U.S. patent application number 15/275505 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-29 for swimsuit with zipper.
The applicant listed for this patent is Linh Pham Johnson, Elenora Louisa Andrews Walls. Invention is credited to Linh Pham Johnson, Elenora Louisa Andrews Walls.
Application Number | 20180084842 15/275505 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61687821 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180084842 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pham Johnson; Linh ; et
al. |
March 29, 2018 |
Swimsuit with Zipper
Abstract
A highly supportive one-piece lady's swimsuit with a zippered
component on the front side in the lower pelvic region that
detaches the lower portion of the swimsuit from the upper torso
section of the garment. The lower portion can then come unattached
via a zipper containing a finger key ring pull, which allows the
material to be swung down and out of the way for using the restroom
and swung back and up where it is secured in place to present a
fashionable and stylish swimsuit design.
Inventors: |
Pham Johnson; Linh;
(McKinney, TX) ; Walls; Elenora Louisa Andrews;
(Atlanta, GA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pham Johnson; Linh
Walls; Elenora Louisa Andrews |
McKinney
Atlanta |
TX
GA |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
61687821 |
Appl. No.: |
15/275505 |
Filed: |
September 26, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 1/21 20180101; A41D
2300/322 20130101; A41D 7/00 20130101; A41D 27/208 20130101; A41D
2400/44 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41D 7/00 20060101
A41D007/00; A41D 1/20 20060101 A41D001/20; A41D 11/00 20060101
A41D011/00; A41D 27/20 20060101 A41D027/20 |
Claims
1. A one-piece swimsuit having an upper portion that covers the
torso and a displaceable portion that covers the lower pelvic
region and extends between the wearer's hips, detaching via a
zipper component on the front side of the garment; The lower
portion can then come unattached via a separating zipper containing
a finger key ring pull, which allows the material to be swung down
and out of the way for using the restroom and swung back and up
where it is secured in place to present a fashionable stylish
swimsuit design.
2. A one-piece swimsuit as specified in claim 1 and further
comprising of panels of Spandex.RTM. and/or Performance Fabric
Power Mesh, made up of at least 80% nylon and 20% Lycra, will be
incorporated into the front and/or back section of the garment to
pull the tummy in and provide body contouring, yielding a more
shapely appearance; This combination makes the fabric sturdy and
comfortably elastic which, like Spandex.RTM., will pair well with a
zipper component.
3. A one-piece swimsuit as specified in claim 1 is also suited for
use by children and pregnant women, who often need to have a suit
that is easy to put on and take off while at the pool or the beach;
The children's garment will not contain Spandex.RTM. or Performance
Fabric Power Mesh; The maternity suit will not have the same level
of Spandex.RTM. and/or Performance Fabric Power Mesh as specified
in claim 2 to allow for the medically necessary room of an
expanding uterus and pelvis; There may also be additional snaps
and/or hooks to help guide and hold the fabric for the expectant
woman who may not be able to view her lower pelvic region during
the late stages of her second and third trimester.
4. A one-piece swimsuit as specified in claim 1 and further
comprising of a multi-functional key ring pull which will be
attached as decorative hardware on the zipper; The key ring pull is
integral to the design of this invention as it not only serves as
the hardware to easily maneuver the zipper, it also holds the
crotch panel out of the way while using the facilities since the
key ring is secured on one's finger; Another functional aspect of
the key ring pull is providing a place to hook a car or locker key,
if desired.
5. The displaceable portion of the one-piece swimsuit as specified
in claim 1 is integral with this invention and depends from the
back section thereof. This displaceable portion includes a
relatively narrow crotch section that extends from the bottom of
the back section. The crotch section gradually widens to define a
front panel that projects laterally from hip to hip. The separating
zipper component is sewn onto the front outer side of the swimsuit,
in the lower pelvic region, yielding the front detachable flap.
6. This one-piece swimsuit as specified in claim 1 will also have
two hidden water-resistant pockets, one under each arm of the
swimsuit, to securely hold small valuables, cosmetics or other
accessories without affecting the integrity or overall aesthetic of
the zippered swimsuit; These hidden pockets not only allow for
clever access to valuables, the closed-cell Neoprene foam lining
protects from theft and loss and is water-resistant up to 200
feet.
7. In an alternate embodiment of the one-piece swimsuit as
specified in claim 1, two custom-designed hooks will be discreetly
incorporated to help secure the lower detachable portion of the
swimsuit. These hooks, one sewn on each side of the swimsuit at the
hip area, will slide vertically in and out of the adjoining slits
accordingly so that if the separating zipper is left unzipped, the
lower detachable portion is still held up and attached to the upper
portion of the one-piece swimsuit. An inner lining of soft fabric,
sewn on the backside of the zipper, will serve as a protective
barrier between the skin of the wearer and the teeth of the zipper.
This specific lining will prevent any accidental pinching of the
skin by acting as a zipper guard and also as an interface to help
keep the zipper teeth and slider free of potential obstruction.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Women's swimwear has evolved over time and while women's
swimwear may have originated for use in bathing spas, swimwear is
now used for sunbathing as well as swimming. Starting with bloomers
and stockings, swimwear migrated into one-piece style bathing
suits. While one-piece bathing suits are popular because they
accent body contours and provide minimum interference for swimmers,
they nevertheless embody certain inherent problems and
shortcomings. For example, putting on and taking off a tight
fitting one-piece swimsuit can be quite a chore, particularly when
the swimsuit is wet. Even more troublesome to many women who wear
one-piece bathing suits is the requirement that the entire suit be
removed when it is necessary to use the restroom. Not only can this
be inconvenient at public beaches, swimming pools, and the like,
the inherent difficulty in taking a wet swimsuit off and putting it
back on in a crowded restroom can be uncomfortable, time-consuming
and frustrating. A swimsuit designed to allow its wearer to use the
restroom without removing the suit completely, yet still providing
body contouring and support would thus be highly desirable.
[0002] Attempts to provide one-piece women's bathing suits with
removable or displaceable crotch portions have been made. For
example, U.S. Pat. No. 2,857,600 of G. C. Finn, discloses a women's
bathing suit having a tubular body that extends below the crotch
area to form a partial skirt. Beneath the skirt portion of the
tubular body is a crotch piece that can be detached from beneath
the skirt in the front of the bathing suit and swung back between
the legs when it is necessary to use the restroom. While the
configuration of the Finn suit appears to be a step in the right
direction, it is nevertheless plagued with its own problems and
shortcomings. In particular, when the wearer desires to go to the
bathroom, she must raise the skirt portion, disconnect the snaps
and release the end portion of the crotch piece from the band by
disengaging the separable connecting elements. In addition, the
crotch piece in Finn, along with its slider fastener elements,
related buttons and snaps are unsightly and unfashionable, and thus
must be covered with the skirt portion of the suit. This
configuration requires numerous steps for the wearer that may be
cumbersome and the specific design is antiquated since it is
reliant on a skirt to conceal all of the fastening hardware.
[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 5,717,998 of Everett and Williams is a
one-piece lady's swimsuit with an upper portion that covers the
upper body and a displaceable lower portion that includes a crotch
section for covering a wearer's crotch. The displaceable portion
includes a relatively narrow crotch section that extends from the
bottom of the back section and the crotch section gradually widens
to define a front panel having long belt straps that project
laterally from the front panel in opposite directions. The
disadvantage with this specific suit is the use of belt straps,
which are fastened to each other with hooks, being wrapped from the
front of the wearer completely around her back and back to the
front in order to secure the displaceable lower portion of the
swimsuit. In addition, when the wearer of this swimsuit desires to
use the restroom, she needs to untie the bow in the front of the
suit or unsnap the hooks in the back, unwrap the belt straps from
around her torso, and swing the displaceable portion of the suit
rearward back between her legs. For replacing the displaceable
portion, the wearer must swing the crotch panel back forwardly
between her legs, pull the front panel up, re-wrap the belt straps,
and re-tie the bow. Thus, this particular swimsuit is neither
user-friendly, convenient nor easy to use or maneuver.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 3,712,308 of Herbener discloses an alternate
solution. In Herbener, a seemingly one-piece swimsuit actually
comprises of two pieces, a top piece and a bottom piece. The top
piece is itself a complete one-piece suit that extends through the
crotch area but is split in this area to allow access to the
toilet. The bottom piece of the Herbener suit is a panty-like
garment that fits over the bottom portion of the top piece and
covers the split crotch area in normal use. Obviously, the suit
disclosed in Herbener also has numerous problems. For example, even
though the crotch portion of the upper part of the suit is split,
it nevertheless can become soiled when its wearer uses the
restroom. Furthermore, the design of the Herbener suit, like the
Finn, does not lend itself to modern swimsuit fashion, which tends
to be more revealing wherein the suit rides high on the hips.
[0005] Accordingly, a continuing and heretofore unaddressed need
persists for a one-piece women's swimsuit that allows its wearer to
use the restroom without having to remove the suit completely. At
the same time, the configuration of the suit should be adaptable to
modern, more revealing swimsuit fashion design while being equally
as comfortable as a traditional one-piece swimsuit. A child's
swimsuit version, a maternity configuration for use by pregnant
women or a wetsuit design desired by surfers, and the like, would
also be an option. It is to the provision of such, a swimsuit that
the present invention is primarily directed.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] This invention relates generally to shapewear-inspired
bathing garments and, more particularly, to one-piece swimwear
capable of hugging the woman's curves, yielding a smooth body
contour while also allowing the much needed function of using the
restroom. This one-piece swimsuit comprises of a displaceable
crotch panel that easily detaches from the upper torso of the
swimsuit via a separating zipper sewn at the front lower pelvic
region of the garment. When detached, the crotch panel is swung
completely out of the way for simple, fast and efficient
convenience when using the restroom. Since there are no snaps or
other fasteners in the front of the suit, there is no need to
provide an unfashionable skirt to cover the separating zipper
component, although a skirt can be provided as a means to benefit
the 2% of swimwear consumers who prefer a "swim dress" aesthetic.
This invention will also have two hidden water-resistant pockets,
one under each arm of the swimsuit, to securely hold small
valuables, cosmetics or other accessories without affecting the
integrity or overall aesthetic of the zippered swimsuit. In
addition, the swimsuit with separating zipper is completely
comfortable and, when worn, there appears to be no artistic
difference between the suit of the present invention and any other
modern, stylish swimsuit as the zipper component is seamlessly
incorporated into the garment's overall aesthetic. The present
invention will be further illustrated in the following
examples.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0007] FIG. 1A is a front view of the one-piece swimsuit with
separating zipper closed [0008] 1 is the separating zipper
component of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A [0009] 2 is the
displaceable crotch panel of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A with
separating zipper closed
[0010] FIG. 1B is a front view of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A
when the separating zipper is fully unzipped [0011] 3 is the
displaceable crotch panel of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A
swung down [0012] 4 is the zipper guard lining on the inside of the
separating zipper of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A
[0013] FIG. 2 is a lateral view of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG.
1A [0014] 5 is a side view of the hidden, water-resistant pockets
of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A [0015] 6 is the Spandex.RTM.
panel and/or Performance Fabric Power Mesh inner lining of the
one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A [0016] 7 is the custom-designed hook
sewn on each side of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A at the hip
area [0017] 8 is the key ring pull of the separating zipper
component of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A
[0018] FIG. 3A is a partial view of the lower portion of the
one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A [0019] 9 is the direction of motion
of the separating zipper for the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A
[0020] FIG. 3B is a partial view of the lower portion of the
one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A with the separating zipper partially
unzipped [0021] 10 exposes the separating zipper partially unzipped
for the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 1A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The present invention FIG. 1A, in one preferred embodiment
thereof, comprises a one-piece women's swimsuit having an upper
portion that covers the torso, two hidden pockets (one under each
arm) 5 and a displaceable portion 2 that covers the lower pelvic
region and extends between the wearer's legs 3, detaching via a
zipper component 1 on the front side of the garment. The lower
portion will become unattached via a separating zipper containing a
finger key ring pull FIG. 1B, which allows the material to be swung
down 3 and out of the way for using the restroom and swung forward
and up where it is secured in place to present a functional, yet
stylish swimsuit design.
[0023] The upper portion has a body-contouring section that covers
the front of the wearer's torso and a back section that covers her
back. A Spandex.RTM. panel and/or Performance Fabric Power Mesh 6
will be incorporated into the front and/or the back section of the
garment, designed with powernet tummy control to minimize the
midsection and provide a more shapely appearance. The uber
stretchable Performance Fabric Power Mesh 6 is made up of at least
80% nylon and 20% Lycra. This combination makes the fabric sturdy
and comfortably elastic which, like Spandex.RTM., will pair well
with a zipper component. As a result of the present invention a
seamless, lightweight and very strong support structure which
provides control in varied areas in order to lift and support the
breasts, flatten the mid-section, and lift the buttocks is made
available.
[0024] The displaceable portion of the suit 2 is integral with this
invention and depends from the back section thereof. This
displaceable portion includes a relatively narrow crotch section
that extends from the bottom of the back section 3. The crotch
section gradually widens to define a front panel that projects
laterally from hip to hip. The separating zipper component 1 is
sewn horizontally onto the front outer shell of the swimsuit, in
the lower pelvic region, yielding the front detachable flap.
[0025] When the wearer of a swimsuit incorporating the principles
of this invention desires to use the restroom, she simply pulls on
the key ring pull with one finger and unzips the lower portion of
the swimsuit 9. The key ring pull 8 is integral to the design of
this invention as it not only serves as the hardware tab to easily
maneuver the zipper, it also can hold the crotch panel out of the
way while using the facilities since the key ring is secured on
one's finger. Another functional aspect of the key ring pull is
providing a place to hook a car or locker key if desired. When
finished using the restroom, the process is reversed and the wearer
simply swings the crotch panel back forwardly between her legs,
pulls the front panel up, uses the hook 7 on the opposite end to
connect and line up the zipper more easily, and zips the lower
portion closed as normal. The suit is quickly and easily refastened
without having to take off the entire suit, especially when wet.
Thus, the present invention is fast, simple and easy to use and
provides a freedom heretofore unheard of among women who wear
one-piece swimsuits. Finally, the design of the present invention
allows for a swimsuit that can ride high on the hips and thus
present an appearance that is up-to-date, providing the illusion of
elongating the legs and completely in accord with sometimes termed
"French-cut" leg which meets modern fashion design standards.
[0026] The two hidden water-resistant pockets 5, one under each arm
of the swimsuit, are sewn inside the suit placing the pockets
immediately against the wearer's body to securely hold small
valuables, cosmetics or other accessories without affecting the
integrity or overall aesthetic of the zippered swimsuit. These
hidden pockets 5 not only allow for clever access to valuables, the
closed-cell Neoprene foam lining protects from damage, theft and
loss and is water-resistant up to 200 feet.
[0027] In the rare off-chance of a zipper malfunction, two
custom-designed hooks 7 will be discreetly incorporated to help
secure the lower detachable portion of the swimsuit. These hooks 7,
one sewn on each side of the swimsuit at the hip area, will slide
vertically in and out of the adjoining slits accordingly so that if
the separating zipper is left unzipped, the lower detachable
portion is still held up and attached to the upper portion of the
one-piece swimsuit. An inner lining of soft fabric 4, sewn on the
backside of the zipper, will serve as a protective barrier between
the skin of the wearer and the teeth of the zipper. This specific
lining will prevent any accidental pinching of the skin by acting
as a zipper guard 4 and also as an interface to help keep the
zipper teeth and slider free of potential obstruction. Zippers
reinforced with hook and eye closure 7 make it easier to put the
garment on and operate the zipper component of the present
invention. Garments that have a soft fabric (cotton is acceptable
in this part of the garment) between the closures and the skin
offer an added level of comfort.
[0028] The present invention is also particularly suited for use by
pregnant women, who often need and desire to have a swimsuit that
is easy to put on and take off while at the pool or beach. The
maternity suit will not have the same level of Spandex.RTM. panel
and/or Performance Fabric Power Mesh 6 as to allow for the
medically necessary room of an expanding tummy, uterus and pelvis.
The two side fastening hooks 7 will be especially beneficial here
for holding the fabric while the zipper is opened and closed since
the expectant woman may not be able to view her lower pelvic region
during the late stages of her second and third trimester. There
will also be a children's version of the swimsuit invention, absent
of Performance Fabric Power Mesh 6, yet providing the same seamless
function and ability for the wearer to use the restroom quickly by
undoing swim ties/fasteners on both hips, sliding the separating
zipper, and detaching the lower displaceable portion of the
swimsuit invention in the similar fashion as described above.
[0029] Thus, a one-piece woman's swimsuit is now provided that
resolves the problems and shortcomings of the prior art by
providing a body-contouring swimsuit with an easily displaceable
crotch section that can be detached and reattached with the simple
use of a zipper. In addition, this revolutionized one-piece
swimsuit is up-to-date, modern and functional while remaining
fashionable, which is a common need and desire among many women.
The suit of the present invention preferably is constructed via a
three-layer fabric design appropriately patterned and sewn. The
present invention is designed for a one-piece swimsuit that
provides a comfortable, sculpturing support structure and a desired
control of breasts, mid torso and buttocks without unnecessarily
deforming these parts of the body. The all-over control of the
fabric contours and slenderizes the body, delivers the highest
level of support and coverage on top and provides a range of
support and control functions within a single garment, while still
allowing comfort and flexibility of the garment to the user.
Accordingly, the suit is relatively simple and economical to
produce and can be designed in a wide variety of styles and
fashions to suit varying tastes. These and other objects, features
and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon
review of the detailed description set forth below, when taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are briefly
described as follows. The present invention has been described with
regard to preferred embodiments; however, it is to be understood
that these examples are for illustrative purposes only, and should
not be used to limit the scope of the present invention in any
manner. It will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a
number of variations and modifications can be made without
departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
* * * * *