U.S. patent application number 12/804786 was filed with the patent office on 2012-02-02 for multi-faceted brassiere assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to Bra Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Christopher J. Brooks, Helene Donnelly, Donald R. Lamond.
Application Number | 20120028541 12/804786 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45527204 |
Filed Date | 2012-02-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120028541 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Donnelly; Helene ; et
al. |
February 2, 2012 |
Multi-faceted brassiere assembly
Abstract
A brassiere generally conformed to the shape of a female upper
torso comprising (1) a front portion comprising: a left mesh panel
and a right mesh panel; an internal inset pouch; a brassiere
insert; a lateral adjustment strap; a first lower panel; a second
lower panel; a chest band; a left upper panel wherein the bottom
portion of the left upper panel extends from the top portion of the
left mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user; a right upper
panel; a left adjustable strap; and a right adjustable strap; (2)
side portions comprising: a left adjustable side closure and a
right adjustable side closure; and (3) a back portion comprising: a
dorsal panel having a octagonal union at the center thereof; a back
band; a left upper dorsal strap; a right upper dorsal strap; a left
lower dorsal strap; and a right lower dorsal strap.
Inventors: |
Donnelly; Helene;
(Manorville, NY) ; Brooks; Christopher J.; (Glen
Head, NY) ; Lamond; Donald R.; (Haworth, NJ) |
Assignee: |
Bra Technologies, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
45527204 |
Appl. No.: |
12/804786 |
Filed: |
July 29, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
450/86 ;
450/89 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41C 3/0021 20130101;
A41C 3/0035 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
450/86 ;
450/89 |
International
Class: |
A41C 3/00 20060101
A41C003/00 |
Claims
1. A brassiere comprising a front portion, side portions, and a
back portion, generally conformed to the shape of a female upper
torso wherein: (a) the front portion comprises: (1) a left mesh
panel and a right mesh panel each having a top portion, a bottom
portion, a middle portion, a medial side, and a distal side,
wherein the left mesh panel is configured to cover a left breast of
a user and the right mesh panel is configured to cover a right
breast of a user; (2) an internal insert pouch having a top portion
and a bottom portion, wherein the internal insert pouch connects
the medial side of the left mesh panel at the middle portion
thereof and the medial side of the right mesh panel at the middle
portion thereof such that the internal insert pouch will be
positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the
diaphragm; (3) a brassiere insert having a top portion, bottom
portion, front portion, back portion, left portion, and right
portion generally conformed to fit within the internal insert
pouch; (4) a lateral adjustment strap extending from the distal
side of the left mesh panel through the medial side of the left
mesh panel and the distal side of the right mesh panel through the
medial side of the right panel, and connecting the middle portions
of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel on the medial side
of each mesh panel; (5) a first lower panel having a top portion,
bottom portion, and side portions, wherein the top portion of the
first lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the internal
inset pouch, and the side portion of the first lower panel extends
from the bottom portions of the left and right mesh panels, on the
medial side thereof; (6) a left second lower panel having a top
portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion of the left
second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the left mesh
panel, on the distal side thereof; (7) a right second lower panel
having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion
of the right second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of
the right mesh panel, on the distal side thereof; (8) a chest band
attached below the first lower panel and second lower panel
terminating at the bottom portions of the left and right panels, on
the distal side thereof; (9) a left upper panel having a top
portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of the left
upper panel extends from the top portion of the left mesh panel,
toward the shoulder of a user; (10) a right upper panel having a
top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of
right upper panel extends from the top portion of the right mesh
panel, toward the shoulder of a user; (11) a left adjustable strap
having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom
portion of the left adjustable strap extends from the top portion
the left upper panel; and (12) a right adjustable strap having a
bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom portion of the
right adjustable strap extends from the top portion the right upper
panel; (b) the side portions comprise: (1) a left side mesh panel
having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a
distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel
contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment
strap extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the
proximal side of the left side mesh panel; and (2) a right side
mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side,
and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the right side
mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral
adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the right mesh
panel, on the proximal side of the right side mesh panel; and (c)
the back portion comprises: (1) a dorsal panel configured to cover
the upper back of a user having an octagonal union in the center
thereof such that the octagonal union will be positioned in the
middle of the back of a user; (2) a back band extending
horizontally from the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel on
the proximal side thereof to the bottom portion of the right side
mesh panel on the proximal side thereof; (3) a left upper dorsal
strap extending from the top portion of the left adjustable strap
to the upper left corner of the octagonal union; (4) a right upper
dorsal strap extending from the top portion of the right adjustable
strap to the upper right corner of the octagonal union; (5) a left
lower dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band
proximate to where the back band meets the left side mesh panel to
the lower left corner of the octagonal union; and (6) a right lower
dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band proximate to
where the back band meets the right side mesh panel to the lower
right corner of the octagonal union.
2. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein the internal insert pouch is a
multi-layer mesh pocket.
3. The brassiere of claim 2, wherein the left side mesh panel is an
adjustable closure having a top portion, a bottom portion, a
proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the
left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where
the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the
left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side mesh
panel.
4. The brassiere of claim 2, wherein: (a) the left side mesh panel
is an adjustable closure having a top portion, a bottom portion, a
proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the
left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where
the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the
left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side mesh panel;
and (b) the right side mesh panel is an adjustable closure having a
top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side,
wherein the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel contacts
the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap
extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the
proximal side of the right side mesh panel.
5. The brassiere of claim 4, wherein the lateral adjustment strap
includes a lateral closure at a midpoint of the lateral adjustment
strap such that the lateral closure will be positioned in the
middle of the chest of a user, above the internal insert pouch.
6. The brassiere of claim 5, wherein the left mesh panel and the
right mesh panel each have an upper panel and a lower panel,
wherein each lower panel is configured to cover the portion of a
user's breast below the nipple of the breast and each upper panel
is configured to cover the portion of a user's breast above the
nipple of the breast.
7. The brassiere of claim 6, further comprising a left lower
lateral adjustment strap extending along the bottom portion of the
left mesh panel and a right lower lateral adjustment strap
extending along the bottom portion of the right mesh panel.
8. The brassiere of claim 7, wherein the back band includes a back
closure having a left side and a right side such that the back band
extends horizontally from the bottom portion of the left adjustable
side closure on the proximal side thereof to the left side of the
back closure; the back band then continues from the right side of
the back closure to the bottom portion of the right adjustable side
closure on the proximal side thereof.
9. The brassiere of claim 8, wherein at least some portion of the
dorsal panel between the left lower dorsal strap, the right lower
dorsal strap, and the back band is free of fabric.
10. The brassiere of claim 9, further comprising: (a) a left
bidirectional mesh panel on the dorsal panel where the left upper
dorsal strap and the left lower dorsal strap meet the left side of
the octagonal union; and (b) a right bidirectional mesh panel on
the dorsal panel where the right upper dorsal strap and the right
lower dorsal strap meet the right side of the octagonal union
11. The brassiere of claim 10, wherein the first lower panel is
bisected longitudinally to form two symmetrical panels.
12. The brassiere of claim 11 wherein: (a) the upper panels of the
left mesh panel and the right mesh panel have stretch values of
about 1-3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch)
to 5 (least strength); (b) the lower panels of the left mesh panel
and the right mesh panel have stretch values of about 3-5 based
upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength); (c) the internal insert pouch has a stretch value of
about 1-2 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch)
to 5 (least strength); (d) the lateral adjustment strap has a
stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (e) the first lower panel has
a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from
1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (f) the left second lower
panel and the right second lower panel each have a stretch value of
about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to
5 (least strength); (g) the left upper panel and the right upper
panel each have a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (h) the
dorsal panel has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (i) the
left upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon
a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);
(j) the right upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of about 2-4
based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength); (k) the left lower dorsal strap has a stretch value of
about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch)
to 5 (least strength); (l) the right lower dorsal strap has a
stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (m) the octagonal union has a
stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength); and (n) the left lower
lateral adjustment strap and the right lower lateral adjustment
strap each have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength).
13. The brassiere of claim 11 wherein: (a) the upper panels of the
left mesh panel and the right mesh panel have stretch values of 2
based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength); (b) the lower panels of the left mesh panel and the
right mesh panel have stretch values of 4 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (c) the
internal insert pouch has a stretch value of 1 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (d) the
lateral adjustment strap has a stretch value of 4 based upon a
fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);
(e) the first lower panel has a stretch value of 4 based upon a
fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);
(f) the left second lower panel and the right second lower panel
each have a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index
from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); (g) the left upper
panel and the right upper panel each have a stretch value of 3
based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength); (h) the dorsal panel has a stretch value of 3 based upon
a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);
(i) the left upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of 3 based upon
a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);
(j) the right upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of 3 based
upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength); (k) the left lower dorsal strap has a stretch value of 3
based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength); (l) the right lower dorsal strap has a stretch value of
3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5
(least strength); (m) the octagonal union has a stretch value of 5
based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength); and (n) the left lower lateral adjustment strap and the
right lower lateral adjustment strap each have a stretch value of 5
based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength).
14. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein the top portion and the
bottom portion of the brassiere insert are both roughly
circular.
15. The brassiere of claim 14, wherein the brassiere insert tapers
from the top portion to the bottom portion, such that the bottom
portion is approximately 60 to 75% smaller than the top
portion.
16. The brassiere of claim 15, wherein the left portion and the
right portion of the brassiere insert are both concave, and the
front portion and back portion of the brassiere insert are both
convex.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to brassieres which cover,
support and elevate the breasts, while simultaneously preventing
the formation of wrinkles and other aging effects brought upon by
both vertical breast movement and lateral breast movement.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Anatomically, the breasts are non-rigid areas of glandular
tissue, with few support structures, such as connective tissue.
Breasts are composed of the mammary glands, which remain relatively
constant throughout life, as well as the adipose tissue or fat
tissue that surrounds the mammary glands. Generally, it is the
amount and distribution of adipose tissue that leads to variations
in breast size.
[0003] In addition, the breasts contain internal ligaments,
although their exact function as related to breast support is
unknown. These ligaments, and the overlying skin (referred to as
the dermal brassiere) help determine the resulting breast shape. As
the breasts mature, they fold over the lower attachment to the
chest wall (infra-mammary fold), and their lower (inferior) surface
lies against the chest wall when vertical. In popular culture, this
maturation is referred to as "sagging" or "drooping", although
plastic surgeons refer to it as ptosis, and recommend mastopexy
(breast lift) for correction.
[0004] A brassiere, commonly referred to as a bra, is an article of
clothing that covers, supports, and elevates the breasts. Bras are
typically worn to support one's breasts or to restrain breast
movement. However, bras may also be worn to reduce or to enlarge
the perceived size of one's breasts, to enhance one's cleavage, or
to facilitate nursing.
[0005] Most bras are designed to lift the breasts off the chest.
Bras are typically designed to lift the breasts from their normal
position, for a more youthful look or for enhancing cleavage. These
roles are sometimes conflicting. Designers usually aim at producing
a garment that fulfills a practical role as well as making it look
attractive. However, certain bras, which are engineered to counter
these effects mentioned above, have been designed to reduce or
prevent the "sagging" effect and thereby reducing the production of
wrinkles in a woman's upper chest by preventing vertical breast
movement. In addition to vertical breast movement, wrinkles on
breasts may form as a result of lateral breast movement, such as
when the breasts sag medially, sometimes contacting one another.
The bra is considered a foundation garment, as well as an
undergarment, because of its role in shaping the wearer's
figure.
[0006] The present invention relates to brassieres and in
particular to a bra that is structured to reduce the formation of
wrinkles in the upper chest of women by, inter alia, providing an
internal insert pouch into which a brassiere insert is inserted and
held in between two breasts, functioning to separate the two
breasts, and thus prevent lateral breast movement, while
simultaneously preventing vertical breast movement. Therefore, the
brassiere of the present invention provides adequate coverage and
support to prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously
separating the two breasts, to prevent lateral breast movement, and
hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,955 to Fisher describes a soft fabric
bra with a center breast support pad that is designed to keep an
upper breast suspended while a woman sleeps on her side, to prevent
lateral breast movement and thereby prevent the formation of
wrinkles on the breasts.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 7,144,295 to Fisher describes a breast support
pad for supporting the upper breast when the wearer of a brassiere
is lying on one side. A breast support pad is set inside and
against the central portion of the brassiere between the two curved
portions and away from the other portions of the brassiere. The
breast support pad is comprised of a body having a front face with
a thick vertical section and a back face adapted to conform with
the chest of the wearer between the breasts. The back face is
comprised of a concave cavity on each side of a centrally located
vertical surface, each concave cavity adapted to conform to and
support either breast when the wearer lies on one side.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,422 to McGee describes a brassiere that
has a pair of shoulder supports, which extend to a back support.
The brassiere also has a back support that extends from the back
toward the front of the wearer, a portion encircling the wearer and
a pair of cup-shaped breast supports. Each breast support has a
crescent-shaped portion that curves around the outside and top of
the wearer's breast. The crescent-shaped portion has an upper end
adjoining the shoulder supports and a lower end adjoining the back
supports portion that encircles the wearer at a position between
and below the center of the woman's breasts when worn.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,083,555 to Lewis describes an apparatus
suitable aimed to reduce and prevent skin deformation near the
breasts, which includes a support member that has both a first and
second end. A removable outer casing encompasses the support
member.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 5,961,986 to Killen describes an apparatus
that employs a substrate with an adhesive for securing the
apparatus to the user's skin for the reduction or prevention of
skin folding, and, thus, the appearance of wrinkles on the user's
skin.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 6,102,772 to Fernandez describes a brassiere
that alleges to prevent inter-mammary wrinkles.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,807,160 to Wehmeye describes a
cleavage-wrinkle protector that is constructed of satin or similar
lingerie-type fabric and stuffed with polyester fiberfill. The
apparatus is engineered to be worn between the woman's breasts to
protect the cleavage skin from folding.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 3,746,007 to Hand describes a woman's sleeping
garment that has the elements of a supportive brassiere. The
garment simply molds and positions the breast even when the wearer
is in an unusual sleeping position.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 1,891,871 to Donnet describes a brassiere with
a resilient, stiff and bent strip with rounded edges that is
centrally located, which serves as a separating member between the
breasts of a woman.
[0016] Heretofore unknown is a brassiere which provides adequate
coverage and support to prevent vertical breast movement, while
simultaneously separating the two breasts using a brassiere insert
which is held in place by an internal insert pouch, to prevent
lateral breast movement, and hence the formation of wrinkles on
breasts.
[0017] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus that provides adequate coverage and support to
prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously separating
the two breasts using a brassiere insert which is held in place by
an internal insert pouch, to prevent lateral breast movement, and
hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] The present invention is an adaptation of an earlier filed
patent application by Donnelly, one of the inventors herein, for a
"Suspension-Styled Brassiere Primarily for Minimization of
Intra-Breast Wrinkling, currently pending under U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/893,645, the contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
[0019] An object of the present invention is to provide a bra which
supports the breasts to prevent lateral breast movement and thereby
prevent wrinkles on the breasts and in the center of the upper
chest.
[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide a bra
suspends the breast in a natural position as well as a number of
dynamic positions.
[0021] One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra
that equally counters and resists lateral breast movement
regardless of dynamic position.
[0022] One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra
that augments the frontal support of a human female's breasts.
[0023] One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra
that utilizes a brassiere insert housed within an internal insert
pouch to prevent lateral breast movement.
[0024] One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra
that is comfortable and is not excessively snug.
[0025] One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra
that is cheap, economical and easy to manufacture.
[0026] In order to achieve the aforementioned objectives, the
present invention provides a brassiere comprising a front portion,
side portions, and a back portion, generally conformed to the shape
of a female upper torso. However, it is understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art that the brassiere of the present
invention may conform to any shape or size such that lateral breast
movement and vertical breast movement are simultaneously
prevented.
[0027] The front portion includes a left mesh panel and a right
mesh panel each having a top portion, a bottom portion, a middle
portion, a medial side, and a distal side, wherein the left mesh
panel is configured to cover a left breast of a user and the right
mesh panel is configured to cover a right breast of a user. In an
alternative embodiment of the present invention the left mesh panel
and the right mesh do not completely cover the left and right
breast of a user. Instead, the left and right breasts are covered
in part by the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel, and the
remaining exposed portions of the user's left and right breasts are
covered by remaining components of the brassiere of the present
invention. As such, the left mesh panel may cover from 25-100% of
the left breast; where as the right mesh panel may cover from
25-100% of the right breast. In a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, left mesh panel forms a cup which conforms to
the size and shape of the left breast; whereas the right mesh panel
forms a cup which conforms to the size and shape of the right
breast.
[0028] The front portion further includes an internal insert pouch
having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the internal
insert pouch connects the medial side of the left mesh panel at the
middle portion thereof and the medial side of the right mesh panel
at the middle portion thereof such that the internal insert pouch
will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the
diaphragm. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art
that the internal insert pouch may be positioned in any area
sufficient to separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent
lateral breast movement, when a brassiere insert is inserted into
the internal insert pouch. It is envisioned that the internal
insert pouch may be substantially flat until the brassiere insert
is inserted into the internal insert pouch. As such, the internal
insert pouch itself may not be sufficient to separate the two
breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement. In
other embodiments of the present invention, the internal insert
pouch is sufficiently rigid to itself separate the two breasts of a
user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement.
[0029] The front portion further includes a brassiere insert having
a top portion, bottom portion, front portion, back portion, left
portion, and right portion generally conformed to fit within the
internal insert pouch. In particular, the brassiere insert fits
within the internal insert pouch to separate the breasts of a user,
thus preventing lateral breast movement. It is envisioned that
brassiere insert may be of any size and shape sufficient to
separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast
movement. In one embodiment of the present invention, the brassiere
insert pushes the two breasts of a user apart, thus preventing
lateral breast movement. In an alternative embodiment of the
present invention, the brassiere insert is springable, so as to
exert force from the medial portion of the brassiere insert, thus
pushing the two breasts of a user apart, thus preventing lateral
breast movement.
[0030] The front portion further includes a lateral adjustment
strap extending from the distal side of the left mesh panel through
the medial side of the left mesh panel and the distal side of the
right mesh panel through the medial side of the right panel, and
connecting the middle portions of the left mesh panel and the right
mesh panel on the medial side of each mesh panel. It is envisioned
that the lateral adjustment strap will function to bring the two
breasts of a user together, thus preventing lateral breast
movement. As such, one end of the lateral adjustment strap is
affixed to the left mesh cup and the other end of the lateral
adjustment strap is affixed to the right mesh cup, such that the
user's breasts are brought together. In one embodiment of the
present invention, the lateral adjustment strap is first laid
across the breasts of a user to keep the user's breasts in a
desired position. Following the positioning of the user's breasts
using the lateral adjustment strap, the remaining portions of the
brassiere of the present invention the remaining portions of the
brassiere of the present invention are put on to initially prevent
both vertical and lateral breast movement, to further prevent both
vertical and lateral breast movement. As such, the lateral
adjustment strap is the first or initial layer of the brassiere of
the present invention, upon which additional layers or components
are applied thereon, so as to form a multi-layer brassiere.
[0031] The front portion further includes a first lower panel
having a top portion, bottom portion, and side portions, wherein
the top portion of the first lower panel extends from the bottom
portion of the internal inset pouch, and the side portion of the
first lower panel extends from the bottom portions of the left and
right mesh panels, on the medial side thereof. The first lower
panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the present invention
below and between the left and right mesh panels. As such, the
first lower panel functions to prevent both vertical and lateral
breast movement.
[0032] The front portion further includes a left second lower panel
having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion
of the left second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of
the left mesh panel, on the distal side thereof. The second left
second lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the
present invention to outside of the distal sides of the left and
right mesh panels. As such, the left second lower panel functions
to prevent vertical breast movement.
[0033] The front portion further includes a right second lower
panel having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top
portion of the right second lower panel extends from the bottom
portion of the right mesh panel, on the distal side thereof. The
right second lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the
present invention to outside of the distal sides of the left and
right mesh panels. As such, the right second lower panel functions
to prevent vertical breast movement.
[0034] The front portion further includes a chest band attached
below the first lower panel and second lower panel terminating at
the bottom portions of the left and right panels, on the distal
side thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, the chest
band forms the bottom portion of the brassiere. In another
embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is manufactured
of an elastomeric material. Accordingly, the chest band is
configured to conform to the circumference of a user's upper torso,
so as to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in a
desired position. In another embodiment of the present invention,
the chest band is manufactured of a water-resistant material. In an
alternative embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is
manufactured of a padded material, to facilitate comfort.
[0035] The front portion further includes a left upper panel having
a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of
the left upper panel extends from the top portion of the left mesh
panel, toward the shoulder of a user. As such, the left upper panel
forms the transition from the left mesh panel to the left shoulder
strap of the brassiere of the present invention. It is recognized
by one of ordinary skill in the art that the left upper panel will
function to limit vertical breast movement by aiding in lifting the
left breast of user from the user's chest.
[0036] The front portion further includes a right upper panel
having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom
portion of right upper panel extends from the top portion of the
right mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user. As such, the right
upper panel forms the transition from the right mesh panel to the
right shoulder strap of the brassiere of the present invention. It
is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that the right
upper panel will function to limit vertical breast movement by
aiding in lifting the right breast of user from the user's
chest.
[0037] The front portion further includes a left adjustable strap
having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom
portion of the left adjustable strap extends from the top portion
the left upper panel. The left adjustable strap functions to create
tension between the left mesh panel and the left upper panel so as
to lift the left breast of a user from the user's chest.
[0038] The front portion further includes a right adjustable strap
having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom
portion of the right adjustable strap extends from the top portion
the right upper panel. The right adjustable strap functions to
create tension between the right mesh panel and the right upper
panel so as to lift the right breast of a user from the user's
chest.
[0039] The side portions of the brassiere of the present invention
include a left side mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom
portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom
portion of the left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment
strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal
side of the left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side
mesh panel; and a right side mesh panel having a top portion, a
bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the
bottom portion of the right side mesh panel contacts the lateral
adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from
the distal side of the right mesh panel, on the proximal side of
the right side mesh panel.
[0040] In one embodiment of the present invention, left side mesh
panel and right side mesh panel do not open. As such, the brassiere
functions as a traditional sports bra, wherein the brassiere is
worn by pulling the brassiere over the head of a user and is
positioned about the upper torso of the user, around the user's
breasts, to maintain the user's breasts in a desired position.
[0041] In another embodiment, left side mesh panel opens, while the
right side mesh panel does not. Accordingly, the brassiere may be
worn by opening the left side mesh panel and then positioning the
brassiere about the upper torso of the user. Once the brassiere is
in position, the left side mesh panel is closed, thereby
maintaining the brassiere in position about the upper torso of the
user. As such, a user may put the brassiere on by laying the
brassiere on a flat surface, and then laying on the brassiere. The
user positions the front portion of the brassiere over the user's
chest, positioning the user's breasts within the brassiere to
prevent both vertical and horizontal breast movement. To maintain
the brassiere in position, the user closes the left side mesh panel
thus merging the front and back portions of the brassiere to form
one unitary brassiere.
[0042] In an alternative embodiment, both left side mesh panel and
right side mesh panel open, such that the brassiere of the present
invention assumes two distinct portions, a front portion and a back
portion. Accordingly, the brassiere may be worn by opening both the
left side mesh panel and the right mesh panel. The back portion of
the brassiere is then laid flat. The user puts on the brassiere by
laying on the back portion of the brassiere. The front portion of
the brassiere is then positioned over the chest of a user. Once the
front portion of the brassiere is positioned correctly over the
chest of a user to adequately prevent both vertical and lateral
breast movement, the left side mesh panel and the right side mesh
panel are then closed, thus merging the front portion of the
brassiere and the back portion of the brassiere, to create one
unitary brassiere. In order to remove the brassiere, the left side
mesh panel and the right side mesh panel are opened.
[0043] The back portion of the brassiere of the present invention
includes a dorsal panel configured to cover the upper back of a
user having an octagonal union in the center thereof such that the
octagonal union will be positioned in the middle of the back of a
user. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the
dorsal panel may cover all or part of the upper back of a user,
without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dorsal panel is
manufactured from a breathable material.
[0044] The back portion further includes a back band extending
horizontally from the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel on
the proximal side thereof to the bottom portion of the right side
mesh panel on the proximal side thereof. In one embodiment of the
present invention, the chest back forms the bottom portion of the
back portion of the brassiere. In another embodiment of the present
invention, the back band is manufactured of an elastomeric
material. Accordingly, the back band is configured to conform to
the circumference of a user's upper torso, so as to maintain the
brassiere of the present invention in a desired position. In
another embodiment of the present invention, the back band is
manufactured of a water-resistant material. In an alternative
embodiment of the present invention, the back band is manufactured
of a padded material, to facilitate comfort.
[0045] The back portion further includes a left upper dorsal strap
extending from the top portion of the left adjustable strap to the
upper left corner of the octagonal union.
[0046] The back portion further includes a right upper dorsal strap
extending from the top portion of the right adjustable strap to the
upper right corner of the octagonal union. The left upper dorsal
strap and the right upper dorsal strap function to maintain the
brassiere of the present invention in position on the upper torso
of the user. In particular, the left upper dorsal strap and the
right upper dorsal strap support the brassiere in position on the
upper torso.
[0047] The back portion further includes a left lower dorsal strap
extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back
band meets the left side mesh panel to the lower left corner of the
octagonal union.
[0048] The back portion further includes a right lower dorsal strap
extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back
band meets the right side mesh panel to the lower right corner of
the octagonal union.
[0049] The left lower dorsal strap and the right lower dorsal strap
function to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in
position on the upper torso of the user. In particular, the left
lower dorsal strap and the right lower dorsal strap support the
brassiere in position on the upper torso.
[0050] The present invention also involves a brassiere insert
having a top portion, bottom portion, front portion, back portion,
left portion, and right portion generally conformed to the shape
between the breasts of a female. In one embodiment, the top portion
and the bottom portion are both roughly circular. In another
embodiment, the brassiere insert tapers from the top portion to the
bottom portion, such that the bottom portion is approximately 60 to
75% smaller than the top portion. In alternative embodiment, the
left portion and the right portion of the brassiere insert are both
concave, and the front portion and back portion are both
convex.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] These and other details of the present invention will be
described in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are
finished only by way of illustration and not in limitation of the
invention, and in which drawings:
[0052] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a
female mannequin.
[0053] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a
female mannequin.
[0054] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a
female mannequin.
[0055] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a
female mannequin demonstrating the insertion of brassiere insert
into the internal insert pouch.
[0056] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the upper torso of a
female mannequin demonstrating the location of the brassiere insert
when the brassiere insert is inserted into the internal insert
pouch (not shown) of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present
invention.
[0057] FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere insert of the present invention.
[0058] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere insert of the present invention.
[0059] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a
female mannequin.
[0060] FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a
female mannequin.
[0061] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the
brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a
female mannequin.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0062] In FIGS. 1-3 one embodiment of the brassiere 2 of the
present invention is shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin
1. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that
brassiere 2 can be altered to fit various forms, including, for
example, the upper torsos of individuals of different sizes and
shapes, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
Likewise it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that
brassiere 2 can be made of any material know in the art, without
departing from the spirit of the present invention.
[0063] Brassiere 2 includes a left mesh panel 4 having a top
portion 4a, a bottom portion 4b, a middle portion 4c, a medial side
4d, and a distal side 4e, wherein left mesh panel 4 is configured
to cover a left breast of a user. Brassiere 2 also includes a right
mesh panel 6 having a top portion 6a, a bottom portion 6b, a middle
portion 6c, a medial side 6d, and a distal side 6e, wherein right
mesh panel 6 is configured to cover a right breast of a user.
[0064] Brassiere 2 further includes an internal insert pouch 8
having a top portion 8a and a bottom portion 8b, wherein internal
insert pouch 8 connects medial side 4d of left mesh panel 4 at
middle portion 4c thereof and medial side 6d of right mesh panel 6
at middle portion 6c thereof such that internal insert pouch 8 will
be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the
diaphragm. In one embodiment of the present invention, internal
insert pouch 8 is on the inside of brassiere 2, such that internal
insert pouch 8 is not visible from the outside of brassiere 2. In
an alternative embodiment of the present invention, internal insert
pouch 8 is on the outside of brassiere 2, such that internal insert
pouch 8 is visible from the outside of brassiere 2.
[0065] A brassiere insert 9 having a top portion 9a, a bottom
portion 9b, a front portion 9c, a back portion 9d, a left portion
9e, and a right portion 9f is provided which is generally conformed
to fit within internal insert pouch 8. In particular, brassiere
insert 9 fits within internal insert pouch 8 to separate the
breasts of a user, thus preventing lateral breast movement.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 4, brassiere insert 9 is inserted into
internal insert pouch 8 by inserting brassiere insert 9 into the
opening in top portion 8a of internal insert pouch 8 and pushing
brassiere insert 9 down until bottom portion 9b reaches bottom
portion 8b of internal insert pouch 8, whether internal insert
pouch 8 is on the inside or the outside of brassiere 2.
Accordingly, brassiere insert 9 is removable, thus allowing the
user to insert brassiere inserts of various shapes, sizes, and
materials, depending on the user's preference. In addition,
allowing brassiere insert 9 to be removed from the remaining
components of brassiere 2, allows for removal before washing
brassiere 2.
[0067] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention,
brassiere insert 9 is sewn into or otherwise encapsulated in
internal insert pouch 8, such that brassiere insert 9 is not
removable. In one embodiment of the present invention, internal
insert pouch 8 is located between the breasts of a user, as shown
in FIG. 5.
[0068] In one embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIGS.
6-7, top portion 9a of brassiere insert 9 and bottom portion 9b of
brassiere insert 9 are both roughly circular. It is envisioned that
brassiere insert 9 may take any shape that would allow brassiere
insert 9 to fit between the breasts of a user so as to separate the
breasts of the user. In an alternative embodiment of the present
invention, brassiere insert 9 is moldable to conform to the shape
in between the breasts of any user, so as to separate the breasts
of the user. For example, brassiere insert 9 may be manufactured of
a gel-like material, a more rigid clay-like material, or a firm
plastic-like material. It is envisioned that brassiere insert 9 may
be hollow or monolithic, depending on, among other things, the
desired material of manufacture. In one particular embodiment of
the present invention, brassiere insert 9 is pouch filled with a
liquid, gel-like or solid material, or a combination thereof. In an
alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9
is a pouch filled with water or another liquid capable of freezing
at relatively low temperatures, such that brassiere insert 9 may be
inserted into internal insert pouch 8 while frozen, thus providing
a cooling effect.
[0069] In another embodiment of the present invention, brassiere
insert 9 tapers from top portion 9a to bottom portion 9b, such that
bottom portion 9b is approximately 60 to 75% smaller than top
portion 9a. In one particular embodiment of the present invention,
brassiere insert 9 tapers from top portion 9a to bottom portion 9b,
such that bottom portion 9b is approximately 30 to 59% smaller than
top portion 9a. In an alternative embodiment of the present
invention, brassiere insert 9 tapers from top portion 9a to bottom
portion 9b, such that bottom portion 9b is approximately 1 to 29%
smaller than top portion 9a.
[0070] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, left
portion 9e of brassiere insert 9 and right portion 9f of brassiere
insert 9 are both concave. In another preferred embodiment, front
portion 9c and back portion 9d of brassiere insert 9 are both
convex.
[0071] Brassiere 2 includes a lateral adjustment strap 10 extending
from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4 through medial side 4d of
left mesh panel 4 and distal side 6e of right mesh panel 6 through
medial side 6d of right panel 6, and connecting middle portions 4c
and 6c of left mesh panel 4 and right mesh panel 6 on medial sides
4d and 6d of each mesh panel.
[0072] A first lower panel 12 is provided having a top portion 12a,
a bottom portion 12b, and side portions 12c, wherein top portion
12a of first lower panel 12 extends from bottom portion 8b of
internal inset pouch 8, and side portion 12c of first lower panel
12 extends from bottom portions 4b and 6b of left mesh panel 4 and
right mesh panel 6, on medial sides 4d and 6d thereof.
[0073] A left second lower panel 14 is also included having a top
portion 14a and a bottom portion 14b, wherein top portion 14a of
left second lower panel 14 extends from bottom portion 4b of left
mesh panel 4, on distal side 4e thereof.
[0074] A right second lower panel 16 is included having a top
portion 16a and a bottom portion 16b, wherein top portion 16a of
right second lower panel 16 extends from bottom portion 6b of right
mesh panel 6, on distal side 6e thereof.
[0075] A chest band 18 is attached below first lower panel 12 and
second lower panels 14 and 16, terminating at bottom portion 4b of
left mesh panel 4 and bottom portion 6 b of left mesh panel 6, on
the distal sides 4e and 6e thereof.
[0076] A left upper panel 20 is provided having a top portion 20a
and a bottom portion 20b wherein bottom portion 20b of left upper
panel 20 extends from top portion 4a of left mesh panel 4, toward
the shoulder of a user.
[0077] A right upper panel 22 is provided having a top portion 22a
and a bottom portion 22b wherein bottom portion 22b of right upper
panel 22 extends from top portion 6a of right mesh panel 6, toward
the shoulder of a user.
[0078] A left adjustable strap 24 is provided having a bottom
portion 24a and a top portion 24b wherein bottom portion 24a of
left adjustable strap 24 extends from top portion 20a of left upper
panel 20.
[0079] A right adjustable strap 26 is provided having a bottom
portion 26a and a top portion 26b wherein bottom portion 26a of
right adjustable strap 26 extends from top portion 22a of right
upper panel 22.
[0080] A left side mesh panel 30 is provided having a top portion
30a, a bottom portion 30b, a proximal side 30c, and a distal side
30d, wherein bottom portion 30b of left side mesh panel 30 contacts
lateral adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10
extends from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4, on proximal side
30c of left side mesh panel 30. Also provided is a right side mesh
panel 28 having a top portion 28a, a bottom portion 28b, a proximal
side 28c, and a distal side 28d, wherein bottom portion 6b of right
side mesh panel 6 contacts lateral adjustment strap 10 where
lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from distal side 6e of right
mesh panel 6, on proximal side 28c of right side mesh panel 28.
[0081] A dorsal panel 32 is provided which is configured to cover
the upper back of a user having an octagonal union 34 in the center
thereof such that octagonal union 34 will be positioned in the
middle of the back of a user.
[0082] A back band 36 is provided extending horizontally from
bottom portion 30b of left side mesh panel 30 on proximal side 30c
thereof to bottom portion 28b of right side mesh panel 28 on
proximal side 28c thereof.
[0083] A left upper dorsal strap 38 is provided extending from top
portion 24b of left adjustable strap 24 to the upper left corner of
octagonal union 34.
[0084] A right upper dorsal strap 40 is provided extending from top
portion 26b of right adjustable strap 26 to the upper right corner
of octagonal union 34.
[0085] A left lower dorsal strap 42 is provided extending from an
area of back band 36 proximate to where back band 36 meets left
side mesh panel 30 to the lower left corner of octagonal union
34.
[0086] A right lower dorsal strap 44 is provided extending from an
area of back band 36 proximate to where back band 36 meets right
side mesh panel 28 to the lower right corner of octagonal union
34.
[0087] It is envisioned that internal insert pouch 8 may be
constructed of any material suitable to create a pouch capable of
encasing a brassiere insert such as brassiere insert 9. In one
embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch 8 is a
multi-layer mesh pocket. In an alternative embodiment of the
present invention, internal insert pouch 8 is configured to receive
a brassiere insert such as brassiere insert 9 such that brassiere
insert 9 would affix to internal insert pouch 8 by means of a
snappable, form-fit configuration, an adhesive, and the like.
[0088] In one particular embodiment of the present invention, left
side mesh panel 30 is an adjustable closure having a top portion
30a, a bottom portion 30b, a proximal side 30c, and a distal side
30d, wherein bottom portion 30b of left side mesh panel 30 contacts
lateral adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10
extends from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4, on proximal side
30c of left side mesh panel 30. In this embodiment, brassiere 2 may
be opened or adjusted using the adjustable closure of left side
mesh panel 30. The opposite side is not an adjustable closure, thus
allowing brassiere 2 to facilitate nursing.
[0089] In another embodiment of the present invention, brassiere 2
includes a left side mesh panel 30 and a right side mesh panel 28
which are both adjustable closures. In this embodiment, left side
mesh panel includes a top portion 30a, a bottom portion 30b, a
proximal side 30c, and a distal side 30d, wherein bottom portion
30b of left side mesh panel 30 contacts lateral adjustment strap 10
where lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from distal side 4e of
left mesh panel 4, on proximal side 30c of left side mesh panel 30.
Right side mesh panel 28 includes a top portion 28a, a bottom
portion 28b, a proximal side 28c, and a distal side 28d, wherein
bottom portion 28b of right side mesh panel 28 contacts lateral
adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from
distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4, on proximal side 28c of right
side mesh panel 28. In this embodiment, brassiere 2 may be opened
or adjusted using the adjustable closure of left side mesh panel 30
and/or the adjustable closure of right side mesh panel 28. Both
sides are adjustable, thus allowing brassiere 2 to be easily worn
and removed, even when movement is limited, such as after
surgery.
[0090] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention,
lateral adjustment strap 10 includes a lateral closure 48 at a
midpoint of lateral adjustment strap 10 such that lateral closure
48 will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, above
internal insert pouch 8. Lateral closure 48 facilitates opening and
closing of the lateral adjustment strap, which can be opened to
remove tension across the chest caused by lateral adjustment strap
10 when lateral adjustment strap 10 is taut. It is envisioned that
lateral closure 48 will allow a user to adjust lateral adjustment
strap 10 to maximize comfort as well as fit. In that tightening
lateral adjustment strap 10 functions to bring a user's breasts
closer together, loosening lateral adjustment strap 10 will have
the opposite effect--allowing the user's breasts to move further
apart. Accordingly, lateral closure 48 may be used to tighten or
loosen lateral adjustment strap 10 as desired, depending on the
preference.
[0091] In one particular embodiment of the present invention, left
mesh panel 4 and right mesh panel 6 each have an upper panel (4f
and 6f, respectively) and a lower panel (4g and 6g, respectively),
wherein each lower panel (4g and 6g) is configured to cover the
portion of a user's breast below the nipple of the breast and each
upper panel 4f and 6f is configured to cover the portion of a
user's breast above the nipple of the breast. By providing left
mesh panel 4 and right mesh panel 6 with both upper and lower
panels, it is therefore possible to vary the amount of stretch in
the upper and lower panels. For example, if a more stretchable
material is desired above the nipple of the breast than below, this
can be achieved, and vice versa.
[0092] In another embodiment, the brassiere of the present
invention comprises a left lower lateral adjustment strap 50
extending along bottom portion 4b of left mesh panel 4 and a right
lower lateral adjustment strap 52 extending along bottom portion 6b
of right mesh panel 6. As discussed above, tightening lateral
adjustment strap 10 functions to bring a user's breasts closer
together, while loosening lateral adjustment strap 10 will have the
opposite effect--allowing the user's breasts to move further apart.
However, lateral adjustment strap 10 is somewhat limited to
bringing the upper portion of a user's breasts closer together, or
allowing the upper portion of a user's breasts to move further
apart. Accordingly, left lower lateral adjustment strap 50 and
right lower lateral adjustment strap 52 function to bring the lower
portion of a user's breasts closer together, or to allow the lower
portion of a user's breasts to move further apart. As such, the
combination of lateral adjustment strap 10, left lower lateral
adjustment strap 50 and right lower lateral adjustment strap 52
allow a user to control the separation of the upper and lower
portions of the user's breasts.
[0093] In one embodiment of the present invention, back band 36
includes a back closure 54 having a left side 54a and a right side
54b such that back band 36 extends horizontally from bottom portion
of the left adjustable side closure 30 on proximal side 30c thereof
to left side 54a of back closure 54; back band 36 then continues
from right side 54b of back closure 54 to bottom portion 28b of
right adjustable side closure 28 on proximal side 28c thereof.
[0094] In one particular embodiment of the present invention, at
least some portion of dorsal panel 32 between left lower dorsal
strap 42, right lower dorsal strap 44, and back band 36 contains an
aperture 56 (is free of fabric), as shown in FIG. 10. It is
envisioned that the area of aperture 56 may vary depending on the
type of material used, the desired amount of ventilation, and the
like. It is further envisioned that dorsal panel 32 may contain
additional apertures at different locations to provide additional
ventilation, as desired, without departing from the spirit of the
present invention.
[0095] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a
left bidirectional mesh panel 58 is provided on dorsal panel 32
where left upper dorsal strap 38 and left lower dorsal strap 42
meet the left side of octagonal union 34. A right bidirectional
mesh panel 60 is provided on dorsal panel 32 where right upper
dorsal strap 40 and right lower dorsal strap 44 meet the right side
of octagonal union 34.
[0096] In another embodiment of the present invention, first lower
panel 12 is bisected longitudinally to form two symmetrical
panels.
[0097] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, upper
panel 4f of left mesh panel 4 and upper panel 6f of right mesh
panel 6 have stretch values of about 1-3 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lower
panel 4g of left mesh panel 4 and lower panel 6g of right mesh
panel 6 have stretch values of about 3-5 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Internal
insert pouch 8 has a stretch value of about 1-2 based upon a fabric
stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lateral
adjustment strap 10 has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a
fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength).
First lower panel 12 has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a
fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength).
Left second lower panel 14 and right second lower panel 16 each
have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index
from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left upper panel 20
and right upper panel 22 each have a stretch value of about 2-4
based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength). Dorsal panel 32 has a stretch value of about 2-4 based
upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength. Left upper dorsal strap 38 has a stretch value of about
2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5
(least strength). Right upper dorsal strap 40 has a stretch value
of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more
stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower dorsal strap 42 has a
stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right lower dorsal strap 44
has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index
from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Octagonal union 34 has
a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower lateral adjustment
strap 50 and right lower lateral adjustment strap 52 each have a
stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength).
[0098] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention,
upper panel 4f of left mesh panel 4 and upper panel 6f of right
mesh panel 6 have stretch values of 2 based upon a fabric stretch
index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lower panel 4g
of left mesh panel 4 and lower panel 6g of right mesh panel 6 have
stretch values of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more
stretch) to 5 (least strength). Internal insert pouch 8 has a
stretch value of about 1 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lateral adjustment strap 10
has a stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1
(more stretch) to 5 (least strength). First lower panel 12 has a
stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more
stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left second lower panel 14 and
right second lower panel 16 each have a stretch value of 5 based
upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength). Left upper panel 20 and right upper panel 22 each have a
stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more
stretch) to 5 (least strength). Dorsal panel 32 has a stretch value
of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5
(least strength. Left upper dorsal strap 38 has a stretch value of
3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5
(least strength). Right upper dorsal strap 40 has a stretch value
of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5
(least strength). Left lower dorsal strap 42 has a stretch value of
3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5
(least strength). Right lower dorsal strap 44 has a stretch value
of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5
(least strength). Octagonal union 34 has a stretch value of 5 based
upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength). Left lower lateral adjustment strap 50 and right lower
lateral adjustment strap 52 each have a stretch value of 5 based
upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least
strength).
[0099] However, it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the
art that the stretch value of the various components of the
brassiere of the present invention may be varied depending upon,
for example, the user's preference, the desired amount of mobility,
and the like. For example, should a user prefer a particular shape
over mobility, a material with a high stretch value should be
employed, whereas a material with a low stretch value should be
employed when a user prefers mobility over a particular shape.
[0100] It is understood that the preceding description is given
merely by way of illustration and not in limitation of the
invention and that various modifications may be made thereto
without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed. The
description has not attempted to exhaustively enumerate all
possible variations. That alternate embodiments may not have
presented for a specific portion of the invention or that further
undescribed alternate embodiments may be available for a portion is
not to be considered a disclaimer of those alternate
embodiments.
* * * * *