U.S. patent application number 14/013519 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-02 for uniform compression garment and method of manufacturing garment.
This patent application is currently assigned to Under Armour, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Under Armour, Inc.. Invention is credited to David Ayers, Jason Berns, Mari Lucero, William Mickle.
Application Number | 20140000005 14/013519 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43495983 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140000005 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Berns; Jason ; et
al. |
January 2, 2014 |
Uniform Compression Garment and Method of Manufacturing Garment
Abstract
A method of manufacturing a compression garment comprises
obtaining a plurality of model measurements at various locations on
a model body. Thereafter, a plurality of garment dimensions are
calculated for various locations on the garment. Each calculation
of a garment dimension is based at least in part on one of the
plurality of model measurements and at least in part on a target
elongation for the garment. In at least one embodiment,
calculations for various garment dimensions are performed by
inserting the plurality of model measurements into a pattern
equation that includes a model measurement variable and a target
elongation variable. After calculating garment dimensions, a
plurality of fabric segments are prepared for the garment based on
the calculated dimensions. Each of the plurality of fabric sections
comprise elastane and are characterized by a modulus of
elasticity.
Inventors: |
Berns; Jason; (Baltimore,
MD) ; Mickle; William; (Baltimore, MD) ;
Lucero; Mari; (Baltimore, MD) ; Ayers; David;
(Baltimore, MD) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Under Armour, Inc. |
Baltimore |
MD |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Under Armour, Inc.
Baltimore
MD
|
Family ID: |
43495983 |
Appl. No.: |
14/013519 |
Filed: |
August 29, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12841829 |
Jul 22, 2010 |
8548622 |
|
|
14013519 |
|
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61227667 |
Jul 22, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/79 ; 2/69 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 13/1263 20130101;
A41D 13/0015 20130101; A41D 31/18 20190201 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/79 ; 2/69 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/00 20060101
A41D013/00 |
Claims
1. A garment configured to be worn on a human body having a
plurality of human body parts, the garment comprising: a main body
comprised of a plurality stretchable fabric segments, wherein the
plurality of stretchable fabric segments are designed and
dimensioned such that substantially the entire main body is
stretched in order to cover the plurality of human body parts, and
wherein the plurality of stretchable fabric segments are also
designed and dimensioned to apply a substantially uniform
compression force to each of the plurality of body parts when
substantially the entire main body is stretched to cover the
plurality of human body parts.
2. The garment of claim 1 wherein the main body is configured to
cover the arms, legs and torso of the human body.
3. The garment of claim 1 wherein each of the stretchable fabric
segments has a modulus of elasticity such that a first stress force
required to achieve 20% elongation of the stretchable fabric
segment does not vary by more than 50% from a second stress force
required to achieve 50% elongation of the stretchable fabric
segment, and a third stress force required to achieve 80%
elongation of the stretchable fabric segment does not vary by more
than 50% from the second stress force.
4. The garment of claim 3 wherein the modulus of elasticity is such
that a first stress force required to achieve 20% elongation of the
stretchable fabric segment does not vary by more than 20% from a
second stress force required to achieve 50% elongation of the
stretchable fabric segment, and a third stress force required to
achieve 80% elongation of the stretchable fabric segment does not
vary by more than 20% from the second stress force
5. The garment of claim 1 wherein a flat measurement of the garment
at any location on the main body is provided by the following
pattern equation: M=1/2 B/(E+1) wherein M equals the flat
measurement for the garment at a garment location, wherein B equals
a model measurement associated with the garment location, and
wherein E equals a target elongation.
6. The garment of claim 5 wherein the modulus of elasticity is such
that a 0.5 to 3.0 pound force results in at least 50% elongation of
the fabric segment.
7. The garment of claim 1 wherein the plurality of stretchable
fabric segments are further designed and dimensioned to apply the
substantially uniform compression force to each of a plurality of
different individuals wearing the garment, the different
individuals having bodies that fit within the particular garment
size.
8. The garment of claim 7 wherein the garment is further designed
and dimensioned to stretch within a target elongation range, the
target elongation range such that the garment will apply the
substantially uniform compressive force to most of a population of
individuals having bodies that fit within the particular garment
size.
9. The garment of claim 8 wherein the target elongation for the
garment is determined based on an elongation that will provide the
substantially uniform compressive force to be applied to about 90%
of the population of individuals having bodies that fit within the
particular garment size.
10. A garment comprising: a plurality of fabric segments connected
together to form a plurality of garment portions including at least
one limb portion and a torso portion; the limb portion having
different dimensions at a plurality of measurement locations on the
limb portion, the dimensions at each of the plurality of
measurement locations on the limb portion based at least in part on
one of a plurality of model measurements and at least in part on a
target elongation for the limb portion, each of the plurality of
model measurements associated with a location on a model body, the
model body representing normal body dimensions for a range of
bodies within a particular garment size, and the target elongation
for the limb portion within an elongation range that will provide a
uniform compressive force at each of the plurality of measurement
locations on the limb portion to a substantial majority of the
range of bodies within the particular garment size; and the torso
portion having different dimensions at a plurality of measurement
locations on the torso portion, the dimensions at each of the
plurality of measurement locations on the torso portion based at
least in part on one of the plurality of model measurements and at
least in part on a target elongation for the torso portion, each of
the plurality of model measurements associated with a location on a
model body, the model body representing normal body dimensions for
a range of bodies within a particular garment size, and the target
elongation for the torso portion within an elongation range that
will provide a uniform compressive force at each of the plurality
of measurement locations on the torso portion to a substantial
majority of the range of bodies within the particular garment
size.
11. The garment of claim 10 wherein the model measurements from the
model body are median measurements from a population of individuals
having bodies that fit within the particular garment size.
12. The garment of claim 10 wherein the target elongation for the
torso portion and the target elongation for the limb portion is
based on an elongation that will provide a uniform compressive
force for the garment to most of the population of individuals
wearing the garment.
13. The garment of claim 12 wherein the target elongation for the
garment is based on an elongation that will provide a uniform
compressive force to about 90% of the population of individuals
having bodies that fit within the particular garment size.
14. A garment comprising: a plurality of fabric segments connected
together to form a plurality of garment portions including at least
one limb portion and a torso portion, the garment having different
dimensions at a plurality of measurement locations on the limb
portion and the torso portion, the dimensions at each of the
plurality of measurement locations fitting a pattern equation, the
pattern equation comprising a model measurement variable and a
target elongation variable, wherein a value of the model
measurement variable differs based on a model measurement
associated with the measurement location, the model measurement
associated with a location on a model body, the model body
representing normal body dimensions for a range of bodies within a
particular garment size.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein the pattern equation is M=1/2
B/(E+1) wherein M equals the flat measurement for the garment at
the garment location, wherein B equals the model measurement
associated with the garment location, and wherein E equals the
target elongation.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein E is a constant such that the
target elongation is uniform for the entire garment.
17. The method of claim 14 wherein the model body is a graphical
model body and the model measurements are obtained by referencing a
database of model measurements stored in a memory.
18. The method of claim 14 wherein each of the plurality of fabric
segments has a modulus of elasticity that is substantially the same
in both a length direction and a width direction.
19. The method of claim 1 wherein the modulus of elasticity is
substantially the same for each of the plurality of fabric segments
and wherein the modulus of elasticity is such that a 0.5 to 3.0
pound force results in at least 50% elongation of the fabric
segment.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/841,829, filed Jul. 22, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. ______,
which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No. 61/227,667, filed Jul. 22, 2009.
FIELD
[0002] This application relates to the field of athletic garments
and other apparel and particularly to compression garments.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Compression garments are generally comprised of one or more
stretchable fabric segments characterized by a particular modulus
of elasticity. When a wearer places the garment on his or her body,
the fabric stretches around various body parts and applies a
compressive force to the body parts.
[0004] Compression garments are sometimes used to facilitate post
workout or post game recovery of particular body parts. For
example, an athlete experiencing trauma to a knee during a sporting
event may wear compression pants to help reduce swelling around the
knee. The use of compression garments is sometimes preferred over
the more traditional use of ice bags to control swelling, since
compression garments may be used over a relatively long period
without relative discomfort, dripping ice bags or other mess and
inconvenience commonly associated with ice treatment.
[0005] While compression garments are sometimes used to treat
injuries and trauma, traditional compression garments have certain
downsides. In particular, traditional compression garments tend to
provide different amounts of pressure to different parts of the
body. For example, some current compression garments implement a
graduated compression arrangement where the garment applies greater
pressure to body parts at the extremities and generally less
pressure to body parts closer to the heart. Thus, a compression
pant may provide more compressive pressure in a calf area than in a
quadriceps area. Other compression garments are simply cut in a
manner that randomly applies different levels of compressive
pressure to various body parts. This uneven compression is not
ideal for recovery following physical trauma experienced from
normal wear and tear from working out, as certain body parts may
not be properly supported by the garment in a manner that promotes
healing.
[0006] Another factor compounding the varying pressure offered by
current compression garments is that different body types within a
given size range may cause the garment to provide greater or less
pressure to various body parts. For example, a first male requiring
a size large pant may have relatively wide thighs, while a second
male requiring the same size large pant may have relatively thin
thighs, both having the same leg length. Thus, the first male with
wide thighs wearing the large size pant will typically encounter
significantly more compression in the thigh area than the second
male with thin thighs wearing the same large size pant.
[0007] In view of the foregoing, it would be advantageous to
provide a compression garment that provides a relatively consistent
and precise compression force to substantially the entire body. It
would also be advantageous if such garment could be manufactured to
provide consistent compression performance across a wide variety of
body types. Furthermore, it would be advantageous if such garment
could be easily worn following a workout or other physical exertion
activity in order to promote a relatively quick recovery with
improved vitality, reduced swelling, increased power output and
reduced muscle damage.
SUMMARY
[0008] A compression garment configured to be worn on a human body
having a plurality of human body parts comprises a main body
including a plurality stretchable fabric segments. The plurality of
stretchable fabric segments are designed and dimensioned such that
substantially the entire main body is stretched in order to cover
the plurality of human body parts. The plurality of stretchable
fabric segments are also designed and dimensioned to apply a
uniform compression force to each of the plurality of body parts
when substantially the entire main body is stretched to cover the
plurality of human body parts.
[0009] A method of manufacturing the compression garment comprises
first obtaining a plurality of model measurements at various
locations on a model body. The model body represents a typical body
configuration for a particular sized body. Next, a plurality of
garment dimensions are calculated for various locations on the
garment. Each calculation of a garment dimension is based at least
in part on one of the plurality of model measurements and at least
in part on a target elongation for the garment. In at least one
embodiment, calculations for various garment dimensions are
performed by inserting the plurality of model measurements into a
pattern equation that includes a model measurement variable and a
target elongation variable. After calculating garment dimensions, a
plurality of fabric segments are prepared for the garment based on
the calculated dimensions. Each of the plurality of fabric sections
comprise elastane and are characterized by a modulus of
elasticity.
[0010] In at least one embodiment, the equation used in calculating
garment dimensions is M=1/2 B/(E+1), where M equals the flat
measurement for the garment (i.e., 1/2 the pattern measurement); B
equals the model measurement; and E equals the target elongation,
the target elongation being a target percentage of fabric stretch
expressed as a decimal.
[0011] In at least one embodiment, a uniform compression garment
manufactured according to the disclosed method comprises a
plurality of fabric segments connected together. Each of the
plurality of fabric segments comprise about 22-30% elastic fibers,
such as elastane or thermoplastic elastic fibers, with the elastic
fibers having a linear mass density of about 40 to 80 denier. In
addition, each of the plurality of fabric segments has a modulus of
elasticity that is substantially the same in both a length
direction and a width direction. The modulus of elasticity is such
that a 0.5 to 3.0 pound load results in about 50% or more
elongation of the fabric. In addition, the modulus of elasticity is
substantially the same for each of the plurality of fabric
segments, and the modulus of elasticity is such that the load at an
elongation between 20% and 80% is relatively consistent. The 0.5 to
3.0 pound load may preferably be a 1.4 to 2.0 pound load. In at
least one embodiment, the modulus of elasticity for the garment is
such that a 25 to 35 pound load results in about 140% to 180% or
more elongation.
[0012] The above described features and advantages, as well as
others, will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art by reference to the following detailed description
and accompanying drawings. While it would be desirable to provide a
garment that provides one or more of these or other advantageous
features, the teachings disclosed herein extend to those
embodiments which fall within the scope of any appended claims,
regardless of whether they accomplish one or more of the
above-mentioned advantages.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 shows an anterior view of a uniform compression
garment in the form of a body suit;
[0014] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the uniform compression garment
of FIG. 1 with arms extended;
[0015] FIG. 3 shows a posterior view of the uniform compression
garment of FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 4 shows a stress-strain curve for the uniform
compression garment of FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of a method for manufacturing the
uniform compression garment of FIG. 1; and
[0018] FIG. 6 shows a model body for use in manufacturing the
garment of FIG. 1, and a plurality of measurement locations along
the leg of the model body.
DESCRIPTION
[0019] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, a uniform compression garment
10 is shown in the form of a full body suit. The garment 10
includes an upper body portion 12 and a lower body portion 14. The
garment 10 is comprised of a plurality of fabric segments 16
connected at various seams 18 to form the garment 10.
[0020] The upper body portion 12 includes two arms 20 connected to
a torso portion 22. The arms 20 are full length arms in the
embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, extending from the shoulder to the wrists.
The torso portion 22 includes anterior and posterior portions. A
neck opening 24 is formed near the upper part of the torso portion.
A zipper 26 extends downward from the neck opening 24 on the
anterior of the torso portion. The zipper 26 acts to selectively
enlarge or decrease the size of the neck opening 24 to allow the
wearer to more easily get into or out of the body suit 10.
[0021] The lower body portion 14 is connected to the upper body
portion 12. The lower body portion is generally comprised of two
legs 28 extending from the torso portion 22. The legs 28 are full
length legs in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, extending from the
torso portion 22, through the thighs and to the ankles. In at least
one alternative embodiment, the legs may also include stirrups near
the ankles.
[0022] Although the garment 10 has been described as a unitary body
suit in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, it will be
recognized that the garment may take on any of numerous other
forms. For example, the body suit may be comprised of separate
upper and/or lower garments. Furthermore, while the garment 10 has
been described as long sleeved and long legged, in other
embodiments, the garment may be short sleeved or short legged. The
garment 10 may also be provided as a single upper garment or a
single lower garment.
[0023] The garment 10 is formed from a plurality of fabric segments
16 of various shapes. The fabric segments 16 are joined along the
seams 18 to form the main body of the garment. Any acceptable means
may be used to join the fabric segments, including stitching,
adhesives, heat bonding, or any other connection means or
combination thereof known to those in the art.
[0024] Each of the fabric segments 16 provide a substantially
uniform degree of compression to the parts of the body covered by
the garment 10. To this end, the modulus of elasticity is
substantially the same for each of the plurality of fabric segments
16. Accordingly, substantially equivalent forces will stretch each
of the fabric segments an equivalent amount. Furthermore, the
modulus of elasticity for each fabric segment is substantially the
same in both a length direction and a width direction such that the
fabric has a balanced stretch.
[0025] In order to provide a substantially uniform degree of
compression, the fabric segments 16 are also be cut to particular
dimensions such that the each location on the garment 10 will
stretch to approximately the same degree of elongation when placed
on the body of a typical wearer. Accordingly, different locations
on the garment 10 will have different circumferential measurements.
For example, the garment 10 will be cut such that the bicep area
has a greater circumference than the forearm area. Thus, even
though the bicep of the wearer is typically larger than the
forearm, the garment will be stretched to roughly the same degree
in each area. Furthermore, the modulus of elasticity of the fabric
segments is such that a normal deviation from a model size
measurement may occur while still allowing the garment to provide a
uniform degree of compression to the body parts of the wearer.
[0026] A stress-strain curve for the fabric segments 16 having an
exemplary modulus of elasticity is shown in FIG. 4. The
stress-strain curve shows stress on the fabric along the y-axis in
pounds-force and strain on the fabric along the x-axis in
percentage elongation of the fabric. The curve of FIG. 4 shows an
embodiment where a stress between 0.5 and 3.0 pounds-force is
experienced at a strain of about 50% elongation of the fabric. More
specifically, in the embodiment of FIG. 4 a stress between 1.4 and
2.0 pounds-force is experienced at a strain of about 50% elongation
of the fabric.
[0027] It will be noted that the modulus of elasticity of the
fabric segments 16 is such that a given stress range covers a wide
range of strain. This is especially true for strain below 100%
elongation. For example, in FIG. 4, while a 50% elongation is
associated with a stress range between 1.4 and 2.0 pounds-force,
the stress range between 1.4 and 2.0 pounds-force is not limited to
only 50% elongation. Instead, as shown in FIG. 4, a stress range
between 1.4 and 2.0 pounds-force is also experienced at strain
ranges between 20% to 80% elongation of the fabric. In particular,
at point A, a 1.4 pound-force may be experienced at 20% elongation
of the fabric. At point B, a 1.7 pound-force may be experienced at
50% elongation. At point C, a 2.0 pound-force may be experienced at
80% elongation. Accordingly, when moving from the 50% elongation
point B, to the 20% elongation point A or the 80% elongation point
C, the 1.7 pound-force does not vary by more than 50%. More
specifically, in the embodiment of FIG. 4, when moving from the 50%
elongation point B to the 20% elongation point A, the 1.7
pound-force does not vary by more than even 20% (i.e.,
(1.7-1.4)/1.7<0.20). Also, when moving from the 50% elongation
point B to the 80% elongation point C, the 1.7 pound-force does not
vary by more than 20% (i.e., (2.0-1.7)/1.7<0.20).
[0028] From the example of points A, B and C in FIG. 4, it can be
seen that the modulus of elasticity for the fabric segments 16 is
such that the force required to achieve elongation of the fabric
anywhere between 20% and 80% is relatively uniform. In particular,
the load required to achieve 20% elongation of each fabric segment
16 is about a 1.4 pounds-force, and the load required to achieve
80% elongation of each fabric segment is about a 2.0 pounds-force.
Accordingly, if the fabric segments 16 are properly designed and
dimensioned, they are capable of holding a target modulus through a
range of body types within a size. In other words, a properly
designed garment may be used to apply a relatively uniform
compressive force to a human body part through a relatively wide
range of body part dimensions within the size.
[0029] With continued reference to FIG. 4, it can also be seen that
the modulus of elasticity curve changes past the 100% strain point
such that a relatively small range of stress does not cover a
relatively wide range of strain. For example, in the curve of FIG.
4, the plurality of fabric segments 16 has a modulus of elasticity
such that a 20 to 35 pounds-force results in about 140% to 180%
elongation of the fabric. More particularly, a load of 30 pounds
results in about 150% to 170% elongation of the fabric. The modulus
of elasticity curve of FIG. 4 also shows that the fabric is
constructed such that the stress does not begin to "spike" until
about 3/4 of the total elongation cycle is achieved. In other
words, the slope of the modulus of elasticity curve (with stress is
plotted against elongation) does not reach a critical slope greater
than 1.0 until the fabric is stretched to about 75% or more of the
possible degree of stretch. Fabric segments 16 having this type of
a modulus of elasticity curve as shown in FIG. 4 are generally
useful in providing a garment capable of applying a uniform degree
of compression over a wide range of body types within a size.
[0030] With reference again to FIGS. 1-3, the stretchable fabric
segments 16 make up a substantial majority of the garment.
Accordingly, in various embodiments, the garment may comprise some
minor portion of additional segments that are different from the
fabric segments 16 that make up the main body of the garment.
Examples of such additional segments include decorative segments or
functional segments that provide ventilation for the garment or
targeted compression. However, the substantial majority of the
garment remains comprised of the fabric segments 16 that make up
the main body portion. The term "primary fabric segments" is also
used herein to refer to these fabric segments 16 that make up the
main body portion of the garment 10.
[0031] The primary fabric segments 16 that make up the main body of
the garment 10 are comprised of elastane fibers that are knit
together with other fibers to form the fabric segments. The other
fibers in the fabric segments 16 may comprise, for example, cotton,
polyester, or any of other known fibers commonly used to produce
compression garments. In at least one embodiment, the primary
fabric segments 16 are formed using a circular knit single jersey
construction. However, in other embodiments, the primary fabric
segments 16 may be formed using a balanced circular knit interlock
construction, tricot/raschel warp knit construction, or any of
various other known fabric constructions, including knit, woven and
non-woven fabrics.
[0032] In at least one embodiment, the elastane fibers comprise
about 22-30% of the fibers in the primary fabric segments 16. More
particularly, the primary fabric segments 16 may be comprised of
24% to 28% elastane, and preferably about 26% elastane. In at least
one embodiment, the elastane fibers have a linear mass density of
about 40 to 90 denier. More particularly, the elastane fibers have
a linear mass density of 55 to 70 denier, and preferably a linear
mass density of about 70 denier.
[0033] With a garment 10 having primary fabric segments 16 as
described in the above embodiments, the garment 10 is capable of
providing a uniform compression force around the limbs and torso of
a wearer. This uniform compression applies power and support evenly
throughout the body and facilitates recovery from physical exertion
by preventing water from rushing into and around damaged tissue and
muscle fibers. The application of uniform pressure around the body
also assists with muscle alignment and posturing, thus helping to
reconnect broken muscle fibers and hold the muscles in place. The
uniform compression garment is advantageously designed to apply a
consistent compression force to a range of body types within a
size. In particular, the primary fabric segments are capable of
holding a target modulus of elasticity through a range of fabric
elongations. For example, as described above, in at least one
embodiment, the primary fabric segments may be constructed such
that a 20% to 80% elongation of the primary fabric segments results
in a compressive force in a range between 1.4 to 2.0
pounds-force.
[0034] With reference now to FIG. 5 a flow-chart is shown
representing a method of manufacturing the garment of FIGS. 1-3.
The method begins at step 101 by obtaining model measurements at
multiple locations on a model body. The model body represents a
typical body configuration for a particular sized body. Thus, a
manufacturer will typically have several model bodies available,
each relating to different garment sizes, such as models
representing small, medium, large and extra-large sizes. When
making a particular sized garment (e.g., a medium size), the
manufacturer/designer uses measurements from that particular model
(e.g., the medium size model).
[0035] Each model provides typical measurements for a range of body
types within the garment size. Thus, the model will typically
represent median or average measurements for individuals wearing
that size garment. To obtain these median measurements within a
particular garment size and create the model, measurements are
taken at particular locations for a large population of individuals
in a given garment size (e.g., an XL size). Individuals wearing a
particular size garment are typically identified by a combination
of height and weight of the individual. Once measurements are
obtained, the measurements at a particular body location may then
be presented in a bell curve format in order to find the median
measurements for the population at that particular measurement
location. Each measurement in the model represents this median
measurement at the particular measurement location for the
population of similarly sized individuals. For example, if
mid-thigh circumference measurements for the group range between 20
and 30 inches with a median measurement of 24, the mid-thigh
measurement of the model would be 24 inches.
[0036] In addition to exhibiting median measurements within a size,
the model also typically includes numerous measurements for various
body parts. For example, FIG. 6 shows an exemplary model with
various measurement locations along a leg represented by m.sub.1,
m.sub.2 . . . m.sub.n. The designer/manufacturer of the garment may
choose to consider all of these measurements or only some of the
measurements when designing and manufacturing the garment.
[0037] The model and its associated measurements are typically
stored in electronic form in a computer memory. A graphical
representation of the model, such as the one in FIG. 6, may be
printed and viewed by the manufacturer/designer. This graphical
representation would also typically include the measurements at
various measurement locations on the model. In addition to the
computer model, a physical model may also be used to allow the
designer/manufacturer to view a prototype garment on the model.
[0038] With reference again to the flowchart of FIG. 5, once
measurements are obtained from the model body, the
designer/manufacturer calculates actual garment dimensions in step
102. The garment dimensions are calculated at various locations on
the garment that correlate with the area where measurements were
obtained from the model. Thus, if three different thigh
measurements are obtained from the model, three different garment
dimensions may be calculated for the thigh area. For example, if an
upper thigh measurement (m.sub.1), mid-thigh measurement (m.sub.2),
and lower thigh measurement (m.sub.3) are all obtained from the
model, an upper thigh dimension, mid-thigh dimension, and lower
thigh dimension may all be calculated for the garment. It will be
recognized that any number of measurements may be taken for a given
body part and calculated as garment dimensions, limited only by
practical considerations. Thus, although an infinite number of
measurements are theoretically possible along the thigh, the
designer/manufacturer may only choose to select a limited number of
measurements, such as interval measurements every six inches along
the thigh.
[0039] In addition to the model measurements, the garment dimension
calculation is also based in part on a target elongation for the
garment. The target elongation is an amount of stretch for the
garment that is required to apply a predetermined compressive force
to the model body. Because this amount of stretch can occur
anywhere within a range, the target elongation may be expressed as
a medial amount of stretch within a range. Thus, if stretch amounts
between 20% and 80% are capable of applying the desired compressive
force to the model body, the target elongation may be at the center
of this range, i.e., at 50% elongation. When the target elongation
falls within a range of elongation amounts capable of delivering
the desired compression force, the desired amount of fabric stretch
and related compressive force will still be delivered to various
body sizes that differ from the model body.
[0040] In at least one embodiment, the calculation of garment
dimensions is performed according to the following pattern
equation:
M=1/2 B/(E+1)
[0041] Where M equals the flat dimension for the garment at a
particular garment location (i.e., 1/2 the actual pattern
measurement); B equals the model measurement (i.e., circumference
of the model at a model location that is associated with the
garment location); and E equals a target elongation (i.e., a target
percentage of fabric stretch expressed as a decimal). The flat
dimension for the garment (M) means the dimension across the
garment when the garment is lying on a flat surface, or in other
words, 1/2 the garment circumference at the garment location.
[0042] As an example calculation using the above equation, consider
a particular garment where the designer/manufacturer has determined
that the primary fabric segments 16 should stretch anywhere between
30% and 70% in order to deliver the desired compressive force when
placed on a body within a given size. The target elongation is in
the middle of this 30-70% range at 50% elongation (i.e., E=0.50).
Using the measurements obtained from various locations on the
model, the manufacturer/designer can calculate the flat dimensions
at related locations on the garment using the equation M=1/2
B/(E+1). If the upper thigh measurement on the model is 24 inches,
the flat dimension of the garment at this upper thigh location can
be calculated as M=(1/2)24(in.)/(0.50+1)=8(in.). Similarly, if the
lower thigh measurement on the model is 18 inches, the flat
dimension of the garment at this lower thigh location can be
calculated as M=(1/2)18(in.)/(0.50+1)=6(in.).
[0043] With reference again to FIG. 5, once the garment dimensions
have been calculated, a pattern may be created based on the
calculated garment dimensions, as noted in step 103. In the above
calculation, M32 8 inches at the upper thigh location and 6 inches
at the lower thigh location. Such a pattern would include a gradual
transition between the 8 inch diameter and 6 inch diameter
portions. In addition, since the calculated variable M is equal to
the width dimension across the garment when the garment is lying on
a flat surface (i.e., 1/2 the garment circumference), the pattern
for the garment is designed such that the garment circumference
will be twice this flat measurement at the corresponding body
locations (i.e., the actual garment circumference at the
corresponding body location is 2M). Various strategies may be used
to double the calculated width, such as cutting fabric segments to
twice the calculated width and joining the opposing ends, or
cutting two equally sized fabric segments and joining the segments
along the edges. In any event, the final circumference of the
garment at any given body location should equal twice the
calculated flat measurement (M) for that body location.
[0044] After the pattern is created in step 103, the next step is
preparation of actual primary fabric segments 16 for the garment
according to the pattern, as noted in step 104 of FIG. 6. The
primary fabric segments are typically cut from a long swath of
fabric. However, it is also possible to create the primary fabric
segments in the desired segment shape and size (i.e., according to
the pattern) at the same time the fabric is made.
[0045] After the primary fabric segments are created in step 104,
the garment is assembled in step 105. Assembly of the garment
involves connecting the edges of the primary fabric segments along
seams. The edges of the primary fabric segments may be connected in
any of various manners known in the art, including sewing, thermal
bonding, adhesive bonding or any other known connection method.
Assembly of the garment in step 105 also includes connecting any
other fabric segments or accessories to the garment, such as zipper
26 shown in FIG. 1, and any garment finishing, such as decorative
components or reinforcement of bottom hems in leg portions 14.
[0046] As set forth above, a model for a given size range may be
created based on median measurements from a population of
individuals. Using the model measurements, a garment may be created
that is capable of applying a relatively uniform compressive force
to a human body part through a relatively wide range of body part
dimensions within a particular size. The dimensions of the garment
coupled with the stretch characteristics of the fabric allow the
garment to apply a uniform compressive force to nearly all
individuals within a given size range (e.g., from about 5% to 95%
of individuals on the bell curve for a given size range). In some
embodiments, the garment may be designed to apply the same
compressive force to all body parts and locations (e.g., the leg
receives the same compressive force as the abdomen). In other
embodiments, the uniform compressive force may vary between body
parts and locations (e.g., the leg receives a greater compressive
force than the abdomen). However, in either embodiment, the garment
is capable of applying a relatively uniform compressive force at
each garment location to the vast majority of individuals who fit
within the garment size.
[0047] Although the present invention has been described with
respect to certain preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated by
those of skill in the art that other implementations and
adaptations are possible. For example, although an embodiment with
seams has been described herein, a seamless embodiment is also
possible. Moreover, there are advantages to individual advancements
described herein that may be obtained without incorporating other
aspects described above. Therefore, the spirit and scope of any
appended claims should not be limited to the description of the
preferred embodiments contained herein.
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