EP4626271A1 - Breast support garment and method of making the same - Google Patents

Breast support garment and method of making the same

Info

Publication number
EP4626271A1
EP4626271A1 EP23818071.5A EP23818071A EP4626271A1 EP 4626271 A1 EP4626271 A1 EP 4626271A1 EP 23818071 A EP23818071 A EP 23818071A EP 4626271 A1 EP4626271 A1 EP 4626271A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
zone
fabric
garment
breast
courses
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP23818071.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Naeem RIAZ
Rosalind Elizabeth STRACH
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Prevayl Innovations Ltd
Original Assignee
Prevayl Innovations Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Prevayl Innovations Ltd filed Critical Prevayl Innovations Ltd
Publication of EP4626271A1 publication Critical patent/EP4626271A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/12—Component parts
    • A41C3/122—Stay means
    • A41C3/128—Stay means using specific materials
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/0007—Brassieres with stay means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/005—Brassieres specially adapted for specific purposes
    • A41C3/0057—Brassieres specially adapted for specific purposes for sport activities
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C5/00—Machines, appliances, or methods for manufacturing corsets or brassieres
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
    • D04B—KNITTING
    • D04B1/00—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes
    • D04B1/10—Patterned fabrics or articles
    • D04B1/102—Patterned fabrics or articles with stitch pattern
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
    • D04B—KNITTING
    • D04B1/00—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes
    • D04B1/10—Patterned fabrics or articles
    • D04B1/102—Patterned fabrics or articles with stitch pattern
    • D04B1/108—Gussets, e.g. pouches or heel or toe portions
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
    • D04B—KNITTING
    • D04B1/00—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes
    • D04B1/10—Patterned fabrics or articles
    • D04B1/12—Patterned fabrics or articles characterised by thread material
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
    • D04B—KNITTING
    • D04B1/00—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes
    • D04B1/22—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration
    • D04B1/24—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration wearing apparel
    • D04B1/246—Upper torso garments, e.g. sweaters, shirts, leotards
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
    • D04B—KNITTING
    • D04B21/00—Warp knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes
    • D04B21/20—Warp knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting articles of particular configuration
    • D04B21/207—Wearing apparel or garment blanks
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41B—SHIRTS; UNDERWEAR; BABY LINEN; HANDKERCHIEFS
    • A41B2500/00—Materials for shirts, underwear, baby linen or handkerchiefs not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • A41B2500/10—Knitted
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/0014—Brassieres made from one piece with one or several layers
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D10—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B2401/00—Physical properties
    • D10B2401/04—Heat-responsive characteristics
    • D10B2401/041—Heat-responsive characteristics thermoplastic; thermosetting
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D10—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B2403/00—Details of fabric structure established in the fabric forming process
    • D10B2403/01—Surface features
    • D10B2403/011—Dissimilar front and back faces
    • D10B2403/0113—One surface including hollow piping or integrated straps, e.g. for inserts or mountings
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D10—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B2403/00—Details of fabric structure established in the fabric forming process
    • D10B2403/03—Shape features
    • D10B2403/033—Three dimensional fabric, e.g. forming or comprising cavities in or protrusions from the basic planar configuration, or deviations from the cylindrical shape as generally imposed by the fabric forming process
    • D10B2403/0331—Three dimensional fabric, e.g. forming or comprising cavities in or protrusions from the basic planar configuration, or deviations from the cylindrical shape as generally imposed by the fabric forming process with one or more convex or concave portions of limited extension, e.g. domes or pouches
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D10—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B2501/00—Wearing apparel
    • D10B2501/02—Underwear

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to garments, and more particularly to breast support garments and in particular knitted breast support garments.
  • WO 2018/203894 A1 discloses an uppertorso garment in the form of a bra that uses a tubular-jacquard knit structure.
  • the tubular-jacquard knit structure is divided into a plurality of different zones which may include different versions of the tubular-jacquard knit structure.
  • a garment comprising a front portion arranged to cover at least part of the wearer; and at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone.
  • the at least one support structure comprises a base fabric and at least one fabric ridge coupled to the base fabric.
  • the at least one fabric ridge extends along at least part of the length of the base fabric in the first zone.
  • the lower margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the first breast contacting surface.
  • the plurality of knit courses may be arranged such that an upper margin of the underband is contoured.
  • the band may be a chest band and may be part of a chest strap.
  • FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of F IG. 1 .
  • FIG. 3 shows a sectional view through a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 shows a sectional view through a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 5 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of F IG. 1 .
  • FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C show example knitting sequences for forming a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIGS. 7 A, 7B, and 7C show example knitting sequences for forming a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C show example knitting sequences for forming a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 9 illustrates an example knitting sequence for forming part of a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 11 show example knitting sequences for forming a breast contacting surface of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 12 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 13 show example knitting sequences for forming an underband of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 14 shows a simplified illustration of the knit courses in the underband of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 15 shows a rear view of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 16 is a flow diagram showing an example process of knitting a breast support garment according to aspects of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 17 shows an example band according to aspects of the present disclosure.
  • the course length of the knit sequences 812, 814, 816, 818, 820, 822 generally decreases rather than continuously decreases as per the example of FIG. 6A.
  • This knit process achieves the same effect of varying the number of courses per wale from the first zone 828 to the second zone 830 such that the wales of the first zone 828 comprise fewer courses than the wales of the second zone 830.
  • Steps 920, 922, 924 involve knitting a full-length courses of yarn on the front needle bed only. This forms a raised fabric ridge that projects from the base fabric of the support structure.
  • the first breast contacting surface 106 comprises a plurality of knit courses including a plurality of knit stitches.
  • the plurality of knit courses include one or more medial-most knit stitches arranged in a medial wale 1008 and one or more lateral-most stitches arranged in a lateral wale 1010.
  • the medial wale 1008 is closer to the midline of the breast support garment 102 than the lateral wale 1010.
  • the medial wale 1008 and lateral wale 1010 define opposing ends of the first breast contacting surface 106.
  • the first breast contacting surface 106 comprises a lower region 1002 and upper region 1004 and a central region 1006 provided between the lower region 1002 and the upper region 1004.
  • the upper region 1004 comprises a plurality of partial-length knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010.
  • the central region 1006 comprises a plurality of knit courses that extend along the (full) length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010.
  • the courses of the central region may be referred to as full-length courses.
  • the number of knit courses in the lower region 1002, upper region 1004 and central region 1006 and the length of the knit courses can be varied to provide the desired shape and volume of the first breast contacting surface 106. This enables the first breast contacting surface 106 to have the desired shape and volume for accommodating the breast of the wearer.
  • the second breast contacting surface 108 may also be knitted and can be integrally knitted with the second sling 116.
  • the second breast contacting surface 108 may be the mirror image of the first breast contacting surface 106.
  • FIG. 11 shows an example method of knitting the first breast contacting surface 106 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The knitting process follows on from knitting the first sling 114 and the second sling 116.
  • the knit sequences 1102, 1104, 1106, 1108, 1110, 1112, 1114 and 1116 are partiallength knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010.
  • the course length of the knit sequences 1102, 1104, 1106, 1108, 1110, 1112, 1114 and 1116 follow an increasing trend to provide the desired shape of the lower region 1002.
  • the final knit sequence 1118 of the lower region 1002 extends across to the location of the second breast contacting surface 108 so that the lower region of the second breast contacting surface can be formed as shown by the dashed boxes in FIG. 11 .
  • the central region 1006 is formed by knitting a plurality of knit sequences 1120.
  • Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 6A and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632.
  • the course length of the knit sequences 1120 are full-length knit courses that extend across the length of the knitted fabric from the medial wale 1008 to the lateral wale 1010.
  • the number of knit sequences in the plurality of knit sequences 1120 is selected according to the desired shape and volume of the first breast contacting surface 106.
  • the upper region 1004 is formed by knitting a plurality (eleven in this example) of knit sequences 1122, 1124, 1126, 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, 1142.
  • Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 6A and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632.
  • the knit sequences 1122, 1124, 1126, 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, 1142 are partial-length knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010.
  • the knit sequence shown in FIG. 11 enables the first breast contacting surface 106 and second breast contacting surface 108 to be knit together.
  • the courses of the central region 1006 extends from the lateral wale 1010 of the first breast contacting surface 106 to the lateral wale 1144 of the second breast contacting surface 108.
  • FIG. 12 shows a detailed view of the underband 130 of the breast support garment 102 of FIG. 1 .
  • the underband 130 comprises an upper margin 1202 that connects to the first sling 114 and second sling 116 and a lower margin 1204 which defines the lower margin of the breast support garment 102.
  • the upper margin 1202 and lower margin 1204 are contoured such that the underband 130 has an undulating profile. This contrasts with underbands of existing sports bras which have margins that extend linearly along the horizontal axis.
  • the underband 130 has margins 1202, 1204 that extend along both the horizontal (X-axis in FIG. 12) and vertical (Y-axis in FIG. 12).
  • the contouring of the underband 130 can be used to provide a desired visual effect for the breast support garment 102.
  • the contouring of the underband 130 allows the underband 130 to better follow the shape of the wearer which provide improved comfort.
  • the underband 130 shown in FIG. 12 follows the contours of the wearer's bust.
  • the upper margin 1202 and lower margin 1204 form peaks 1206, 1208 that intersect the midline 110 of the breast support garment 102.
  • the upper margin 1202 and lower margin 1204 form valleys 1210, 1212 underneath the first breast contacting surface 106 and valleys 1214, 1216 underneath the second breast contacting surface 108.
  • the underband 130 comprises knitted fabric.
  • the contoured profile is achieved through the use of knitting techniques which advantageously avoids the need to cut or otherwise fashion the fabric to have the desired contoured profile. This simplifies manufacture and avoids fabric waste.
  • the contoured profile of the knitted fabric is achieved through the use of Flechage knitting.
  • the knitted fabric comprises a plurality of full-length courses extending the full-length of the knitted fabric and a plurality of partial-length courses extending a partial-length of the knitted fabric.
  • the plurality of partial-length courses comprise courses of different partiallengths such that some of the partial-length courses are wider than others of the partial-length courses.
  • the partial-length courses are positioned among the full-length courses.
  • the combination of full-length and partial length courses can be used to impart a desired shape for the underband.
  • the underband 130 comprises a central section comprising a plurality of full-length courses and a plurality of partial length courses provided above and below the central section.
  • the plurality of partial-length courses form the contoured profile of the upper margin 1202 and the lower margin 1204.
  • FIG. 13 shows an example knitting process for forming the underband 130 shown in FIG. 12. The knitting process is read from bottom to top starting with knit sequence 1302 and ending with knit sequence 1396.
  • Each knit sequence in this example has the structure as shown in FIG. 6B and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632.
  • the course of tuck stitches connects the yarn knitted on the front needle bed to the yarn on the back needle bed to form a spacer fabric structure.
  • the courses knitted in sequence 1302 are full-length courses and form the lower margin [0200]
  • the courses knitted in sequences 1304 - 1310 are partial-length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively Increase course length In all examples and Instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
  • the courses knitted in sequences 1312 - 1324 are partial-length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively Increase course length In all examples and instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
  • the courses knitted in sequences 1326 - 1340 are partial length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively Increase course length In all examples and Instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
  • the courses knitted in sequences 1342 - 1344 are partial length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively increase course length in all examples and instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
  • the courses knitted in sequences 1348 - 1362 are partial length courses that are successively decreasing In course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively decreasing course length In all examples and instead can show a general trend of decreasing length.
  • the courses knitted in sequences 1364 - 1378 are partial length courses that are successively decreasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively decreasing course length in all examples and instead can show a general trend of decreasing length.
  • the courses knitted in sequences 1380 - 1394 are partial length courses that are successively decreasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively decreasing course length in all examples and instead can show a general trend of decreasing length.
  • FIG. 14 shows a simplified representation of an underband 130 knitted according to the knitting process shown in FIG. 13.
  • the lines in FIG. 13 visually represent the courses knitted in the sequences 1302 - 1396 in FIG. 13 and shows how the use of partial-length courses of different lengths provides the contoured effect.
  • Step 1608 comprises knitting the central regions 1006 of the first breast contacting surface 106 and the second breast contacting surface 108.
  • Step 1610 comprises knitting upper region 1004 of first breast contacting surface 106 and the first upper bounce panel 118.
  • a process known as doubling may be used to reduce the number of needles used in knitting the first upper bounce panel 118.
  • Step 1612 comprises knitting upper region 1004 of second breast contacting surface 108 and the second upper bounce panel 120.
  • a process known as doubling may be used to reduce the number of needles used in knitting the first upper bounce panel 118.
  • the remainder of the front portion such as the centre-front bridge and shoulder straps may be knit during the same process or may be made separately and attached together.
  • the rear portion of the breast support garment may be knit during the same process or may be made separately and attached together.
  • the breast support garment 102 described above can be used in physiological monitoring of the wearer.
  • the breast support garment 102 can comprise a holder for removably retaining an electronics module for performing sensing functions.
  • the electronics module may couple to sensors incorporated in the breast support garment 102 such as in the underband 130 of the breast support garment 102.
  • the electronics module may comprise a sensor for monitoring the physiological properties of the wearer.
  • FIG. 17 shows the underband 130 in isolation.
  • the underband 130 comprises a first electrode 132 and a second electrode 134.
  • the electrodes 132, 134 may be integrally formed with the underband 130.
  • the electrode may be of knitted construction. That is, formed from conductive yarn that may be integrally knitted with the underband 130.
  • the electrodes may be arranged to perform measurements from the wearer such as bioelectrical (e.g., ECG) or bioimpedance measurements. Additionally, or separately, the electrodes may apply signals to the wearer for therapeutic applications.
  • the electrodes 132, 134 may be otherwise attached to the underband 130 and may be formed from a conductive material such as a conductive polymer.
  • the underband 130 further comprises a first conductive pathway 1702 and a second conductive pathway 1704.
  • the first conductive pathway 1702 terminates in a first terminal fabric ridge 1706 and the second conductive pathway 1704 terminates in a second terminal fabric ridge 1708.
  • the first terminal fabric ridge 1706 is conductively connected to the first electrode 132 by the first conductive pathway 1702.
  • the second terminal fabric ridge 1708 is conductively connected to the second electrode 134 by the second conductive pathway 1704.
  • the first terminal fabric ridge 1706 and the second terminal fabric ridge 1708 are provided in a pocket space 1710 arranged to removably receive an electronics module.
  • the electronics module When positioned in the pocket space 1710, the electronics module is brought into communication with the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134.
  • the electronics module is able to receive measurement signals from the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134.
  • the electronics module may also apply signals to the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 such as for use in therapeutic applications.
  • the pocket space 1710 in this example is located in the centre of the underband 130 in this example such that it sits between the first breast contacting surface 106 and the second breast contacting surface 108. This is not required in all examples and the electronics module holder may be located on a side or rear aspect of the underband 130.
  • Electronics module may refer to an electronic device that is typically removably coupled to the breast support garment such that it is retained by the breast support garment when worn.
  • the electronics module can be removed from the breast support garment so that the breast support garment can be washed without damaging the internal electronics of the electronics module.
  • the electronics module can also be removed from the breast support garment for charging.
  • the breast support garment 102 incorporates sensors to enable physiological monitoring to be performed. Instead, sensors of the electronics module may perform the physiological sensing.
  • FIG. 18 shows a simplified schematic diagram of an electronics module 1814 positioned in a pocket space 1710 formed between an inner fabric layer 1802 and an outer fabric layer 1806 of the underband 130.
  • Additional electronics components such as a processor, communicator, power source, motion sensor and temperature sensor may also be provided within the housing 1808 of the electronics module 1814.
  • the sensor 1804 may comprise an optical sensor.
  • the optical sensor may measure light in one or more of the infrared, visible, and ultraviolet spectrums.
  • the optical sensor may be a pulse oximeter.
  • the optical sensor may be arranged to measure the oxygen saturation of the wearer. Oxygen saturation is the fraction of oxygen -saturated haemoglobin relative to total haemoglobin (unsaturated + saturated) in the blood.
  • the optical sensor may be arranged to measure the capillary perfusion of the wearer.
  • a pulse oximeter may be useable to measure the capillary perfusion using a double-wavelength method.
  • the capillary perfusion can be derived from a variation in the detected signal strength.
  • the optical sensor may be arranged to measure the temperature of the wearer.
  • the sensor 1804 is not required to comprise an optical sensor in all examples.
  • the sensor is generally arranged to monitor a property of the environment external to the electronics module.
  • the property may be a property of the user wearing the breast support garment 102.
  • the sensor 1804 may comprise one or more of an altitude sensor, pressure sensor, temperature sensor, optical sensor, humidity sensor, presence sensor, and air quality sensor.
  • the presence sensor may for detecting a touch input from a user.
  • the presence sensor may comprise one or more of a capacitive sensor, inductive sensor, and ultrasonic sensor.
  • the sensor may comprise an infrared temperature sensor arranged to measure the skin surface temperature of a user wearing the breast support garment 102.
  • the temperature sensor may be an ambient temperature sensor.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Corsets Or Brassieres (AREA)
  • Details Of Garments (AREA)

Abstract

The garment (102), such as a breast support garment, comprises a front portion (104) arranged to cover at least part of the wearer. The front portion (104) may comprise breast contacting surfaces (106, 108). The garment (102) further comprises at least one support structure (114, 116, 118, 120) comprising a first zone (126) and a second zone (128). The at least one support structure (114, 116, 118, 120) comprises a base fabric (208, 210, 212) extending between the first zone (126) and the second zone (128) and at least one fabric ridge (202, 204, 206) coupled to the base fabric (208, 210, 212). The at least on fabric ridge (202, 204, 206) extends along at least part of the length of the base fabric (208, 210, 212) in the first zone (126). The first zone (126) comprises a greater concentration of fabric and is stiffer than the second zone (128).

Description

BREAST SUPPORT GARMENT AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME
BACKGROUND
[0001] The present invention relates generally to garments, and more particularly to breast support garments and in particular knitted breast support garments.
[0002] Garments formed from knitted fabric are desirable because of their ability to stretch and conform to the body of the wearer. However, it can be challenging to impart shaping and structure in knitted fabrics. This limits the effectiveness of knitted fabric garments in general and breast support garments in particular.
[0003] International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2018/203894 A1 discloses an uppertorso garment in the form of a bra that uses a tubular-jacquard knit structure. The tubular-jacquard knit structure is divided into a plurality of different zones which may include different versions of the tubular-jacquard knit structure.
[0004] International Patent Application Publication No. W02020/072236 A1 discloses an uppertorso garment in the form of a bra with dome-shaped knit breast covering portions that include a plurality of partial-length knit courses.
[0005] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved garment construction and method of manufacture.
SUMMARY
[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a garment and method of making the same as set forth in the appended independent claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the description which follows.
[0007] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a garment. The garment comprises a front portion arranged to cover at least part of the wearer; and at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone. The at least one support structure comprises a base fabric and at least one fabric ridge coupled to the base fabric. The at least one fabric ridge extends along at least part of the length of the base fabric in the first zone.
[0008] Advantageously, the support structure comprises at least one fabric ridge. The fabric ridge projects away from the base fabric to form a three-dimensional structure. Preferably, the fabric ridge projects away from an external surface of the base fabric that faces away from the wearer when the garment is worn. The fabric ridge helps to increase the concentration of fabric in the first zone such that fabric is locally stiff in the first zone. The increase stiffness in the first zone enables the first zone to have enhanced supportive properties. The level of stiffness can be controlled in part by varying the size or number of fabric ridges in the first zone to thereby vary the concentration of fabric in the first zone. The level of stiffness can also be controlled by varying the material properties of the fabric ridge, such that the type of yarn used, or by incorporating additional stiffening material in the vicinity of the fabric ridge. The fabric ridge can also provide a desired aesthetic effect for the garment. [0009] The at least one fabric ridge may have the effect of increased that concentration of fabric in the first zone. That is, the first zone may comprise a greater number of stitches per square centimetre than the second zone.
[0010] The at least one fabric ridge may comprise a plurality of fabric ridges. The number of ridges, the spacing between the ridges and the number of stitches in the ridges can be varied to affect the stitch concentration in the first zone and thus the stiffness properties of the fabric. The construction of the garment enables the stiffness of the fabric to be selectively controlled to provide the desired and localised supportive properties for the garment.
[0011] The plurality of fabric ridges may extend along at least part of the length of the base fabric between the first zone and the second zone. The plurality of fabric ridges may be more closely spaced together in the first zone than in the second zone.
[0012] Advantageously, as the fabric ridges are more closely spaced together in the first zone than in the second zone, the fabric is more concentrated in the first zone than in the second zone.
[0013] The fabric ridges may generally converge together in the first zone and diverge away from one another in the second zone. The rate of convergence/divergence can be adapted to vary how the stiffness varies across the garment.
[0014] An internal space may be formed between the at least one fabric ridge and the base fabric. A stiffening material may be located in the internal space.
[0015] Advantageously, the stiffening material may enhance the stiffness of the fabric in the location of the fabric ridges. The stiffening material may be a fusible yarn. The fusible yarn may be a low melt multifilament yarn. The fusible yarn may also be referred to as a thermoforming yarn. The fusible yarn is arranged to melt under the application of heat such as from steam and subsequently fuses as it cools to bond to the fabric and make the fabric locally stiffer. An example fusible yarn is the Grilon (RTM) thermoformable yarn. This can be used to enhance and selectively control the stiffness of the fabric.
[0016] The base fabric may comprise a first segment extending between the first zone and the second zone and a second segment extending between the first zone and the second zone. A first fabric ridge of the at least one fabric ridge may be provided between the first segment and the second segment.
[0017] The base fabric may comprise a third segment extending between the first zone and the second zone. A second fabric ridge of the at least one fabric ridge may be provided between the second segment and the third segment.
[0018] The base fabric may be a knitted fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses. The plurality of knit courses may comprise partial-length courses of different course lengths. The plurality of knit courses may be arranged such that wales of the second zone have a greater number of knit courses than the wales of the first zone.
[0019] The term “course” refers to a row of knit stitches produced by adjacent needles. A “full- length course” refers to a course that extends, in the course direction, across the full-length of the knitted fabric. It will be appreciated that a full-length course may not extend across the full-length of the garment. A “partial-length course” refers to a course that extends, in the course direction, across part of the length of the knitted fabric.
[0020] The term “wale” refers to a row of intermeshed or interlooped knitted loops generally produced by the same needle at successive (but not necessarily all) courses or knitting cycles.
[0021] Advantageously, the base fabric is a knitted base fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses having different course lengths. Some of the knit courses may be full-length knit courses extending the length of the knitted base fabric between the first and second zones while other knit courses are partial-length knit courses extending across part of the length of the knitted base fabric between the first and second zones. By varying the number, length and arrangement of the full and partial-length courses, the size and shape of the base fabric is able to be varied as desired.
[0022] Advantageously, the knitted base fabric is knitted such that the wales of the first zone comprise fewer knit courses than the wales of the second zone. This has the effect that the first zone is narrower and has less fabric than the second zone. This can be used to provide enhanced support, comfort and shaping for the wearer.
[0023] The garment may be a breast support garment. The front portion may comprise a first breast contacting surface and a second breast contacting surface provided either side of a midline of the breast support garment.
[0024] The base fabric and plurality of fabric ridges form a support structure of a breast support garment. The support structure has a first zone which is stiffer than the second zone due to the greater concentration of fabric. This means that the first zone is able to provide enhanced support for the wearer.
[0025] The first zone of the base fabric may be arranged closer to the midline of the breast support garment than the second zone. Advantageously, this means that the support structure is stiffer closer to the breast of the wearer so as to provide enhanced support for the wearer.
[0026] The at least one support structure may comprise a sling that extends below and/or to the side of one of the breast contacting surfaces.
[0027] The at least one support structure may comprise a first sling and a second sling, wherein the first sling extends below and/or to the side of the first breast contacting surface, and wherein the second sling extends below and/or to the side of the second breast contacting surface.
[0028] The at least one support structure may comprise an upper panel located above one of the breast contacting surfaces. The upper panel may be referred to as an upper bounce panel.
[0029] The at least one support structure may comprise a first upper panel provided above the first breast contacting surface and a second upper panel provided above the second breast contacting surface.
[0030] The breast support garment may further comprise a centre-front bridge provided between the first and second breast contacting surfaces.
[0031] The breast support garment may further comprise a rear portion.
[0032] The breast support garment may further comprise at least one first shoulder strap. [0033] The breast support garment may further comprise an underband.
[0034] The underband may comprise a knitted fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses. The plurality of knit courses may comprise a plurality of knit courses extending across the length of the knitted fabric and a plurality of knit courses extending along part of the length of the knitted fabric. The plurality of knit courses may be arranged such that a lower margin of the underband is contoured.
[0035] Advantageously, the underband is contoured which can provide both a desired visual appearance of the breast support garment and also provide enhanced support and comfort for the breast support garment. The contoured property of the underband is achieved through the use of knitting techniques which simplifies manufacture and avoids fabric waste associated with cutting fabric to form a desired contoured shape.
[0036] The lower margin of the underband may comprise a peak aligned with the midline of the breast support garment.
[0037] The lower margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the first breast contacting surface.
[0038] The lower margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the second breast contacting surface.
[0039] The plurality of knit courses may be arranged such that an upper margin of the underband is contoured.
[0040] The upper margin of the underband may comprise a peak aligned with the midline of the breast support garment.
[0041] The upper margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the first breast contacting surface.
[0042] The upper margin of the underband comprises a valley located below the second breast contacting surface.
[0043] The first breast contacting surface and/or second breast contacting surface may comprise a knitted fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses.
[0044] The plurality of knit courses may comprise one or more medial-most knit stitches arranged in a medial wale and one or more lateral-most stitches arranged in a lateral wale. The first breast contacting surface may comprise a lower region, an upper region, and a central region provided between the lower region and the upper region. The lower region and upper region comprise a plurality of knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale and the lateral wale. The central region comprises a plurality of knit courses that extending along the length of the knitted fabric from the medial wale to the lateral wale.
[0045] Advantageously, the use of knit courses of different course lengths can be used to provide the desired shape and volume of the breast contacting surface.
[0046] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of manufacturing a garment. The method comprises forming a front portion arranged to cover at least part of the wearer. The method comprises forming at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone, the at least one support structure comprising: a base fabric extending between the first zone and the second zone, and at least one fabric ridge coupled to the base fabric, wherein the at least one fabric ridge extends along at least part of the length of the base fabric in the first zone.
[0047] Forming the at least one support structure may comprise knitting a plurality of courses of yarn to form the base fabric.
[0048] Forming the plurality of fabric ridges may comprise knitting a plurality of courses of yarn to form the at least one fabric ridge.
[0049] The garment manufactured according to the method of the second aspect of the disclosure may comprise any of the features of the garment of the first aspect of the disclosure.
[0050] According to a third aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a breast support garment comprising a first breast contacting surface and a second breast contacting surface provided either side of a midline of the breast support garment, at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone, the at least one support structure comprising a base fabric extending between the first zone and the second zone, wherein the first zone is arranged closer to the midline of the breast support garment than the second zone, and wherein the number of stitches per square centimetre in the first zone is greater than in the second zone.
[0051] The support structure may further comprise at least one fabric ridge coupled to the base fabric. The at least one fabric ridge extends along at least part of the length of the base fabric in the first zone.
[0052] The breast support garment of the third aspect of the disclosure may comprise any of the features of the garment of the first aspect of the disclosure.
[0053] According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of manufacturing a breast support garment. The method comprising forming a first breast contacting surface and a second breast contacting surface provided either side of a midline of the breast support garment. The method comprising forming at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone. The at least one support structure comprising a base fabric extending between the first zone and the second zone, wherein the first zone is arranged closer to the midline of the breast support garment than the second zone, and wherein the number of stitches per square centimetre in the first zone is greater than in the second zone.
[0054] The breast support garment manufactured according to the method of the fourth aspect of the disclosure may comprise any of the features of the breast support garment of the third aspect of the disclosure.
[0055] According to a fifth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a breast support garment. The breast support garment comprising a first breast contacting surface and a second breast contacting surface provided either side of a midline of the breast support garment. The breast support garment comprising at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone, the at least one support structure comprising a knitted base fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses extending the length of the knitted fabric between a first zone and a second zone of the knitted base fabric, and a plurality of knit courses extending along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the first zone and the second zone, wherein the first zone is arranged closer to the midline of the breast support garment than the second zone.
[0056] Advantageously, the breast support garment comprises a support structure. The support structure comprises a knitted base fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses having different courses. Some of the knit courses are full-length knit courses extending the length of the knitted base fabric between the first zone and the second zone while other knit courses are partial -length knit courses extending across part of the length of the knitted base fabric between the first zone and the second zone. By varying the number, length and arrangement of the full and partial-length courses, the size and shape of the support structure is able to be varied as desired.
[0057] The knit courses may be arranged such that the wales of the second zone comprise a greater number of knit courses than the wales of the first zone.
[0058] Advantageously, the knitted base fabric is knitted such that the wales of the first zone comprise fewer knit courses than the wales of the second zone. This has the effect that the first zone, arranged closer to the midline of the breast support garment, is narrower and has less fabric than the second zone. The provides enhanced support, comfort and shaping for the wearer.
[0059] The breast support garment of the fifth aspect of the disclosure may comprise any of the features of the garment of the first aspect of the disclosure.
[0060] According to a sixth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of manufacturing a breast support garment, the method comprising: forming a first breast contacting surface and a second breast contacting surface provided either side of a midline of the breast support garment; forming at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone, the forming comprising knitting a plurality of knit courses extending the length of the knitted fabric between a first zone and a second zone of the knitted base fabric, and a plurality of knit courses extending along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the first zone and the second zone to form a knitted base fabric, wherein the first zone is arranged closer to the midline of the breast support garment than the second zone.
[0061] The knit courses may be arranged such that the wales of the second zone comprise a greater number of knit courses than the wales of the first zone.
[0062] The breast support garment manufactured according to the method of the sixth aspect of the disclosure may comprise any of the features of the breast support garment of the fifth aspect of the disclosure.
[0063] According to a seventh aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a band comprising a knitted fabric. The knitted fabric comprises a plurality of knit courses, the plurality of knit courses comprising a plurality of knit courses extending across the length of the knitted fabric and a plurality of knit courses extending along part of the length of the knitted fabric, wherein the plurality of knit courses are arranged such that a lower margin of the knitted fabric is contoured. [0064] The band may be an underband of a breast support garment. The breast support garment may further comprise a first breast contacting surface and a second breast contacting surface provided either side of a midline of the breast support garment. The underband may be provided below the first and second breast contacting surfaces.
[0065] The lower margin of the underband may comprise a peak aligned with the midline of the breast support garment.
[0066] The lower margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the first breast contacting surface.
[0067] The lower margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the second breast contacting surface.
[0068] The plurality of knit courses may be arranged such that an upper margin of the underband is contoured.
[0069] The upper margin of the underband may comprise a peak aligned with the midline of the breast support garment.
[0070] The upper margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the first breast contacting surface.
[0071] The upper margin of the underband may comprise a valley located below the second breast contacting surface.
[0072] The band may be a chest band and may be part of a chest strap.
[0073] According to an eighth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of manufacturing a band, the method comprising forming a knitted fabric, the knitted fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses, the plurality of knit courses comprising a plurality of knit courses extending across the length of the knitted fabric and a plurality of knit courses extending along part of the length of the knitted fabric, wherein the plurality of knit courses are arranged such that a lower margin of the knitted fabric is contoured.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0074] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.
[0075] FIG. 1 shows a front view of an example breast support garment according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[0076] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of F IG. 1 .
[0077] FIG. 3 shows a sectional view through a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1.
[0078] FIG. 4 shows a sectional view through a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1.
[0079] FIG. 5 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of F IG. 1 . [0080] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C show example knitting sequences for forming a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0081] FIGS. 7 A, 7B, and 7C show example knitting sequences for forming a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0082] FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C show example knitting sequences for forming a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0083] FIG. 9 illustrates an example knitting sequence for forming part of a support structure of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0084] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0085] FIG. 11 show example knitting sequences for forming a breast contacting surface of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0086] FIG. 12 shows a detailed view of part of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0087] FIG. 13 show example knitting sequences for forming an underband of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0088] FIG. 14 shows a simplified illustration of the knit courses in the underband of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0089] FIG. 15 shows a rear view of the breast support garment of FIG. 1 .
[0090] FIG. 16 is a flow diagram showing an example process of knitting a breast support garment according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[0091] FIG. 17 shows an example band according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[0092] FIG. 18 shows a sectional view of an example band according to aspects of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0093] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness. [0094] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [0095] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0096] The present disclosure relates generally to a garment. In particular examples as shown primarily in the drawings, the garment is in the form of a breast support garment. The term “breast support garment” refers to a garment design to support and cover the breasts of the wearer. The “breast support garment” may be a bra also known as a brassiere. Bras are typically used as undergarments but may be provided as or incorporated into outerwear. Bras may be built into garments such as swimsuits, camisoles, and dresses and in particular backless dresses.
[0097] The present disclosure is not limited to breast support garments and the advantageous support structure arrangement can be used in other garment constructions such as tops (e.g., shirts, t-shirts, tanks, vests, singlets), leggings, trousers, shorts, and underwear. The support structure is particularly advantageous for applications where support is desired and is thus ideally suited for athletic clothing.
[0098] The garments as described below are preferably comprise knitted fabric and may be integrally knit. Knitting can refer to weft knitting or warp knitting. In preferred examples, weft knitting is used. In some examples, the knitted fabric may be formed using a V-bed flat knitting machine.
[0099] A V-bed knitting machine comprises a front needle bed and a back needle bed. The front needle bed and back needle bed diagonally approach one another at an angle generally between 90 degrees and 104 degrees to each other, giving an inverted V-shape appearance. The front needle bed and back needle bed each comprise a large number of needles. The needles are typically latch needles. Each needle is able to create and manipulate individual stitches.
[0100] The number of needles per inch is referred to as the gauge of the knitting machine. Typically, knitting machines have a gauge of between 7 and 20.
[0101] The needles are controlled by a needle cam that traverses across the needle beds in both left-to-right and right-to-left directions. The needle cam is designed to knit a course of loops on one or both the front needle bed and the back needle bed during a traverse in either the left or the right direction.
[0102] Yarn is fed to the needle beds by one or more yarn carriers. Multiple yarn carriers are typically used to allow for a variety of yarns to be introduced into the fabric article at desired locations.
[0103] Example knitted fabrics as described in the present disclosure comprise knitted loops selectively formed using the front needle bed, back needle bed, or both the front and back needle bed. Other knit stitches, such as tuck stitches, may be additionally used in the construction of the knitted fabric. Tuck stitches are produced when a needle holding an existing loop also receives a new loop which rather than being intermeshed through the existing loop is tucked in behind the existing loop on the reverse side of the stitch.
[0104] FIG. 1 shows a breast support garment 102 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The breast support garment 102 is a garment used to support breast tissue and in this example is in the form of a bra, and in particular in the style of a sports bra. The breast support garment 102 may be worn in other applications besides sports or other fitness activities.
[0105] The breast support garment 102 comprises a front portion 104. The front portion 104 covers at least part of the front torso of the wearer.
[0106] The front portion 104 comprises a first breast contacting surface 106, a second breast contacting surface 108, and a plurality of support structures 114, 116, 118, 120. The breast support garment 102 further comprises a first shoulder strap 122 and a second shoulder strap 124. The front portion 104 may be integrally formed such as by knitting to form an integral knit structure.
[0107] The breast contacting surfaces 106, 108 are smaller than the overall front portion 104 which covers the wearer's chest. The breast contacting surfaces 106, 108 are designed to contact and cover some or all of the wearer's breasts. Typically, the breast contacting surfaces 106, 108 cover the majority of the wearer's breasts.
[0108] The breast contacting surfaces 106, 108 may be structured to support the bust of the wearer. In this example, the first breast contacting surfaces 106, 108 are in the form of bra cups. The bra cups may be moulded. The bra cups may comprise foam pads that may also be removable.
[0109] The first breast contacting surface 106 and second breast contacting surface 108 are provided either side of a midline 110 of the breast support garment 102. A centre-front bridge 112 is provided between the first breast contacting surfaces 106, 108. The centre-front bridge 112 may be formed from a knitted mesh fabric.
[0110] The support structures 114, 116, 118, 120 generally provide shaping, lift and support. The support structures 114, 116, 118, 120 comprises a first sling 114, second sling 116, first upper bounce panel 118, and second upper bounce panel 120. Not all of the support structures 114, 116, 118, 120 as shown in FIG. 1 are required in all examples. For example, the first sling 114 and second sling 116 may be provided without the upper bounce panels 118, 120.
[0111] The first sling 114 and second sling 116 are separated by the centre-front bridge 112 in this example. In other examples, the first sling 114 may be joined to the second sling 116.
[0112] The first shoulder strap 122 is joined to the first upper bounce panel 118 and centre-front bridge 112. The second shoulder strap 124 is joined to the second upper bounce panel 120 and centre-front bridge 112. The first shoulder strap 122 and second shoulder strap 124 define a neck opening for the breast support garment 102.
[0113] The breast support garment 102 further comprises an underband 130 that extends below the first sling 114 and second sling 116 and is connected to the first sling 114 and second sling 116.
[0114] The first sling 114 comprises a first zone 126 that extends below the first breast contacting surface 106 and a second zone 128 that extends to the side of the first breast contacting surface 106. The first zone 126 is provided closer to the midline 110 than the second zone 128. The first breast contacting surface 106 contacts the right breast of the wearer when worn, and the second zone 128 extends to the right of the first breast contacting surface 106. The first sling 114 provides lift and support to the breast.
[0115] The first sling 114 is not required to extend below and to the side of the first breast contacting surface 106 in all examples. The first sling 114 may extend only below the first breast contacting surface 106 or may extend only to the side of the first breast contacting surface 106.
[0116] The first sling 114 comprises a knitted fabric extending from the first zone 126 to the second zone 128. The knitted fabric is referred to as a knitted base fabric.
[0117] The knitted base fabric comprises a plurality of knit courses which include a plurality of knit stitches. The knitted base fabric may be a double-knit fabric having an external facing knit layer (facing away from the wearer), and internal facing knit layer (facing towards the wearer), and a binder yarn that connects the external facing knit layer to the internal facing knit layer. This may be referred to as a spacer fabric structure. A spacer fabric structure is not required, and other knit structures may be used for forming the knitted base fabric.
[0118] The first zone 126 comprises one or more medial-most knit stitches arranged in a medial wale 216 (FIG. 2). The second zone 128 comprises one or more lateral-most knit stitches arranged In a lateral wale 218 (FIG. 2).
[0119] The knit courses comprise a plurality of knit courses extending the full length of the knitted base fabric between the medial wale 216 and the lateral wale 218. These knit courses may be referred to as full-length courses. It will be appreciated that full-length refers to the length of the knitted fabric of the first sling 114 rather than the overall course length of the breast support garment 102. The knit courses may extend the full-length of the breast support garment 102 or part of the length of the breast support garment 102.
[0120] The knit courses comprise a plurality of knit courses extending along part of the length of the knitted base fabric between the medial wale 216 and the lateral wale 218. These knit courses do not extend the full length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 216 and the lateral wale 218, but instead only along part of the length. These knit courses may be referred to as partial-length courses.
[0121] The use of a combination of full-length and partial-length courses allows for the first sling 114 to form a desired shape to accommodate for a particular body shape, bust size, and/or wearer preference.
[0122] The knitted base fabric is knitted such that the wales of the first zone 126 comprise fewer knit courses than the wales of the second zone 128. This has the effect that the first zone 126 is narrower than the second zone 128. The first sling 114 generally increases in width from the first zone 126 to the second zone 128. In other words, the number of knit courses per wale generally increases from the first zone 126 to the second zone 128. There is a greater amount of fabric in the second zone 128 than the first zone 126. The increased amount of fabric in the second zone 128 of the first sling 114 provides enhanced comfort and shaping for the wearer.
[0123] The knitted base fabric forms a plurality of segments 208, 210, 212, 214 (FIG. 2). The courses per wale of the different segments 208, 210, 212, 214 can be varied to provide the desired shaping for the first sling 114. This can be used to vary the coverage, comfort and support for the breast support garment 102. The knitted fabric structure is adaptable to accommodate for different body shapes, bust sizes and wearer preferences. This provides a simplified method of manufacturing a wide variety of different sized breast support garments 102 without using conventional labour intensive methods such as cutting and sewing. Instead, the desired first sling 114 can be knit in one piece. This also avoids generating fabric waste.
[0124] The first sling 114 further comprises fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 (FIG. 2) that project away from the knitted base fabric. The segments 208, 210, 212, 214 are provided between the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206. The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 extend in the course direction. The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 may extend along the full-length of the knitted base fabric between the medial wale 216 and the lateral wale 218 as shown in FIG. 2 or may extend along part of the length of the knitted base fabric. In some examples, the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 may only be provided in the first zone 126 to provide under-bust support in a manner similar to an underwire.
[0125] As the number of courses per wale generally decreases from the second zone 128 to the first zone 126, the spacing between the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 generally decreases from the second zone 128 to the first zone 126. The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 generally converge towards one another in the first zone 126 and generally diverge away from one another in the second zone 128. Here, reference to ‘‘generally decrease", “generally converge" and “generally diverge" reflects that the number of courses per wale is not required to continuously decrease from the second zone 128 to the first zone 126. Instead, only a general trend of decreasing courses per wale from the second zone 128 to the first zone 126 may be provided.
[0126] The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 are concentrated together and closely spaced in the first zone 126. This means that there is a greater concentration of fabric in the first zone 126 as compared to the second zone 128. This means that the number of stitches per square centimetre in the first zone is greater than the number of stitches per square centimetre in the second zone.
[0127] The number of stitches per square centimetre can be determined by calculating the number of courses in one centimetre of the knitted fabric and the number of wales in one centimetre of the knitted fabric and multiplying the number of courses by the number of wales.
[0128] The greater concentration of fabric means that the fabric in the first zone 126 is stiffer and more supportive. The fabric in the first zone 126 is able to provide the effect of an underwire below the first breast contacting surface 106 without requiring an underwire to be incorporated into the breast support garment 102.
[0129] It should be noted that the second zone 128 comprises a greater number of wales than the first zone 126 which means that the second zone 128 is wider (in the wale direction) and provides more material to cover the wearer. Meanwhile, the first zone comprises a greater number of stitches per square centimetre meaning that while the first zone is narrower (in the wale direction) the knitted stitches are more concentrated resulting in the first zone 126 being stiffer and more supportive. The greater concentration of fabric in the first zone 126 is achieved by the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206. Because the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 project away from the knitted fabric, they provide additional knitted stitches without substantially increasing the width (in the wale direction) of the knitted fabric.
[0130] The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 comprise yarn and are preferably knitted to form a knitted fabric. Some or all of the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 may be integrally knitted with the knitted base fabric that forms the segments 208, 210, 212, 214. Some or all of the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 may be formed from the same yarn as the segments 208, 210, 212, 214. Some or all of the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 may comprise different yarn to the segments 208, 210, 212, 214.
[0131] The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 are three-dimensional and project away from the base knitted fabric. The ridges can be used to create a stylised effect for the breast support garment 102 to provide a desired visual appearance while improving the support, fit and comfort of the breast support garment 102. The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 project away from the external surface of the knitted base fabric that faces away from the wearer when worn.
[0132] The knitted fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 may comprise a plurality of knit courses where first and last courses are connected to the knitted base fabric and the intermediate courses between the first and last courses are unconnected to the knitted base fabric. This forms a hollow ridge through as explained in reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. The knitted fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 can be formed by selectively knitting using one needle bed as explained in greater detailed below.
[0133] FIG. 3 shows a sectional view through the first sling 114. The first sling 114 comprises a knitted base fabric and fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 that project away from the knitted base fabric. [0134] An internal space 302, 304, 306 is defined between each of the fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 and the knitted base fabric.
[0135] FIG. 4 shows a sectional view of another example first sling 114. In this example, fusible yarn 402, 404, 406 is deposited in the internal spaces 302, 304, 306. The fusible yarn may be a low melt multifilament yarn. The fusible yarn may also be referred to as a thermoforming yarn. The fusible yarn is arranged to melt under the application of heat such as from steam and subsequently fuses as it cools to bond to the fabric and make the fabric locally stiffer. An example fusible yarn is the Grilon (RTM) thermoformable yarn. This can be used to enhance and selectively control the stiffness of the fabric.
[0136] The second sling 116 is the mirror image of the first sling 114.
[0137] The first upper bounce panel 118 (FIG. 5) generally extends from the first shoulder strap 122 along the upper edge of the first breast contacting surface 106 to join to the first zone 126 and second zone 128 of the first sling 114. The first upper bounce panel 118 helps reduce movement of the wearer's breasts during activities such as running.
[0138] The first upper bounce panel 118 comprises a first zone 502 and a second zone 504. The first upper bounce panel 118 comprises a knitted base fabric that extends from the first zone 502 to the second zone 504. The first zone 502 is provided closer to the midline 110 than the second zone 504. The first zone 502 joins to the first zone 126 of the first sling 114. The second zone 504 joins to the side portion 520 of the first sling 114. [0139] The fabric is knitted such that the wales of the first zone 502 comprise fewer knit courses than the wales of the second zone 504. This has the effect that the first zone 502 is narrower than the second zone 504. The first upper bounce panel 118 generally increases in width from the first zone 502 to the second zone 504. In other words, the number of knit courses per wale generally increases from the first zone 502 to the second zone 504.
[0140] The knitted base fabric forms a plurality of segments 506, 508, 510. The courses per wale of the different segments 506, 508, 510 can be varied to provide the desired shaping for the first upper bounce panel 118. This can be used to vary the coverage, comfort and support for the breast support garment 102. The knitted fabric structure is adaptable to accommodate for different body shapes, bust sizes and wearer preferences. This provides a simplified method of manufacturing a wide variety of different sized breast support garments 102 without using conventional labour intensive methods such as cutting and sewing. Instead, the desired first upper bounce panel 118 can be knit in one piece. This also avoids generating fabric waste.
[0141] The first upper bounce panel 118 further comprises fabric ridges 512, 514, 516, 518. The segments 506, 508, 510 are provided between the fabric ridge 512, 514, 516, 518. The fabric ridges 512, 514, 516, 518 extend along the length of the first upper bounce panel 118 between the first zone 502 and the second zone 504.
[0142] As the number of courses per wale generally decreases from the second zone 504 to the first zone 502, the spacing between the fabric ridges 512, 514, 516, 518 generally decreases from the second zone 504 to the first zone 502. The fabric ridges 512, 514, 516, 518 generally converge towards one another in the first zone 502 and generally diverge away from one another in the second zone 504.
[0143] The fabric ridges 202, 204, 206 are concentrated together and closely spaced in the first zone 502. This means that there is a greater concentration of fabric in the first zone 502 as compared to the second zone 504. This greater concentration of fabric means that the fabric in the first zone 502 is stiffer and more supportive.
[0144] The fabric ridges 512, 514, 516, 518 are constructed in the same way as the fabric ridge 202, 204, 206 (FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4) of the first sling 114 as described above.
[0145] The fabric ridges 512, 514, 516, 518 are three-dimensional and project away from the base knitted fabric. The ridges can be used to create a stylised effect for the breast support garment 102 to provide a desired visual appearance while improving the support, fit and comfort of the breast support garment 102.
[0146] The second upper bounce panel 120 is the mirror image of the first upper bounce panel 118.
[0147] FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C show an example knitting process to form a support structure 114, 116, 118, 120 according to aspects of the present disclosure. In this example, the support structure comprises a knitted base fabric that comprises three segments 602, 604, 606, and two fabric ridges 608, 610. The number of segments and fabric ridges can be varied as appropriate by the skilled person to form the desired support structure. [0148] The diagram of FIG. 6A is read from bottom to top such that the segment 602 is formed first and the segment 606 is formed last.
[0149] The segment 602 is formed by knitting a plurality (six in this example) of knit sequences 612, 614, 616, 618, 620, 622. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 6B and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632. The course of tuck stitches connects the yarn knitted on the front needle bed to the yarn on the back needle bed to form a spacer fabric structure.
[0150] The first knit sequence 612 extends along the full course length of the knitted fabric from the wale 634 to the wale 636. This is referred to as a full-length course. The other knit sequences 614, 616, 618, 620, 622 extend along part of the course length of the support structure and are referred to as partial-length courses. The course length decreases with each sequence. The needles which were instructed to knit with yarn during a previous knit sequence, but are not instructed to knit yarn during the current knit sequence, hold their yarn loop(s). This technique is referred to as Flechage, Gore or short-row knitting. Decreasing the course length has the effect of varying the number of courses per wale such that the wales of the first zone 642 comprise fewer courses than the wales of the second zone 640. As shown in this example, the segment 602 comprises six courses in the wale 636 and one course in the wale 634.
[0151] The fabric ridge 608 is formed by knitting a plurality (two in this example) of knit sequences 624, 626. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 6C and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed only 638. The knit sequences 624, 626 are full-length courses such that the fabric ridge 608 extends along the full-length of the support structure although this is not required in all examples. Knitting on one needle bed only (the front needle bed in this example) causes a raised fabric ridge to be formed which projects away from the segments.
[0152] In more detail, the fabric ridge 608 comprises a plurality of knit courses, a first of the knit courses is interlooped with a knit course of the segment 602 while the remaining knit courses of the fabric ridge 608 are not interloped with the segment 602 and an excess of fabric is built up. When the knitting of the segment 604 commences, both needle beds are used for knitting which causes the last course of the fabric ridge 608 to be attached to the segment 604. The fabric ridge 608 therefore has a first knit course attached to the knitted base fabric, a last knit course attached to the knitted base fabric and one or more intermediate knitted courses between the first knitted course and the last knitted course which are not attached to the knitted base fabric. Given that the courses of the fabric ridge are formed using the front needle bed only, there is a greater number of courses formed on the front layer of the fabric as compared to the back layer of the fabric (knit using the back needle bed). This causes the fabric ridge 608 to project away from the base fabric. [0153] The segments 604, 606 are formed using the same techniques as the segment 602. The number of knit sequences and the trend in decreasing of course length can be varied to provide the desired shape of the segments 604, 606. The fabric ridge 610 is formed using the same technique as the fabric ridge 608. The number of knit sequences and/or the type of yarn can be varied to provide the desired rigidity. The fabric ridge 610 may not extend along the full courselength of the support structure, if desired, to change the properties of the support structure.
[0154] FIG. 7 A, FIG. 7B and FIG. 7C show another example knitting process to form a support structure 114, 116, 118, 120 according to aspects of the present disclosure. In this example, the support structure comprises three segments 702, 704, 706 and two fabric ridges 708, 710. The number of segments and fabric ridge can be varied as appropriate by the skilled person to form the desired support structure.
[0155] The diagram of FIG. 7A is read from bottom to top such that the segment 702 is formed first and the segment 706 is formed last.
[0156] The segment 702 is formed by knitting a plurality (six in this example) of knit sequences 712, 714, 716, 718, 720, 722. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 7B and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632.
[0157] In this example, the course length of the knit sequences 712, 714, 716, 718, 720, 722 progressively increase rather than decrease as per the example of FIG. 6A. The first knit sequence 712 has the shortest course-length and the last knit sequence 722 extends the full-course length. This knit process achieves the same effect of varying the number of courses per wale from the first zone 728 to the second zone 730 such that the wales of the first zone 728 comprise fewer courses than the wales of the second zone 730.
[0158] The fabric ridge 708 is formed by knitting a plurality (two in this example) of knit sequences 724, 726. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 7C and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed only 638. The knit sequences 724, 726 are full-length courses such that the fabric ridge 708 extends along the full-length of the support structure. Knitting on one needle bed only (the front needle bed in this example) causes a raised fabric ridge to be formed which projects away from the segments.
[0159] The segments 704, 706 are formed using the same techniques as the segment 702. The number of knit sequences and the trend in increasing of course length can be varied to provide the desired shape of the segments 704, 706. The fabric ridge 710 is formed using the same technique as the fabric ridge 708. The number of knit sequences and/or the type of yarn can be varied to provide the desired rigidity. The fabric ridge 710 may not extend along the full course - length of the support structure, if desired, to change the properties of the support structure.
[0160] FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B and FIG. 8C show another example knitting process to form a support structure 114, 116, 118, 120 according to aspects of the present disclosure. In this example, the support structure comprises three segments 802, 804, 806 and two fabric ridges 808, 810. The number of segments and fabric ridges can be varied as appropriate by the skilled person to form the desired support structure. [0161] The diagram of FIG. 8A is read from bottom to top such that the segment 802 is formed first and the segment 806 is formed last.
[0162] The segment 802 is formed by knitting a plurality (six in this example) of knit sequences 812, 814, 816, 818, 820, 822. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 8B and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632.
[0163] In this example, the course length of the knit sequences 812, 814, 816, 818, 820, 822 generally decreases rather than continuously decreases as per the example of FIG. 6A. This knit process achieves the same effect of varying the number of courses per wale from the first zone 828 to the second zone 830 such that the wales of the first zone 828 comprise fewer courses than the wales of the second zone 830.
[0164] The fabric ridge 808 is formed by knitting a plurality (two in this example) of knit sequences 824, 826. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 8C and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed only 638. The knit sequences 824, 826 are full-length courses such that the fabric ridge 708 extends along the full-length of the support structure. Knitting on one needle bed only (the front needle bed in this example) causes a raised fabric ridge to be formed which projects away from the segments.
[0165] The segments 804, 806 are formed using the same techniques as the segment 702. The number of knit sequences and the trend in decreasing of course length can be varied to provide the desired shape of the segments 804, 806. The fabric ridge 810 is formed using the same technique as the fabric ridge 808. The number of knit sequences and/or the type of yarn can be varied to provide the desired rigidity. The fabric ridge 810 may not extend along the full course - length of the support structure, if desired, to change the properties of the support structure.
[0166] FIG. 9 is a knitting notation diagram providing more details of example knitting techniques for forming the support structure 114, 116, 118, 120. The diagram of FIG. 9 is read from bottom to top such that step 902 is performed first and step 930 is performed last.
[0167] Steps 902, 904, 906 form a first of the knit structures of one of the segments. Step 902 involves knitting a course of yarn on the back needle bed. Step 904 involves knitting yarn using a series of tuck stitches on the front and back needle bed. Step 906 involves knitting a course of yarn on the front needle bed. This forms a spacer fabric structure where the knitted loops formed on the back needle bed are connected to the knitted loops formed on the front needle bed by the tuck stitches. The courses in steps 902, 904, 906 are full-length knit courses.
[0168] Steps 908, 910, 912 form a second knit structure of one of the segments. The same spacer fabric structure is used as per steps 902, 904, and 906. The courses in steps 908, 910, 912 are partial-length knit courses.
[0169] Steps 914, 916, 918 form a third knit structure of one of the segments. The same spacer fabric structure is used as per steps 902, 904, and 906. The courses in steps 908, 910, 912 are partial-length knit courses and have a reduced length as compared to the partial-length courses knit in steps 908, 910 and 912.
[0170] Steps 920, 922, 924 involve knitting a full-length courses of yarn on the front needle bed only. This forms a raised fabric ridge that projects from the base fabric of the support structure.
[0171] Steps 926, 928, 930 form a first of the knit structure of the next knit segment.
[0172] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the first breast contacting surface 106 of the breast support garment 102 of FIG. 1. The first breast contacting surface 106 is knitted in this example and can be integrally knitted with the first sling 114. The first breast contacting surface 106 may be knitted using the same spacer fabric structure as the first sling 114.
[0173] The first breast contacting surface 106 may form a dome-shape.
[0174] The first breast contacting surface 106 comprises a plurality of knit courses including a plurality of knit stitches. The plurality of knit courses include one or more medial-most knit stitches arranged in a medial wale 1008 and one or more lateral-most stitches arranged in a lateral wale 1010. The medial wale 1008 is closer to the midline of the breast support garment 102 than the lateral wale 1010. The medial wale 1008 and lateral wale 1010 define opposing ends of the first breast contacting surface 106.
[0175] The first breast contacting surface 106 comprises a lower region 1002 and upper region 1004 and a central region 1006 provided between the lower region 1002 and the upper region 1004.
[0176] The lower region 1002 comprises a plurality of partial-length knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010.
[0177] The upper region 1004 comprises a plurality of partial-length knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010.
[0178] The central region 1006 comprises a plurality of knit courses that extend along the (full) length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010. The courses of the central region may be referred to as full-length courses.
[0179] The partial-length knit courses in the lower region 1002 and upper region 1004 comprise courses of different partial lengths.
[0180] The number of knit courses in the lower region 1002, upper region 1004 and central region 1006 and the length of the knit courses can be varied to provide the desired shape and volume of the first breast contacting surface 106. This enables the first breast contacting surface 106 to have the desired shape and volume for accommodating the breast of the wearer.
[0181] The second breast contacting surface 108 may also be knitted and can be integrally knitted with the second sling 116. The second breast contacting surface 108 may be the mirror image of the first breast contacting surface 106. [0182] FIG. 11 shows an example method of knitting the first breast contacting surface 106 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The knitting process follows on from knitting the first sling 114 and the second sling 116.
[0183] The lower region 1002 is formed by knitting a plurality (eight in this example) of knit sequences 1102, 1104, 1106, 1108, 1110, 1112, 1114 and 1116. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 6A and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632.
[0184] The knit sequences 1102, 1104, 1106, 1108, 1110, 1112, 1114 and 1116 are partiallength knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010. In this example, the course length of the knit sequences 1102, 1104, 1106, 1108, 1110, 1112, 1114 and 1116 follow an increasing trend to provide the desired shape of the lower region 1002.
[0185] The final knit sequence 1118 of the lower region 1002 extends across to the location of the second breast contacting surface 108 so that the lower region of the second breast contacting surface can be formed as shown by the dashed boxes in FIG. 11 .
[0186] After forming the lower region 1002, the central region 1006 is formed by knitting a plurality of knit sequences 1120. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 6A and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632.
[0187] In this example, the course length of the knit sequences 1120 are full-length knit courses that extend across the length of the knitted fabric from the medial wale 1008 to the lateral wale 1010. The number of knit sequences in the plurality of knit sequences 1120 is selected according to the desired shape and volume of the first breast contacting surface 106.
[0188] After forming the central region 1006, the upper region 1004 is formed by knitting a plurality (eleven in this example) of knit sequences 1122, 1124, 1126, 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, 1142. Each of the knit sequences have the structure as shown in FIG. 6A and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632. [0189] The knit sequences 1122, 1124, 1126, 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, 1142 are partial-length knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale 1008 and the lateral wale 1010.
[0190] The knit sequence shown in FIG. 11 enables the first breast contacting surface 106 and second breast contacting surface 108 to be knit together. The courses of the central region 1006 extends from the lateral wale 1010 of the first breast contacting surface 106 to the lateral wale 1144 of the second breast contacting surface 108.
[0191] FIG. 12 shows a detailed view of the underband 130 of the breast support garment 102 of FIG. 1 . The underband 130 comprises an upper margin 1202 that connects to the first sling 114 and second sling 116 and a lower margin 1204 which defines the lower margin of the breast support garment 102.
[0192] The upper margin 1202 and lower margin 1204 are contoured such that the underband 130 has an undulating profile. This contrasts with underbands of existing sports bras which have margins that extend linearly along the horizontal axis. The underband 130 has margins 1202, 1204 that extend along both the horizontal (X-axis in FIG. 12) and vertical (Y-axis in FIG. 12). The contouring of the underband 130 can be used to provide a desired visual effect for the breast support garment 102. In addition, the contouring of the underband 130 allows the underband 130 to better follow the shape of the wearer which provide improved comfort.
[0193] For example, the underband 130 shown in FIG. 12 follows the contours of the wearer's bust. The upper margin 1202 and lower margin 1204 form peaks 1206, 1208 that intersect the midline 110 of the breast support garment 102. The upper margin 1202 and lower margin 1204 form valleys 1210, 1212 underneath the first breast contacting surface 106 and valleys 1214, 1216 underneath the second breast contacting surface 108.
[0194] The underband 130 comprises knitted fabric. The contoured profile is achieved through the use of knitting techniques which advantageously avoids the need to cut or otherwise fashion the fabric to have the desired contoured profile. This simplifies manufacture and avoids fabric waste.
[0195] The contoured profile of the knitted fabric is achieved through the use of Flechage knitting. In particular, the knitted fabric comprises a plurality of full-length courses extending the full-length of the knitted fabric and a plurality of partial-length courses extending a partial-length of the knitted fabric. The plurality of partial-length courses comprise courses of different partiallengths such that some of the partial-length courses are wider than others of the partial-length courses. The partial-length courses are positioned among the full-length courses. The combination of full-length and partial length courses can be used to impart a desired shape for the underband. [0196] The underband 130 comprises a central section comprising a plurality of full-length courses and a plurality of partial length courses provided above and below the central section. The plurality of partial-length courses form the contoured profile of the upper margin 1202 and the lower margin 1204.
[0197] FIG. 13 shows an example knitting process for forming the underband 130 shown in FIG. 12. The knitting process is read from bottom to top starting with knit sequence 1302 and ending with knit sequence 1396.
[0198] Each knit sequence in this example has the structure as shown in FIG. 6B and comprise a course of yarn knitted on the back needle bed 628, a course of tuck stitches alternately using the front and back needle bed 630 and a course of yarn knitted on the front needle bed 632. The course of tuck stitches connects the yarn knitted on the front needle bed to the yarn on the back needle bed to form a spacer fabric structure.
[0199] The courses knitted in sequence 1302 are full-length courses and form the lower margin [0200] The courses knitted in sequences 1304 - 1310 are partial-length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively Increase course length In all examples and Instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
[0201] The courses knitted in sequences 1312 - 1324 are partial-length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively Increase course length In all examples and instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
[0202] The courses knitted in sequences 1326 - 1340 are partial length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively Increase course length In all examples and Instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
[0203] The courses knitted in sequences 1342 - 1344 are partial length courses that are successively increasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively increase course length in all examples and instead can show a general trend of increasing length.
[0204] The courses knitted in sequences 1302 - 1344 define the contours of the lower margin 1204 of the underband 130.
[0205] The courses knitted in sequence 1346 are a plurality of full-length courses that form the central section of the underband 130. The number of courses knitted in sequence 1346 can be used to define the overall length of the underband 130.
[0206] The courses knitted in sequences 1348 - 1362 are partial length courses that are successively decreasing In course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively decreasing course length In all examples and instead can show a general trend of decreasing length.
[0207] The courses knitted in sequences 1364 - 1378 are partial length courses that are successively decreasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively decreasing course length in all examples and instead can show a general trend of decreasing length.
[0208] The courses knitted in sequences 1380 - 1394 are partial length courses that are successively decreasing in course length. It will be appreciated that the courses are not required to successively decreasing course length in all examples and instead can show a general trend of decreasing length.
[0209] The courses knitted in sequence 1396 are full-length courses and form the upper margin 1202 of the underband 130.
[0210] The courses knitted in sequences 1348 - 1396 define the contours of the upper margin [0211] FIG. 14 shows a simplified representation of an underband 130 knitted according to the knitting process shown in FIG. 13. The lines in FIG. 13 visually represent the courses knitted in the sequences 1302 - 1396 in FIG. 13 and shows how the use of partial-length courses of different lengths provides the contoured effect.
[0212] FIG. 15 shows the rear view of the breast support garment 102 of FIG. 1.
[0213] The breast support garment 102 comprises a rear portion 1502 arranged to cover at least part of the rear torso of the wearer. The rear portion 1502 is connected to the front portion 104 (FIG. 1 ) via the first shoulder strap 122 and the second shoulder strap 124. The rear portion 1502 is also connected to the front portion 104 via the first sling 114 and the second sling 116.
[0214] The underband 130 extends around to the rear of the breast support garment 102 to surround the circumference of the wearer when worn. The underband 130 is partly covered by the rear portion 1502 in this example.
[0215] The underband 130 in this example comprises a first end 1504 and a second end 1506 in this example. The second end 1506 comprises an adjustment mechanism in the form of a loop for receiving the first end 1504. This allows for the underband 130 to be tightened or loosened to provide the desired fit for the wearer. This is not required in all examples. In some examples, the underband 130 may form a continuous band.
[0216] FIG. 16 illustrates an example method of knitting the breast support garment in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The method is performed using a V-bed knitting machine as described above.
[0217] Step 1602 comprises knitting underband 130.
[0218] Step 1604 comprises knitting first sling 114 and second sling 116.
[0219] Step 1606 comprises knitting the lower regions 1002 of the first breast contacting surface 106 and the second breast contacting surface 108.
[0220] Step 1608 comprises knitting the central regions 1006 of the first breast contacting surface 106 and the second breast contacting surface 108.
[0221] Step 1610 comprises knitting upper region 1004 of first breast contacting surface 106 and the first upper bounce panel 118. A process known as doubling may be used to reduce the number of needles used in knitting the first upper bounce panel 118.
[0222] Step 1612 comprises knitting upper region 1004 of second breast contacting surface 108 and the second upper bounce panel 120. A process known as doubling may be used to reduce the number of needles used in knitting the first upper bounce panel 118.
[0223] The remainder of the front portion such as the centre-front bridge and shoulder straps may be knit during the same process or may be made separately and attached together.
[0224] The rear portion of the breast support garment may be knit during the same process or may be made separately and attached together.
[0225] The breast support garment 102 described above can be used in physiological monitoring of the wearer. The breast support garment 102 can comprise a holder for removably retaining an electronics module for performing sensing functions. The electronics module may couple to sensors incorporated in the breast support garment 102 such as in the underband 130 of the breast support garment 102. The electronics module may comprise a sensor for monitoring the physiological properties of the wearer.
[0226] FIG. 17 shows the underband 130 in isolation. The underband 130 comprises a first electrode 132 and a second electrode 134. The electrodes 132, 134 may be integrally formed with the underband 130. The electrode may be of knitted construction. That is, formed from conductive yarn that may be integrally knitted with the underband 130. The electrodes may be arranged to perform measurements from the wearer such as bioelectrical (e.g., ECG) or bioimpedance measurements. Additionally, or separately, the electrodes may apply signals to the wearer for therapeutic applications. The electrodes 132, 134 may be otherwise attached to the underband 130 and may be formed from a conductive material such as a conductive polymer.
[0227] The underband 130 further comprises a first conductive pathway 1702 and a second conductive pathway 1704. The first conductive pathway 1702 terminates in a first terminal fabric ridge 1706 and the second conductive pathway 1704 terminates in a second terminal fabric ridge 1708. The first terminal fabric ridge 1706 is conductively connected to the first electrode 132 by the first conductive pathway 1702. The second terminal fabric ridge 1708 is conductively connected to the second electrode 134 by the second conductive pathway 1704. The first terminal fabric ridge 1706 and the second terminal fabric ridge 1708 are provided in a pocket space 1710 arranged to removably receive an electronics module.
[0228] When positioned in the pocket space 1710, the electronics module is brought into communication with the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134. The electronics module is able to receive measurement signals from the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134. The electronics module may also apply signals to the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 such as for use in therapeutic applications.
[0229] The pocket space 1710 in this example is located in the centre of the underband 130 in this example such that it sits between the first breast contacting surface 106 and the second breast contacting surface 108. This is not required in all examples and the electronics module holder may be located on a side or rear aspect of the underband 130.
[0230] "Electronics module" may refer to an electronic device that is typically removably coupled to the breast support garment such that it is retained by the breast support garment when worn. The electronics module can be removed from the breast support garment so that the breast support garment can be washed without damaging the internal electronics of the electronics module. The electronics module can also be removed from the breast support garment for charging.
[0231] Generally, the electronics module comprises all of the components required for data transmission and processing. In this way, the manufacture of the breast support garment may be simplified. In addition, it may be easier to clean a breast support garment which has fewer electronic components attached thereto or incorporated therein. Furthermore, the removable electronics module may be easier to maintain or troubleshoot than embedded electronics. The electronics module may comprise flexible electronics such as a flexible printed circuit (FPC).
[0232] It is not required that the breast support garment 102 incorporates sensors to enable physiological monitoring to be performed. Instead, sensors of the electronics module may perform the physiological sensing.
[0233] FIG. 18 shows a simplified schematic diagram of an electronics module 1814 positioned in a pocket space 1710 formed between an inner fabric layer 1802 and an outer fabric layer 1806 of the underband 130.
[0234] The electronics module 1814 comprises a sensor 1804 disposed within a housing 1808. The housing 1808 comprises a window 1810 that allows for the sensor 1804 to have line of sight through the housing. The inner fabric layer 1802 comprises an opening 1816 that is aligned with the sensor 1804. This allows for the sensor 1804 to have line of sight with the skin surface 1812 of a wearer. Rather than providing an opening 1816, a window may instead be provided. The window may be constructed from a transparent, translucent, or light diffracting material. The use of a light diffracting material may provide a light pipe effect. The present disclosure is not limited to forming openings 1816 or windows in the inner fabric layer 1802 and the inner fabric layer 1802 may be otherwise constructed to enable the sensor 1804 of the electronics module 1814 to have line of sight with the skin surface 1812 of the wearer.
[0235] Additional electronics components such as a processor, communicator, power source, motion sensor and temperature sensor may also be provided within the housing 1808 of the electronics module 1814.
[0236] In the above examples, the sensor 1804 may comprise an optical sensor. The optical sensor may measure light in one or more of the infrared, visible, and ultraviolet spectrums. The optical sensor may be a pulse oximeter. The optical sensor may be arranged to measure the oxygen saturation of the wearer. Oxygen saturation is the fraction of oxygen -saturated haemoglobin relative to total haemoglobin (unsaturated + saturated) in the blood. The optical sensor may be arranged to measure the capillary perfusion of the wearer. A pulse oximeter may be useable to measure the capillary perfusion using a double-wavelength method. The capillary perfusion can be derived from a variation in the detected signal strength. The optical sensor may be arranged to measure the temperature of the wearer.
[0237] The sensor 1804 is not required to comprise an optical sensor in all examples. The sensor is generally arranged to monitor a property of the environment external to the electronics module. The property may be a property of the user wearing the breast support garment 102. The sensor 1804 may comprise one or more of an altitude sensor, pressure sensor, temperature sensor, optical sensor, humidity sensor, presence sensor, and air quality sensor. The presence sensor may for detecting a touch input from a user. The presence sensor may comprise one or more of a capacitive sensor, inductive sensor, and ultrasonic sensor. [0238] The sensor may comprise an infrared temperature sensor arranged to measure the skin surface temperature of a user wearing the breast support garment 102. The temperature sensor may be an ambient temperature sensor.
[0239] Although the example embodiments have been described with reference to the components, modules and units discussed herein, such functional elements may be combined into fewer elements or separated into additional elements. Various combinations of optional features have been described herein, and it will be appreciated that described features may be combined in any suitable combination. In particular, the features of any one example embodiment may be combined with features of any other embodiment, as appropriate, except where such combinations are mutually exclusive. Throughout this specification, the term “comprising” or “comprises” means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of others.
[0240] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
[0241] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.
[0242] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A garment comprising: a front portion arranged to cover at least part of the wearer; and at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone, the at least one support structure comprising: a base fabric extending between the first zone and the second zone, and a plurality of fabric ridges coupled to the base fabric, wherein the plurality of fabric ridges extend along the length of the base fabric between the first zone and the second zone, and wherein the plurality of fabric ridges are more closely spaced together in the first zone than in the second zone.
2. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of fabric ridges converge together in the first zone and diverge away from one another in the second zone.
3. The garment of any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein an internal space is formed between the fabric ridges and the base fabric, and wherein a stiffening material is located in the internal space.
4. The garment of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the base fabric comprises a first segment extending between the first zone and the second zone and a second segment extending between the first zone and the second zone, and wherein a first fabric ridge of the plurality of fabric ridges is provided between the first segment and the second segment.
5. The garment of claim 4, wherein the base fabric comprises a third segment extending between the first zone and the second zone, and wherein a second fabric ridge of the at least one fabric ridge is provided between the second segment and the third segment.
6. The garment of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first zone comprises a greater number of stitches per square centimetre than the second zone.
7. The garment of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the base fabric is a knitted fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses, the plurality of knit courses comprising partial-length courses of different course lengths, and wherein the plurality of knit courses are arranged such that wales of the second zone have a greater number of knit courses than the wales of the first zone.
8. The garment of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the garment is a breast support garment, and wherein the front portion comprises a first breast contacting surface and a second breast contacting surface provided either side of a midline of the breast support garment.
9. The garment of claim 8, wherein the first zone is arranged closer to the midline of the breast support garment than the second zone.
10. The garment of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the at least one support structure comprises a sling that extends below and/or to the side of one of the first or second breast contacting surfaces.
11 . The garment of claim 10, wherein the at least one support structure comprises a first sling and a second sling, wherein the first sling extends below and/or to the side of the first breast contacting surface, and wherein the second sling extends below and/or to the side of the second breast contacting surface.
12. The garment of any one of claims 8 to 11 , wherein the at least one support structure comprises an upper panel located above one of the breast contacting surfaces.
13. The garment of claim 12, wherein the least one support structure comprises a first upper panel provided above the first breast contacting surface and a second upper panel provided above the second breast contacting surface.
14. The garment of any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the breast support garment further comprises a centre-front bridge provided between the first and second breast contacting surfaces.
15. The garment of any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein the breast support garment further comprises a rear portion.
16. The garment of any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein the breast support garment further comprises at least one first shoulder strap.
17. The garment of any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein the breast support garment further comprises an underband.
18. The garment of claim 17, wherein the underband comprises a knitted fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses, the plurality of knit courses comprising a plurality of knit courses extending across the length of the knitted fabric and a plurality of knit courses extending along part of the length of the knitted fabric, wherein the plurality of knit courses are arranged such that a lower margin of the underband is contoured.
19. The garment of any one of claims 8 to 18, wherein the first breast contacting surface and/or second breast contacting surface comprises a knitted fabric comprising a plurality of knit courses.
20. The garment of claim 19, wherein the plurality of knit courses comprise one or more medial- most knit stitches arranged in a medial wale and one or more lateral-most stitches arranged in a lateral wale, the first breast contacting surface comprising a lower region, an upper region, and a central region provided between the lower region and the upper region, the lower region and upper region comprise a plurality of knit courses that extend along part of the length of the knitted fabric between the medial wale and the lateral wale, the central region comprises a plurality of knit courses that extending along the length of the knitted fabric from the medial wale to the lateral wale.
21. A method of manufacturing a garment, the method comprising: forming a front portion arranged to cover at least part of the wearer; and forming at least one support structure comprising a first zone and a second zone, the at least one support structure comprising: a base fabric extending between the first zone and the second zone, and a plurality of fabric ridges coupled to the base fabric, wherein the plurality of fabric ridges extend along the length of the base fabric between the first zone and the second zone, and wherein the plurality of fabric ridges are more closely spaced together in the first zone than in the second zone.
22. The method of claim 21 , wherein forming the plurality of fabric ridges comprises knitting a plurality of courses of yarn to form the at least one fabric ridge.
23. The method of claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the plurality of fabric ridges converge together in the first zone and diverge away from one another in the second zone.
24. The method of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the method further comprises forming an internal space between the fabric ridges and the base fabric, and providing a stiffening material is located in the internal space.
25. The method of any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the forming of the base fabric comprises forming a first segment extending between the first zone and the second zone and forming a second segment extending between the first zone and the second zone, and wherein a first fabric ridge of the plurality of fabric ridges is formed between the first segment and the second segment.
EP23818071.5A 2022-11-28 2023-11-24 Breast support garment and method of making the same Pending EP4626271A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2217793.5A GB2624697A (en) 2022-11-28 2022-11-28 Garment and method of making the same
PCT/GB2023/053064 WO2024115887A1 (en) 2022-11-28 2023-11-24 Breast support garment and method of making the same

Publications (1)

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EP4626271A1 true EP4626271A1 (en) 2025-10-08

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP23818071.5A Pending EP4626271A1 (en) 2022-11-28 2023-11-24 Breast support garment and method of making the same

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EP (1) EP4626271A1 (en)
GB (1) GB2624697A (en)
WO (1) WO2024115887A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2781816B1 (en) * 1998-07-31 2000-09-22 Marcoux Laffay Sa ELASTIC WEFT KNIT FOR ARTICLE HAVING ZONES HAVING DIFFERENT EXTENSIBILITIES AND ARTICLES OBTAINED
EP1241286B1 (en) * 2001-03-05 2003-05-02 Karin Co., Ltd Underwear
US10912340B2 (en) * 2017-05-02 2021-02-09 Nike, Inc. Upper-torso garment with tubular-jacquard knit structure
US11142854B2 (en) * 2018-10-03 2021-10-12 Nike, Inc. Upper-torso garment with three-dimensional knit structures
GB2604278B (en) * 2019-10-04 2023-12-20 Mindd Inc Upper body shaper garment
US11771143B2 (en) * 2020-05-21 2023-10-03 Indhouse Limited Garment having knitted technical wire
US20220240624A1 (en) * 2021-01-29 2022-08-04 Nike, Inc. Knitted component with at least one expandable yarn
US12102150B2 (en) * 2021-03-08 2024-10-01 Spanx, Llc Upper body garment with woven tubular shoulder straps

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GB202217793D0 (en) 2023-01-11
WO2024115887A9 (en) 2026-01-22
WO2024115887A1 (en) 2024-06-06
GB2624697A (en) 2024-05-29

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