CN110461180B - Article of apparel with selectively attachable and detachable elements - Google Patents

Abstract

The article of apparel has a surface with a first portion of a fastening system, and the attachment element has an outer region with a second portion of the fastening system. The first portion of the fastening system may be joined to the second portion of the fastening system to attach the attachment element to the apparel. The first portion of the fastening system is also separable from the second portion of the fastening system to separate the attachment element from the apparel. For example, the attachment element may be formed from a polymer foam material, may include a fluid-filled chamber, or may contain an electronic device. In some configurations, the attachment element is secured to an exterior of the apparel. In other configurations, the attachment element is secured between two layers of the apparel.

Description

Article of apparel with selectively attachable and detachable elements

Background

Articles of apparel intended for use during athletic activities often exhibit characteristics that enhance the performance, comfort, or protection of the wearer. As an example, apparel may include stretch materials that provide a relatively tight fit (light fit), thereby giving the wearer a lower profile that minimizes wind resistance. Apparel may also be formed from a material that absorbs moisture vapor away from the wearer in order to reduce the amount of perspiration that collects near the skin. In addition, apparel may include materials that attenuate compressive forces (i.e., impart padding or cushioning) to provide impact protection to areas of the wearer. Accordingly, the configuration of an article of apparel for athletic activities may be specifically selected to enhance the performance or comfort of the wearer.

Summary of The Invention

Various apparel systems (apparel systems), such as apparel systems that include an article of apparel and at least one attachment element, are disclosed below. The garment has a surface with a first part of a fastening system (fastening system), and the attachment element has an outer area with a second part of the fastening system. The first portion of the fastening system may be joined to the second portion of the fastening system to attach the attachment element to the apparel. The first portion of the fastening system is also separable from the second portion of the fastening system to separate the attachment element from the apparel. For example, the attachment element may be formed from a polymer foam material, may include a fluid-filled chamber, or may contain an electronic device. In some configurations, the attachment element is secured to an exterior of the apparel. In other configurations, the attachment element is secured between two layers of the apparel.

Further, according to aspects herein, an article is disclosed, the article having: a textile layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a textile layer thickness between the first surface and the second surface; a cushioning layer having a third surface, a fourth surface, and a cushioning layer thickness between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the second surface of the textile layer is coupled to the third surface of the cushioning layer, and an attachment layer having a fifth surface, a sixth surface, and an attachment layer thickness, wherein the fifth surface of the attachment layer is coupled to the fourth surface of the cushioning layer.

According to other aspects herein, a garment is disclosed that includes a textile material having a first surface that faces away from a wearer when the garment is worn and a second surface that faces toward the wearer when the garment is worn, the second surface having a loop component of a hook and loop attachment system. Further, each of the one or more attachment elements includes: a first layer of hook components having a hook and loop attachment system, the hook components being releasably attachable to the loop components; a second layer coupled to the first layer, the second layer comprising a foam material; and a third layer coupled to the second layer, the third layer comprising a textile layer having a wearer-facing surface that faces toward a wearer when the garment is worn.

In yet another aspect, a gasket is described that includes a cushioning layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a cushioning layer thickness between the first surface and the second surface, and an attachment layer having a third surface, a fourth surface, and an attachment layer thickness between the third surface and the fourth surface. The attachment layer includes a hook component or a loop component of a hook and loop attachment system, and wherein the third surface of the attachment layer is coupled to the second surface of the cushioning layer, the liner includes a first cut extending completely through the cushioning layer and the attachment layer from the first surface to the fourth surface, a second cut collinear with the first cut and extending completely through the cushioning layer and the attachment layer from the first surface to the fourth surface, and a connecting portion separating an end of the first cut from an end of the second cut, the connecting portion including a portion of the cushioning layer and a portion of the attachment layer.

The advantages and features of novelty characterizing aspects of the invention are pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. To gain an improved understanding of the advantages and features of novelty, however, reference may be made to the following descriptive matter and accompanying drawings that describe and illustrate various configurations and concepts related to the invention. Additional objects, advantages and novel features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned by practice of the invention.

Brief Description of Drawings

The invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated herein by reference. The following is a list of drawings and a brief description.

Figure 1 is a front view of a first article of apparel.

Figures 2A-2C are front views of a first article of apparel in combination with a plurality of attachment elements.

Figures 3A-3E are front views of additional configurations of the first article of apparel.

Figure 4 is a front view of a second article of apparel.

Figures 5A-5C are front views of a second article of apparel in combination with a plurality of attachment elements.

Figures 6A-6E are front views of additional configurations of a second article of apparel.

Fig. 7 is a top plan view of the first attachment element.

Fig. 8 is a bottom plan view of the first attachment element.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the first attachment element, as defined by section line 9-9 in FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 9 and depicting the first attachment element in a bent configuration.

11A-11D are cross-sectional views corresponding to FIG. 9 and depicting additional configurations of the first attachment element.

Figure 12 is a front view of a first article of apparel in combination with a pair of first attachment elements.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the first article of apparel and the first attachment element, as defined by section line 13-13 in FIG. 12.

Fig. 14 is a top plan view of the second attachment element.

Fig. 15 is a bottom plan view of the second attachment element.

Figure 16 is a front view of a second article of apparel in combination with a pair of second attachment elements.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the second article of apparel and the second attachment element, as defined by section line 17-17 in FIG. 16.

Fig. 18 is a top plan view of the third attachment element.

Fig. 19 is a bottom plan view of the third attachment element.

Fig. 20 is a top plan view of the fourth attachment element.

Fig. 21 is a bottom plan view of the fourth attachment element.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the fourth attachment element, as defined by section line 22-22 in FIG. 20.

Fig. 23 is a top plan view of the fifth attachment element.

Fig. 24 is a bottom plan view of the fifth attachment element.

Figure 25 is a front view of a third article of apparel that includes a plurality of attachment elements.

Figure 26 is an exploded front view of a third article of apparel and an attachment element.

Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of one of the third article of apparel and an attachment element, as defined by section line 27-27 in figure 25.

28A-28D are front views of additional configurations of a third article of apparel and an attachment element.

Figure 29 is a front view of a fourth article of apparel that includes a plurality of attachment elements.

Figure 30 is an exploded front view of a fourth article of apparel and an attachment element.

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of one of the attachment elements and a fourth article of apparel, as defined by section line 31-31 in FIG. 29.

Figures 32A-32D are front views of additional configurations of a fourth article of apparel and an attachment element.

Fig. 33 is a top plan view of the sixth attachment element.

Fig. 34 is a bottom plan view of the sixth attachment element.

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the sixth attachment element, as defined by section line 35-35 in FIG. 33.

Fig. 36 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to fig. 35 and depicting the sixth attachment element in a bent configuration.

Fig. 37 is a top plan view of the seventh attachment element.

Fig. 38 is a bottom plan view of the seventh attachment element.

Fig. 39 is a top plan view of an eighth attachment element.

Fig. 40 is a bottom plan view of the eighth attachment element.

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the eighth attachment element, as defined by section lines 41-41 in FIG. 39.

Fig. 42 is a perspective view of an exemplary article according to aspects herein.

Fig. 43 is a side view of an exemplary article according to aspects herein.

Fig. 44 is a perspective view of an exemplary article having some attachment elements detached from the rest of the exemplary article, according to aspects herein.

Fig. 45 is a perspective view of an attachment element detached from an exemplary article, in accordance with aspects hereof.

Fig. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the attachment element illustrated in fig. 45 taken along cut line 46-46, in accordance with aspects hereof.

Fig. 47 is a lower body garment having a plurality of attachment elements affixed to an outer surface, in accordance with aspects hereof.

Fig. 48 is an upper body garment having a plurality of attachment elements affixed to an inner surface, according to aspects herein.

Detailed description of the invention

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose concepts related to various articles of apparel and attachment elements. In general, the attachment elements may be repeatedly attached to and detached from different areas of the apparel. Many attachment element configurations may be used, depending on the activity, particular needs, and wearer preferences. For example, the attachment element may be: (a) a foam member, a gas-filled chamber, or a plate that attenuates compressive forces (i.e., imparts cushioning or cushioning) to provide impact protection to an area where an attachment element of a wearer is located, (b) a fluid-filled chamber that provides heating or cooling to an area where an attachment element of a wearer is located, or (c) an electronic device that provides information or enjoyment to a wearer, such as a mobile phone, portable music player, timing device, heart rate monitor, locator beacon, global positioning system, or mobile computing device.

Although various types of apparel may be used with the attachment elements, only examples of both shirt-type garments (shirt-type clothing) and pant-type garments (pans-type clothing) are disclosed in the following discussion and the accompanying drawings. Shirt-type garments include any of a variety of garments that cover a portion of the torso of a wearer and that may extend over the arms of the wearer. Examples of shirt-type garments include long-sleeved shirts, short-sleeved shirts, camisoles, undershirts, jackets, and coats. Similarly, pant-type garments include any of a variety of garments that cover a portion of the pelvic region (pelvic region) of the wearer and that can extend over the legs of the wearer. Examples of pant-type garments include pants, shorts, briefs, jeans, and undershirts. In some configurations, the article of apparel may be a combination of shirt-type garments and pant-type garments, including tights, stretch full-body tights, and wetsuits. Further, the article of apparel may have a configuration that covers other areas of the wearer, such as, for example, hats, helmets, gloves, socks, and footwear. Therefore, various types of articles of apparel may be used.

First shirt-type garment configuration

An article of apparel 100 having the configuration of a shirt-type garment is depicted in fig. 1. Article of apparel 100 includes a torso portion 101 and a pair of arm portions 102 and 103 extending outward from torso portion 101. Torso portion 101 corresponds with the torso of a wearer and covers at least a portion of the torso when worn. An upper region of torso portion 101 defines a neck opening 104, and the neck and head of the wearer extend out of neck opening 104 when apparel 100 is worn. Likewise, a lower region of torso portion 101 defines a waist opening 105, and a waist or pelvic region of the wearer extends beyond waist opening 105 when apparel 100 is worn. Arm portion 102 corresponds to a right arm of a wearer and covers at least a portion of the right arm, while arm portion 103 corresponds to a left arm of the wearer and covers at least a portion of the left arm. Each arm portion 102 and 103 defines a wrist opening 106 through which a wearer's hand and wrist extend when apparel 100 is worn. In addition, article of apparel 100 includes an outer surface 107 that faces away from the wearer, and article of apparel 100 includes an inner surface 108 that faces toward the wearer and may contact the wearer when article of apparel 100 is worn.

A plurality of attachment elements 111 and 115 are secured to apparel 100, as depicted in figure 2A. More specifically, attachment elements 111 and 115 may be secured to exterior surface 107 in either of torso portion 101 and arm portions 102 and 103, but attachment elements 111 and 115 may be secured to interior surface 108 in some configurations of apparel 100. The attachment element 111 and 115 may be, for example, any of a foam member, a fluid-filled chamber (e.g., gas-filled or liquid-filled), a plate, or an electronic device. Similarly, the shape and size of the attachment elements 111 and 115 may vary significantly. For example, attachment elements 111 and 114 assume a generally rectangular configuration, while attachment element 112 is generally triangular, attachment element 113 is generally circular, and attachment element 115 assumes a non-geometric form. The thickness of the attachment elements 111-115 may also vary significantly to include a generally flat, non-uniform or protruding configuration, depending on the composition and intended use of the attachment elements 111-115. Therefore, the configuration of the attachment elements 111 and 115 can vary significantly.

Attachment elements 111 and 115 are secured to apparel 100 in a variety of different positions. More specifically, attachment element 111 is secured to an upper region of torso portion 101, attachment element 112 is secured to a lower region of torso portion 101, attachment element 113 is secured to a side region of torso portion 101, attachment element 114 is secured to arm portion 102, and attachment element 115 is secured to arm portion 103. Apparel 100 and attachment elements 111 and 115 each comprise portions of a fastening system for securing attachment elements 111 and 115 to exterior surface 107. Various fastening systems may be utilized including, for example, hook and loop fastening systems (e.g., VELCRO manufactured by VELCROUSA, Inc. of Manchester, N.H.), magnetic fastening systems, adhesive fastening systems, and button-type fastening systems. For purposes of reference, portions of apparel 100, other articles of apparel, and other elements that contain fastening systems or portions of fastening systems are depicted in the figures as having a stippled or differently textured configuration.

In addition to attaching or otherwise securing attachment elements 111 and 115 to apparel 100, the fastening system allows attachment elements 111 and 115 to be removed or otherwise separated from apparel 100. Thus, referring to FIG. 2B, each of attachment elements 111 and 115 are depicted as being separate from apparel 100. In addition, the fastening system also allows attachment elements 111 and 115 to be (a) repeatedly attached to apparel 100 and detached from apparel 100, (b) attached to apparel 100 in a plurality of different locations, and (c) attached in a variety of different orientations. Thus, referring to FIG. 2C, each of attachment elements 111-115 are depicted as being reattached to apparel 100 in a different position and in a different orientation.

Article of apparel 100 may be manufactured from a variety of different materials. In general, apparel 100 may be formed from a knitted, woven, or non-woven textile material that includes, for example, rayon, nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, cotton, wool, or silk. Although article of apparel 100 may be knitted as a single piece (i.e., an article of clothing), article of apparel 100 may also be formed from a plurality of textile elements that are sewn, bonded, adhered, or otherwise joined together to form torso region 101 and arm regions 102 and 103. As depicted in fig. 1, for example, a plurality of seams 109 join the textile elements forming arm portions 102 and 103 to the textile elements forming torso portion 101, and seam 109 joins the collar in the area of neck opening 104. In some configurations, the textile material may include a coating that forms a breathable and waterproof barrier, or the textile material may be replaced with a polymeric sheet. Article of apparel 100 may also be formed from a laminate or other layered material that includes two or more layers of textile material, a polymer sheet, or a combination of textile material and a polymer sheet.

Depending on the particular fastening system used to attach elements 111 and 115, apparel 100 may also include elements associated with the fastening system. For example, when a magnetic fastening system or a button-type fastening system is used, magnetic elements or buttons may be incorporated into the textile material of article of apparel 100. As another example, elements of the hook portion or the loop portion of a hook and loop fastening system may be secured to article of apparel 100 so as to form a portion of exterior surface 107. Alternatively, the textile material forming article of apparel 100 may be manufactured to define the hook portion or the loop portion of a hook and loop fastening system. That is, either the hook portion or the loop portion of the hook and loop fastening system can be knitted to form an integral part of the textile material of apparel 100. An advantage of this configuration is that there are no additional elements (e.g., magnetic elements, buttons, strips of hook portions or loop portions) on article of apparel 100, which reduces the number of components within article of apparel 100 and simplifies the overall manufacturing process. An example of a suitable material for the loop portion containing the hook and loop fastening system is manufactured by RUEY TAY, taipei, taiwan, china and is a warp knit mesh comprising 91% polyester with 1/75/72 textured microfiber semi-dull and 9% spandex (i.e., elastane).

Article of apparel 100 is depicted as having the configuration of a shirt-type garment, particularly a long-sleeved shirt. In some configurations, apparel 100 may be intended for use as a compression garment. In addition to therapeutic uses, compression garments are commonly worn by athletes as a base layer (base layer) inside a jersey or other athletic apparel. Generally, a compression garment or other garment intended as a base layer (a) exhibits a relatively tight fit disposed adjacent the wearer's skin, and (b) stretches to conform to the contours of the wearer. While the textile materials forming the compression garment may have, for example, more than 10% uniaxial stretch before stretch breaking, the textile materials forming other compression garments may have at least 30% biaxial stretch before stretch breaking. Accordingly, when apparel 100 is formed to have a relatively tight fit and stretch to conform to the contours of the wearer, the textile material forming apparel 100 may have a bi-directional stretch of at least 30% before the stretch breaks.

Substantially all of the outer surface 107 has a configuration that provides a location for securing the attachment element 111 and 115. That is, at least 90% of the outer surface 107 provides a location for the fixed attachment element 111 and 115. For example, when the loop portion of the hook and loop fastening system is knitted to form an integral part of the textile material of apparel 100, substantially all of the exterior surface 107 may be formed from the textile material. However, in some configurations, only a portion of the outer surface 107 may provide a location for securing the attachment element 111 and 115. That is, a portion of the fastening system may not be present at a portion of the outer surface 107, or a textile material that does not provide a location for securing the attachment elements 111 and 115 may be used at a portion of the outer surface 107.

Although substantially all of exterior surface 107 may have a configuration that provides a location for securing attachment elements 111 and 115, apparel 100 is depicted in FIG. 3A as having a configuration in which the fastening system is not present in torso region 101. Assuming that the portion of article of apparel 100 containing the fastening system or a portion of the fastening system is depicted in the figures as having a speckled or differently textured configuration, then the areas without speckled or differently textured configuration represent areas in which the fastening system or a portion of the fastening system is not present. Similarly, fig. 3B depicts a configuration in which the fastening system is not present in arm regions 102 and 103, but forms at least 75% of outer surface 107. Wherein the fastening system is present in only the central and upper regions of torso region 101, but forms at least a 50% configuration of outer surface 107, depicted in fig. 3C. Furthermore, the configuration in which the fastening system is present in only selected regions of the portions 101-103 is depicted in FIG. 3D. In each of the configurations of fig. 3A-3D, seam 109 may be used to join a textile element without a fastening system to a textile element with a fastening system. Although article of apparel 100 is depicted in each of figures 1-3D as having the configuration of a long-sleeved shirt, concepts associated with article of apparel 100 may also be incorporated into other shirt-type garments. As an example, article of apparel 100 is depicted in fig. 3E as having the configuration of a short-sleeved shirt, but article of apparel 100 may also be a camisole, an undershirt, a jacket, and a coat.

First pant-type garment configuration

An article of apparel 200 having the configuration of a pant-type garment is depicted in fig. 4. Article of apparel 200 includes a pelvic region 201 and a pair of leg regions 202 and 203 extending outward from pelvic region 201. The pelvic region 201 corresponds to a pelvic region of a wearer and covers at least a portion of the pelvic region when worn. An upper region of pelvic region 201 defines a waist opening 204 when article of apparel 200 is worn, waist opening 204 extending around the waist when article of apparel 200 is worn. Leg region 202 corresponds to a right leg of the wearer and covers at least a portion of the right leg, and leg region 203 corresponds to a left leg of the wearer and covers at least a portion of the left leg. Each of leg portions 202 and 203 defines an ankle opening 205, and a wearer's foot and ankle protrude through ankle opening 205 when apparel 200 is worn. In addition, apparel 200 includes an exterior surface 207 that faces away from the wearer, and apparel 200 includes an interior surface 208 that faces toward the wearer and may contact the wearer when apparel 200 is worn.

A plurality of attachment elements 211 and 214 are secured to apparel 200, as depicted in figure 5A. More specifically, attachment elements 211 and 214 may be secured to exterior surface 207 in either of pelvic region 201 and leg regions 202 and 203, but attachment elements 211 and 214 may be secured to interior surface 208 in some configurations of apparel 200. As with attachment element 111 and 115, attachment element 211 and 214 may be any of a foam member, a fluid-filled chamber (e.g., gas-filled or liquid-filled), a plate, or an electronic device. Similarly, the shape, size, and thickness of the attachment elements 211 and 214 may vary. Therefore, the configuration of the attachment elements 211 and 214 may vary significantly.

Attachment elements 211 and 214 are secured to apparel 200 in a variety of different positions. As with apparel 100 and attachment elements 111 and 115, apparel 200 and attachment elements 211 and 214 each include portions of a fastening system for securing attachment elements 211 and 214 to exterior surface 107. Various fastening systems may be used, including, for example, hook and loop fastening systems, magnetic fastening systems, adhesive fastening systems, and button-type fastening systems. For purposes of reference, portions of article of apparel 200 and other elements, including the fastening system or a portion of the fastening system, are depicted in the figures as having a stippled or differently textured configuration.

In addition to attaching or otherwise securing attachment elements 211 and 214 to apparel 200, the fastening system allows attachment elements 211 and 214 to be removed or otherwise separated from apparel 200. Thus, referring to figure 5B, each of attachment elements 211-214 are depicted as being separate from apparel 200. In addition, the fastening system also allows attachment elements 211 and 214 to be (a) repeatedly attached to apparel 200 and detached from apparel 200, (b) attached to apparel 200 in a plurality of different locations, and (c) attached in a variety of different orientations. Thus, referring to figure 5C, each of attachment elements 211-214 are depicted as being reattached to apparel 200 in a different position and in a different orientation.

Any of the materials discussed above for article of apparel 100 may be used in the manufacture of article of apparel 200. Depending on the particular fastening system used for attachment elements 211 and 214, apparel 200 may also include elements associated with the fastening system. For example, when a magnetic fastening system or a button-type fastening system is used, magnetic elements or buttons may be incorporated into the textile material of article of apparel 200. As another example, elements of the hook portion or the loop portion of a hook and loop fastening system may be secured to article of apparel 200 so as to form a portion of exterior surface 207. Alternatively, the hook portion or loop portion of the hook and loop fastening system may be knitted to form an integral part of the textile material of apparel 200.

Article of apparel 200 is depicted as having the configuration of a pant-type garment, particularly a pair of pants. In some configurations, apparel 200 may be intended for use as a compression garment that (a) exhibits a relatively tight fit that is placed against the skin of the wearer, and (b) stretches to conform to the contours of the wearer. Although the textile material of article of apparel 200 may have unidirectional stretch, the textile material forming article of apparel 200 may have at least 30% bi-directional stretch prior to the stretch failure.

Substantially all of outer surface 207 has a configuration that provides a location for securing attachment elements 211 and 214. That is, at least 90% of the outer surface 207 provides a location for the secure attachment element 211 and 214. For example, when the loop portions of the hook and loop fastening system are knitted to form an integral part of the textile material of apparel 200, substantially all of exterior surface 207 may be formed from the textile material. However, in some configurations, only a portion of outer surface 207 may provide a location for securing attachment element 211 and 214. That is, a portion of the fastening system may not be present at a portion of exterior surface 207, or a textile material that does not provide a location for securing attachment elements 211 and 214 may be used at a portion of exterior surface 207.

Article of apparel 200 is depicted in figure 6A in a configuration in which the fastening system is not present in a majority of leg portions 202 and 203. Assuming that the portions of article of apparel 100 that include the fastening system or a portion of the fastening system are depicted in the figures as having a speckled or differently textured configuration, then areas that do not have a speckled or differently textured configuration represent areas in which the fastening system or a portion of the fastening system is not present. Fig. 6B depicts a configuration in which the fastening system is not present in the pelvic region 201, but rather forms at least 75% of the outer surface 207. Furthermore, the configuration in which the fastening system is present in only selected regions of the region 201-203 is depicted in FIG. 6C. Although apparel 200 is depicted in each of figures 4-6C as having a configuration of a pair of pants, the concepts associated with apparel 200 may also be incorporated into other pants-type garments. As an example, apparel 200 is depicted in fig. 6D as having the configuration of a pair of shorts, but apparel 200 may also be a pair of briefs, jeans, or lingerie. Further, a pant configuration wherein the fastening system is present in at least 50% of the outer surface is depicted in fig. 6E.

Attachment element configuration

The attachment elements 111 and 211 and 214 can assume a variety of different configurations depending on the activity, particular needs, and preference of the wearer. As discussed above, the attachment elements 111 and 211 and 214 may be (a) a foam member, a gas-filled chamber, or a plate, (b) a liquid-filled chamber, or (c) an electronic device, such as a mobile phone, portable music player, timing device, locator beacon, global positioning system, or mobile computing device. Furthermore, the shape, size and thickness, for example, of the attachment elements 111 and 211 and 214 may vary significantly. In general, however, each of attachment elements 111 and 115 and 211 and 214 includes a portion of a fastening system that allows attachment elements 111 and 211 and 214 to be (a) repeatedly attached to and detached from apparel 100 and apparel 200, (b) attached to apparel 100 and apparel 200 in a plurality of different locations, and (c) attached in a variety of different orientations.

A more specific example of an attachment element 301 is depicted in fig. 7-9 as including a plurality of portions 302, the plurality of portions 302 being joined by a fastening portion 303. The portions 302 may be formed of, for example, a polymer foam material, and separated from one another by a plurality of cuts 304. Each of portions 302 may also include at least one aperture 305, aperture 305 enhancing the breathability of attachment element 301 and reducing the overall weight of attachment element 301. Fastening portion 303 is secured to each of portions 302 and generally comprises a portion of a fastening system that secures attachment element 301 to article of apparel 100 or article of apparel 200. For example, when the textile material forming article of apparel 100 or article of apparel 200 includes loop portions of a hook and loop fastening system, fastening portions 303 may include hook portions of a hook and loop fastening system.

The cut-out 304 has the advantage that the bending properties of the attachment element 301 are enhanced. Referring to fig. 10, the attachment element 301 is shown in a curved configuration with the cut-outs 304 separated to provide a curved groove that allows the attachment element to bend or otherwise bend. As discussed in more detail below, the bending allows attachment element 301 to conform to the shape of apparel 100 or apparel 200 in a position in which attachment element 301 is secured to apparel 100 or apparel 200. Although the cut 304 may extend completely through the polymer foam material of the portion 302, the cut 304 may also extend partially (e.g., at least 50%) through the polymer foam material, as depicted in fig. 11A. Although the cutout 304 may extend from the upper surface toward the lower surface of the portion 302, the cutout 304 may also extend from the lower surface toward the upper surface and through the fastening portion 303, as depicted in fig. 11B. Further, the hole 305 may also be absent from the attachment element 301, as depicted in fig. 11B. In other configurations, the cut-out 304 may not be present, as depicted in fig. 11C, or the portion 302 may impart a tapered configuration to the attachment element 301.

Like attachment elements 111 and 115, attachment elements 301 may be secured to apparel 100, removed from apparel 100, and then reattached to apparel 100. Referring to figure 12, two of attachment elements 301 are depicted as being secured to apparel 100. While one of attachment elements 301 is in an intact state, another of attachment elements 301 is separated into different portions and secured to different areas of article of apparel 100. Thus, in addition to providing a bend, the cut-out 304 forms a separation line where the attachment element 301 may be divided into different portions. Thus, the wearer may divide the attachment element 301 into different portions in order to customize or otherwise tailor the shape and size of the attachment element 301 to meet a particular need or purpose. Referring to fig. 13, a portion of attachment element 301 is shown attached to apparel 100, particularly arm portion 103. A cut 304 between the two portions 302 allows the portions of the attachment element 301 to flex to conform to the curvature in the arm portion 103.

The polymer foam material forming portion 302 attenuates compressive forces (i.e., imparts padding or cushioning) to provide impact protection to the wearer in areas where attachment element 301 or portions of attachment element 301 are located. For example, if a wearer has injured the shoulder area, attachment element 301 may be secured to apparel 100 and placed on the shoulder area to provide protection to the shoulder area during athletic activities. Similarly, if the wearer's abdominal region is injured, attachment element 301 may be positioned to protect the abdominal region. Attachment element 301, or portions of attachment element 301, may therefore be used to impart impact protection to particular areas of the wearer.

Another example of an attachment element 311 is depicted in fig. 14 and 15 as including a plurality of portions 312, the plurality of portions 312 connected by a fastening portion 313. Portions 312 may be formed of, for example, a polymer foam material and separated from one another by a plurality of cuts 314. Each of the portions 312 may also include at least one aperture 315. Fastening portion 313 is secured to each of portions 312 and generally comprises a portion of a fastening system that secures attachment element 311 to apparel 100 or apparel 200. For example, when the textile material forming apparel 100 or apparel 200 includes loop portions of a hook and loop fastening system, fastening portions 313 may comprise hook portions of a hook and loop fastening system. The cut-out 314 has the advantage that the bending properties of the attachment element 311 are enhanced.

As with attachment elements 211 and 214, attachment elements 311 may be secured to apparel 200, removed from apparel 200, and then reattached to apparel 200. Referring to figure 16, two of attachment elements 311 are depicted as being secured to apparel 200. While one of attachment elements 311 is in an intact state, another of attachment elements 311 is separated into different portions and secured to different portions of article of apparel 200. Thus, in addition to providing a bend, the cut-out 314 forms a separation line where the attachment element 311 may be divided into different portions. Thus, the wearer may divide the attachment element 311 into different portions in order to customize or otherwise tailor the shape and size of the attachment element 311 to meet a particular need or purpose. Referring to fig. 17, attachment element 311 is shown attached to apparel 200, particularly leg portion 202. The cutouts 314 allow the attachment element 311 to flex to conform to the flex in the leg portion 202. As with attachment element 301, attachment element 311 or portions of attachment element 311 may be used to impart particular area protection to the wearer.

Another example of an attachment element 321 is shown in fig. 18 and 19 with a plate 322 and a fastening portion 323. Although portions 302 and 312 are discussed as being formed from a polymer foam material, plate 322 may be formed from a non-foamed polymer material or rubber, for example. However, in some configurations, polymer foam materials may also be used for the panels 322. Each of the plate 322 and the fastening portion 323 may also define a plurality of apertures 325. As with the polymer foam material of attachment elements 301 and 311, the panel configuration of attachment element 321 may be used to impart protection to particular areas of the wearer.

Another example of an attachment element 331 is depicted in fig. 20-22 as having a chamber portion 332 and a fastening portion 333. The chamber portion 332 is formed of a polymer material that defines an interior space (interior void) for receiving a fluid. Fastening portion 333 is secured to chamber portion 332 and generally comprises a portion of a fastening system that secures attachment element 331 to apparel 100 or apparel 200. A plurality of notches 334 are formed in the surface of the chamber portion 332 to enhance the flexibility of the attachment element 331. A gas or liquid may be located within the space in chamber portion 332. In some configurations, chamber portions 332 can include an opening that allows a wearer to place a liquid within chamber portions 332 or to drain a liquid from chamber portions 332.

When the chamber portions 332 comprise a gas, such as a pressurized gas, the attachment elements 331 can be used to attenuate the compressive force (i.e., impart cushioning or cushioning) to provide impact protection to the wearer in the area where the attachment elements 331 are located. That is, the attachment element 331 can be used to provide protection to a particular area of the wearer. When a liquid is located within the space in chamber portions 332, the liquid can be used to provide heating or cooling to the area of the wearer where attachment element 331 is located. More specifically, the attachment element 331 and the liquid within the attachment element 331 may be heated or cooled. Once positioned adjacent a particular area of the wearer, the attachment element 331 and the liquid within the attachment element 331 can provide heat to or absorb heat from the area of the wearer.

Yet another example of an attachment element 341 is depicted in fig. 23 and 24 as having an electronic device 342. Fastening portion 343 is secured to a rear surface of device 342 and generally comprises a portion of a fastening system that secures attachment element 341 to article of apparel 100 or article of apparel 200. By way of example, the electronic device 342 may be any of a mobile phone, portable music player, timing device, locator beacon, global positioning system, or mobile computing device.

Second shirt-type garment configuration

An article of apparel 400 having the configuration of a shirt-type garment is depicted in fig. 25. Article of apparel 400 includes a torso portion 401 and a pair of arm portions 402 and 403 extending outward from torso portion 401. Torso portion 401 corresponds with the torso of a wearer and covers at least a portion of the torso when worn. An upper region of torso portion 401 defines a neck opening 404, through which neck and head of the wearer protrude when apparel 400 is worn. Likewise, a lower region of torso portion 401 defines a waist opening 405, and a wearer's waist or pelvic region extends through waist opening 405 when apparel 400 is worn. Arm portion 402 corresponds to the right arm of the wearer and covers at least a portion of the right arm, while arm portion 403 corresponds to the left arm of the wearer and covers at least a portion of the left arm. Each arm portion 402 and 403 defines a wrist opening 406 through which a wearer's hand and wrist protrude when apparel 400 is worn.

Apparel 400 exhibits a two-layer configuration having an exterior layer 407 extending through each of portions 401-403 and an adjacent interior layer 408. Exterior layer 407 forms an exterior of article of apparel 400, and interior layer 408 forms an interior that may contact the wearer when article of apparel 400 is worn. A plurality of attachment elements 411 are secured between layers 407 and 408. More specifically, attachment element 411 is located between layers 407 and 408 in torso region 401 and in each of arm regions 402 and 403.

The attachment element 411 may be any of a foam member, a fluid-filled chamber (e.g., gas-filled or liquid-filled), a plate, or an electronic device. Although depicted as having a generally square appearance for purposes of example, the shape, size, and thickness of the attachment element 411 may vary significantly.

Apparel 400 and attachment element 411 each include portions of a fastening system for securing attachment element 411 between layers 407 and 408. In addition to attaching or otherwise securing attachment element 411 to apparel 400, the fastening system allows attachment element 411 to be removed or otherwise detached from apparel 400. As with apparel 100 and 200, a variety of fastening systems may be used, including, for example, hook and loop fastening systems, magnetic fastening systems, adhesive fastening systems, and button-type fastening systems. For reference purposes, the portions of apparel 400 and attachment element 411 that contain the fastening system or a portion of the fastening system are depicted in the figures as having a stippled or differently textured configuration. More specifically, and with reference to fig. 26, (a) the surfaces of layers 407 and 408 that contact each other and (b) the opposing surface of attachment element 411 each comprise a portion of a fastening system. That is, (a) the inwardly facing surface of outer layer 407 comprises a portion of a fastening system, (b) the outwardly facing surface of inner layer 408 comprises a portion of a fastening system, and (c) both surfaces of each attachment element 411 comprise a portion of a fastening system. Therefore, when one of the attachment elements 411 is positioned between layers 407 and 408, as shown in fig. 27, the portions of the fastening system associated with the facing surfaces of layers 407 and 408 each join the portions of the fastening system positioned on opposite sides of attachment element 411.

While only one surface of attachment elements 111, 211, 214, 301, 311, 321, 331, and 341 contains a portion of a fastening system that joins an article of apparel, both surfaces of attachment element 411 contain a portion of a fastening system and join apparel 400 (i.e., layers 407 and 408). An advantage of this configuration is that attachment elements 411 may be securely fixed to apparel 400 and less likely to be inadvertently removed from apparel 400. More specifically, securing both sides of attachment element 411 to apparel 400 and between layers 407 and 408 reduces the likelihood that attachment element 411 may be removed from apparel 400 or may fall off of apparel 400. In configurations where the attachment elements 411 comprise liquid-filled chambers, each of the attachment elements 411 may be relatively heavy and may benefit from being secured to two surfaces. Accordingly, the two-layer configuration of article of apparel 400 imparts a configuration in which attachment elements 411 are securely fastened and less likely to be inadvertently removed from article of apparel 400.

For purposes of the following discussion, it is assumed that the fastening system incorporated into apparel 400 and attachment element 411 is a hook and loop fastening system. The hook and loop portions of the hook and loop fastening system may be associated with various portions of apparel 400 and attachment elements 411. By way of example, (a) each of layers 407 and 408 can comprise a loop portion and the opposing surface of attachment element 411 can comprise a hook portion; (b) each of layers 407 and 408 may include a hook portion and the opposing surface of attachment element 411 may engage a loop portion; (c) layer 407 may engage a hook portion, layer 408 may engage a loop portion, and the opposing surface of attachment element 411 may comprise a hook portion and a loop portion; or (d) layer 407 may comprise loop portions, layer 408 may comprise hook portions, and the opposing surface of attachment element 411 may comprise hook portions and loop portions. Although any of the configurations discussed above may be used, an advantage of forming apparel 400 such that each of layers 407 and 408 includes a loop portion or a hook portion (i.e., examples (a) or (b)) is that layers 407 and 408 exhibit little tendency to interlock with each other.

Any of the materials discussed above for article of apparel 100 may be used in the manufacture of article of apparel 400. When article of apparel 400 and attachment element 411 incorporate a hook and loop fastening system, elements of the hook portion or loop portion may be secured to facing surfaces of layers 407 and 408, as well as to the opposite surface of attachment element 411. Alternatively, the hook portion or loop portion of the hook and loop fastening system may be knitted to form an integral part of the textile material of each of the layers 407 and 408. In some configurations, the textile material may include a coating that forms a breathable and waterproof barrier, or the textile material may be replaced with a polymeric sheet. Each of layers 407 and 408 may also be formed of laminated or otherwise layered materials including two or more layers of textile material, a polymer sheet, or a combination of textile material and polymer sheet.

Article of apparel 400 is depicted as having a shirt-type garment configuration, particularly a long-sleeved shirt. Although article of apparel 400 may be intended to have a loose-fitting configuration, article of apparel 400 may also be intended for use as a compression garment. As discussed above, compression garments or other garments intended for use as a foundation layer (a) exhibit a relatively tight fit placed against the skin of the wearer, and (b) stretch to conform to the contours of the wearer. While the textile materials forming the compression garment may have, for example, more than 10% uniaxial stretch before stretch breaking, the textile materials forming other compression garments may have at least 30% biaxial stretch before stretch breaking. Accordingly, when article of apparel 400 is formed to have a relatively tight fit and stretch to conform to the contours of the wearer, the textile material forming article of apparel 400 (i.e., layers 407 and 408) may have a bi-directional stretch of at least 30% prior to the stretch failure. In some configurations, the outer layer 407 may impart a loose configuration, while the inner layer 408 may provide a relatively tight and stretchable fit. In other configurations, inner layer 408 may impart a loose configuration, while outer layer 407 may provide a relatively tight and stretchable fit.

Each of the outer layer 407 and the inner layer 408 extends over substantially all of the portion 401-403, which allows the attachment element 411 to be secured to any area in the portion 401-403. In some configurations, only a portion of layers 407 and 408 may comprise a portion of a fastening system. For example, although layers 407 and 408 may extend through substantially all of portions 401-403, the fastening system may not be present in torso portion 401 or may alternatively not be present in arm portions 402 and 403. In other configurations, layers 407 and 408 may cover different areas of the wearer. As an example, a configuration in which inner layer 408 is limited to an upper region of torso region 401 and upper regions of arm regions 402 and 403 is shown in fig. 28A. In this configuration, the fastening system is present in at least 50% of article of apparel 400. Inner layer 408 may also be absent from arm portions 402 and 403, as depicted in fig. 28B. A configuration in which inner layer 408 is only located in arm regions 402 and 403 is illustrated in fig. 28C. In this configuration, the fastening system is present in at least 20% of article of apparel 400. Further, FIG. 28D depicts a configuration in which (a) the outer layer 407 is absent from the lower portion of the arm regions 402 and 403, while the inner layer 408 extends past each of the regions 401 and 403. Although article of apparel 400 is depicted in each of figures 25-28D as having the configuration of a long-sleeved shirt, concepts associated with article of apparel 400 may also be incorporated into other shirt-type garments, including short-sleeved shirts, camisoles, undershirts, jackets, or coats. Therefore, the relative area covered by the fastening system and layers 407 and 408 may vary significantly.

Second pant-type garment configuration

Various concepts associated with apparel 400 may also be incorporated into other types of apparel. An article of apparel 500 having the configuration of a pant-type garment is depicted in fig. 29 and 30. Apparel 500 includes a pelvic region 501 and a pair of leg regions 502 and 503 extending outward from pelvic region 501. As with apparel 400, apparel 500 has a two-layer configuration that includes an exterior layer 507 extending through each of regions 501-503 and an adjacent interior layer 508. Exterior layer 507 forms an exterior of article of apparel 500, and interior layer 508 forms an interior that may contact the wearer when article of apparel 500 is worn. Any of the materials discussed above may be used in the manufacture of article of apparel 500. A plurality of attachment elements 511 are secured between layers 507 and 508 as depicted in fig. 31. The attachment element 511 may be any of a foam member, a fluid-filled chamber (e.g., gas-filled or liquid-filled), a plate, or an electronic device. Although depicted as having a generally square appearance for purposes of example, the shape, size, and thickness of attachment element 511 may vary significantly.

Article of apparel 500 and attachment element 511 each include portions of a fastening system for securing attachment element 511 between layers 507 and 508. In addition to attaching or otherwise securing attachment element 511 to apparel 500, the fastening system allows attachment element 511 to be detached or otherwise separated from apparel 500. Various fastening systems may be used, including, for example, hook and loop fastening systems, magnetic fastening systems, adhesive fastening systems, and button-type fastening systems. When including a hook and loop fastening system, an advantage of forming article of apparel 500 such that each of layers 507 and 508 includes a loop portion or a hook portion is that layers 507 and 508 exhibit little tendency to bind to each other. For reference purposes, apparel 500 and the portions of attachment element 511 that contain the fastening system or a portion of the fastening system are depicted in the figures as having a stippled or differently textured configuration.

Although apparel 500 may be intended to have a relaxed configuration, apparel 500 may also be intended for use as a compression garment. As discussed above, compression garments or other garments intended as a base layer (a) exhibit a relatively tight fit placed against the wearer's skin, and (b) stretch to conform to the wearer's contours. While the textile materials forming the compression garment may have, for example, more than 10% uniaxial stretch before stretch breaking, the textile materials forming other compression garments may have at least 30% biaxial stretch before stretch breaking. Accordingly, when article of apparel 500 is formed to have a relatively tight fit and to stretch to conform to the contours of the wearer, the textile material forming article of apparel 500 (i.e., layers 507 and 508) may have a bi-directional stretch of at least 30% prior to the stretch failure. In some configurations, the outer layer 507 may impart a loose configuration, while the inner layer 508 may provide a relatively tight and stretchable fit. In other configurations, inner layer 508 may impart a loose configuration, while outer layer 507 may provide a relatively tight and stretchable fit.

Each of the outer layer 507 and the inner layer 508 extends over substantially all of the region 501-503, which allows the attachment element 511 to be secured to any area within the region 501-503. In some configurations, only a portion of layers 507 and 508 may comprise a portion of a fastening system. For example, although the layers 507 and 508 may extend through substantially all of the portions 501-503, the fastening system may not be present in the pelvic region 501 or may alternatively be absent from the leg portions 502 and 503. In other configurations, layers 507 and 508 may cover different areas of the wearer. By way of example, one configuration is depicted in fig. 32A in which the inner layer 508 is constrained to the pelvic region 501. In this configuration, the fastening system is present in at least 50% of article of apparel 400. The inner layer 508 may also be absent from the pelvic region 501, as depicted in fig. 32B. A configuration in which interior layer 508 is only located in side areas of article of apparel 500 is illustrated in figure 32C. In this configuration, the fastening system is present in at least 20% of article of apparel 400. Although apparel 500 is depicted in each of figures 29-32C as having a one-pant configuration, concepts associated with apparel 500 may also be incorporated into a pair of pants, such as figure 32D, or into briefs, jeans, and undergarments. Therefore, the relative area covered by the fastening system and layers 507 and 508 may vary significantly.

Additional attachment element configurations

The attachment elements 411 and 511 may assume a variety of different configurations depending on the activity, particular needs and preference of the wearer. An example of an attachment element 601 is depicted in fig. 33-35 as including a plurality of portions 602, the plurality of portions 602 separated from one another by a plurality of cuts 604. A pair of fastening portions 603a and 603b are secured to opposite sides of the portion 602. The slit 604 extends through the fastening portion 603a, while the fastening portion 603b extends across the slit 604. Fastening portions 603a and 603b comprise a portion of a fastening system that secures attachment element 601 to apparel 400 or apparel 500. That is, fastening portions 603a and 603b are located on opposite surfaces of portion 602 and join facing surfaces of layers 407 and 408 or 507 and 508. For example, when the textile material forming apparel 400 or apparel 500 includes loop portions of a hook and loop fastening system, connections 603a and 603b may include hook portions of a hook and loop fastening system. The advantage of the cut 604 is that the bending properties of the attachment element 601 are enhanced, as depicted in fig. 36. Thus, in general, attachment element 601 is similar to attachment element 301, but includes additional portions of the fastening system on opposing surfaces.

Another example of an attachment element 611 is depicted in fig. 37 and 38 as having a plate (not depicted) located between the two fastening portions 613a and 613 b. Fastening portions 613a and 613b are located on opposite surfaces of the plate and join facing surfaces of layers 407 and 408 or 507 and 508. Thus, in general, attachment element 611 is similar to attachment element 321, but includes additional portions of the fastening system on the opposing surface.

Another example of an attachment element 621 is depicted in fig. 39-41 as having a chamber portion 622 located between two connecting portions 623a and 623 b. Chamber portions 622 are formed of a polymer material that defines an interior space for receiving a fluid. A gas or liquid may be located within the space in chamber portion 622. In some configurations, chamber portion 622 can include an opening that allows a wearer to place a liquid within chamber portion 622 or to drain a liquid from chamber portion 622. Fastening portions 623a and 623b are located on opposite surfaces of chamber portion 622 and join facing surfaces of layers 407 and 408 or 507 and 508. Thus, in general, attachment element 621 is similar to attachment element 331, but includes additional portions of the fastening system on the opposite surface.

Turning now to fig. 42, a perspective view of an exemplary article 700 is depicted. Exemplary article 700 is generally referred to as having attachment elements or modular elements, which means that the modular elements are separable from one another to allow a wearer to customize the protective pad they wear, according to aspects herein. To allow elements to be modular, exemplary article 700 includes a cut-out pattern 728 that defines a plurality of attachment elements 701 that are selectively removable.

As shown in fig. 42 and 43, the example article 700 generally includes a textile layer 702, a cushioning layer 706, and an attachment layer 710, although articles having additional textile layers, cushioning layers, or attachment mechanisms are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. According to aspects herein, the textile layer 702 can be made of natural yarns or fibers (such as cotton, wool, silk, etc.) or synthetic yarns or fibers (such as polyester, nylon, elastic yarns, etc.). The textile layer 702 can be woven, knitted, non-woven, braided, or the like. Further, textile layer 702 may be formed from a mesh material, an absorbent material, or the like for increased permeability and/or breathability. Further, according to aspects herein, the cushioning layer 706 generally provides attenuation of impact forces that may be experienced by an athlete while playing a sport. For example, the buffer layer 706 may have a constant or linearly increasing or decreasing attenuation coefficient. Examples of materials that may be used in cushioning layer 706 include foam rubber, elastomeric materials, or molded plastic. The attachment layer 710 may comprise a hook component or a loop component of a hook and loop attachment system. According to aspects herein, the loop components of the hook and loop attachment system may be integrally formed from the attachment layer 710. Further, the loop component of the hook and loop attachment system may comprise 10% to 50% of the attachment layer 710.

Referring specifically to fig. 43, a side view of the exemplary article 700 shown in fig. 42 is depicted. In fig. 43, textile layer 702 is depicted as having a first surface 704a and a second surface 704b opposite first surface 704a, cushioning layer 706 is depicted as having a third surface 708a and a fourth surface 708b opposite third surface 708a, and attachment layer 710 is depicted as having a fifth surface 712a and a sixth surface 712b opposite fifth surface 712 a. According to aspects herein, a "textile layer thickness" 702t is defined as the distance between first surfaces 704a and 704b, a "buffer layer thickness" 706t is defined as the distance between third surface 708a and fourth surface 708b, and an "attachment layer thickness" 710t is defined as the distance between fifth surface 712a and sixth surface 712 b. The ratio between the textile layer thickness 702t, the cushioning layer thickness 706t, and the attachment layer thickness 710t is variable. For example, the ratio between textile layer thickness 702t and buffer layer thickness 706t may be between 1:1 and 1:10, while the ratio between buffer layer thickness 706t and attachment layer thickness 710t may be between 10:1 and 1: 1. However, the above proportions are not to be considered as exhaustive; rather, it is contemplated that other ratios between textile layer thickness 702t, cushioning layer thickness 706t, and attachment layer thickness 710t are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Returning to fig. 42, exemplary article 700 includes a first set of slits 720, which first set of slits 720 extends completely through textile layer 702, cushioning layer 706, and attachment layer 710 from first surface 704a of textile layer 702 through sixth surface 712b of cushioning layer 706. Additionally, exemplary article 700 includes a second set of slits 722, the second set of slits 722 being sized and shaped similar to first slits 720 and extending completely through textile layer 702, cushioning layer 706, and attachment layer 710 from first surface 704a through sixth surface 712 b.

Turning now to fig. 44, and in accordance with aspects hereof, the first and second sets of cuts 720, 722 may together (in addition to, for example, additional sets of cuts) form at least a portion of a cut pattern 728. The cut-out pattern 728 can partially or completely define a plurality of attachment elements 701. These attachment elements 701 are generally described as any portion of example article 700 that may be detached from example article 700. The cut-out pattern 728 depicted in fig. 44 is merely exemplary, and any shape cut-out pattern may be present in the exemplary article 700 such that the desired shape of each individual attachment element 701 may be achieved. For example, and as seen in fig. 44, the oval portion shown removed from exemplary article 700 is generally referred to as attachment element 701. However, non-elliptical shapes of the attachment element 701 are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. More specifically, non-circular shapes (i.e., square or rectangular) of the attachment element 701 are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

The cutout pattern 728 may also include a third set of cutouts 724 and a fourth set of cutouts 726, wherein the third set of cutouts 724 and the fourth set of cutouts 726 define a circular shape. Additionally, the first and second sets of cutouts 720, 722 may intersect at least the third set of cutouts 724. In yet another aspect, a fifth set of slits 729 can be positioned in a central region of article 700, wherein fifth set of slits 729 define a circular shape.

When the cut extends only partially through exemplary article 700, the plurality of attachment elements 701 may also be partially defined by cut pattern 728. For example, if cut pattern 728 includes a continuous, linear cut without any discontinuities (breaks), there will be nothing holding multiple attachment elements 701 together. To help prevent this, the cut pattern 728 can include a discontinuous pattern in which individual cuts are separated or spaced apart by connecting portions 732 in a dashed line-like pattern. In other words, the connecting portion 732 may separate or space the ends of the first and second collinear incisions 725a, where the connecting portion 732 includes only a portion of the textile layer 702 and does not include the cushioning layer 706 or the attachment layer 710. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the connecting portion 732 of the exemplary article 700 may account for up to 10% of the total length of the cut-out pattern 728, where the cut-out pattern 728 may be considered to include two cuts, such as the first and second sets of cuts 720 and 722, the first and second collinear cuts 725a, and the connecting portion 732. In other words, the cut pattern 728 can include linear segments of cuts separated by connecting portions 732, where the connecting portions 732 are collinear with the cuts.

Turning now to fig. 45, attachment element 701 is depicted as being removed from exemplary article 700 (not depicted in fig. 45). As illustrated in fig. 45, the cut-out pattern 728 has portions that extend completely through the attachment element 701, and portions that do not extend completely through the attachment element (i.e., the connection portions 732). In other words, the connecting portion 732 is represented in white as the space between the ends of the collinear slits.

This concept is further illustrated by fig. 46, which fig. 46 depicts a cross-section of the attachment element 701 as seen in fig. 45. Fig. 46 illustrates that the cut-out pattern 728 includes cuts that extend completely through the attachment element 701 (shown on the far left and far right). In other words, collinear incisions 725a extend completely through attachment element 701 from textile layer 702 to attachment layer 710. To form the connecting portion 732, different sets of slits may be formed that extend through only the cushioning layer 706 and the attachment layer 710, but not through the textile layer 702. These cuts are indicated by reference numeral 725b in fig. 46. As described above, connecting portion 732 helps maintain the structural integrity of each attachment element 701 within article 700 before attachment element 701 is removed by a user. In other words, the connecting portion 732 covers the incisions 725b that extend only through the buffer layer 706 and the attachment layer 710.

Turning now to fig. 47 and 48, various elements of a plurality of attachment elements 701 are depicted as being attached to a lower body garment 800 and an upper body garment 802, respectively. According to aspects herein, the lower body garment 800 may cover all of the legs of the wearer from the thigh region to the ankle region, or the lower body garment 800 may cover only a portion of all of the legs of the wearer, similar to a soccer pant. Additionally, the upper body garment 802 may completely or partially cover the arms of the wearer. The upper and lower body garments may have hook or loop components of a hook and loop system on the outward facing surface of the garment. Each of the various elements of the plurality of attachment elements 701 may then be attached to the garment 800/802 via a hook and loop attachment mechanism of the opposite type. In other words, the configuration of the hook and loop attachment mechanism means that a wearer of the plurality of attachment elements 701 will wear an opposite type of hook and loop attachment mechanism. The loop attachment mechanism of the opposing type may be formed into the upper body or lower body article of apparel and may comprise the entire surface of the upper body or lower body article of apparel or may comprise only a portion of the surface of the upper body or lower body article of apparel.

Additionally, fig. 47 and 48 depict modularity of exemplary article 700. For example, a wearer of lower body garment 800 or upper body garment 802 may select a particular attachment element 701 from example article 700. In this manner, a wearer of the lower body garment 800 or the upper body garment 802 may select some or all of the plurality of attachment elements 701 desired by the wearer. The wearer may then select where the attachment element 701 may be placed on the lower body garment 800 or the upper body garment 802. In some configurations, a wearer of the lower body garment 800 or the upper body garment 802 may select a smaller attachment element to be placed toward the distal end of the lower body garment 800 and the upper body garment 802. In other configurations, a wearer of the lower body garment 800 or the upper body garment 802 may choose a larger attachment element to be placed toward the distal end of the lower body garment 800 and the upper body garment 802. In other words, the wearer may customize the amount of padding needed at particular locations of the lower body garment 800 and the upper body garment 802. Additionally, as depicted in fig. 47 and 48, the plurality of attachment elements 701 may be attached to an inner layer of the garment (as depicted in fig. 47) or to an outer layer of the garment (as seen in fig. 48).

The present invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of configurations. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the configurations described above without departing from the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the appended claims.

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects set forth above, together with other advantages which are obvious and inherent to the structure.

It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is covered by and within the scope of the claims.

Since many possible embodiments may be made of the invention without departing from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

The present disclosure also relates to the following aspects.

The present disclosure relates to a garment configured to be worn, the garment comprising: a textile material having a first surface facing away from a wearer when the garment is worn and a second surface facing toward the wearer when the garment is worn, the second surface having a loop component of a hook and loop attachment system; and one or more attachment elements, each attachment element comprising a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, the first layer having a hook component of the hook and loop attachment system releasably attachable to the loop component; the second layer is coupled to the first layer, the second layer comprising a foam material, the third layer coupled to the second layer, the third layer comprising a textile layer having a wearer facing surface that faces toward the wearer when the garment is worn.

In one embodiment, the textile layer of the third layer is a knitted material.

In one embodiment, the textile layer of the third layer is a woven material.

In one embodiment, the textile layer comprises cotton, polyester, or a moisture absorbent material.

In one embodiment, the loop component of the hook and loop attachment system is integrally formed from the textile material.

In one embodiment, the loop component of the hook and loop attachment system comprises 10% to 50% of the second surface of the textile material.

The present disclosure also relates to a gasket comprising: a buffer layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a buffer layer thickness between the first surface and the second surface; an attachment layer having a third surface, a fourth surface, and an attachment layer thickness between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the attachment layer comprises a hook component or a loop component of a hook and loop attachment system, and wherein the third surface of the attachment layer is coupled to the second surface of the cushioning layer; a first cut extending completely through the cushioning layer and the attachment layer from the first surface to the fourth surface; a second cut collinear with the first cut and extending completely through the cushioning layer and the attachment layer from the first surface to the fourth surface; and a connection portion separating an end of the first cutout from an end of the second cutout, the connection portion including a portion of the cushioning layer and a portion of the attachment layer.

In one embodiment, the first cuts and the second cuts form at least a portion of a cut pattern.

In one embodiment, the cut-out pattern completely defines a plurality of one or more attachment elements.

In one embodiment, the cut-out pattern partially defines a plurality of one or more attachment elements.

In one embodiment, the cut pattern further comprises a third cut and a fourth cut, wherein the third cut and the fourth cut have a circular shape.

In one embodiment, the first cut and the second cut intersect at least the third cut.

In one embodiment, the article further comprises a fifth cut positioned in a central region of the article, wherein the fifth cut has a circular shape.

In one embodiment, the cut pattern extends through the entire pad.

In one embodiment, the ratio between the length of the first incision and the length of the connecting portion is between 1 to 1 and 10 to 1.

In one embodiment, the length of the connecting portion is less than 2 inches.

The present disclosure also relates to an article comprising: a textile layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a textile layer thickness between the first surface and the second surface; a cushioning layer having a third surface, a fourth surface, and a cushioning layer thickness between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the second surface of the textile layer is coupled to the third surface of the cushioning layer; an attachment layer having a fifth surface, a sixth surface, and an attachment layer thickness, wherein the fifth surface of the attachment layer is coupled to the fourth surface of the cushioning layer.

In one embodiment, the article further comprises a cut-out pattern, wherein the cut-out pattern defines a plurality of detachable attachment elements.

In one embodiment, the ratio between the thickness of the textile layer and the thickness of the buffer layer is between 1:1 and 1: 10.

In one embodiment, the ratio between the thickness of the buffer layer and the thickness of the attachment layer is between 10:1 and 1: 1.

Claims (18)

1. A garment configured to be worn, the garment comprising: a textile material having a first surface facing away from a wearer when the garment is worn and a second surface facing toward the wearer when the garment is worn, the second surface having a loop component of a hook and loop attachment system; and one or more attachment elements, each attachment element comprising a first layer having a hook component of the hook and loop attachment system releasably attachable to the loop component, a second layer, a third layer, and a connecting portion; the second layer coupled to the first layer, the second layer comprising a foam material, wherein the second layer comprises a plurality of polymer foam portions that are completely separated from each other by a plurality of incisions that extend completely through the second layer and the first layer; the third layer coupled to the second layer, the third layer comprising a textile layer having a wearer-facing surface that faces toward the wearer when the garment is worn, at least some of the plurality of cuts also extending completely through the third layer; the connecting portion separates adjacent two or more of the at least some of the cutouts.

2. The garment of claim 1, wherein the textile layer of the third layer is a knit material.

3. The garment of claim 1, wherein the textile layer of the third layer is a woven material.

4. The garment of claim 1, wherein the textile layer comprises cotton, polyester, or a moisture absorbent material.

5. The garment of claim 1, wherein the loop component of the hook and loop attachment system is integrally formed from the textile material.

6. The garment of claim 1, wherein the loop component of the hook and loop attachment system comprises 10% to 50% of the second surface of the textile material.

7. The garment of claim 1, wherein the one or more attachment elements comprise padding; wherein the second layer comprises a buffer layer having a buffer layer first surface, a buffer layer second surface, and a buffer layer thickness between the buffer layer first surface and the buffer layer second surface; wherein the first layer comprises an attachment layer having a third surface, a fourth surface, and an attachment layer thickness between the third surface and the fourth surface; wherein the attachment layer comprises a hook component or a loop component of the hook and loop attachment system; wherein the third surface of the attachment layer is coupled to the buffer layer second surface; wherein the pad comprises a first cut extending completely through the cushioning layer and the attachment layer from the cushioning layer first surface to the fourth surface of the attachment layer; wherein the pad comprises a second cut collinear with the first cut and extending completely through the cushioning layer and the attachment layer from the first surface to the fourth surface; and wherein the pad includes the connecting portion that separates an end of the first cutout from an end of the second cutout, the connecting portion including a portion of the cushioning layer and a portion of the attachment layer.

8. The garment of claim 7, wherein the first cut and the second cut form at least a portion of a cut pattern.

9. The garment of claim 8, wherein the cut pattern further comprises a third cut and a fourth cut, wherein the third cut and the fourth cut have a circular shape.

10. The garment of claim 9, wherein the first cut and the second cut intersect at least the third cut.

11. The garment of claim 9, further comprising a fifth cut positioned in a central region of the garment, wherein the fifth cut has a circular shape.

12. The garment of claim 8, wherein the cut pattern extends through the entire pad.

13. The garment of claim 7, wherein a ratio between a length of the first cut and a length of the connecting portion is between 1 to 1 and 10 to 1.

14. The garment of claim 7, wherein the length of the connecting portion is less than 2 inches.

15. An article, comprising: a textile layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a textile layer thickness between the first surface and the second surface; a cushioning layer having a third surface, a fourth surface, and a cushioning layer thickness between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the second surface of the textile layer is coupled to the third surface of the cushioning layer, wherein the cushioning layer comprises a plurality of polymer foam portions that are completely separated from each other by a plurality of cuts; an attachment layer having a fifth surface, a sixth surface, and an attachment layer thickness, wherein the fifth surface of the attachment layer is coupled to the fourth surface of the cushioning layer, wherein the attachment layer is a hook and loop attachment system, wherein the plurality of slits extend completely through the cushioning layer and the attachment layer, at least some of the plurality of slits also extend completely through the textile layer, and a connecting portion separates adjacent two or more of the at least some slits.

16. The article of claim 15, wherein the plurality of cuts form a cut pattern.

17. The article of claim 15, wherein the ratio between the textile layer thickness and the cushioning layer thickness is between 1:1 and 1: 10.

18. The article of claim 15, wherein the ratio between the thickness of the cushioning layer and the thickness of the attachment layer is between 10:1 and 1: 1.

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