U.S. patent application number 11/663790 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-29 for compression garments and a method of manufacture.
This patent application is currently assigned to Skins Compression Garments Pty Limited. Invention is credited to Bradley T. Duffy, Susan K. Duffy.
Application Number | 20090025115 11/663790 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36089779 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090025115 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Duffy; Bradley T. ; et
al. |
January 29, 2009 |
Compression Garments And A Method Of Manufacture
Abstract
The invention provides a compression garment (50) for clothing a
body part, such as a lower torso and the legs. The body part
includes a muscle ridge, such as a lateral edge of the gluteus
maximus (49). Compression garment (50) has first and second panels
of stretchable material joined by a seam (32). At least part of the
seam (32) is adapted to correspond to at least part of the muscle
ridge, being at the edge of the gluteus maximus (49). The invention
also provides a method of manufacturing a compression garment,
using an algorithm to calculate size changes to produce desired
compression.
Inventors: |
Duffy; Bradley T.; (New
South Wales, AU) ; Duffy; Susan K.; (New South Wales,
AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TOWNSEND AND TOWNSEND AND CREW, LLP
TWO EMBARCADERO CENTER, EIGHTH FLOOR
SAN FRANCISCO
CA
94111-3834
US
|
Assignee: |
Skins Compression Garments Pty
Limited
Campbelltown, New South Wales
AU
|
Family ID: |
36089779 |
Appl. No.: |
11/663790 |
Filed: |
September 23, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
September 23, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU05/01450 |
371 Date: |
January 31, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/69 ; 2/227;
2/243.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 31/185 20190201;
A41D 13/0015 20130101; A41D 1/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/69 ; 2/227;
2/243.1 |
International
Class: |
A41D 1/00 20060101
A41D001/00; A41D 1/06 20060101 A41D001/06; A41D 27/00 20060101
A41D027/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 23, 2004 |
AU |
2004905456 |
Claims
1. A compression garment for clothing a body part which includes a
muscle ridge, the garment having a first panel of stretchable
material joined to a second panel of stretchable material by a
seam, wherein at least part of the seam is adapted to correspond to
at least part of the muscle ridge.
2. The compression garment of claim 1, wherein a substantial part
of the seam is vertical when the garment is worn.
3. The compression garment of claim 1, wherein the first or second
panel substantially defines a muscle group.
4. The compression garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is an
upper body garment and the muscle ridge is chosen from the
following: a) a lateral edge of the serratus anterior muscle group;
b) a lateral edge of the serratus anterior and external deltoid
muscle group; c) a lateral edge of the latisimis dorsi muscle
group; and d) a ridge in the biceps brachii.
5. The compression garment of claim 3, wherein the first or second
panels substantially defines a muscle group chosen from: a) the
serratus anterior muscle group; b) the serratus anterior and
external deltoid muscle groups; c) the latissimus dorsi muscle
group; and d) part of the biceps brachii.
6. The compression garment of claims 1, wherein the garment is a
lower body garment and the muscle ridge is chosen from the
following: a) a ridge between the long head of the rectus femoris
and the semitendinosus muscle group; b) a lateral edge of the
gluteus maximus near the greater trochanter; c) a lateral edge of
the gluteus maximus near the sacrum; d) an area over the popliteal
fossa between the heads of the medial and lateral gastrocnemius;
and e) a ridge of the vastus lateralis and a ridge of the vastus
medialis.
7. The compression garment of claim 3, wherein the first or second
panel substantially defines a muscle group chosen from: a) the
tibialis anterior muscle group; b) the hamstring tendon muscle
group; and c) the gluteus maximus.
8. The compression garment of claim 6, wherein the seam is adapted
to avoid any one of the following: a) the anterior superior iliac
spine; b) the greater saphenous vein; c) the superficial inguinal
gland; d) the small saphenous vein; and e) the fossa ovalis.
9. The compression garment of claims 1, wherein the seam is
stitched.
10. The compression garment of claim 9, wherein the seam is a flat
stitched seam.
11. The compression garment of claim 10, wherein the seam is flat
stitched using a four or six needle process.
12. The compression garment of claim 1, which includes a line of
stitching for providing anchor points without joining panels.
13. The compression garment of claims 1, which is adapted to effect
a compression of between 5 mmHg and 40 mmHg.
14. The compression garment of claim 13, wherein the compression is
between 5 mmHg and 25 mmHg.
15. The compression garment of claims 1, which includes a panel of
variable compression fabric within or over part of the first or
second panels.
16. The compression garment of claim 1, which includes means to
increase compression of the first or second panel or of a third
panel.
17. The compression garment of claim 16, wherein the means includes
a tab attached to one side of the first, second or third panel and
removably attachable to the other side of the first, second or
third panel respectively.
18. The compression garment of claim 17, which includes a plurality
of such tabs.
19. The compression garment of claims 1, wherein the garment is
adapted to provide static compression.
20. The compression garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is
adapted to provide gradient compression.
21. The compression garment of claim 1, wherein the material is a
fabric with a warp stretch of 160% to 195% and is cut across the
fabric grain.
22. The compression garment of claim 21, wherein the warp stretch
is an average of 177.5%.
23. The compression garment of claim 1, wherein the material is an
elastomeric material with a denier range between 40 and 120,
combined with nylon, polyester or a mixture of nylon and
polyester.
24. The compression garment of claim 23, wherein the material is a
microfibre or 12 filament material.
25. The compression garment of claim 1, wherein at least one panel
is of material oriented at about 45.degree. to the warp of the
material.
26. A compression garment for clothing a body part, the garment
having a first panel of stretchable material joined to a second
panel of stretchable material by a seam and a third panel of
stretchable material within or over part of the first or second
panel, wherein the garment includes means to increase compression
of the third panel.
27. The compression garment of claim 26, wherein the means includes
a tab attached to one side of the third panel and removably
attachable to the other side of the third panel.
28. The compression garment of claim 27, which includes a plurality
of such tabs.
29. A method of manufacturing a compression garment for clothing a
body part, the method including the steps of: a) cutting a first
panel to mimic the body part; b) using an algorithm based on a body
mass index to calculate a size of the first panel appropriate to
create a chosen static or gradient compression for the body part;
and c) adjusting size of the first panel in accordance with the
calculated size.
30-31. (canceled)
32. The method of claim 29, which includes the step of cutting the
first panel to mimic the body part prior to use of the
algorithm.
33. A compression garment for clothing a body part having at least
one muscle or muscle group, the garment having a first panel of
stretchable material joined to a second panel of stretchable
material by a seam, wherein in use the seam is adapted to anchor
the muscle or muscle group.
34. A compression garment for clothing a body part having at least
one muscle or muscle group, the garment including fabric providing
compression in relation to the muscle or muscle group at an angle
of about 45.degree. to the fabric warp.
35. A compression garment for clothing a body part having at least
one muscle or muscle group, the garment having a first panel of
stretchable material joined to a second panel of stretchable
material by a seam, wherein: at least the first panel is adapted in
use to form an encasement of the body part or the muscle or the
muscle group; and the seam of the panel does not intersect the
muscle or the muscle group.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to compression garments and to
methods of manufacture. In particular, this invention is concerned
with compression garments such as shorts, long tights and tops,
either as single garments or in a combination of garments worn as a
suit.
BACKGROUND
[0002] A detailed discussion of the prior art and studies relating
to muscles and muscle activity is contained in Australian
Provisional Patent Application No 2004995456 (the "Provisional
Application"), the contents of which are imported herein by
reference.
[0003] Prior art compression garments are designed to fit the body
snugly, but without consideration as to the extent to which muscles
increase in bulk and mass during activity. Such prior art garments
can become non-static or counter-gradient in this situation. Once a
person wearing a static compression garment increases muscle mass
with activity, the garment can become tighter in the vicinity of
the muscle, which can increase as much as 3-5% in volume. This
alters the effect of the static compression and can create
undesirable effects, in being undesirably tight or in providing
more compression in the wrong places. In turn, this can impede
circulation and reduce the effect of lymphatic drainage.
[0004] It is an aim of the present invention, at least in some
embodiments, to improve on the compression garments, of the prior
art by providing compression garments which can maintain the same
levels of compression, even if muscles have increased in bulk.
[0005] It is a further aim of the present invention, at least in
some embodiments, to provide a compression garment capable of
providing proper compression both during activity and at rest. It
is also an object of the present invention, in some embodiments, to
provide a compression garment which can aid effective recovery from
post-activity build up of blood lactate and creatine kinase.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a compression
garment for clothing a body part which includes a muscle ridge, the
garment having a first panel of stretchable material joined to a
second panel of stretchable material by a seam, wherein at least
part of the seam is adapted to correspond to at least part of the
muscle ridge.
[0007] The body part may be an arm, a leg, the upper torso, the
lower torso, or a combination of these. For example, the
compression garment of the invention may comprise shorts, long
tights or tops, either as a single garment or in a combination of
garments intended to be worn as a suit.
[0008] The muscle ridge will usually be the ridge of a major muscle
or muscle group in the body part to be covered. Some examples of
muscle ridges are given in connection with the drawings, described
below. Reference is also made to the stitching information sheets
and the associated description in the Provisional Application. The
muscle ridge may be represented by a valley in a muscle group.
[0009] Examples of the muscle ridge are: a lateral edge of the
serratus anterior group of muscles, a lateral edge of the serratus
anterior and external deltoid muscle groups, a lateral edge of the
latissimus dorsi muscle group, a ridge through the biceps brachii,
a ridge between the long head of the rectus femoris and the
semitendinosus muscle groups, a ridge of the hamstring tendon, a
lateral edge of the gluteus maximus near the greater trochanter, a
lateral edge of the gluteus maximus near the sacrum, an area over
the propliteal fossa between the heads of the medial and lateral
gastrocnemius and a ridge of the vastus lateralis and a ridge of
the vastus medialis. The compression garment of the invention may
not completely cover all of the muscle and the seam may not
correspond to the full length of the muscle ridge to be covered by
the garment of the invention.
[0010] The compression garment of the invention may be made from a
single elastomeric material or from several different elastomeric
materials.
[0011] The material of which the compression garment of the
invention is made may be chosen from a wide variety of fabric or
different fabrics. Preferably, however, the garment of the
invention is made of panels of fabrics of elastane or similar
stretch material, often combined with nylon or polyester or similar
stretch materials of 40, 60 or up to 120 denier material. The
fabric is preferably of specific stretch and recovery. It is
greatly preferred that the stretch along the warp of the fabric is
between 120% and 225% and its number for recovery is between 10%
and 25%.
[0012] The material preferably has a "wicking" effect, so that in
use it draws moisture from the body. Such materials are known.
[0013] It is preferred that the compression garment of the
invention can effect a compression value of between 5 mm Hg and 25
mm Hg. It is envisaged that the compression garment of the
invention may be used for therapy and in that case, compression
levels may be greater, for example, up to 40 mm Hg. In most
embodiments of the compression garment of the present invention,
compression will be of a lower grade, being less than 25 mm Hg,
ranging down to 5 mm Hg, for active wear and 30 mm Hg, ranging down
to 8 mm Hg, for inactive or non sports usage.
[0014] It is within the scope of the invention that the compression
garment has panels of variable compression fabric within or added
over panels of other compression fabric to give better muscle
support.
[0015] One of the embodiments of the present invention allows
compression to be placed in particular on some joints or muscles.
It allows incremental compression to be achieved through panels of
the garment, which increase strength and stability on the joints,
whilst supporting the muscles. This is a variation on the existing
art where the support can be invoked by the wearer, choosing
between an active state and a passive state.
[0016] Accordingly, in a second aspect, the invention provides a
compression garment for clothing a body part, the garment having a
first panel of stretchable material joined to a second panel of
stretchable material by a seam and a third panel of stretchable
material within or over part of the first or second panels, wherein
the garment includes means to increase compression of the third
panel.
[0017] The panels for the first or second aspect of the invention
may be of any suitable shape. These are further discussed in
relation with the method of the invention, below.
[0018] The seam is preferably a flat stitched seam joining panels
of elastomeric material. However, the seam is not limited to this.
For example, the seam may be a line or ridge of greater thickness
than the surrounding area of the compression garment. Thus the seam
may be formed by gluing, stitching or any other means.
[0019] Stitching is preferably flat stitching using four or six
needle process.
[0020] It is within the scope of the invention that part of the
seam may be designed in use to rest along some muscle ridge or
ridges while other parts of the seam rest against another
anatomically suitable position in order to support muscles and/or
joints of the body part.
[0021] It is particularly preferred that the seam of the
compression garment of the invention does not horizontally
intersect muscle groups so as to cause impingement or unnecessary
pressure. Preferably, a substantial part of the seam is vertical
when the garment is worn.
[0022] It is preferred that panels are in the shape of the muscle
or muscle group, where possible. Seams, e g stitching, along muscle
ridges should move in the same direction as the muscle form.
[0023] Supporting the muscles of the buttock by not impinging or
intersecting them and allowing them to perform and work in their
natural shape aids performance. The benefits of creating a body
shaped panel around the buttocks assists with keeping the base of
the muscle group from moving in a vertical motion when active.
Stitching can act as an anchor against too strong a movement,
particularly where jumping is carried out.
[0024] In a compression garment of the present invention designed
to cover the buttock, it is preferred that posterior stitching
surrounds the area of the buttock and then continues along the
ridge of the hamstring tendon.
[0025] In the case of the upper level of the thigh, it is preferred
that there is no stitching so as to cause pressure against the
fossa ovalis. It is preferred to have panelling around the muscle
and the saphenous vein without forcing pressure directly against
it.
[0026] Because there is a major collection of lymph nodes situated
in the groin area, it is preferred that anterior stitching is used,
to remove pressure from this area, instead of a lateral inside
seam.
[0027] In relation to the sartorius, the longest muscle in the
body, it is preferred that anterior stitching cuts vertically
across the sartorius only at its upper level and close to its
attachment to the anterior superior iliac spine and just above the
insertion of the bicep rectus femoris. The anterior/posterior
stitching does not interfere with the performance of these
muscles.
[0028] In relation to the muscles of the knee and calf, it is
beneficial to have posterior stitching running through the centre
of the biceps of the gastrocnemius to offer both support for the
muscle bulk as well as creating a firm anchor from which the
muscles can be compressed.
[0029] In the case of a compression garment of the invention
intended to cover the lower part of the torso and the legs, the
anterior stitching of the garment can commence at a position near
the waist of the body in a position near the iliac crest. The waist
can be higher in some models of the garment, but the preferential
position has the garment sitting under the navel in a comfortable
position.
[0030] The stitching of the side panel of the garment and the yoke
or centre panel may follow anatomically from the anterior superior
iliac spine where it intersects the head of the sartorius muscle
then sits in the ridge created by the bicep of the rectus femoris
and follows that groove down the front of the leg. During activity
the groove can become more pronounced.
[0031] The stitching preferably does one of two things at the knee.
It can pass directly over the patella where it joins the iliotibial
tract and sits on the anterior side of the tibialis at its junction
with the tibia, or it can move around the patella in a position
where it is not likely to cause interference with patella movement,
but to assist as a lateral anchor. This anchoring is achieved
through joining of the panels. The stitching continues down to the
ankle in both scenarios where it intersects the trans crural and
cruciate crural ligaments. Stitching can be then terminated or used
to join a footpiece or stirrup, as the style of garment
requires.
[0032] With respect to shorts, the same route may be taken
anteriorly by the stitching to the point where it is terminated
above the knee.
[0033] The compression garment of the present invention may be
joined at the waist as a union of the two side panels forming a T
intersection midline. The garment can also be constructed with a
gusset, which can either be at the front forming a triangle shape,
or it can be a full gusset, rectangular or similarly shaped running
from the front to the back. When such a gusset is in place the
stitching should be in a position to sit naturally along the
aponeurosis of the obliquus externus, sitting in the groin channel
but not directly causing pressure over the saphenous vein opening,
and not causing impingement over the cluster of lymph angion in the
groin.
[0034] Posteriorly, stitching of the garment of the present
invention preferably surrounds the area of the buttock then takes
up a position along the ridge of the hamstring tendon. It joins the
inside yoke panel to the outer leg panel, both of which have been
shaped prior to joining in the shape, dimension and size of the
leg. After passing over the ridge of the hamstring tendon the
stitching line may pass over and intersect the knee, slightly to
one side of the crease to avoid pressure on the small saphenous
vein at the back of the knee. Stitching may then travel along the
centre of the ridgeline created by the belly of the bicep
gastrocnemius.
[0035] With regard to the muscles of the shoulders and arms,
anchoring a clothing top in the best position to aid the movement
of these muscles can be important. Preferably, the stitching joins
do not cut across the shoulder but are effective in producing
compression across the whole muscle groups. The stitching of a
clothing top of the present invention preferably runs along the
edge of the latissimus dorsi muscles, running from the edge of the
teres major and the long head of the triceps brachii of the arm.
The stitching should not cause impingement of the skin, blood flow
or articulation of the joint. It preferably follows the line of the
latissimus dorsi to the centre mid section of the back.
[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
stitching that joins panels as well as panels that have had a
stitching line sewn into the garment can be used to support
muscles, `anchoring` them and assisting the muscle belly from
increasing its size by having extra compression afforded by the
anchoring of the stitching. The same stitching can also be used to
aid support of joints such as the knee and the position of the
patella. Stitching in other positions in another preferred
embodiment can aid the support of the calf muscles or the
hamstrings.
[0037] Compression and support `tabs` can be placed at chosen
positions on the garment. The tabs may be attached to separate
panels of elastomeric material attached to existing panels to
assist muscle with function and create varying compression and
support by `pulling on` pressure by moving the tabs to a preset
location creating a variable compression effect.
[0038] A compression garment preferably affords benefit during many
different activities. Sometimes an athlete or wearer needs to carry
out a specific task and requires for the duration of that task a
different (usually stronger) level of compression. By using
strategically placed `tabs` on panels, increments can be made to
the garment of the invention to increase compression and
function.
[0039] A weightlifter may be training, exercising and lifting
weights of a higher weight in order to increase performance,
improve muscle mass and train effectively. Wearing a garment of
specifically valued compression may not be sufficient in certain
places during the task. He/she may train with a series of lighter
weights and finish with a set of higher weights. An embodiment of
the present invention offers attachments to panels in certain
places, which can be `pulled on` or tightened to a specific mark
relating to a higher desired compression value. This is not for
therapy but for training or exercise. An example is given in the
drawings, below.
[0040] When panels are cut to various sizes for different products
of the present invention as discussed in connection with the method
of the invention below, the algorithmic process of deduction of
sizing means that panels can be joined sympathetically to allow for
incremental tightening of compression over a certain body part.
That tightening effect can also be loosened when required, such as
after activity. The increase and decrease in compression is a
factor of the size of the panel itself and the amount of reduction
in that panel that has to be made to give a regulated higher level
of compression. This is not an issue of simply making a panel
tighter; it has to be appropriate to the garment, the compression
values existing and a safe method of increasing compression, then
decreasing it. Around this adjustable panel there are anchor points
created by stitching. This stitching can be in a horizontal or
vertical mode or any angle in between as required by the area of
compression.
[0041] These variable compression points can be on the legs, on the
arms on the upper torso and in any place where increased support
and compression is required. The compression increase can also be
to hold a specific muscle group in place for a specific purpose
such as muscle learning and repetitive action to increase muscle
proprioception.
[0042] One such embodiment may be along a muscle group where an
extra panel of material is constructed and either sewn in or added
to the panel, so that a particular muscle such as the sartorius can
be highlighted from the remaining leg muscles. In a prior art
product produced by Wacoal, banding was added to material panels to
offer support to joints such as the knee during activity. Those
bands added support to the existing layer of fabric but are
unmovable. They are attached to the garment being sewed in their
entirety.
[0043] The present invention is able to use added banding in some
areas of its construction, made from fabric (usually stronger or
stiffer than the base material) and which leads to an anchor point
where compression in that band can be adjusted manually to increase
then decrease that compression. The added compression can offer
benefit to the joint and skeleton.
[0044] The incremental compression can be applied during some
activities and not others. The garment of the present invention in
this embodiment does not have to be removed to apply the various
levels of support or compression available in the panels.
[0045] Most compression products, whether stockings or support
tights, offer compression on the horizontal plane at 90.degree..
The present invention offers compression on the horizontal in some
embodiments, but can also offer compression in a matrix angled to
support muscles not on the horizontal at 90.degree., but at an
angle around 45.degree. to the warp. This means that from the
posterior edge of the panel, the whales are positioned in relation
to the posterior edge in a lower position anatomically than their
other end at the anterior edge of the panel. The warp stretches and
recovers not only on the horizontal in some embodiments, but also
at an angle, which is between 90.degree. and 135.degree. at the
posterior edge. This `angle warping` of the fabric induces stretch
and recovery along that line and creates better compression
enabling the muscles covered to be `lifted` gravitationally towards
the skeleton. This improves flattening out of the muscle.
[0046] When panels are cut for the present invention they are
preferably cut together so that corresponding side panels and yoke
panels have the same `angle warping`. Where horizontal warping
occurs, it is in places which do not require engineered
compression.
[0047] The compression garment of the present invention may afford
two benefits. First, the compression may aid muscle proprioception,
keep the muscles under pressure and keep blood lactates in the
muscle bed during activity, with support by panels cut in the
correct shape and dimension to accommodate the muscles concerned
creating engineered or gradient compression over the body of the
muscle, sending blood from superficial veins into the deeper
channels. This can aid endurance, power and stamina.
[0048] Secondly, the compressive nature of the material used in the
present invention can also be used as a respiratory regulator aid
and trainer.
[0049] The present invention is also concerned with a method of
manufacturing the compression garment of the invention.
Essentially, the present invention provides a method of making a
compression garment for clothing a body part, the method including
the steps of: [0050] a) cutting a first panel to mimic the body
part; [0051] b) using an algorithm based on a body mass index to
calculate a size of the first panel appropriate to create a chosen
static or gradient compression for the body part; and [0052] c)
adjusting size of the first panel in accordance with the calculated
size.
[0053] Preferably, the body mass index calculation is combined with
existing measurements of limbs and body parts, to achieve a range
of sized garments capable of effecting either static compression or
gradient compression over a particular body part and having a
compression range which is effective during periods of activity or
passivity, in certain embodiments.
[0054] Correct sizing for the garment can be achieved by using the
stretch recovery specifications of the fabrics to assist in
calculating body dimension. An algorithm allows accurate reductions
or increases in that sizing when fabric outside the appropriate
stretch and recovery is used. The effect of body mass change
through impact in sport is also taken into consideration as well as
the requirement to enhance recovery by using specific compression
that is capable of aiding muscle proprioception, endurance and
stamina whilst active, but assisting blood lactate and creatine
kinase levels post activity.
[0055] The approach used in the present invention is that panels
are cut first to mimic the assumed body shape of the desired limb
or body part then algorithms are used to ascertain a homogenous
reduced panel sizing in the finished garment to accurately create a
static compression or a gradient compression over the body part
covered. Sizing can be created individually to a single user's
specifications (bespoke) or from group size data of a single gender
or both genders. Articulations of panels can be created using
anchor points to create areas of specific compression over areas
requiring a specific function such as an armpit, hips, knees or
elbows.
[0056] The use of static compression is best under activity and
load. There is no benefit from wearing a static compression garment
passively. Taking this into account it means that a garment
offering static compression before activity really has to offer a
slightly variable compression gradient until the wearer dons it and
commences activity. Slight reductions in pressure higher up the
limb means that increases in size are catered for and the garment
becomes static only under load and does not have the deleterious
effect of counteracting circulation or lymphatic drainage. To do
this, particularly where panels are cut and sewn together to form a
garment, those panels should be `shaped` in cutting prior to sewing
to mimic the body or limb shape so that if the panel was cut
without reduction in size, it would fit the body part homogenously,
offering no specific compression or tightness at any point it
covers. The reductions in circumference used are then able to
reduce the panel accordingly so that specific compression can be
delivered to any part of the panel so when sewn it forms a shaped
limb or body part form.
[0057] With regard to graduated or gradient compression, the same
rationale is used. To make sure a garment has higher compression in
the lower regions of the garment and lower compression moving up
the garment, the same effect has to be realised when the garment is
used for activity. Muscle mass increases in some areas more than
others, so sizing has to take this into account to ensure
compression remains balanced.
[0058] By starting with the same base panels as in static
compression, so that the panels before sewing mimic body or limb
shape, then appropriate compression can be delivered to a panelled
garment. Such compression specificity is easier in
computer-controlled circular knit stockings made to shape and size,
but it has always been hard to induce the appropriate compression
before the present invention, because to have real effect across
the range of sizes, body shape has to be taken into
consideration.
[0059] Prior art compression stockings and garments are usually
sized related to the users calf, thigh or ankle measurement. In
below knee garments, usually used for therapy and prophylaxis of
thrombosis, sizing is critical. With athletic endeavour, wearing a
below knee garment can cause serious problems. First, below knee
garments can only support the muscles of the lower leg and
therefore are only able to offer proprioception marginally.
Secondly, the banding at the top of the garment can cause
constriction of the superficial veins, which can increase the risk
of thrombosis. The garment of the present invention may include a
long garment extending from ankle to waist, shorts, and a top with
short or long sleeves.
[0060] From an off the shelf viewpoint, the present invention
allows users to look at different parameters including ankle, calf
or thigh measurement. The Body Mass Index ("BMI"), a body
dimensional calculation measures, for medical terms, those people
who are at a specific weight in relation to their height and a
judgment can be made respecting the body mass and whether they are
under, over or at their correct weight.
[0061] By using the BMI algorithm and by bridging it to another
algorithm, which allows a comparison from a weight to mass
conversion, the present invention makes it possible to provide for
up to 95% of the intended users a suitable sizing equivalent to
assess the likely mass of the body and the shape, size and
dimension of the trunk and its extremities.
[0062] From a study conducted in the US by Bulik et al., (Int J
Obes Relat Metab Disord, October 2001; 25(10): 1517-24) the
establishment of gender based norms relating to silhouettes used in
standard body image assessment are able to be linked to BMI.
Differences were observed between women and men in terms of desired
body size and discrepancy scores, with women preferring smaller
sizes.
[0063] The figural stimuli are a robust technique for classifying
individuals as obese or thin. Bulik studied a large Caucasian based
population in the USA of more than 28,000 subjects collected over a
55-year data period including 3347 twins.
[0064] That study showed nine body shapes for men and women. Men's
average BMI for each figure-number was shown in the following table
BMI #1. Clearly, there are anomalies with regard to height for very
tall persons, but those anomalies can be taken into account. The
women's sizing is shown in Table BMI #2, also below.
TABLE-US-00001 Table BMI #1 Men MEN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 BMI 19.8 21.1
22.2 23.6 25.8 28.1 31.5 35.2 41.5
TABLE-US-00002 Table BMI #2 Women WOM- EN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 BMI
18.3 19.3 20.9 23.1 26.2 29.9 34.3 38.6 45.4
[0065] The present invention has identified the relevance of BMI
with respect to normal sizing charts for men and women. FIG. 25 of
the drawings is a BMI index sheet, which shows how BMI relates to
those existing sizes.
[0066] Rather than using the data as an estimate of obesity in
adult population, the data provides an ability to assess the
individual body shapes of a population with respect to the amount
of body mass relating to their height and weight. From that an
algorithm has been developed to convert BMI/average body proportion
and size with respect to limb and or body part circumference and an
appropriate reduction to achieve an engineered compression
expressed as mmHg within the garment. That compression may be
static in that the same compression values are offered over the
entire body part or it may be gradient compression where there is a
declining level of compression from lower to higher along the body
part when standing.
[0067] The importance of this relationship is seen in its ability
to cater for as much as 95% of the adult population. There are
racial implications with respect to using different source
information respecting body shape and BMI, but the result is the
same. Specific measurements can be determined at required body
parts to invoke a `smooth line` engineering of compression over a
body part.
[0068] In FIG. 25, references to BMI are deduced from existing
algorithms used to assess mass. These have now been linked with
respect to showing how they compare with mass deduced through
adding specific compression (static or gradient) into the equation
to deliver sizing and how it relates to the BMI index. Computations
and data investigated with respect to these calculations have been
shown to be statistically significant. The P value in (two-tailed)
ANOVA was P<0.0001 and the correlation was significant with a
95% confidence interval of 0.8671 to 0.9957.
[0069] The purpose of this assessment and method of construction of
sizing based on measurement and or BMI and weight/mass calculations
is for the mass market. It is not meant to replace bespoke
manufacture of individual products.
[0070] It is important for the design of a garment, whether made
from circular knit on a specific sewing machine, which creates the
shape of the leg as it constructs the garment, or from panels of
material cut and then sewn together, that the finished sewn panel
or product has a size that matches the dimension of the body part
such as the shape of a leg.
[0071] If panels are sewn together from a basic pattern in the
shape of a leg, which is, say rectangular in shape, then expecting
the fabric to stretch appropriately across the body when donned
cannot occur. Panels sewn together in such a way can offer
compression on the body part, but it could be that such compression
in effect is useless or possibly even dangerous. Most garments
sewed together work on a `limb reduction construction` where the
measurement of the circumference of the body part is measured, and
then reduced in size to make the garment tighter around the body
part.
[0072] Burns therapy garments commonly use what is known as a 20%
reduction level, which applies a level of compression on the body
of about 5 mmHg to 8 mmHg. Anti embolic thrombosis stockings also
work on the size of a given body part such as the ankle and calf
and reduce the size of the stocking to invoke compression, however
many of these products are in fact small rectangular knitted
products applying pressure in a gradient form for the benefit to
aid circulation. These strong stockings can have a tendency to
limit lymphatic flow if they are too strong.
[0073] One of the purposes of the present invention is to create a
body or limb shape in a panel, which is then sewed together with
other panels to create an exact replica of the body part or limb,
which is a reduced size in relation to the actual body part, but
which offers specific compression along the entire length of the
finished garment. This means that a static compression applied to
the body will be the same pressure at the ankle, calf, knee and
thigh, and be exact with regard to the limb size and body mass.
[0074] The present invention serves to settle what has not been
taken into account in the prior art, that even with static
compression, for effect during activity the parameters of
compression have to be taken into account and engineered into the
garment panels prior to make-up, and that compression has to
reflect the basis that, for an active product, the static
compression factors have to be offered when active and under load,
not when first donned. This in effect means the present invention
has an engineered reverse-compression factor to offer static
compression under load.
[0075] The algorithm for sizing static compression garments has to
take into account an increase in limb measurement for an `under
load` response.
[0076] The science of producing a stocking, bandage or garment with
gradient compression in the legs or arms has been known for many
years. The effect of having various levels of compression with the
strongest at the lower extremity and the lighter compression at the
higher extremity is known to aid circulation. As a therapy and as a
prophylaxis, the prior art has usually included Antiembolic
stockings (medical TED's), stockings for support and to reduce
aching and tired legs. The benefits of compression has been seen in
sporting endeavour and several studies have been found to support
benefit with respect to reductions in blood lactate, creatine
kinase as well as anecdotal reductions in delayed onset muscle
soreness (DOMS).
[0077] The algorithm used in the present invention deals similarly
with gradient compression as it does with static compression. The
use of the particular garment is identified and in particular
specific compression is placed according to the requirements of the
wearer. The gradients used may be different in different sports or
applications. Wearers using a garment for weightlifting or training
may have different compression values for a garment used for
training.
[0078] The algorithm of the present invention takes into account
changes in dynamic activity and is able to maintain the appropriate
compression to perform the function required.
[0079] Conversion from the one size of a limb or body part
requiring compression to another will now be discussed.
Notwithstanding whether static or gradient compression is required,
a panel or shape consistent with the intended body or limb
dimensions must be made. It is important to take into account the
relevant data expressed elsewhere with body mass and calculations
of weight to mass using dimensional integers identical to the size
required fitting the limb or body part.
[0080] The present invention identifies this factor and shows the
method of achieving it. The panels when sewn together without
reduction would fit the limb or body part at sea level without
offering any compression value other than being homogenous with the
body dimension. By then using an algorithm to determines size
reductions according to BMI and weight/mass comparisons, a size is
determined which will invoke a graded compression along the entire
length of the intended area for gradient covering.
[0081] The first dimension is circumference of limb (source unit).
The desired size of the reduced panel (desired unit) is deduced.
The result of that calculation is then further deduced to offer the
required compression value at specific points along the panel,
which are joined. The nature of usage of the wearer, dependent on
some activities, is also taken into account. Differences in
altitude are also taken into account, such as for a product worn by
people carrying out activity at various altitudes.
[0082] The source unit, (unit.sub.s), is to be altered to a desired
unit, (unit.sub.d). Let q.sub.s be the numeric quantity expressed
in the source unit, q.sub.st be the equivalent quantity in the
standard (SI) system, and q.sub.d be the quantity in the desired
unit. Let f.sub.s=factor (unit.sub.s) be the conversion factor of
the source unit and f.sub.d=factor (unit.sub.d) be the conversion
factor of the desired unit. Then we have the equations:
q.sub.sf.sub.s=q.sub.SI=q.sub.df.sub.d
q.sub.d=q.sub.sf.sub.s/f.sub.d
[0083] Thus, conversion to a desired unit is accomplished by
multiplying the source quantity by a factor f, where
f=f.sub.s/f.sub.d=factor(unit.sub.s)/factor(unit.sub.d)
[0084] The convert function takes as arguments the source unit and
desired unit; it returns the conversion factor f, or NIL if the
conversion is undefined or incorrect. The calculation is then
repeated. Size reduction is a percentage decrease. The parameter of
reduction in the garments of the present invention is between 35%
and 15% of the limb or body part to be covered.
[0085] Novak in IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering, vol. 21,
no. 8 (August 1995), pp. 651-661 explains unit conversion and
dimensional analysis where the source and the goal are different
units. This relates to the conversion of dimension integers and
dimension vectors.
[0086] Critically it is important to use weight and mass as a
checking mechanism against BMI calculations. By using the integer
factor 1/9.80665 we can convert the weight in kilograms to a Newton
force of mass to assess the value of fabric strength and
performance. The fabric's ability to offer specific `force`
qualities in newtons assists in deciding relevant relationships
between fabric qualities and effect.
[0087] Many performance fabrics offer benefits with the way fabrics
which make up garments work. They offer wicking--the transport of
perspiration from one side against the body to the outside. The
same process also works for heat transport away from the body.
Fabrics are also sanitised to offer antimicrobial protection. The
present invention can use any stretch fabric to achieve its
compression factors. The existing art uses fabrics of particular
stretch and recovery. In fact, stretch fabrics that are warp
knitted offer stretch along the warp from 90% through to 225% and
higher. From that stretch they can offer a recovery from 0 to 100%.
The weft stretch can be from 0 through to 200% or more and recovery
the same as the warp. In fact any amount of stretch and recovery is
able to be induced into fabric by its construction.
[0088] With compression garments the stretch and recovery is vital.
Fabrics which are stretched against the body and intended to
support muscles and aid circulation have to be usually tight
fitting and at some point along its stretch axis reach a point
where it wants to stop and recover. Also, its ability to recover is
important. It is not particularly comfortable for products to be
made from fabric which either does not recover or which recover too
much, to the point where after stretching it moves back to its old
position pre-stretch.
[0089] The existing art uses fabrics cut with the grain which
stretch to everyday industry standards (around 150-225%) for the
warp and which are usually cut with the grain of the fabric, making
them stretch vertically with the height of the wearer. Some
existing garments have been produced using panels and garments cut
across the grain of the fabric to use the warp and weft stretch in
a different manner, such as with the present invention, however
prior to the present invention there has been no real ability to
assess the fabric specifications and accurately make changes and
alterations to the markers to invoke accurate compression.
[0090] Where garments are cut across the grain, the ideal warp
stretch is usually around 160%-195% or thereabouts and its recovery
potential should be 10-20%. The average of those stretch parameters
is 10% in either direction for the stretch and 50% in either
direction for recovery, with an average of 15%. The problem with
patterns is that they are usually cut to a set design and graded
according to industry standards of grading between sizes. There is
a known gradient between a small and a medium and between a medium
and a large, etc. These existing gradings rely on consistent fabric
supply.
[0091] The garments of the present invention preferably use fabrics
with a preferred warp stretch of between 160% and 195% and cut
across the grain. These panels may be sewn together with other
panels of the same specification. Something which is usually not
always reliable is the manufacture of stretch fabrics. As an
industry standard, allowances of 5% in either direction is seen as
suitable. That means a stretch or recovery method of sizing can be
out by up to 10%. On a garment delivering specific values and
levels of compression at specific points on the body, such
variations can greatly affect compression factors as well as the
total efficacy of the finished product. Two or more panels sewn
together each having 10% variations in sizing can cause a major
problem. To overcome this sizing issue and to keep the compression
values consistent the present invention uses an algorithm to
calculate differences in the fabric used.
[0092] The present invention provides a calculation to assess the
stretch and recovery of fabrics, whether warp or circular knitted,
and to deduce the appropriate sizing for the required panel or body
piece. Subtle calculations made when markers are being made can
mean that fabric stretch and recovery, although very important, can
be assessed and used to deliver the required compression values.
Prior to the present invention, it meant that fabrics had to be
specifically made to suit the usage of the garment, otherwise
compression could not be changed to suit different requirements
with different fabrics.
[0093] The preferred warp specifications of the fabric is an
average of 177.5%, (160%+195%/2=177.5). If fabric is used which is
greater in stretch than this average then the following calculation
is used:
Sf(fabric percentage to be used).times..pi.=-R(reduction in sizing
%) [0094] Sp (average % preferred)
[0094] Therefore Sf(225).times.3.14=+R % [0095] Sp(177.5)
[0095] -R %=1.285.times.3.14 [0096] -R %=4.039% (4% reduction in
panel size for marker)
[0097] If fabric warp stretch is less than the average of 177.5%,
the following calculation is used:
Sf(fabric percentage to be used).times..pi.=-R(increase in sizing
%) [0098] Sp (average % preferred)
[0098] Therefore Sf(150).times.3.14=R % [0099] Sp(177.5)
[0099] +R %=0.845.times.3.14 [0100] +R %=2.65 (% increase in panel
size for marker)
[0101] The reduction or increase in panel size is calculated after
the first calculation for sizing has been completed and affects the
computer generated marker being produced to cut the fabric into the
required panels. The reduction or increases affect each panel edge
on the vertical and not the horizontal edge of the panel. Because
panels are cut vertically for a standing body, the sizing
calculations are doubled per panel. Therefore a panel increase of
2.65% occurs on each edge meaning an overall increase of 5.3% for
that panel.
[0102] When a panel is reduced, the same effect occurs. These
increases and reductions are made simple with computer marking
systems such as CAD, Gerber, TukaTech or other similar systems. The
markers can also be made from existing cardboard patterns, however
a series of patterns would be needed with relevant increases and
decreases. It is not expected that manual gradings would be
efficient or economical.
[0103] The weight of fabrics used in the present invention is
preferably between 170 gsm and 200 gsm. The fabrics can be
sueded/brushed, or not. They can be a mix of elastane such as Lycra
and a mixture of microfibres in nylon or polyester. The ratio of
elastane in the elastomeric mix should be at least 18% and
preferably 22% or more of elastane (Lycra or similar). Not all
panels within the one garment need to be the same materials and
variations of the present invention can embody elastane
compositions of differing weight and content to perform different
functions--such as an anchor or articulation point. Also varying
panels within the garment can be made of different materials to
invoke the compression needed.
[0104] The preferred fabrics are elastomeric materials made from
Lycra or similar elastomeric materials with a denier range between
40 denier and 120 denier and blended with a stretch material such
as nylon or polyester or a mixture of both. The fabric can be a
microfibre or 12 filament material and sueded or unsueded for
better comfort.
[0105] The present invention is able to embody several varying
articulations of the knee and hip, depending on the usage of the
product. In the existing art, there a number of applications of
panels and constructions of garments to allow a better fitting
product. Using standard methods of cutting and pattern placement on
fabric often results in gathering and bad fitting in areas where
the body bends and stretches.
[0106] In garments constructed on panels cut on the horizontal
plane with respect to the grain of the fabric, the present
invention preferably uses articulation points of fabric inserts of
similar grade stretch or recovery. Alternatively, higher levels of
stretch and recovery can be used strategically to reduce this
ill-fit. Ill-fitting panels means compression values are lost when
required in those areas. To overcome this, the present invention
can use panels cut in an `angle warping` form where stretch and
recovery is reversed by cutting it across the fabric grain at the
different angle and degree. Normally, in the existing art, circular
knit fabric has been used in the whole garment as a way of reducing
this ill-fit, however circular knit is not capable of all the
function requirements of the present invention.
[0107] These articulation points that relate to the knee and hip
are preferably not positioned at the knee or hip itself but on
panels in the near vicinity, allowing better stretch and recovery
around the articulation.
[0108] Where articulations occur and the fit has to remain tight
and functioning with appropriate levels of compression, the method
of construction of the present invention allows shaping of the
areas of the hip and knee to be taken into account by using the
reduction algorithm to reduce the panel at that point by a desired
amount to achieve fit. By incorporating panels cut on a different
bias (a bias created not to allow the fabric used to hang to fit
the form better, but a bias articulation to allow better function
of body activity under load) compression can be anchored
specifically to these articulation points, allowing a homogenous
fit between body and garment.
[0109] The problem with size gradings seen in the existing art with
respect to clothing sizes, including compression-clothing sizes,
was that they did not take into account the issue of increased mass
of muscle in place when running. Sizing algorithms of the present
invention take this into account, which means that normal grading
differences in sizing do not usually follow current known art.
[0110] In relation to leg stiffness, appropriate sizing needs to be
identified for smaller athletes, such as middle and long distance
runners who require a different compression value and therefore
algorithm to deduce the correct sizing. The algorithm of the
present invention is able to deduce this.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0111] To assist with understanding the present invention,
reference will now be made to certain non-limiting embodiments in
the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0112] FIG. 1 shows a front view of a first embodiment of a
compression garment, being a long-sleeved upper body garment in
accordance with the present invention;
[0113] FIG. 2 shows a front view of a second embodiment, being a
short-sleeved version of the FIG. 1 embodiment;
[0114] FIG. 3 shows a front view of a third embodiment, being a
short-sleeved compression garment of the invention;
[0115] FIG. 4 shows a rear view of a fourth embodiment of
compression garment;
[0116] FIG. 5 shows a front view of a further embodiment, being a
short-sleeved compression garment;
[0117] FIG. 6 shows a rear view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment;
[0118] FIG. 7 shows a front view of a leg which forms part of an
embodiment of a compression garment being long pants;
[0119] FIG. 8 shows an enlarged view of the leg of FIG. 7;
[0120] FIG. 9 shows an enlarged rear view of the compression
garment of FIGS. 7 and 8;
[0121] FIG. 10 shows a rear view of a leg being part of a variation
of the compression garment of FIGS. 7 to 9;
[0122] FIG. 11 shows a rear view of part of the leg of the garment
of FIGS. 7 to 10;
[0123] FIG. 12 shows a front view of part of the leg of the garment
of FIGS. 7 to 11;
[0124] FIG. 13 shows a front view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment, being long pants;
[0125] FIG. 14 is a rear view of the compression garment of FIG.
13;
[0126] FIG. 15 is a front view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment, being long pants;
[0127] FIG. 16 is a rear view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment, being long pants;
[0128] FIG. 17 is a front view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment, being shorts;
[0129] FIG. 18 shows a rear view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment, being shorts;
[0130] FIG. 19 shows a rear view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment being shorts;
[0131] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of a limb in a leg of a
compression garment (pants);
[0132] FIG. 21 is a side view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment, being long pants;
[0133] FIG. 22 is a side view of a further embodiment of a
compression garment being short pants;
[0134] FIG. 23 is a side view of an embodiment of a compression
garment, being shorts with variable compression means, in one
configuration;
[0135] FIG. 24 is a side view of the shorts of FIG. 23 in another
configuration; and
[0136] FIG. 25 is a BMI index sheet for the method of manufacture
of the invention.
BEST MODE OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0137] Referring to the drawings in detail, FIG. 1 shows a garment
10 having a body 1 with four- or six-needle flat bed stitching 2
situated in anatomical positions along the garment, namely along
the serratus anterior muscle group. An area 3 under the armpits
uses fabric of either a different or a higher compression level
(including compositions of higher stretch Elastane) than that of
body 1. Similar fabric to that used in area 3 is used on side
panels 4 running along the sides of garment 10 to create better
compression. Bottom edge 5 of garment 10 is hemmed in a manner that
allows stretch and does not create a lateral pressure ridge. The
wrist hem 6 is of similar design and constructions, so that
pressure is not placed against the wearer's wrist (not shown).
[0138] The sleeves of garment 10 have an outer panel 7 and an inner
panel 8. These can be of similar construction and specification to
those of garment body 1, or they may be different to a muscle
proprioception. The stitching 2 between outer panel 7 and inner
panel 8 is designed to avoid cutting across muscles and runs along
a ridge in the biceps brachii for at least part of its length.
[0139] FIG. 2 shows compression top 15, which is the same as that
in FIG. 1, except that it is short sleeved. The same reference
numerals are used to denote the same parts, in this and subsequent
figures.
[0140] FIG. 3 shows a front view of a short sleeved top 16. Panels
13 and 14 are cut in what may be described as an "angle warp" of
the fabric, which means that the fabric in these areas is cut
differently from the fabric of garment body 11, namely, at an angle
to the grain. The stitching 12 provides anchor points between
different stretch fabrics, or fabrics cut on the bias, used in
panels 13 and 14, compared with the fabric of garment body 11.
Outer panels 17 correspond to outer panels 7 in FIGS. 1 and 2.
Inner panels 18 correspond to inner panels 8 in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0141] FIG. 4 shows a rear view of short-sleeved top 20, being of a
similar structure to the garment in FIGS. 1 to 3, except that side
panels 22 run all the way to bottom hem 19. Sleeves 21 do not
include inner and outer panels 18 and 17 separated by stitching
12.
[0142] In FIG. 5, garment 25 has panel 14 around the muscle group
serratus anterior and the external deltoid muscle group.
[0143] Garment 26 shown in FIG. 6 has side panels 27 which cover
and support the lateral edge of the latissimus dorsi muscle group
from under the armpit panels 13 to the waist 23.
[0144] FIG. 7 shows a front view of one leg 28 of a compression
garment 30 being long pants. FIG. 7 shows inner panel 31 joined to
outer panel 29 using flat bed stitching 32 and how stitching 32
sits on the anterior fascia of garment 30 in an anatomical
position, along anatomical ridges and beds. FIG. 7 also shows two
other preferred features. Gusset panel 34 sits under the groin area
of the wearer. Stitching line 33 is attached to the side or top of
gusset panel 34 and secures front panel 35 to gusset panel 34 and
inner panel 31. Stitching line 33 is located to avoid sitting in
the inguinal fold and impinging the superficial inguinal glands
(refer FIG. 8). The upper part 36 of stitching line 32 sits in a
position away from the great saphenous vein on the inside of the
wearer's leg and is in a position to rest in the ridge of the
wearer's rectus femoris muscle.
[0145] FIG. 8, which is an enlargement of part of FIG. 7, shows by
dashed line 37 the location of the wearer's inguinal glands, which
are avoided by stitching 33.
[0146] FIG. 9 is a rear view of part of leg 28 of garment 30 and
shows how gusset panel 34 comes all the way from the front to the
rear of garment 30. Stitching 38 travels down the rear of leg 28
and is on the lateral edge of the wearer's gluteus muscles in the
vicinity of the wearer's greater trochanter 39.
[0147] FIG. 10 shows a variation of the garments in FIGS. 7 to 9.
In garment 40, of which one leg 28 is shown, stitching line 39 has
been moved to the other side of the wearer's gluteous maximus and
is on the insertion side of the gluteous near the sacrum 41.
[0148] FIG. 11 shows a view of the rear part of leg 28 of the FIG.
7 to 9 or FIG. 10 embodiments. In FIG. 11, stitching line 32 passes
along the ridge of the long head of the wearer's femoris and the
semitendinosis (shown in dashed outline). At the wearer's knee,
stitch line 32 passes over the wearer's popliteal fossa, between
heads 42 and 43 of the wearer's medial and lateral gastrocnemius
(shown in dashed outline) and then passes over the body of the
muscle in the centre of the two muscles 44 and 45.
[0149] FIG. 12 shows a view of the front of part of the left leg 28
from FIGS. 7 to 11. Stitching line 32 passes around the outer
perimeter of the wearer's patella 44 (shown in dotted outline). The
stitch line also travels from the patella 44 down the ridge created
by the junction of the side of the wearer's tibia 45 and the edge
of the wearer's anterior tibialis muscle 46 (shown in dotted
outline).
[0150] FIG. 13 is a front view of a further embodiment of
compression garment. In this figure, garment 50 has anatomical
stitching 32 as for previous embodiments, but includes new
stitching lines 48 moving from stitch line 33 and forming a support
around the patella, indicated at 44. Stitch line 48 does not join
panels but represents stitching sewn into the panels to create
anchor support of the wearer's muscles and joints.
[0151] FIG. 14 shows a rear view of garment 50 and demonstrates how
the areas of the wearer's gluteus 49 and the hamstring 51 are
supported by stitching lines 32 and 52. These create support for
the hamstring 51, keeping the muscle in place and reducing
bellying.
[0152] FIG. 15 is a front view of further embodiment of compression
garment 60, being long pants. In this embodiment, in contrast to
the FIG. 14 embodiment, long stitch lines 48 are replaced by
shorter stitch lines 54. Stitch lines 54 do not join panels but act
as anchor stitching to produce support for muscles and joints and
in particular to support patella 44. Stitch line 33 of the FIG. 13
embodiment is replaced by stitch line 55.
[0153] FIG. 16 shows rear view of garment 61, which compared to the
FIG. 13 embodiment, has a smaller stitch line 56 which can support
the wearer's hamstring 51 without travelling substantially the full
length of the garment 61. Garment 61 includes stirrups 57.
[0154] FIG. 17 is a front view of shorts 62, which are similar to a
short version of garment 50 in FIG. 13, where anchor stitching 32
combined with stitch line 48 creates a large muscle support panel
58 over the wearer's rectus femoris. Stitching 32 travels along a
ridge of the wearer's vastus lateralis on one side and along the
ridge of the wearer's vastus medialis on the other side. Again,
stitch line 33 attaches to gusset 34 so that there is no
impingement of the wearer's inguinal area.
[0155] FIG. 18 shows a view of the rear of a pair of shorts 63. In
shorts 63, seam 32 and stitching line 48 surround the wearer's
hamstrings in the area of panel 59.
[0156] FIG. 19 shows the rear view of another embodiment of the
present invention. Shorts 64 have an added panel 65 of stretch
material, which has been added to garment 64 using stitch line 66.
This added panel 65 is capable of supporting muscles by adding a
layer of compression in the required area and over the required
group of muscles.
[0157] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of a wearer's limb 70
surrounded by compression garment 71. It shows a normal (prior art)
stitch seam 72. Seam 73 (as per the prior art) has been sewn twice
to create a larger profile to aid aerodynamics at the front of
garment 71 for cyclists and runners, but with no consideration as
to support of muscle groups, etc. However, for the purpose of
garment 71 in accordance with the present invention, stitch line 73
has been moved to position 74, which will be in the correct
anatomical position as described in connection with the drawings
herein.
[0158] FIG. 21 shows in side view a compression garment 80 which
includes a variable compression point panel 76, which has been sewn
in by seams 75. Garment 80 also includes stirrups 57. Variable
compression panel 76 can be made of fabric construction, including
fabric of similar stretch and recovery to the fabric 77 of garment
80, but cut on a different angle (angle warping) or else a
higher-grade compression or stretch fabric may be used to act as an
anchor point. The purpose of panel 76 is to offer support to the
wearer's hips, particularly after treatment and injury. Panel 76
can be placed over the existing fabric 77 or be cut into it.
[0159] FIG. 22 shows a pair of compression shorts 81, being similar
to garment 80, with the same variable compression panel 76.
[0160] FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 show an embodiment of a pair of shorts
85 which includes panel 76 of the FIG. 22 embodiment, as well as
variable compression panel 78. Panel 78 has two tabs 79 attached
which use Velcro or other fastener to attach to panel 82, so that
panel 78 may be made smaller. (A greater or lesser number of tabs
79 may be used.) This has the effect of increasing tension or
compression on garment 85, which can be particularly useful after
activity or as an aid to reduce injury during activity. FIG. 24
shows how tabs 79 look when they have been closed and garment 85
stretched tighter.
[0161] Reference is now made to FIG. 25, the BMI index sheet.
[0162] It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the
compression garment of the present invention, in preferred
embodiments, such as those illustrated in the drawings, is the
combination of chosen elastomeric fabric, with selected warp and
weft stretch and recovery properties. The elastomeric warp and weft
stretch and recovery properties are chosen to achieve proper
compression strategically placed within sections of the garments.
The garment panels are designed with respect to the given body
part, limb, trunk or torso that the particular panel will cover or
encase. The panel designs are shaped in the same manner as the body
part that they encase. The encasement of particular muscles and/or
muscle groups is calculated in size to generate an especially
designed compression of the encased muscle, muscle group or body
part. The present invention uses an algorithm sizing system that is
calculated utilizing BMI (Body Mass Index), thus referred to as the
BMI algorithm, which is considered in panel size calculation and
design development.
[0163] In the preferred embodiments, the technically designed
panels are sewn together at specific angles, so that each panel
forms an encasement of the body part, limb, trunk, muscle and/or
muscle group. The panels are sewn together in a vertical direction
or with a variation of a direction to vertical, without crossing
over any specific muscles and or muscle groups, to avoid decreasing
the efficacy and energy of the muscular structure of the body
encased within the garment. The panels are sewn primarily with
flat-lock stitching and can also be sewn together using other
non-intrusive stitches that allow the same performance of anchoring
stitching, which allow the panels to perform at the levels of
compression designed within the panel of section of the
garment.
[0164] Muscle wrapping can be important to the design of the
garment and should not be designed in a fashion that is
contradictory to the verticality or variation of verticality. The
variation of verticality is defined as a segment of the garment
that seams together two or more panels in a fashion that does not
cross over muscles or muscle groups. They continue to take north
and south direction though veering in one direction or the other in
order to wrap, cover or encase the muscles, tendons and or
ligaments.
[0165] The garments can incorporate other fabric pieces in an
engineered design to help as an anchor. Other fabric pieces can
also be placed in a non-critical area of design of the garment that
does not require specific compression, as can be found in the
center of the crotch piece used in the constructions of the lower
body garments, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 24.
[0166] The garments can include static compression and/or gradient
compression in order to achieve the overall functionality of the
garment.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0167] The garment of the invention can provide enhanced
performance and recovery to elite and recreational athletes over a
wide range of sports and activities. The garment of the invention
may aid in avoidance of deep vein thrombosis from aircraft flights
and in the avoidance or alleviation of jetlag.
[0168] The garment may enhance circulation and flow of oxygen,
reduce lactic acid build-up, assist in body temperature control and
reduce muscle vibration.
[0169] The method of the invention allows delivery of correct
compression for a wide variety of body shapes.
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