CN111989006B

CN111989006B - Adjustable sport bra

Info

Publication number: CN111989006B
Application number: CN201980015893.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: C·斯托雷利; T·V·马基西; S·布莱泽; H·M·F·舍尔默斯
Original assignee: Storelli Sports Inc
Current assignee: Storelli Sports Inc
Priority date: 2018-03-01
Filing date: 2019-03-01
Publication date: 2023-08-01
Anticipated expiration: 2039-03-01
Also published as: WO2019169276A1; WO2019169276A9; CN111989006A

Abstract

An adjustable motion bra that provides lateral (side-to-side), vertical (up-down) and medial-lateral support to provide stability in multiple directions.

Description

Adjustable sport bra

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application 62/637,063 filed on day 3, 2018 and U.S. provisional patent application 62/778,206 filed on day 12, 2018, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference as part of the present disclosure.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to support garments and, more particularly, to a bra having support features that provide stability, support, and comfort at the same time.

Background

Various support garment designs, including brassieres, are well known. Many brassieres are designed primarily to limit vertical movement of the breast. Such movement typically occurs due to repeated movement in a single direction (e.g., walking, running), which results in up-and-down (vertical) movement of the breast. However, during athletic activities, the breast typically moves in eight different directions, including upward, downward, side-to-side (i.e., breast side-to-side), and medial-lateral. Especially during explosive movements (e.g. rapid side-to-side movement during football, basketball or tennis play) the breast may move in these eight directions, which explosive movements result in sudden weight shifts, which if not properly stabilized, may lead to uncomfortable movements of the breast.

Current athletic bra designs are typically secured at the front or rear using a hook eye closure system or the like and may include shoulder strap adjustment features. However, such conventional bra designs do not provide sufficient three-dimensional support to prevent substantial movement of the breasts up and down, side to side, and inside and outside during exercise or athletic activities, and may be difficult to adjust. In addition, these brassieres typically include molded cups that are typically sized appropriately due to the varying shape and size of the breasts. Alternatively, the athletic bra design may be a sewn or seamless bra of predetermined dimensions that may be pulled down from the individual's head and include an opening through which the individual may extend the arms. These bra designs typically include resilient features. However, conventional pre-sized shell bra designs do not provide sufficient three-dimensional support to prevent substantial movement of the breasts up and down, side to side, and inside and outside during exercise or athletic activities, and cannot be adjusted to ensure proper fit and support. Furthermore, squeezing the breast with these brassieres is often uncomfortable.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention is directed to an adjustable motion bra that minimizes lateral (side-to-side), vertical (up-down) and medial-lateral three-dimensional motion of the breast (i.e., eight-dimensional motion of the breast) to provide stability of the breast in multiple directions and to allow tailoring of the appropriate bra as desired. The bra may be dynamically customized based on the activities and preferences of the individual wearing the bra and independently support the breasts to address any asymmetry issues. The bra provides adequate support and comfort.

In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a bra comprising a body comprising a front portion, a back portion, a first side portion extending between a first end of the front portion and a first end of the back portion, a second side portion extending between a second end of the front portion and a second end of the back portion, a first shoulder strap secured to and extending between the front portion and the back portion, and a second shoulder strap secured to and extending between the front portion and the back portion. The rear portion includes first and second strap systems independent of each other, and a front support system attachable to the front portion and including first and second pieces of material and configured to adjust tension on the front portion of the bra.

The first shoulder strap may be composed of two pieces of material connected to each other, wherein one piece of material includes elastomeric properties and the other piece of material includes non-elastomeric properties, and the second shoulder strap may be composed of two pieces of material connected to each other, wherein one piece of material includes elastomeric properties and the other piece of material includes non-elastomeric properties.

The first harness system may include a first leg, a second leg extending from the first leg in a first direction toward the second side at a first angle, and a third leg extending from the first leg in a second direction toward the first side at a second angle, and a first panel extending continuously from the third leg. The second strap system is independent of and a mirror-image opposing configuration of the first strap system, and may include a first leg, a second leg extending from the first leg in a first direction toward the first side at a first angle, and a third leg extending from the first leg in a second direction toward the second side at a second angle, and a second panel extending continuously from the third leg. The first panel may extend from the back portion around the first side portion toward the front portion and be secured along its bottom edge to a base (band). The second panel may extend from the back portion about the second side portion toward the front portion and may be secured along its bottom edge to the bottom periphery.

The bra may include a bottom wall extending around its perimeter at the front, rear, and bottom ends of the first and second sides. The bottom wall may be composed of an elastic material to allow flexibility and to help squeeze the bra. The bottom wall may include a fastening system to secure its first and second ends to each other.

The front portion of the bra may comprise multiple layers of material including an outer support layer and a cup layer. The support layer may comprise at least one panel whereby at least a portion of the panel comprises elastomeric properties. The cup layer may include a first cup and a second cup that is independent of the first cup. The first and second sheets of material may each be composed of a single piece of elastic material. Alternatively, the first and second sheets of material may each be composed of a mixture of inelastic and elastic materials. The first and second sheets of material may be separate elements such that one of the first and second sheets of material slides over or under the other of the first and second sheets of material. The first piece of material may be secured to the first shoulder strap and the first end of the second piece of material secured to the second shoulder strap.

In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method of securing a sports bra, the method comprising the steps of: placing the bra on the person, connecting a first end of the chassis to a second end of the chassis, grasping and pulling the first side strap such that the second shoulder strap is tensioned, the second sheet material as part of the front support system presses at least a respective first half of the front toward the user, and the first back strap system is tensioned toward the first side, connecting the first side strap at the front to the chassis, grasping and pulling the second side strap such that the first shoulder strap is tensioned, the first sheet material as part of the front support system presses at least a respective second half of the front toward the person, and the second back strap system is tensioned toward the second side, and connecting the second side strap at the front to the chassis.

In one embodiment, a bra includes a front, a back, and a bottom wall. The front portion may include a compression layer. The bottom perimeter may be connected to the bottom region of the front portion and may extend along at least a portion of the bottom region of the front portion. The rear portion may include a first strap system and a second strap system configured to have a mirror image arrangement relative to the first strap system.

The first harness system may include a first leg, a second leg, and a third leg interconnected to one another at a first junction point. The first leg may extend in a first direction from the first junction and may be connected to a top region of the front portion at a first side of the front portion.

The second leg may extend from the first junction in a second direction different from the first direction, and the second leg may be connected to the bottom region of the front portion at the first side of the front portion.

The third leg may extend from the first junction in a third direction different from the first and second directions, and the third leg may be configured to be selectively and adjustably connected to the chassis at the first side of the front portion so as to create a selectable degree of tension in the first and second legs such that the first and second legs in turn compress the torso of the wearer due to the tension in the first and second legs.

The second harness system may include a fourth leg, a fifth leg, and a sixth leg interconnected with one another at a second junction point. The fourth leg may extend in a fourth direction from the second junction and may be connected to the top region of the front portion at the second side of the front portion.

The fifth leg may extend from the second junction in a fifth direction different from the fourth direction, and the fifth leg may be connected to the bottom region of the front portion at the second side of the front portion.

The sixth leg may extend from the second junction in a sixth direction different from the fourth and fifth directions, the sixth leg being configured to be selectively and adjustably connected to the chassis at the second side of the front portion so as to create a selectable degree of tension in the fourth and fifth legs such that the fourth and fifth legs in turn compress the torso of the wearer due to the tension in the fourth and fifth legs.

Furthermore, the bra may comprise a support system comprising a first tensioning element and a second tensioning element. The first tensioning element may connect the top region of the front portion with the bottom wall or compression layer at the first side of the front portion. The second tensioning element may connect the top region of the front portion with the bottom wall or compression layer at the second side of the front portion.

The combination of the front and rear portions of the bra with the support system may provide a comfortable and supportive fit, enabling the bra to, for example, stabilize the front cup in place and provide tension across the top and bottom of the breast. Thus, the bra may prevent or substantially reduce the occurrence of up and down, side-to-side, and in and out movements of the wearer's breast during exercise and/or resting conditions.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an adjustable motion bra of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the bra of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a rear view of the bra of FIG. 1 including an adjustable system to ensure proper support when the adjustable system is in a closed position;

FIG. 3B is a rear view of the bra of FIG. 1, showing the adjustable system in an open position;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the bra of FIG. 1 depicting support features in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the bra of FIG. 1 showing the cooperative movement of the support feature of FIG. 4 and the feature of the bra when tensioned;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of various features of the bra of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 7A through 7D are views of the bra of FIG. 1 depicting how the features of the bra act in concert to stabilize laterally, vertically and internally and externally;

FIG. 8A is a first front perspective view of another embodiment of the adjustable motion bra of the present invention including a zipper to allow the bra to be opened in the front;

FIG. 8B is a second front perspective view of the bra of FIG. 8A, showing the directional tensioning of the bra during use;

FIG. 8C is a third front perspective view of the bra of FIG. 8A, illustrating the interaction of features of the bra during use;

FIG. 9 is a rear view of the bra of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 10 is a front view of the bra of FIG. 8A, showing the support system;

FIG. 11 is a first front perspective view of another embodiment of the adjustable motion bra of the present invention including adjustment features on the front of the bra, wherein the bra is depicted in a closed state;

FIG. 12 is a rear elevational view of the bra of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a second front perspective view of the bra of FIG. 11, showing the front portion of the bra in an open state; and

fig. 14 is a front view of the bra of fig. 11, showing the support system.

15A-15C are front views of sports brassiers in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is another rear perspective view of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a first side view of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a second side view of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a detailed view of a portion of the strap of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a detailed view of the rear portion of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 23 and 24 are details of shoulder straps of the bra of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 25 through 34 are various forms of front views of the bra of FIG. 15, showing a support mechanism, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

fig. 35-44 are various forms of front views of a cradle support for the bra of fig. 15, including the underwire and cup of the bra of fig. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to fig. 1 through 44, embodiments of the sports bra of the present disclosure will be described and generally represented by reference numerals 100, 200 and 300.

As will be discussed in more detail below, the bra 100, 200, 300 includes interconnecting elements that together uniformly compress and support the breast in use to ensure lateral (side-to-side), vertical (up-down) and medial-lateral stability of the breast. By providing support and compression in these directions, the bra 100, 200, 300 minimizes three-dimensional movement of the breast in at least eight directions of travel.

As shown in fig. 1-3B, sports bra 100 includes a front portion 102, a back portion 104, a first or left side portion 106 extending between a first end of front portion 102 and a first end of back portion 104, and a second or right side portion 108 extending between a second end of front portion 102 and a second end of back portion 104. A shoe (base) 109 (see fig. 6) extends around the front 102, rear 104 and lower regions of the sides 106, 108. Bottom wall 110 extends around the perimeter of brassiere 100 at the bottom ends of front 102, rear 104, and sides 106, 108. Bottom wall 110 may be composed of an elastic material to allow flexibility and to help squeeze brassiere 100 onto the body of different individuals. The bottom wall 110 includes a fastening system 113 (see fig. 3A and 3B) secured to its first and second ends. The fastening system 113 includes a hook and an eye configured to receive a clasp or hook. However, the fastening system 113 should not be limited to the fastening system shown. Exemplary fasteners that may comprise the fastening system 113 may include snaps, clips, buttons, hook and loop fasteners, ties, and the like.

For example, as can be seen from an inspection of fig. 1-4, the front portion 102 may include multiple layers of material including an outer support layer 112 and a cup layer 114. The support layer 112 may be divided into a plurality of panels including a first front panel 115, a second front panel 116, a third front panel 117, a fourth front panel 118, a fifth front panel 119, and a sixth panel 120. The fifth front panel 119 is disposed above the first, second, third, fourth and sixth panels 115, 116, 117, 118, 120. The sixth front panel 120 is disposed between the first and second front panels 115, 116 and the third and fourth front panels 117, 118. The panels 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120 may each be comprised of, for example, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a synthetic fabric, a fabric including moisture wicking capability, a webbing, and/or a fabric that is at least partially elastomeric. In addition, the panels 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120 may be coated to increase and/or decrease the modulus of elasticity of one or more of the panels 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120. The panels 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120 may be joined to one another, for example, by sewing or bonding the panels 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120 to one another. The entire support layer 112 may be a single piece of material that is compression molded into a three-dimensional shape. In one embodiment, at least a portion of third panel 120 may include elastomeric properties to help compress and stabilize the breasts of the individual wearing brassiere 100. The cup layer 114 includes a first cup 122 and a second cup 124 that is independent of the first cup 122. Alternatively, the cups 122, 124 may be molded from a single piece of material (e.g., foam) and thus connected to each other. Cups 122, 124 may be sewn, molded, or otherwise bonded to outer support layer 116 and/or underwire 109, for example, and may be capable of direct contact with an individual's breast after bra 100 is secured to the individual. In embodiments where the cups 122, 124 are joined to the base 109, the components will be a single unit. In one embodiment, one or more layers (e.g., cup layer 114) may be removed or interchanged. Furthermore, the layers may be independent of each other.

A first shoulder strap 126 and a second shoulder strap 128 spaced from the first shoulder strap 126 each extend between the front 102 and rear 104 portions of the bra 100. Shoulder straps 126, 128 may be at least partially composed of a material or mixture of materials including elastomeric properties.

As shown in fig. 6, first shoulder strap 126 includes a first sheet of material or material mixture 130 and a second sheet of material or material mixture 132, first sheet of material or material mixture 130 at least substantially free of an elastomer to aid in tensioning brassiere 100, and second sheet of material or material mixture 132 at least partially includes an elastomer to aid in adjusting shoulder strap 126. The second piece of material 132 is secured to the first piece of material 130 by a first attachment mechanism 134 (such as a first loop), and an adjustment mechanism 136 (such as a slider) may be disposed on the second piece of material 132 to help adjust the length of the first shoulder strap 126 to ensure a proper, supportive and comfortable fit. Alternatively, the configuration may be reversed such that the second sheet material (elastomer) 132 is attached to the front panel 102 and the first sheet material (non-stretch) 130 is attached to the second end of the second sheet material 132 and to the back portion 104. In another embodiment, the first sheet of material 130 may be tapered in width and attached directly to the first connection mechanism 134 or the second sheet of material 132, with the first connection mechanism 134 being located at the second end of the second sheet of material 132, or the webbing may be attached at the second end of the second sheet of material 132. In another configuration, the first connection mechanism 134 and the adjustment mechanism 136 may be combined into a single element. In another configuration, a single piece of material may be used to form the first shoulder strap 126.

Like the first shoulder strap 126, the second shoulder strap 128 includes a first sheet of material (or mixture of materials) 138 and a second sheet of material (or mixture of materials) 140, the first sheet of material (or mixture of materials) 138 at least substantially not including an elastomer to aid in tensioning the bra 100, and the second sheet of material (or mixture of materials) 140 at least partially including an elastomer to aid in adjusting the shoulder strap 128. The second sheet of material 140 is secured to the first sheet of material 138 by a second attachment mechanism 142 (such as a first loop), and an adjustment mechanism 144 (such as a slider) may be disposed on the second sheet of material 140 to help adjust the length of the second shoulder strap 128 to ensure a proper, supportive and comfortable fit. Alternatively, the configuration may be reversed such that the second sheet material 140 is attached to the front panel 102 and the first sheet material (non-stretch) 138 is attached to the second end of the second sheet material 140 and to the back portion 104. In another embodiment, the first sheet of material 138 may be tapered in width and attached directly to the second attachment mechanism 142 or the second sheet of material 140, wherein the second attachment mechanism 142 is located at the second end of the second sheet of material 140, or the webbing may be attached at the second end of the second sheet of material 140. In another configuration, the second connection mechanism 142 and the adjustment mechanism 144 may be combined into a single element. In yet another configuration, a single piece of material may be used to form the second shoulder strap 128.

In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanisms 136, 144 may be eliminated and the shoulder straps 126, 128 may be adjusted, for example, by hook and loop fastening systems, hooks, sliders, webbing, buttons, snaps, and the like. Although the shoulder straps 126, 128 are shown herein as being independent of each other, the shoulder straps 126, 128 may intersect or merge at the rear 104 of the bra 100 (e.g., an i-vest).

For example, as depicted in fig. 3A-4, the rear portion 104 of the bra 100 includes a first strap system 146 and a second strap system 148. First harness system 146 includes a first leg 150 connected to a second end of first shoulder strap 126, a second leg 152 extending from first leg 150 in a first direction toward second side 108 at a first angle, and a third leg 154 extending from first leg 150 in a second direction toward first side 106 at a second angle. The second leg 152 is secured at its distal end to a slider 166. The third leg 154 extends continuously at its second end to a first panel 158. A first panel 158 as part of the chassis 109 extends from the rear portion 104 around the first side portion 106 toward the front portion 102. The first panel 158 is secured along its bottom edge to the bottom wall 110 and the side wall 121 of the first cup 122. Alternatively, first panel 158 and first cup 122 may be of a single piece construction, thereby eliminating sidewall 121 attachment. Second strap system 148 is independent of first strap system 146 and is a mirror image of first strap system 146. Second harness system 148 includes a first leg 160 connected to a second end of second shoulder strap 128, a second leg 162 extending from first leg 160 in a first direction toward first side 106 at a first angle, and a third leg 164 extending from first leg 160 in a second direction toward second side 108 at a second angle. The second leg 162 is secured at its distal end to the slider 156. The third leg 164 extends continuously at its second end to a second panel 168. A second panel 168 extends from the back portion 104 around the second side portion 108 toward the front portion 102. As can be seen in fig. 3A to 4, the second panel 168 is secured along its bottom edge to the bottom wall 110 and the side wall 123 of the second cup 124. Alternatively, the second panel 168 and the second cup 124 may be of one-piece construction, thereby eliminating the side wall 123 connection.

The harness systems 146, 148 may be made of any material including, but not limited to, wovens, nonwovens, synthetic wovens, wovens including moisture wicking and/or wovens that are at least partially elastomeric.

First side strap 170 and second side strap 172 are configured to help squeeze brassiere 100. A first side strap 170 extending through the slider 156 is secured to the first and second front panels 115, 116 at a first end 174 and includes a fastener 176 secured to a second end 178 thereof to help secure the first side strap 170 to an adjustment panel 180, the adjustment panel 180 being secured to the bottom periphery 110 about the front panel center. A second side strap 172 extending through the slider 166 is secured to the third and fourth front panels 117, 118 at a first end 175 and includes a fastener 176 secured to a second end 184 thereof to help secure the second side strap 172 to the adjustment panel 180. As shown, fastener 176 is a hook disposed within an opening of adjustment panel 180. However, the fasteners may be clips, snaps, buttons, hook and loop fasteners, and the like. As shown, the panel 180 includes an opening in which the fastener 176 may be received. Note, however, that the connection may be made using buttons, eye-fastening systems, snaps, sliders, hooks, ties, or any other manner that allows for a secure connection. Note that although side straps 170, 172 are shown as being connected to center panel 180, in another embodiment, side straps 170, 172 may be connected to each other, directly to the front panel, or to another feature of brassiere 100.

As shown in fig. 4 and 5, bra 100 may include a front support system 183 composed of a first sheet of material 185 and a second sheet of material 186, the front support system 183 being configured to adjust the tension on front portion 102 of bra 100. In one embodiment, the front support system 183 may be comprised of separate pieces of material joined to form the first and second pieces of material 185, 186. In one embodiment, the first sheet of material 185 and the second sheet of material 186 are each composed of a single piece of elastic material. Alternatively, the first and second sheets of material 185, 186 may be composed of a mixture of inelastic and elastic materials. In such embodiments, about a portion of each of the first and second sheets of material 185, 186 may be composed of an elastic material, while another portion may be composed of a non-stretch material. In such a system 183, the elastic material may surround the upper or lower portion of each sheet of material 185, 186 to help compress the upper portion of bra 100, and the upper or lower portion of each sheet of material 185, 186 may be composed of a non-stretch material to help keep the breasts contained within 122, 124 cups. The first sheet of material 185 and the second sheet of material 186 can be independent of each other such that one side is above or below the other side. Alternatively, the first and second sheets of material 185, 186 may be independent of each other and may be directly connected to each other (e.g., a hook and loop system), or the first and second sheets of material 185, 186 may be secured to each other. As shown in fig. 4 and 5, the first end 188 of the first sheet of material 185 may be secured directly or indirectly to the first shoulder strap 126 and the first end 190 of the second sheet of material 186 may be secured directly or indirectly to the second shoulder strap 128. Front support system 183 may be integrated into a layer of material of brassiere 100. The front support system 183 may be adjusted, for example, by tightening the shoulder straps 126, 128, or the length of the first and/or second sheets 185, 186 may be adjusted by providing an adjustment mechanism (not shown). Exemplary adjustment mechanisms may include elastic, textile, webbing, seamless knitting (monolithically integrated material), three-dimensional printed material, and the like, and these components may be composed of an elastic material, a non-elastic material, or a combination thereof. The adjustment component may nest or may extend through a layer of the bra 100 (e.g., the band of the back panel may extend through a hole in the fabric of the hidden mechanism) or rest entirely on the exterior of the bra 100 or the interior of the bra 100. Although the front support system 183 is shown as forming an "X" shape, the configuration of the components of the front support system 183 should not be limited to such a shape.

Prior to wearing the athletic bra, an initial disposable set is required to adjust bra 100 to fit. First, first side strap 170 and second side strap 172 are fully loosened to allow first strap system 146 and second strap system 148 to be spaced apart from one another and form an opening at the rear of brassiere 100. Bra 100 is then slid over the individual's head. Next, a first end of the bottom wall 110 is releasably connected to a second end of the bottom wall 110. As mentioned above, there are a number of arrangements that can be selected to ensure both fit and comfort. Once bottom wall 110 is secured, first side strap 170 and second side strap 172 are pulled from back 104 across first side 106 of brassiere 100 and second side 108 of brassiere 100, respectively, until side straps 170, 172 are each snug. Side straps 170, 172 are then releasably secured to bottom wall 110 at front portion 102 of brassiere 100, respectively. The tension of the first shoulder strap 126 and the second shoulder strap 128 is then checked. There should be no slack and the tension of each shoulder strap 126, 128 should be such that the strap fits snugly, but is not so tight. If the shoulder straps 126, 128 are too tight for the first side strap 170 and the second side strap 172 to be easily and comfortably releasably secured, the bra 100 should be removed and the shoulder straps 126, 128 should be adjusted/loosened to increase the length of the shoulder straps 126, 128. If too loose for the first side strap 170 and the second side strap 172 to be releasably secured to the bottom wall 110 at the front 102 of the bra 100, the first side strap 170 and the second side strap 172 are too loose. Bra 100 should be removed and shoulder straps 126, 128 should be adjusted/cinched as needed to shorten the length of shoulder straps 126, 128. Once the initial setup is complete, brassiere 100 can be worn without requiring adjustment for each use.

As generally shown in fig. 7A-7D, once bra 100 has been initially adjusted, to wear bra 100, an individual first fits bra 100 over its head and extends its arms in the openings formed by shoulder straps 126, 128 and sides 106, 108. Next, the individual connects the first end 107 of the bottom wall 110 to the second end 111 of the bottom wall 110 via the fastening system 113. Next, the first and second side straps 170, 172 are grasped and pulled toward the adjustment panel 180 at the front 102 of the bra 100, and the side straps 170, 172 are attached thereto at the desired locations via fasteners 176.

As the first side strap 170 is pulled toward the adjustment panel 180, the first end 174 of the first side strap 170 pulls the second back strap system 148, thereby pulling the first and second front panels 115, 116, along with at least a portion of the front support system 183, outwardly toward the first side 106 and inwardly toward the individual's chest (e.g., toward the rear 104). Similarly, when the second side strap 172 is pulled toward the adjustment panel 180, the first end 175 of the second side strap 172 pulls the first back strap system 146, thereby pulling the third and fourth front panels 117, 118, along with at least a portion of the front support system 183, outwardly toward the second side 108 and inwardly toward the individual's chest (e.g., toward the rear 104).

The connection of the side straps 170, 172 and the legs 148, 152 of the back straps 148, 150/sides 106, 108 results in the front panels 115-120 being pulled in unison in all three axes of movement, thereby ensuring that the center of gravity of the breast does not deviate from its natural position, but is pressed evenly onto the individual's body. That is, when the side straps 170, 172 are pulled, the movement of the breast is limited laterally and inwardly by the side panels 115-120 and vertically by the first and second shoulder straps 126, 128 and the front support system 183. Although bra 100 includes a plurality of interconnected elements, it should be noted that elements may be removed and/or separated from one another to function independently of one another.

Although bra 100 is shown as being fastened at the rear and front portions thereof, bra 100 may be fully closed or may be attached at one side, only the front portion, or only the rear portion.

Fig. 8A through 10 illustrate another embodiment of a sports bra 200. Bra 200 includes a front portion 202, a back portion 204, a first side 206 extending between front portion 202 and back portion 204, and a second side 208 extending between front portion 202 and back portion 204. Bottom wall 210 is secured to the lower ends of front 202, rear 204, and side 206, 208.

The front portion 202 includes a first front panel 212 and a second front panel 214 that is independent of the first front panel 212 to allow the bra 200 to open at its front portion (i.e., front entrance). First front panel 212 and second front panel 214 may each be comprised of a single panel or piece of material or a plurality of panels or pieces of material that are joined together to form respective first front panel 212 and second front panel 214. The material may include woven fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, fabrics having moisture absorption and perspiration capabilities, fabrics that are at least partially elastomeric, and the like. The pieces of material may be joined to one another by, for example, stitching or bonding the pieces of material to one another. In one embodiment, at least a portion of a sheet of material 216, 218 of each of the front panels 212, 214, respectively, includes elastomeric properties to help compress and stabilize the breasts of an individual wearing the bra 200. Alternatively, the front panels 212, 214 may be composed of a non-stretch material.

As shown in fig. 9, the front portion 202 may include a first cup 220 associated with the first front panel 212 and a second cup 222 associated with the second front panel 214. The first and second cups 220, 222 may be molded and secured to the respective first front panel 212 and second front panel 214. In one embodiment, the cups 220, 222 may be independent of the first front panel 212 and the second front panel 214. In another embodiment, the cups 220, 222 may be included as part of a modular system whereby the first and second cups 220, 222 are disposed between the respective first and second front panels 212, 214 and a layer of material attached to the surface of the first and second front panels 212, 214 that is capable of contacting the breast and the modular cups help to uniformly compress the breast when the bra 200 is secured to the user's body.

The first shoulder strap 226 and a second shoulder strap 228 spaced apart from the first shoulder strap 226 each extend between the front 202 and rear 204 portions of the bra 200. The shoulder straps 226, 228 may each be composed of a single piece of material or multiple pieces of material, wherein at least one of the pieces forming the shoulder straps 226, 228 may be composed at least in part of a material or mixture of materials including elastomeric or non-elastomeric properties.

In one embodiment, the first shoulder strap 226 comprises a first sheet of material (or material mixture) 230 and a second sheet of material (or material mixture) 232, the first sheet of material (or material mixture) 230 at least substantially not including an elastomer to aid in tensioning the bra 200, the second sheet of material (or material mixture) 232 at least partially including an elastomer to aid in adjusting the shoulder strap 226. The second piece of material 232 is secured to the first piece of material 230 by a first attachment mechanism 234 (such as a first loop), and an adjustment mechanism 236 (such as a slider) may be disposed on the second piece of material 232 to help adjust the length of the first shoulder strap 226 to ensure a proper, supportive and comfortable fit. Alternatively, the two pieces of material 230, 232 may be directly connected to each other. Like the first shoulder strap 226, the second shoulder strap 228 includes a first sheet of material (or material mixture) 240 and a second sheet of material (or material mixture) 242, the first sheet of material (or material mixture) 240 at least substantially including no elastomer to assist in tensioning the bra 200, and the second sheet of material (or material mixture) 242 at least partially including an elastomer to assist in adjusting the shoulder strap 228. The second piece of material 242 is secured to the first piece of material 240 by a second attachment mechanism 244 (such as a first loop), and an adjustment mechanism 246 (such as a slider) may be disposed on the second piece of material 242 to help adjust the length of the second shoulder strap 228 to ensure a proper, supportive and comfortable fit. In another configuration, the coupling mechanisms 234 and 244 and the adjustment mechanisms 236, 246 may be combined into a single element. In yet another configuration, a single piece of material may be used to form the shoulder straps 226, 228.

The back 204 of the bra 200 includes a first back band system 248 and a second back band system 250. The first harness system 248 includes a first leg 252 connected to the second end of the first shoulder strap 226, a second leg 254 extending from the first leg 252 in a first direction at a first angle to the second side 208 and secured at a distal end thereof to a slider 260, and a third leg 256 extending from the first leg 252 in a second direction at a second angle to the first side 206. The third leg 256 extends continuously at its second end to a first panel 258. The first panel 258 extends from the back portion 204 around the first side portion 206 toward the front portion 202. For example, as can be seen in fig. 8A-8C, the first panel 258 is secured along its bottom edge to the bottom wall 210 and the sidewall 221 of the first cup 220, but may be directly connected to the cup 220, thereby removing the sidewall from the design. The second strap system 250 is independent of the first strap system 248 and is a mirror image of the opposite configuration of the first strap system 248. The second harness system 250 includes a first leg 262 connected to a second end of the second shoulder strap 228, a second leg 264 extending from the first leg 262 in a first direction at a first angle to the first side 206 and secured at a distal end thereof to the slider 270, and a third leg 266 extending from the first leg 262 in a second direction at a second angle to the second side 208. Third leg 266 extends continuously at a second end thereof to a second panel 268. The second panel 268 extends from the back portion 204 around the second side portion 208 toward the front portion 202. As can be seen in fig. 9, the second panel 268 is secured along its bottom edge to the bottom wall 210 and the side walls 225 of the second cup 222, but may be directly connected to the cup 222, thereby removing the side walls from the design. Alternatively, first harness system 248 may be connected to second shoulder strap 228 and second harness system 250 may be connected to first shoulder strap 226.

First strap system 248 and second strap system 250 may be made of any material including, but not limited to, woven fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, fabrics with moisture wicking capabilities, fabrics including elastomeric properties, and the like.

As depicted in fig. 8A-9, bra 200 includes a first side 272 extending from first side 206 toward front 202 and a second side 274 extending from second side 208 toward front 202. First side strap 272 is secured to first front panel 212 at first end 276, extends through slider 278 to connect first side strap 272 to second back strap system 250, and is secured between bottom wall 210 and first front panel 212 at second end 280. Similarly, a second side strap 274 is secured to the second front panel 214 at a first end (not shown), extends through the slider 286 to connect the second side strap 274 to the first back strap system 248, and is secured between the chassis 210 and the second front panel 214 at a second end (not shown). The first side strap 272 and the second side strap 274 may each include a second slider 288, 289, respectively, to help adjust the tension of the bra 200.

Fig. 10 is a front view of bra 200, showing a front support system 294 comprised of a first sheet of material 296 and a second sheet of material 298 and configured to adjust the tension on the front portion 202 of bra 200. The first sheet of material 296 and the second sheet of material 298 may be independent of each other. In one embodiment, the front support system 294 may be comprised of separate pieces of material joined to form the first and second pieces 296, 298. In one embodiment, the first sheet of material 296 and the second sheet of material 298 are each independently composed of a single piece of inelastic material, an elastic material, or a mixture of inelastic and elastic materials. In embodiments where the pieces of material 296, 298 are a mixture of an elastic material and a non-elastic material, approximately half of each of the first and second pieces of material 296, 298 may be composed of an elastic material while the other half may be composed of a non-stretch material. In such systems, the elastic material may surround the upper or lower half of each sheet of material 296, 298 to help compress the upper or lower half of the bra 200, and the upper or lower half of each sheet of material 296, 298 may be composed of a non-stretch material to help keep the breasts contained within the 220, 222 cups. As shown in fig. 10, the first end 297 of the first sheet of material 296 may be secured directly or indirectly to the first shoulder strap 226 and the first end 299 of the second sheet of material 298 may be secured directly or indirectly to the second shoulder strap 228. The front support system 294 may be integrated into a layer of material of the bra 200 or may be separate from the bra 200.

The front support system 294 may be adjusted by adjusting the side straps 272, 274. For example, when the first side strap 272 is adjusted (shortened) via the slide 288, the second leg 264 of the second back panel 250 is pulled, thereby tensioning the second shoulder strap 228, and thus the second sheet of material 298 or the second side of the front support system 294. Similarly, when the second side strap 274 is adjusted (shortened) via the slider 289, the second leg 254 of the first back panel 248 is pulled, thereby tensioning the first shoulder strap 226, and thus the first sheet material 296 or the first side of the front support system 294.

To secure the bra 200 in place and stabilize the breast laterally, vertically, and in and out (across three axes of motion), the bra 200 includes a front closure mechanism 292 to releasably secure the first front panel 212 to the second front panel 214. As shown in fig. 8A and 8B, the front closure mechanism 292 may be a zipper. Although a zipper is shown, the front closure mechanism 292 may be another fastener or fastening system, such as a hook and loop fastener, snaps, buttons, tape, or eye-hook connection, among others. In addition, bra 200 may be a rear portal, removing front closure 292 from the design.

Fig. 11-14 illustrate a third embodiment of a sports bra 300. Bra 300 includes a front portion 302, a back portion 304, a first side portion 306 extending between front portion 302 and back portion 304, and a second side portion 308 extending between front portion 302 and back portion 304. Bottom perimeter 310 is secured to the lower ends of front portion 302, rear portion 304, and side portions 306, 308.

The front portion 302 includes a first front panel 312 and a second front panel 314 that is independent of the first front panel 312 to allow the bra 300 to open at its front portion (i.e., front entrance). The first front panel 312 and the second front panel 314 may each be composed of a single piece or multiple pieces of material that are joined together to form the respective first front panel 312 and second front panel 314. Such materials may include wovens, nonwovens, fabrics including absorbent and sweat releasing materials, fabrics which are at least partially elastomeric, and the like. The pieces of material may be joined to one another by, for example, stitching or bonding the pieces of material to one another. In one embodiment, at least a portion of a sheet of material 316, 318 of each of the front panels 312, 314, respectively, includes elastomeric properties to help compress and stabilize the breasts of the individual wearing the bra 300. In another embodiment, approximately a portion of each of the pieces of material 316, 318 includes elastomeric properties to help compress and stabilize the breast of the individual wearing the bra 300, while another portion of the pieces of material 316, 318 does not include an elastomer to ensure that the breast is contained within the respective front panel 312, 314. Alternatively, the front panels 312, 314 are composed of a non-elastic material.

As shown in fig. 12, the front portion 302 may include a first cup 320 associated with the first front panel 312 and a second cup 322 associated with the second front panel 314. The first and second breast cups 320, 322 may be molded to the respective first and second front panels 312, 314 separately from the first and second front panels 312, 314, or included as part thereof in a modular system whereby the first and second breast cups 320, 322 are disposed between the respective first and second front panels 312, 314 and a layer of material that is adhered to the surfaces of the first and second front panels 312, 314 that is capable of contacting the breast, and the modular cups help to uniformly compress the breast when securing the bra 300 to the body of a user. However, in one embodiment, the cups 320, 322 may be removable from the design, and may be removable, whereby an individual may choose to temporarily remove the cups 320, 322 without being included as part of the design or after-market purchase.

A first shoulder strap 324 and a second shoulder strap 326 spaced apart from the first shoulder strap 324 each extend between the front 302 and rear 304 portions of the bra 300. The shoulder straps 324, 326 may be composed of a single piece of material or multiple pieces of material, wherein at least one of the pieces forming the shoulder straps 324, 326 may be composed at least in part of a material or mixture of materials that includes elastomeric properties.

For example, as shown in fig. 12, the first shoulder strap 324 includes a first sheet of material (or material mixture) 328 and a second sheet of material (or material mixture) 330, the first sheet of material (or material mixture) 328 at least substantially not including an elastomer to aid in tensioning the bra 300, and the second sheet of material (or material mixture) 330 at least partially including an elastomer to aid in adjusting the shoulder strap 324. The second piece of material 330 is secured to the first piece of material 326 by a first attachment mechanism 332 (such as a first loop), and an adjustment mechanism 334 (such as a slider) may be disposed on the second piece of material 330 to help adjust the length of the first shoulder strap 324 to ensure a proper, supportive, and comfortable fit. Alternatively, the second sheet of material 330 may be non-elastomeric and the first sheet of material 328 may be elastomeric. In one embodiment, the connection mechanism 332 may be eliminated. Like the first shoulder strap 324, the second shoulder strap 326 includes a first sheet of material (or material mixture) 336 and a second sheet of material (or material mixture) 338, the first sheet of material (or material mixture) 336 at least substantially free of an elastomer to aid in tensioning the bra 300, and the second sheet of material (or material mixture) 338 at least partially includes an elastomer to aid in adjusting the shoulder strap 326. The second piece of material 338 is secured to the first piece of material 336 by a first attachment mechanism 340 (such as a first loop), and an adjustment mechanism 342 (such as a slider) may be disposed on the second piece of material 338 to help adjust the length of the second shoulder strap 326 to ensure a proper, supportive, and comfortable fit. Alternatively, the second sheet of material 338 may be non-elastomeric and the first sheet of material 336 may be elastomeric. In another configuration, the connection mechanisms 332, 340 and adjustment mechanisms 334, 342 may be combined into a single element. In one embodiment, the attachment mechanism 340 may be eliminated and a single piece of material or mixture of materials may be used to form the shoulder straps 324, 326.

The back portion 304 of the bra 300 includes a first back panel 344 and a second back panel 346. The first back panel 344 includes a main body 348, the main body 348 extending substantially across the back 304, abutting the second side 308, being secured at its lower end to the bottom periphery 310, and including legs 350 extending from the main body 344 and abutting the second shoulder strap 326. The second back panel 346 includes a main body 352, the main body 352 extending substantially across the back portion 304, abutting the first side portion 306, being secured at its lower end to the bottom periphery 310, and including legs 354 extending from the main body 352 and abutting the first shoulder strap 324. For example, as can be seen in fig. 12, the back panels 344, 346 are mirror image relative to one another and are not connected except to the bottom wall 310 so that the panels 344, 346 can move at least partially independently of one another.

As shown in fig. 13, to secure brassiere 300 in place and stabilize the breast laterally, vertically, and in and out (across three axes of motion), the brassiere includes fasteners 356 and fastening systems 358, the fasteners 356 being used to first secure first front panel 312 in a desired position by releasably connecting first and second ends of chassis 310 to one another, and fastening systems 358 being used to secure second front panel 314 in a desired position, second front panel 314 partially overlapping first front panel 312. The fastening system 358 includes a first fastener element 360 and a second fastener element 364, the first fastener element 360 being secured to a portion of the material 362 extending from the second front panel 314, the second fastener element 364 being secured to a tab 366 extending from the bottom wall 310.

Fig. 14 is a front view of bra 300, showing front support system 368, front support system 368 being comprised of a first sheet of material 370 and a second sheet of material 372 and configured to adjust the tension on front portion 302 of bra 300. The first sheet material 370 and the second sheet material 372 may be independent of each other. In one embodiment, front support system 368 may be comprised of separate pieces of material joined to form first and second pieces of material 370, 372. In one embodiment, the first and second sheets of material 370 and 372 are each independently composed of a single sheet of inelastic material, an elastic material, or a mixture of inelastic and elastic materials. In embodiments where the pieces of material 370, 372 are a mixture of elastic and inelastic materials, approximately half of each of the first and second pieces of material 370, 372 may be composed of elastic material while the other half may be composed of non-stretch material. In such systems, the elastic material may surround the upper or lower half of each sheet of material 370, 372 to help compress the upper portion of the bra 300, and the upper or lower half of each sheet of material 370, 372 may be composed of a non-stretch material to help keep the breast contained within the 320, 322 cup. As shown in fig. 14, the first sheet of material 370 extends between a first end 374 and a second end 376, and the second sheet of material 372 extends between a first end 378 and a second end 380. The first end 374 of the first sheet of material 370 may be secured directly or indirectly to the first shoulder strap 324, and the second end 376 of the first sheet of material 370 may be secured directly or indirectly to the bottom wall 310. The first end 378 of the second piece of material 372 may be directly or indirectly secured to the second shoulder strap 326 and the second end 380 of the second piece of material 372 may be directly or indirectly secured to the bottom wall 310. Front support system 368 may be integrated into a layer of material of brassiere 300 or may be separate from brassiere 300.

Fig. 15A-24 depict another embodiment of a sports bra 400. The bra 400 generally includes a front 402, a back 404, a first or left side 406 extending between a first end of the front 402 and a first end of the back 404, and a second or right side 408 extending between a second end of the front 402 and a second end of the back 404.

The front portion 402 may include an extruded layer, which may be a single piece of material having a low modulus of elasticity and molded to include a first cup and a second cup, or a multi-layer material including a central support layer 412, a first cup layer 414, and a second cup layer 415. Each layer 412, 414, 415 may be comprised of, for example, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a synthetic fabric, a fabric including moisture wicking capability, a webbing, and/or an at least partially elastomeric fabric. In one embodiment, the central support layer 412 may be composed of a material that does not stretch vertically between the cup layers 414, 415, but may include elastomeric properties to allow for limited horizontal stretch capability. In other words, in one embodiment, the central support layer 412 comprises a material that is substantially inelastic in the vertical direction but slightly elastic in the horizontal direction. Thus, it should be appreciated that the elastic material of the central support layer 412 is more stretchable in the horizontal direction than in the vertical direction. The cup layers 414, 415 may be composed of a material that allows for limited vertical and horizontal stretching. Thus, the cup layers 414, 415 may be somewhat resilient in both the horizontal and vertical directions to more evenly support the wearer's breast. The elasticity of the cup layers 414, 415 may be the same in the vertical and horizontal directions, or the cup layers 414, 415 may be more elastic (e.g., stretchable) in the horizontal direction than in the vertical direction, or more elastic in the vertical or horizontal directions, for example. Additionally, the layers 412, 414, 415 may be coated to increase and/or decrease their elastic modulus. The support layer 412 and the cup layers 414, 415 may be connected to each other by, for example, stitching or bonding the layers 412, 414, 415 to each other. At the underwire (or bottom) of the bra 400, the bottom wall 410 extends around at least the front 402 and sides 406, 408 of the bra 400. The bottom wall 410 may be composed of an elastomeric (e.g., elastic) material to allow flexibility and to help squeeze the bra 400 onto the body of various individuals. Thus, due to the configuration of the front portion 402, and more particularly, the central support layer 412, may be configured as close as possible to the sternum of the user in order to increase comfort and support during athletic activities and/or rest.

A first shoulder strap 426 and a second shoulder strap 428 spaced apart from the first shoulder strap 426 each extend between the front 402 and rear 404 portions of the bra 400. To maintain structural and integrity when tensioned, the shoulder straps 426, 428 are constructed of a material that at least substantially does not contain elastomeric properties that allow the shoulder straps 426, 428 to stretch. In other words, the shoulder straps 426, 428 do not stretch when under tension. For example, the shoulder straps 426, 428 may be made of woven, nonwoven, synthetic or fabric that includes moisture absorption and perspiration capabilities.

The first shoulder strap 426 may be adjusted by a first attachment mechanism 434 (such as a clasp), which first attachment mechanism 434 is fixed to the front 402 of the bra 400 and includes a first loop 435 through which the first shoulder strap 426 may be fed. In the embodiment shown in fig. 23, the first shoulder strap 426 may be pulled to a desired tightness and releasably secured to itself, for example, by hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, and the like. Alternatively, as seen in the embodiment of fig. 24, the first shoulder strap 426 may be adjusted by a first attachment mechanism 440 (such as a slider), the first attachment mechanism 440 being positioned on the first shoulder strap 426 with an end of the first shoulder strap 426 secured to a second attachment mechanism 442 (such as a clasp), the second attachment mechanism 442 secured to the front 402 of the bra 400 and an end of the first shoulder strap 426. Like the first shoulder strap 426, the second shoulder strap 428 may be adjusted by a second connection mechanism 436 (such as a clasp), the second connection mechanism 436 being secured to the front 402 of the bra 400 and including a first loop 437, the second shoulder strap 428 being fed through the first loop 437. In one embodiment, the second shoulder strap 428 may be pulled to a desired tightness and releasably secured to itself, for example, by hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, etc., similar to the first shoulder strap 426. Alternatively, like the first shoulder strap 426, the second shoulder strap 428 may be adjusted by a first connection mechanism (not shown), such as a slider, that is positioned on the second shoulder strap 428, with an end of the second shoulder strap 428 secured to a second connection mechanism (not shown), such as a clasp, that is secured to the front 402 of the bra 400 and an end of the second shoulder strap 428.

For example, as depicted in fig. 16-18, the shoulder straps 426, 428 extend from the front 402 of the bra 400 to the rear 404 of the bra 400 and may intersect one another. The first shoulder strap 426 and the second shoulder strap 428 form a Y-shape at their second ends 431, 433, respectively. A first rear end 441 and a second rear end 443 of the first shoulder strap 426 are defined at the rear of the bra 400. The first rear end 445 and the second rear end 447 of the second shoulder strap 428 are defined at the rear of the bra 400.

A first side strap 468 (see fig. 16-17, 21) extends between the first cup layer 414 and the second rear end 443 of the first shoulder strap 426, and a second side strap 469 extends between the second cup layer 416 and the second rear end 447 of the second shoulder strap 428. The first and second side straps 468, 469 may be composed of an elastic material to allow for flexibility and to aid in squeezing the bra 400 onto the body of various individuals. In other words, the first and second side straps 468, 469 may be elastic (stretchable). The third side strap 470 and the fourth side strap 472 are configured to assist in squeezing the bra 400. The third side strap 470 is secured at a first end 474 thereof to a first rear end 441 of the first shoulder strap 426, is configured to extend around the first side 406, and is selectively secured via fasteners 476 (such as hook and loop fasteners), the fasteners 476 extending from a second end 478 of the third side strap 470 to help secure the third side strap 470 to the bottom periphery 410 at the front of the bra 400. The first end 475 of the fourth side strap 472 is secured to the first rear end 445 of the second shoulder strap 428, is configured to extend around the second side portion 408, and is selectively securable via fasteners 477 (such as hook and loop fasteners), the fasteners 477 extending from the second end 479 of the fourth side strap 472 to help secure the fourth side strap 472 to the bottom wall 410 at the front of the bra 400. It is contemplated that the connection may be made using buttons, snaps, sliders, hooks, ties, or any other means that allows for selective, adjustable, and secure connection. The third side belt 470 may be elastic or substantially inelastic (e.g., not stretchable). The fourth side belt 472 may be elastic or substantially inelastic (e.g., not stretchable).

The first shoulder strap 426, the first side strap 468 and the third side strap 470 may form a first harness system. The first harness system may include a first leg (e.g., first shoulder strap 426), a second leg (e.g., first side strap 468), and a third leg (e.g., third side strap 470). For example, as shown in fig. 17, the first through third legs of the first harness system may be interconnected to one another at an area indicated by reference numeral 431.

The second shoulder strap 428, the fourth side strap 472, and the second side strap 469 may form a second harness system. The second harness system may include a fourth leg (e.g., second shoulder strap 428), a fifth leg (e.g., fourth side strap 472), and a sixth leg (e.g., second side strap 469). For example, as shown in fig. 16, the fourth through sixth legs of the second harness system may be interconnected to one another at an area indicated by reference numeral 433.

As shown in fig. 17, the first harness system may be configured with a mirror image arrangement relative to the first harness system.

As depicted in fig. 22, the cover 481 can be attached (e.g., sewn) to the back 404 of the bra 400 and allow the shoulder straps 426, 428 to slide between the back 404 and the cover 481.

As shown in fig. 25-34, to adjust the tension on the front portion 402 of the bra 400, the bra 400 may include support systems 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 having adjustment elements 502, 602, 702, 802, 902, 1002, 1102, 1202, 1302, 1402, respectively, configured to resist upward movement of the breast and integrate the front portion of the bra 400 with the rear portion 406 of the bra 400.

As shown in fig. 25, the support system 500 may be integrated into the front 402 of the bra 400, or as shown in fig. 26-34, the support systems 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 may be separate elements from the front 402 and bra 400 secured thereto.

As shown in fig. 25, the support system 500 may include a first tensioning element 502 and a second tensioning element 504 (both tensioning elements 502 and 504 are shown in hidden lines in fig. 25 to indicate that they are disposed within the front 402). The first tensioning element 502 may extend from the first connection 434 to the bottom enclosure 410 (e.g., to a first point 507 along the bottom enclosure 410). The second tensioning element 504 may extend from the second connection 436 to the bottom enclosure 410 (e.g., to a second point 511 along the bottom enclosure 410).

Each of the first and second tensioning elements 502 and 504 may be made of an elastic material, such as webbing, elastic strands, elastic bands, or other materials having elastic properties. Tensioning the first and second tensioning elements 502 and 504 during the act of fitting (e.g., tightening) the bra 400 may cause the first cup layer 414 and the second cup layer 415 to stabilize in place and may provide tension across the top of the breast, thereby resisting upward movement.

Because the chassis 410 is tightened when the bra 400 is assembled (e.g., the chassis 410 is stretched around the torso of the wearer), the chassis 410 provides a secure attachment point for the first and second tensioning elements 502 and 504 so that the first and second tensioning elements 502 and 504 can provide additional comfort and stability to the wearer's breast during exercise or other types of rapid movement.

As shown in at least fig. 26-34, support system 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 may include first tensioning elements 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and second tensioning elements 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1306, 1406 independent of each other, wherein first sheet material 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 is attached to first connecting mechanism 434 at first end 605, 705, 805, 905, 1005, 1105, 1205, 1305, 1405 and connected to bottom perimeter 410 of brassiere 400 at second end 607, 707, 807, 907, 1007, 1107, 1207, 1307, 1407, and second tensioning elements 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 are attached to second connecting mechanism at first end 609, 709, 909, 1109, 1209, 1309, 1409 and connected to bottom perimeter 410 of brassiere 400, 1411 at second end 436, 711, 611, 711, 1111, 1411.

Each of the first tensioning elements 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 may comprise the same or different resilient material as the first tensioning element 502. Each of the second tensioning elements 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may comprise the same or different elastomeric material as the second tensioning element 504.

In one embodiment, the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may each be comprised of a single piece of resilient material. Alternatively, the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may be comprised of a mixture of inelastic and elastic materials. In such embodiments, approximately a portion of each of the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may be comprised of an elastic material while another portion may be comprised of a non-stretch material. Alternatively, the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may be independent of each other and capable of being directly connected to each other (e.g., a hook-and-loop system), or the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may be secured to each other.

As can be seen in fig. 25-34, the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 of the support system 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 may cross one or more times or not at all. If the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1306, 1406 do not intersect each other, each tensioning element may be connected, for example, by an opening through which each tensioning element extends, may be secured to each other at a point, or the lower ends of the pieces of material may meet each other, forming a V-shape.

The first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may intersect at any point on the front 402 of the bra 400. For simplicity, the figures show the pieces of material meeting at the center of the bra 400, but they may meet at a higher or lower level of the structure of the bra 400. If the lower ends of the first tensioning element 502, 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second tensioning element 504, 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 do not meet each other, they may be attached at any point along the bottom periphery 410 or continue along the bottom periphery 410 and attached to a side or back region of the bra 400. If the second ends 607, 707, 807, 907, 1007, 1107, 1207, 1307, 1407 of the first tensioning elements 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second ends 611, 711, 811, 911, 1011, 1111, 1211, 1311, 1411 of the second tensioning elements 606, 706, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 meet each other, they may be secured to the bottom wall 410 or pass through an object (i.e., a loop) secured to the bra 400. Alternatively, the second ends 607, 707, 807, 907, 1007, 1107, 1207, 1307, 1407 of the first tensioning elements 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404 and the second ends 611, 711, 811, 911, 1011, 1111, 1211, 1311, 1411 of the second tensioning elements 606, 706, 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, 1306, 1406 may be tied to the bottom chassis 410 via the secondary legs (i.e., webbing or elastomer).

As shown in fig. 26, the first and second tensioning elements 604 and 606 may cross each other twice and may be connected to the first and second cup layers 414 and 415. Thus, in addition to stabilizing the first and second cup layers 414 and 415 and preventing or substantially reducing upward movement of the breast as the user moves, the first and second tensioning elements 604 and 606 may draw the first cup layer 414 and the second cup layer 415 closer together.

As shown in fig. 28, first and second tensioning elements 804 and 806 form a V-shape. The bottom of the V-shape of the first and second tensioning elements 804 and 806 is attached to the central support layer 412, and the central support layer 412 may be composed of a material that is not stretched vertically between the cup layers 414, 415. Thus, when the first and second tensioning elements 804 and 806, the central support layer 412 imparts energy (e.g., tension) to the bottom wall 410, thereby stabilizing the first and second cup layers 414 and 415 and preventing or substantially reducing upward movement of the breast as the user moves.

As shown in fig. 29, the first and second tensioning elements 904 and 906 may be coupled together and passed through a circular anchor hole 912 (e.g., a loop 912) to have a V-shape, allowing the first and second tensioning elements 904 and 906 to slide around the circular anchor hole 912 to balance the tension of the first and second tensioning elements 904 and 906 to further balance the pulling tension at the first and second shoulder straps 426, 428 and the central support layer 412. This is because the circular limiter 912 is a ring that is connected to the central support layer 412 in order to transfer the tension of the first and second tension elements 904 and 906 to the central support layer 412, allowing for a more comfortable fit. In other words, the first and second tensioning elements 904 and 906 are connected to each other and pass through the ring 912, the ring 912 is attached to the central support layer 412 between the first and second cup layers 414 and 415, and the first and second tensioning elements 904 and 906 are free to slide about the ring 912 such that the tension applied in the first tensioning element 904 is approximately equal to the tension applied in the second tensioning element 906.

As shown in fig. 30, the first and second tensioning elements 1004 and 1006 may be connected together at point 1016 and may extend from point 1016 to bottom periphery 410 as a single tensioning element 1018. Thus, first and second tensioning elements 1004 and 1006 and tensioning element 1018 may form a Y-shape. The first and second tensioning elements 1004 and 1006 and the tensioning element 1018 may reduce upward movement of the wearer's breast during movement.

As shown in fig. 31, first and second tensioning elements 1104 and 1106 pass through ring 1112, which allows first and second tensioning elements 1104 and 1106 to tighten infinitely. Thus, the tensioning elements 1104 and 1106 may be used to tighten the front 402 even after the point at which the cup layers 414, 415 meet each other. Ring 1112 may be disposed at a midpoint between cup layers 414, 415.

As shown in fig. 32-34, the support system 1200, 1300, 1400 may have auxiliary legs 1215, 1315, 1415 that extend from a point below at one side of the bra 400 and along the front of the armholes toward the top end of the support system 1200, 1300, 1400. The legs 1215, 1315, 1415 may be free flowing or attached to the bra 400.

Referring to fig. 32, tensioning elements 1204, 1206 are fixed in position at shoulder straps 426, 428. The lower part consists of two elements: one fixed at a point below the shoulder straps 426, 428 and forming an X-shape of any version shown in figures 25 to 31. The secondary element 1215 (or a continuation of the primary element secured to the shoulder strap) is positioned outside of the cup 414, 415 and secured to the side tension straps 468, 469. This results in the center X element being tensioned from both the bottom circumference and the side pull of straps 468, 469.

Referring to fig. 33, the tensioning elements 1304, 1306 pass through loops 1330, 1332, the loops 1330, 1332 being secured at a point below the shoulder straps 426, 428. The lower part consists of two elements: one down between the cups 414, 415 and forms an X-shape of any version shown in figures 25 to 31. The secondary element 1315 is positioned outside of the cup and is secured to the side tension bands 468, 469. This results in the center X element being tensioned from both the bottom chassis and the side pull of the tensioning straps 468, 469.

Fig. 34 may show the same configuration as the tensioning element described with reference to fig. 32, but the tensioning element of fig. 34 may be integrated within the front 402.

Thus, the front 402 and rear 404, along with the support systems 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 may form a highly comfortable bra 400 that provides an unparalleled level of support for the torso and breast of a wearer. The structure of the central support layer 412 (providing little stretch in the vertical direction and very low amounts of stretch in the horizontal direction), the low stretch and strong elasticity of the first and second cup layers 414 and 415, the three-leg configuration of the first and second harness systems (with some elastic legs and some non-stretchable legs), and the stretch resistant function of the support systems 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 form a system that stabilizes the front cup in place and provides tension to the user across the top and bottom of the breast in a sport or resting state. Accordingly, brassiere 400 can prevent or substantially reduce up-and-down, side-to-side, and in-and-out movement of a wearer's breast during exercise and/or resting conditions while providing excellent comfort to the wearer.

Fig. 35-44 depict exemplary embodiments of bra holders 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 that may be incorporated into a bra 400 to provide structure and help support the underside of a breast by partially wrapping the breast. The bra support 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 may be made of a material that is easily Qu Danyou rigid, which will bend and flex with body movement. It is contemplated that the bra support 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 may be disposed between layers of the bra 400, including as an inner layer of the bra 400 or an outer layer secured to the bra 400.

As shown in fig. 35 to 40, the bra support 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 includes: the underwire 1502, 1602, 1702, 1802, which is a flat cut piece that rests on the torso of an individual when worn; and cup portions 1504, 1604, 1704, 1804 that incorporate a cup-like shape that supports the breast and provide full or partial coverage to the breast.

The elements of the braces 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 may be free floating or secured to one or more components of the bra 400. As shown in fig. 35-38, bra brackets 1500, 1600 may be attached to bra 400. As shown in fig. 35-37, the bra bracket 1500 may be comprised of a single body. Alternatively, as shown in fig. 38-40, bra brackets 1600, 1700, 1800 may be multi-part units that include first brackets 1606, 1706, 1806 and second brackets 1608, 1708, 1808 that are separate from each other.

In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 39, a bra bracket 1700 may be incorporated into the support system. Here, the right and left brackets 1706, 1708 may be connected to each other in some manner such that the spacing therebetween may be adjusted by the support system. Note that although one support system is shown, any other support system shown or described may be used.

Finally, as shown in fig. 40, the right and left brackets 1806, 1808 may be coupled to one another by fasteners 1810, the fasteners 1810 allowing the brackets 1806, 1808 to move independently relative to one another.

Fig. 41-44 depict an embodiment of a fastener (such as tape) applied to the braces 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 to secure the braces 1500, 1600 to the bra 400.

The foregoing description and related drawings illustrate several embodiments of the invention and their corresponding components. However, other types of materials and patterns of combined materials are also possible. Accordingly, the drawings are not intended to be limiting in this regard. Thus, while the above description and drawings contain many specificities, the details provided should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments, but as merely providing illustrations of some embodiments of the disclosure. The drawings and description are not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the embodiments, but rather as broad and general teachings of the present invention. Although the present embodiments of the invention have been described using specific terms, such description is for illustrative purposes only, and it is to be understood that modifications and variations of such embodiments, including but not limited to, substitution of equivalent features, materials or components, and the transfer of its various features, may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A bra, comprising:

a front portion comprising an extruded layer;

a bottom wall connected to and extending along at least a portion of the bottom region of the front portion;

a rear portion comprising a first strap system and a second strap system configured to have a mirror image arrangement relative to the first strap system;

a first shoulder strap extending from the front portion to the rear portion;

a second shoulder strap spaced from the first shoulder strap and extending from the front portion to the rear portion;

wherein the first harness system comprises a first leg extending in a first direction and secured to the first shoulder strap, a second leg extending in a second direction toward a second side of the front portion and securable to the front portion, and a third leg extending in a third direction toward a first side of the front portion and releasably secured to the front portion, the first, second and third legs being interconnected together to form a Y-shape, the first harness being extendable and slidable over or under the second back strap, and

wherein the second harness system comprises a fourth leg extending in a fourth direction and secured to the second shoulder strap, a fifth leg extending in a fifth direction toward a first side of the front portion and securable to the front portion, and a sixth leg extending in a sixth direction toward a second side of the front portion and releasably secured to the front portion, the fourth, fifth and sixth legs being interconnected together to form a Y-shape, the second harness being extendable and slidable over or under the first back strap.

2. The bra of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the first leg is made of a substantially non-stretchable material.

3. The bra of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the second leg is made of an elastic material.

4. The bra of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the third leg is made of an elastic material.

5. The bra of claim 1, further comprising a support system comprising a first tensioning element and a second tensioning element,

the first tensioning element connects the top region of the front portion with the bottom wall or the extruded layer at the first side of the front portion, and

the second tensioning element connects a top region of the front portion with the bottom wall or the compression layer at the second side of the front portion.

6. The bra of claim 5, wherein at least one of the first and second tensioning elements is an elastic thread, an elastic band, or a webbing.

7. The bra of claim 5, wherein the first and second tensioning elements form an X-shape.

8. The bra of claim 5, wherein the first and second tensioning elements form a V-shape.

9. The bra of claim 8, wherein the first and second tensioning elements are connected together and pass through a loop attached between the first and second cup layers of the compression layer, the loop being attached to the compression layer, and the first and second tensioning elements being free to slide about the loop such that tension applied in the first tensioning element is approximately equal to tension applied in the second tensioning element.

10. The bra of claim 5, wherein the support system is integrated into the front portion.

11. The bra of claim 5, wherein the support system is disposed on the front portion.

12. The bra of claim 1, wherein the squeeze layer comprises a central support layer made of an elastic material.

13. The bra of claim 12, wherein the elastic material of the central support layer is more stretchable in a horizontal direction than in a vertical direction.

14. The bra of claim 1, wherein the compression layer comprises a first cup layer and a second cup layer, and at least one of the first and second cup layers comprises an elastic material capable of stretching in both the horizontal and vertical directions.

15. The bra of claim 1, wherein the bottom wall comprises an elastic material.

16. The bra of claim 1, wherein the foundation and at least one of the third and sixth legs are selectively and adjustably connected to one another by hook and loop fasteners.

17. The bra of claim 1, further comprising a bra bracket floating or secured to the front portion.

18. The bra of claim 17, wherein the bra support is made of a flexible material for bending and flexing with movement of the wearer's torso.

19. The bra of claim 17, wherein the bra armature comprises a shoe portion configured to rest on a torso of a wearer and a cup portion at least partially covering a breast of the wearer.

20. The bra of claim 17, wherein the bra armature is a multi-part unit comprising two independent armors.