the sleeve panels 124 and 125.
[0115] In an alternative embodiment, the cycling jerseys can be
used for activities other than cycling.
[0116] In another alternative embodiment, the cycling jerseys can
be adapted for use with attached pants. Specifically, a one piece
article of clothing or apparel can be constructed that includes a
pants portion and a jersey portion sutured together, with the one
piece article of clothing having the design considerations and
configuration of the sleeve panels as described above incorporated
therein.
[0117] In another alternative embodiment, the cycling jerseys
described above can be constructed with long sleeves instead of
short sleeves.
[0118] In yet another embodiment, the back panel 23 (123) can have
a shorter profile in that in can alternatively rise up to a level
that is farther spaced apart from the shoulder covering areas 14
(14') of the various embodiments described above. Consequently, the
non-stretching portions 12, 112, 212 and 212' can be slightly
longer than in the depicted embodiments.
[0119] In understanding the scope of the present invention, the
term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended
to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated
features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but
do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements,
components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also
applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms,
"including", "having" and their derivatives. Also, the terms
"member" or "element" when used in the singular can have the dual
meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts. Finally, terms of
degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used
herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term
such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms
of degree should be construed as including a deviation of at least
.+-.5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the
meaning of the word it modifies.
[0120] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to
illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and
modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope
of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Furthermore,
the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the
present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for
the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended
claims and their equivalents.
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