U.S. patent application number 12/371199 was filed with the patent office on 2010-02-18 for women's multi-ply cotton and pant fabric smooth crotch panel.
Invention is credited to Christina K. Stearns.
Application Number | 20100037368 12/371199 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41162525 |
Filed Date | 2010-02-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100037368 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stearns; Christina K. |
February 18, 2010 |
Women's Multi-Ply Cotton and Pant Fabric Smooth Crotch Panel
Abstract
A pair of women's pants having a left leg with a left leg inside
seam and a right leg with a right leg inside seam, and a smooth
panel disposed into a crotch area between the left leg inside seam
and the right leg inside seam, and between a front vertical seam
and a rear vertical seam. The smooth crotch panel has an outer
layer including a fabric substantially identical to the garment
fabric of the pants and an inner layer, dimensionally and in shape
substantially corresponding to the outer layer and secured to an
inner surface of the outer layer. The inner layer preferably
includes an absorbent material such as cotton, preferably wicking
cotton. By securing a smooth crotch panel directly into the inside
of the pants, the need for wearing undergarments is obviated,
thereby eliminating unsightly undergarment lines. Further, by
removing the uncomfortable cross-seam at the crotch of conventional
pants, the invention creates an exceptionally comfortable garment
for a woman, while maintaining hygiene.
Inventors: |
Stearns; Christina K.;
(Winston-Salem, NC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PRYOR CASHMAN, LLP
7 Times Square
NEW YORK
NY
10036-6569
US
|
Family ID: |
41162525 |
Appl. No.: |
12/371199 |
Filed: |
February 13, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61123415 |
Apr 8, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/227 ;
2/267 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 1/06 20130101; A41B
9/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/227 ;
2/267 |
International
Class: |
A41D 1/06 20060101
A41D001/06; A41D 27/26 20060101 A41D027/26 |
Claims
1. A smooth crotch panel sewable into the crotch of a pair of
women's pants made from a garment fabric, comprising: an outer
layer sewable between a left leg seam and a right leg seam of the
pants, and between a front vertical seam and a rear vertical seam
of the pants, said outer layer including a fabric substantially the
same as the garment fabric of the pants; and an inner layer, shaped
and dimensioned substantially corresponding to said outer layer and
secured to an inner surface of said outer layer, said inner layer
comprising an absorbent cotton-like ply of material.
2. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 1, said panel further
comprising a first end where said panel meets the front vertical
seam and a second end where said panel meets the rear vertical
seam.
3. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 2, said first end being
disposed approximately 1 inch forwardly from the virtual cross
seams of said left and right leg seams of the pants.
4. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 2, said second end
being disposed approximately 4 inches rearwardly from the virtual
cross seams of said left and right leg seams of the pants.
5. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 2, said first end being
disposed approximately 1 inch forwardly from the virtual cross seam
of said left and right leg seams of the pants and said second end
being disposed approximately 4 inches rearwardly from the virtual
cross seams of said left and right leg seams of the pants.
6. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 1, said inner layer
comprising at least two plies of said absorbent cotton-like
material.
7. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 6, said absorbent
material comprising wicking material made of cotton.
8. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 2, said panel being
substantially oval-shaped.
9. A smooth crotch panel according to claim 2, said panel being
substantially polygonal in shape.
10. A pair of women's pants made from a garment fabric, comprising:
a left leg defining an inside left leg seam; a right leg defining
an inside right leg seam; and a smooth panel sewable into a crotch
area between said left inside leg seam and said right inside leg
seam, and between a front vertical seam and a rear vertical seam,
said panel comprising: an outer layer comprising a fabric
substantially identical to the bulk of the garment fabric of the
pants; and an inner layer, shaped and dimensioned substantially
corresponding to said outer layer and secured to the inner surface
of said outer layer, said inner layer including an absorbent,
cotton-like material.
11. A pair of women's pants according to claim 10, said panel
further comprising a first end where said panel meets said front
vertical seam and a second end where said panel meets said rear
vertical seam.
12. A pair of women's pants according to claim 11, said first end
being disposed approximately 1 inch forwardly from the virtual
cross seam of said left and right inside leg seams.
13. A pair of women's pants according to claim 11, said second end
being disposed approximately 4 inches rearwardly from the virtual
cross seam of said left and right inside leg seams.
14. A pair of women's pants according to claim 11, said first end
being disposed approximately 1 inch forwardly and said second end
being disposed approximately 4 inches rearwardly from the virtual
cross seams of said left and right inside leg seams.
15. A pair of women's pants according to claim 10, said inner layer
comprising at least two plies of said absorbent cotton-like
material.
16. A pair of women's pants according to claim 10, said absorbent
material comprising wickable cotton.
17. A pair of women's pants as claimed in claim 10 wherein the
length of said panel is about 5 inches and the maximum width of
said panel is about 11/2 to 2 inches.
18. A pair of women's pants as claimed in claim 10 wherein said
panel extends more towards the rear than towards the front from the
virtual cross seams of said left and right inside seams.
19. A pair of women's pants according to claim 11, said panel being
substantially oval-shaped.
20. A pair of women's pants according to claim 11, said panel being
substantially polygonal in shape.
Description
[0001] Domestic priority is claimed from U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/123,415, filed Apr. 8, 2008, entitled "Women's
Smooth Crotch Panel Sewn Directly Into Pant Garment", the teachings
of which are incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to women's pants,
and more specifically it relates to a women's smooth crotch panel
consisting of an inner cotton crotch panel made integral with the
inside of the pant garment, thereby making it unnecessary to wear
panties, thongs or other undergarments with women's pants. The
inventive panel eliminates unsightly undergarment lines and
provides the ultimate in comfort for women by replacing the
uncomfortable cross-seam at the crotch found in conventional pants
with a smooth crotch panel made of cotton on the inside of the
crotch panel and the outer garment fabric on the outside of the
crotch panel. Because the inventive panel is sewn or otherwise
secured directly into the pant garment, it is not obvious to the
casual observer when the wearer is in a standing position.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] It can be appreciated that women's pants have been in use
for years. Typically, women's pants are comprised of women's casual
and dress pants of all lengths (e.g. shorts, Capri pants, full
length, etc.) and styles (e.g. low rise, waist high, front zip,
side zip, elastic waistband, boot cut, straight leg, etc.) made of
both washable and dry-cleanable fabric.
[0006] A longstanding problem with conventional women's pants is
the need to wear undergarments resulting in unsightly panty lines,
thong lines or bulges resulting from displaced skin/fat due to
wearing a tight slimmer (e.g., girdle) or other undergarment.
Another problem with conventional women's pants is the existence
and location of a cross-seam in the crotch for women. Due to the
anatomical nature of the female crotch area and the location of the
single or double cross seam, the latter being present in many pant
styles and especially dungarees (denim), wearing these pants can be
quite uncomfortable. Another problem with conventional women's
pants is the potential for women to have an increased risk of
health issues such as yeast and bladder infections as a result of
wearing multiple layers of clothing in the crotch area.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a long-felt need to provide women's
pants that are more comfortable (by eliminating the cross seam at
the crotch area), easy to wear, do not cause/facilitate unsightly
undergarment lines, and eliminate the need for undergarments
altogether. Yet, there is a need, too, to provide some layer of
hygienic material between the female body and the layer of material
corresponding to the material of the pants. The present invention
accomplishes the desired goals while ensuring that the casual
observer of a woman wearing the pants is unaware of the use of the
crotch panel.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known
types of women's pants now present in the prior art, the present
invention provides a new women's crotch panel of two or more layers
sewn directly into the pant garment. The new women's crotch panel
includes an inner smooth cotton crotch panel and an outer smooth
crotch panel made of the same fabric as the pant garment. The two
(or more) plies of material are sewn directly into the pant
construction and eliminate the need for cross seams at the location
of the female crotch area. By utilizing the invention, it is
unnecessary to wear panties, thongs or other undergarments with
women's pants, thereby eliminating unsightly undergarment lines.
The invention also provides the ultimate in comfort for women by
replacing the uncomfortable cross-seam at the crotch with a smooth
crotch panel sewn directly into the pant that is also not visually
obvious to the casual observer when the wearer is in a standing
position.
[0009] The general purpose of the present invention, which will be
described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a new
women's cotton crotch panel sewn directly into a pant garment that
has many of the advantages of the women's pants mentioned
heretofore and many novel features that result in a new women's
cotton crotch panel sewn directly into a pant garment which is not
anticipated, rendered obvious, suggested, or even implied by any of
the prior art of women's pants, either alone or in any combination
thereof.
[0010] To attain this, the present invention generally comprises
women's pants with an inner oval-, kite-, hexagon-, or other
polygon or other geometrical-shaped cotton crotch panel, preferably
2- or 3-ply (1 or 2 cotton layers on the inside and directly
against the female crotch area; a fabric layer of the same weight,
color and composition of the pant garment on the outside), the
integrated two ply panel being sewn directly into the inside and to
the outside of a woman's pant garment at the crotch area. In the
preferred embodiment, the same garment fabric for the pants is used
for the outside ply of the crotch panel so that the panel is
physically and visually integrated and thus not obvious to the
casual observer when the wearer is in a standing position. The
inner cotton crotch panel ply of the invention is at least and
preferably one but could comprise 2-plies of comfortable, absorbent
cotton or similar material and can be white or of a color that
closely matches the inside of the pant fabric. The crotch panel is
made by first sewing the outer garment fabric material (in the
shape of the crotch panel) to the comfortable one or two ply cotton
material in the same shape as the overall crotch panel. Then, the
crotch panel is physically and visually integrated into the pants,
preferably by the original manufacturer, by sewing the panel to the
inside of the pants thereby making a smooth comfortable seam (which
is not at the location of the otherwise present front to back and
cross seams of conventional pants) such that the crotch panel is
substantially undetectable by tactile feel to the wearer and by
observation of another, especially when the wearer is in a standing
position.
[0011] The outer pant garment is preferably made of washable
fabric, but can be made of dry-cleanable fabric as well, and the
placement of the crotch panel is not obvious to the casual observer
when the wearer is in a standing position. The crotch panel
preferably extends to a point meeting the front vertical seam of
the pant approximately 1 inch toward the front of the pants from
the inside leg seams. The elongated crotch panel extends to a point
meeting the rear vertical seam of the pants approximately 4 inches
toward the rear of the pant from the otherwise crossing points of
the inside leg seams. Of course, those dimensions are approximate
and will necessarily be varied to suit the style and size of the
overall garment. If the crotch panel is made in a hexagon or kite
shape, each of the two side points of the crotch panel which are
toward the front of the pants meet each at the inside leg seams of
the pants.
[0012] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment
of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited in its application to the details of
described construction and to the arrangements of the components
set forth in the following description or illustrated in the
drawings. Rather, the invention is capable of other embodiments and
of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to
be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein
are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded
as limiting.
[0013] A primary object of the present invention is to provide a
women's cotton crotch panel sewn directly into a pant garment that
will overcome the shortcomings of the prior art articles of
clothing. While the invention is meant to provide benefits to women
in view of their particular anatomy, the device and the invention
can be implemented in connection with men's and children's pants,
too.
[0014] An object of the present invention is to make it unnecessary
for women (or men but for ease of illustration and understanding,
herein simply "women") to wear underwear, panties, thongs or other
undergarments with pants, eliminating unsightly undergarment lines,
and to provide the ultimate in anatomical comfort by eliminating
the cross seam found in traditional pants and replacing it with a
smooth comfortable two-ply panel, at least one layer of which is
cotton and the other layer is the material of the outside of the
overall garment.
[0015] Another object is to provide a smooth, at least two ply in
total, at least one ply cotton portion of a crotch panel sewn
directly into the inside of the pant garment with the second ply of
the crotch panel being substantially coplanar with and integrated
to the outside material of the pants. The two ply panel, cotton on
the inside, outside pant garment fabric on the outside (i.e., the
same as that used for the rest of the garment) makes it unnecessary
to wear any type of undergarment, provides a hygienic pair of pants
and provides maximum comfort to the wearer by the elimination of
the otherwise present cross seam (single or double) at the woman's
crotch area.
[0016] Another object is to provide a women's smooth cotton crotch
panel sewn directly into the inside of the pant garment that
eliminates unsightly underwear or panty lines, thong lines or lines
from other types of undergarments.
[0017] Another object is to provide a women's smooth crotch panel
sewn directly into a pant garment that provides maximum anatomical
comfort for women by eliminating the location of a cross seam in
the crotch area.
[0018] Another object is to help reduce the risk of certain health
issues such as yeast and bladder infections in women by providing
the above and other benefits in a crotch panel and, yet, providing
a hygienic barrier--the inside ply of the crotch panel being a
cotton, smooth and comfortable ply of material adjacent to or near
the crotch area.
[0019] Another object is to provide a women's smooth cotton crotch
panel sewn directly into the inside of the pant garment that can
boost a woman's confidence and self-image as a result of wearing a
pant that has a smooth elegant look with no unsightly panty lines,
thong lines or lines from other undergarments.
[0020] Another object is to provide a women's smooth cotton crotch
panel sewn directly into the inside of the pant garment that can
make the wearer feel sexy since she does not need to wear
undergarments with the pants.
[0021] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
become obvious to the reader and it is intended that these objects
and advantages are within the scope of the present invention.
[0022] In one aspect of the invention, the invention is a smooth
panel sewable into the crotch of a pair of women's pants made from
a traditional garment fabric. The inventive panel includes a first
outer layer sewable between a left leg seam and a right leg seam of
the pants, and between a front vertical seam and a rear vertical
seam of the pants. The outer layer comprises a fabric substantially
identical to the garment fabric used for the bulk of the pants. An
inner layer is also provided to the crotch panel, dimensionally
substantially corresponding to the outer layer and permanently
secured to an inner surface of the outer layer of the crotch panel.
The inner layer generally is made from soft cotton fabric and
includes an absorbent material. Preferably, the perimeter of the
single ply cotton portion of the two or more ply crotch panel
includes a first curved end where the integrated panel meets the
front vertical seam and a second curved end where the panel meets
the rear vertical seam. The sides of the panel define curved edges
and these curved edges are preferably disposed adjacent the left
and right leg seams of the pants but at about 1 inch from where the
leg seams would otherwise cross one another if no crotch panel were
present in the garment. The longitudinal axis of the crotch panel,
having a pair of opposed curved ends have a first curved end
preferably disposed approximately 4 inches away from the otherwise
present intersection of the left and right leg seams of the pants.
The crotch panel extends forwardly from the otherwise present
intersection of the leg seams for about 1 inch. The inner layer
preferably includes at least one ply (although two plies of cotton
material is within the scope of the invention) of absorbent
material, such as cotton, in the manner of an undergarment. The
composite panel (cotton ply or plies on the inside and garment
material exposed to the outside) may be elongated from side to side
or front to back but is preferably substantially ellipisoidal,
oval-shaped or diamond/kite-shaped, or substantially polygonal in
shape.
[0023] The invention also includes a pair of women's pants made
from a garment fabric, having a left leg with an inside left leg
seam and a right leg with an inside right leg seam. A smooth panel
is disposed in the crotch area between the left leg seam and the
right leg seam, and between a front vertical seam and a rear
vertical seam. The panel includes an outer layer made from fabric
substantially identical to the garment fabric of the pants. An
inner layer is also provided, dimensionally substantially
corresponding to the outer layer and secured to an inner extending
surface of the outer layer, the inner layer including an absorbent
material (e.g., cotton, preferably single-ply cotton although 2
plies of cotton can be used as well). The perimeter of the panel
preferably includes a first rounded end or point where the panel
meets the front vertical seam and a second rounded end or point
where the panel meets the rear vertical seam, with the first end or
point being disposed approximately 1 inch forwardly away from the
virtual intersection of the left and right inside leg seams and the
second rounded end or point being disposed approximately 4 inches
rearwardly away from the virtual intersection of the left and right
inside leg seams. The panel is elongated and preferably
substantially oval-shaped, or substantially polygonal in shape.
[0024] In these respects, the women's cotton crotch panel sewn
directly into a pant garment according to the present invention
substantially departs from the conventional concepts and designs of
the prior art, and in so doing provides an end product primarily
developed for the purpose of making it unnecessary to wear
underwear or panties, thongs or other undergarments with women's
pants, eliminating unsightly undergarment lines, and to provide the
ultimate in anatomical comfort for women by replacing the
uncomfortable cross-seam at the crotch with a smooth crotch panel
sewn directly into the pant. The present invention provides these
benefits in a hygienic manner (the inner cotton layer) and in a
manner that is not glaringly obvious to the casual observer when
the wearer is sitting or standing.
[0025] To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, this
invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact however,
that the drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be
made in the specific construction illustrated without departing
from the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of
the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same
becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate
the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and
wherein:
[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention
integrated into a pair of pants;
[0028] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the present invention showing
all of its components and the manner it would be sewn or secured to
the seams of a pair of pants;
[0029] FIGS. 3a and 3b are front, full length views of the present
invention integrated into a pair of pants. FIG. 3c is a closer
frontal view of the present invention integrated into a pair of
pants. FIG. 3d is another closer front view of the present
invention, integrated into the pair of pants shown in FIG. 3b and
3c and worn by a model;
[0030] FIGS. 4a and 4b are rear, full length views of the present
invention integrated into the same pair of pants shown in FIGS. 3a
and 3b, respectively. FIG. 4c is a closer rear view of the present
invention integrated into the pair of pants shown in FIG. 4b. FIG.
4d is another closer rear view of the present invention integrated
into the pair of pants shown in FIG. 4b and 4c, as worn by a
model;
[0031] FIGS. 5a and 5b are top views of the inside views of the
present invention integrated into pairs of pants;
[0032] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of the outside of a pair of
pants having the present invention integrated therewith, as worn by
a model, showing one leg raised and split from the other so as to
allow viewing of the present invention, as integrated into the pair
of pants;
[0033] FIG. 6b is an enlarged and outside view of the present
invention as integrated into the pair of pants; and
[0034] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a preferred shaped and
relatively sized pattern piece for the crotch panel of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION; THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
AND THE DRAWINGS
[0035] Description of the invention will now be given with
reference to FIGS. 1-7. It should be understood that these Figures
are exemplary in nature and in no way serve to limit the scope of
the invention which is defined by the claims appearing
hereinbelow.
[0036] Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar
reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several
views, the attached figure FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of
a woman's smooth cotton crotch panel 24 sewn directly into a pant
garment 20. The invention comprises women's pants with the novel
crotch panel wherein the legs of the pants can be of any length
(e.g. FIG. 1 shows various lengths such as full length--20 (before
hemming, cuffing, sewing of the ends); Capri length--20a (also
before hemming, cuffing, finishing, etc.); or shorts length--20b
with an inner oval two ply combination of cotton and fabric crotch
panel 24. The panel's shape and its outside circumference edge can
be oval, elliptical, kite-shaped, and/or other geometrical shape or
hexagon-shaped crotch panel 24. The shape will be dictated by the
style, comfort, size, materials, etc. Preferably, the shape is
elongated from rear to front, in comparison to the width of the
panel, extending from side to side. As shown in FIG. 2, crotch
panel 24 preferably includes at least two layers: outer garment
layer 24A and inner cotton layer 24B. In some situations, a third
layer 24C may be provided on the inner facing side corresponding to
a second cotton panel on the inside of the pants, to provide
another layer of comfort and hygiene to the wearer. The absorbency
of a single ply of the cotton panel will dictate the need for a
second ply or not. Panel 24 is sewn directly into the inside of a
woman's pant garment 20 at the crotch area with the corresponding
shape of the crotch panel removed from the material of the garment
so that there is little if any overlap or extra thickness of
material. The outer garment fabric 24a of the crotch panel is used
for the outside of the smooth crotch panel 24 so the panel is not
visually obvious to the casual observer when the wearer is in a
standing position (see, e.g., FIG. 3d and FIG. 4d). The outer oval,
hexagon or kite-shaped smooth crotch panel 24 shown in FIG. 6.a and
FIG. 6.b is preferably made of the same fabric material as the bulk
of the outer pant garment 20 and is thus not visually distinct nor
obvious to the casual observer when the wearer is in a standing
position.
[0037] The inner portion or layer of panel 24 as shown in FIG. 2 is
made preferably of a single substantially identical and
superimposed cotton layer 24b (and 24c if two or more cotton layers
are desired) which are preferably made from absorbent cotton or
similar material. Layers 24b and 24c (if desired) are preferably
white or of a color that closely matches the inside of the pant's
fabric, or they can be of any matching or even non-matching color.
However, it is contemplated by the present inventor that the inside
layer of the crotch panel be smooth, hygienic, and absorbent. The
smoothness of the inside layer, preferably of cotton, is for
comfort. The hygienic nature of the inside layer is expected to be
clearly understood of those of skill in the art. The absorbency,
too, is another desirable feature, especially in that some women
often have discharges of small quantities of body fluid. The inside
layer of the crotch panel is a different material than the outside
layer, the former is for comfort and hygiene and the outside layer
is for ensuring that the crotch panel is substantially not visually
discernable by casual observers, surely while the wearer is
standing.
[0038] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
inside layer of the crotch panel can be formed not merely of
absorbent material but of a wicking material to draw body fluid
away from the body and promote dryness and comfort.
[0039] The present invention replaces the uncomfortable interior
cross seams of conventional pants with a built-in double ply panel.
The outside ply is the same material as the overall pants and the
inside ply is a cotton, soft, absorbent material. Preferably the
inside layer(s) is single ply although it could be a two ply
construction. If two or more plies of cotton are on the inside of
the crotch panel, the first of the cotton layers, i.e., the more
inner-located layer would be a soft moisture wicking cotton fabric
that promotes breathability and comfort. In this connection, it is
anticipated that the second or outermost layer of the two inside
cotton-like layers would be made from Nano-tex.TM. cotton fabric,
commercially available to the garment industry. In this connection,
Nanotex.TM. products are 100% combed cotton. It combines the
moisture management capabilities of superior active-wear garments
with the comfort of 100% cotton. The moisture wicks from the skin
side to the outer layer (in this case, the layer in contact with
the outer layer of the garment). This results in a fabric that is
basically dry, i.e., it will dry quicker than regular cotton and
won't cling, is soft, in that it will not irritate or chafe the
skin, and is natural, i.e., provides the sustainable benefits of
pure cotton. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the
inner panel is formed of a product sold by the same manufacturers
as NanoTex under the trademark Dry Inside. Thus, the single inside
ply of the two ply crotch panel would be cut to shape from the Dry
Inside fabric. The wicking and drying capability of the Dry Inside
cotton fabric is currently believed to provide superior dryness to
the skin surface, superior wicking of moisture away from the center
of the crotch and, yet, is comfortable for being held directly
against the body.
[0040] The smooth crotch panel 24 is preferably integrated into the
pants by first sewing the outer garment fabric layer 24a to the
comfortable cotton material layer and then shaping the outside
perimeter of the two (or more) plies to the desired shape. Then,
the panel is sewn to the inside of the pant with layers 24b (and
24c if provided) making a smooth comfortable continuation on the
inside of the pants, as at oval seam 23. The seaming of the crotch
panel to the crotch area of the pants mechanically, physically and
visually integrates the panel into the pants yet in a visually
hidden manner to an observer seeing the wearer in a standing
position. It is substantially undetectable to an observer
especially if the wearer is standing. The integration of the crotch
panel into the inside of the pants is also comfortable to wear
since there is no seam extending along and/or between the woman's
genitalia and the inside layer of cotton is soft to the skin. The
outer pant garment 20, just like the outer layer of the crotch
panel, is preferable made of washable fabric, but can be made of
dry cleanable fabric as well. In any event, the outer layer of the
crotch panel is intended to be substantially the same material as
that used for the bulk of the pair of pants. Applicant has used the
word, "bulk" since it is surely within the scope of the present
invention to have pants, for example, of a first fabric, say,
denim, with pockets or even substantial parts of the legs of
leather, but, the torso portion is denim. Applicant believes that
the crotch panel should, for hiding purposes, be the same material
as the torso portion of the pants but, of course, the color and
type of material, even the weight per unit area can differ,
depending upon style and other factors. In the preferred case, if
the torso of the pants is denim, even if the legs and pockets for
example in leather, the crotch panel would preferably also be denim
on the outside. However, while the present invention contemplates
in the preferred embodiment that the outside layer of the crotch
panel be of the same material as the bulk of the fabric of the
garment, it is also within the scope of the invention for the
crotch panel to be distinct therefrom. However, the outside layer
of the crotch panel should be some composition or form of fabric
which is generally worn as outside fabric for garments so that it
is durable and visually pleasing.
[0041] The smooth crotch panel 24 comes to a first and forward
relative point 28a (see FIGS. 1, 5a, 5b and 7) which meets the
front vertical seam 26 of the pants approximately 1 inch toward the
front of the pant from the virtual intersection of the inside leg
seams 25a and 25b (see FIG. 2). The smooth crotch panel 24 comes to
another point 28b, located towards the rear, which meets the rear
vertical seam 27 of the pants approximately 3 and 3/8 inches toward
the rear of the pants from the virtual intersection of the inside
leg seams 25a and 25b (see FIG. 2). If the smooth crotch panel 24
is made in a hexagon or kite shape, the two side points of the
crotch panel extend toward the leg seams 25a and 25b.
[0042] The smooth cotton-based crotch panel 24 replaces the
uncomfortable cross-seams found in conventional pants. Replacement
of the cross seams provides the woman with anatomical maximum
comfort. The shape of the smooth crotch panel 24 can be oval,
geometrically other shapes, hexagon or kite/diamond-shaped or a
combination of these shapes. The panel is preferably elongated
front to back and measuring approximately 4 and 7/8 inches in
overall length and 1.5 inches wide at the widest mid-point
(excluding the small 1 4 inch material extending around the
entirety of the panel to enable seaming it into the crotch of the
pants. The preferred embodiment contemplates that the length of the
panel be about 4 and 7/8 inches (not including the extra material
on the inside for ensuring a seam of the panel into the garment)
and a maximum width of about 11/2 to 2 inches. The panel is
slightly assymetrical in that there is slightly more of the panel
extending rearwardly from where the virtual cross seam of the
garment would otherwise appear in comparison to the length of the
panel from the front most portion to the otherwise or virtually
present cross seam of the garment. The preferred length of the
panel, from front most curved end to the otherwise present (or
virtual) cross seam is about 1 inch while the length of the panel
from the otherwise present cross seam to the rear curved end is
about 4 inches (where the total length of the preferred embodiment
of the panel is, as set forth above, about 4 and 7/8 inches).
[0043] The curved ends or points, corresponding to 28a and 28b
preferably are rounded curves of small radius but can be sharp
material points, too (see FIG. 7). Preferably, they are formed into
small radius, curved edges. The points 28a and 28b (or the curved
ends, yet, for ease of understanding referred to as "points")
preferably are sewn or otherwise secured to the front and rear
seams 26 and 27 of the pant garment 20. The hexagon and kite shapes
for the alternative crotch panels would provide for the side points
meeting and being sewn to the ends of the inside leg seams 25a and
25b. The panel may also be any other polygon in shape, regular or
not, but it is preferably one having an even number of sides so
that there are points substantially 90 degrees around from one
another for securement at the front, rear and side seams and
opposing points 180 degrees around, to thereby match up with the
front and rear seams and opposed inside leg seams. Without the
crotch panel of the present invention, it should be appreciated
that extensions of the inside leg seams and the front and rear
seams would meet at a double cross seam at the crotch area. Since
the panel replaces that portion of the pants, the point where the
seams would cross, if they were present, is referred to as the
virtual crossing of the seams. The panel need not be a regular
polygon in shape, and indeed, may be irregular in overall shape.
The smooth cotton ply crotch panel 24 can be used in any women's
apparel that comprises a crotch portion of the apparel piece, such
as short shorts; stretch pants, apparel specifically designed for
the handicapped individual, even bathing suits. The smooth
cotton-based, two ply or more crotch panel 24 can also be used in
men's and children's garments with panel size adjustments made
accordingly; however, the primary intended purpose of this
invention is for women's casual and dress pants or slacks 20. The
size of the smooth cotton-based, two ply crotch panel 24 is
increased as the size of the pants increases and correspondingly
decreased as the size of the pants decreases. The above mentioned
dimensions (about 4 and 7/8 inches long and about 1 and 1/2 inches
wide) are for typical women's pants of about size 6 in the US
sizing system.
[0044] The inner layer(s) 24b and/or 24c may be made from cotton as
mentioned above or other moisture absorbent or wicked material
commonly used in undergarments. Preferably, the color of the inner
cotton panel can closely match the color of the inside of the pant
garment. While a single ply of material may be used as the inside
layer of the crotch panel, two plies of cotton, absorbent material
may be used for comfort and absorbency. Currently, however, the use
of Dry Inside cotton-like, absorbent and wicking material in a
single ply is contemplated since it is expected to provide the best
combination of wicking, dryness, absorbency, comfort, etc. The
smooth cotton-like crotch layer 24b and 24c, if desired, shown in
FIG. 2 could be made of a material with increased thickness from
center towards the edges of the layer, for extra protection from
bladder leaks, discharge(s) or for controlling flow from
menstruation; however, the preferred inner cotton crotch panel for
this invention is thin in profile, comfortable, smooth, and
substantially undetectable by feel to the wearer. The primary
purpose of this invention is to provide a smooth cotton-based
crotch panel 24 sewn directly into the inside of women's casual and
dress pants or slacks 20 making it unnecessary to wear
undergarments with the pants. The inside layer is intended to
provide hygiene and comfort while the outside layer (formed of the
same material as the rest of the pants) is intended to allow the
wearer to go pantyless without an observer being able to tell that
there is a crotch panel, when the wearer is in a normal standing
position. The length, width, indeed, the overall size of the crotch
panel 24 may be increased, decreased, adjusted depending upon the
size of the pants, the fabric, the woman's actual physical
characteristics, body shape, etc.
[0045] The smooth crotch panel 24 shown in FIG. 2 is made by sewing
the outer garment fabric 24a to the comfortable cotton material
layer and then the integrated panel is sewn on the inside of the
torso portion of the pants so that the layers 24b (and 24c if
provided) create a smooth comfortable inside to the pants. The seam
23 that encircles or surrounds the crotch panel is sewn smoothly so
that the crotch panel is substantially tactilely undetectable to
the wearer. The smooth crotch panel 24 is made by sewing the outer
garment fabric 24a to the comfortable cotton material 24b and/or
24c, which will be on the inside of the pants, by folding the edges
of the panel materials under and adjoining the panel to the pants
material making a smooth seam 23 that does not have a rough edge
and is comfortable and undetectable to the wearer. The seam should
be sewn with thread that blends (in color and smoothness) with the
outer pants fabric 20 and is undetectable to the casual observer
when the wearer is in a standing position. The seam 23 should be
smooth, comfortable, and undetectable to the wearer as it is in
direct contact with the wearer's skin on the inside of the pants.
The seam 23 could be sewn with a single or double stitch, with a
thread color that blends or complements the outer pants fabric 20,
but is preferably smooth, comfortable, and undetectable to the
wearer as it contacts the skin on the inside of the pant. The seam
should also be basically undetectable to the casual observer when
the wearer is in a standing position.
[0046] FIG. 5b shows that the smooth crotch cotton-based, two or
more ply panel 24 comes to a point meeting the front vertical seam
of the pant 26 approximately 1 inch toward the front of the pant
from the virtual cross seams of the inside leg seams 25a,25b. The
front seam of the outer pant garment 20 is typically in the center
of the pants at the zipper or stomach area. The front seam meets
the crotch panel 24 where the panel comes to a point meeting the
front vertical seam of the pant 26 approximately 1 inch toward the
front of the pant as measured from the virtual cross seam at the
inside leg seams 25a,25b. The outer pant garment 20 could have
various front seams due to fashion and style techniques and trends
in women's apparel. The smooth crotch panel 24 may or may not meet
the seams of the outer pant garment 20, but should be placed and
secured in such a way as to not be obvious to the casual observer
when the wearer is in a standing position.
[0047] FIG. 5b shows the manner by which the smooth crotch panel 24
comes to a point meeting the rear vertical seam 27 of the pant
approximately 4 inches toward the rear of the pant from the virtual
cross seams defined by the inside leg seams 25a and 25b . The rear
seam of the outer pant garment shown in FIG. 4d. is typically in
the center of the rear of the pants and meets the crotch panel 24
where the panel comes to a point. The outer pant garment 20 could
have various rear seams due to fashion and style techniques and
trends in women's apparel. The smooth crotch panel 24 may or may
not meet the seams of the outer pant garment, but should desirably
be placed and secured in such a way as to not be obvious to the
casual observer when the wearer is in a standing position.
[0048] The smooth inner cotton layer of the panel can be 1-, 2- or
3-ply and can be used in all women's pants, in all styles and
fabrics, washable, dry cleanable and lined. The inner cotton-based
layer is preferably first sewn to the outer garment layer, however
it need not be constructed in that order as the two layers can be
placed, one on the other and then the two layers seamed into the
crotch of the garment. Rather, inner cotton layer(s) 24b and 24c
may be secured to the outer layer 24a by other means, such as mere
placement, permanent adhesive, heat sealing, or the like but it is
important to integrate the two plies (outer material and inside
cotton layer) to one another and into the crotch area of the
garment. It is desirable that there are little or no surface
irregularities or features in the main central portion of the
crotch panel, regardless of the method used to secure the inner
layer(s) to the outer layer. Ideally, the outer pant fabric is of a
sufficient weight that will not show imperfections in the skin such
as cellulite so the wearer does not feel the need to wear girdles,
slimmers or any type of undergarment. It is also preferred that the
overall thickness of the crotch panel 24 be thin enough to be
comfortable and not provide chafing of material when walking and,
yet, be sufficiently thick to conceal or obscure the contours or
details of the wearer's external genitalia. The smooth, inner
cotton-based crotch panel ply 24b (and 24c, if provided) can be
used in any apparel piece for women, men and children that is
intended for the lower half of the body and involves its location
in the crotch area. The stitching 23 of the crotch panel 24 is
smooth, comfortable and undetectable to the wearer.
[0049] According to another embodiment of the invention, as shown
in FIG. 7, the pattern for cutting the crotch panel from piece
goods is leaf or petal shaped, as shown. As illustrated, the length
of the crotch panel is preferably about 47/8 inches (excluding the
selvage or extra perimeter which is needed for seaming) and the
maximum width of the crotch panel is about 11/2 inches. Surrounding
the length and the width, indeed, surrounding the entire perimeter
of the crotch panel is a 1/4 inch of extra material so that the
seaming of the inside layer to the outside layer and the crotch
panel to the pants is easily accomplished. The extra perimeter
extends around the outside edge of the cut pieces and provides a
1/4 inch border or selvage around the seam. When sewn or otherwise
integrated into a pair of pants, the sewn seam defines the 47/8
inches in length and the 11/2 inches in width panel's dimensions.
After sewing the two pieces or plies together, the integrated
crotch panel is incorporated into the pants at the crotch area. It
will be appreciated that the shape shown in FIG. 7 is not exactly
symmetrical since the maximum width of the crotch panel is closer
to the front of the crotch panel and the front of the pants and
thus the elongated rear of the crotch panel extends towards the
rear of the pants. In the preferred embodiment, the maximum width
is about 40% towards the front of the panel with the balance or 60%
of the length of the panel extending towards the rear. As
mentioned, an embodiment provides that an inch of the panel extend
from the virtual cross seams forwardly and about 4 inches of the
panel extend rearwardly from the same virtual cross seams of the
crotch, defined by where the inside leg seams would cross if the
crotch panel were not provided. Both the soft, cotton inside ply
and the outside layer of material (which is substantially the same
as that used for the bulk of the pants) are the same shape although
it can be appreciated that the outside layer can be larger in size
than the soft cotton layer on the inside of the crotch panel.
[0050] As to a further discussion of the manner of usage and
operation of the present invention, the same should be apparent
from the above description. Accordingly, no further discussion
relating to the manner of usage and operation will be provided.
[0051] With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are
deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and
all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings
and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed
by the present invention. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as
illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further,
since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to
those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention
to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and
accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be
resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.
[0052] Having described certain embodiments of the invention, it
should be understood that the invention is not limited to the above
description or the attached exemplary drawings. Rather, the scope
of the invention is by the claims appearing hereinbelow and any
equivalents thereof as would be appreciated by one of ordinary
skill in the art.
* * * * *