IL291056A

IL291056A - Article of clothing

Info

Publication number: IL291056A
Application number: IL291056A
Authority: IL
Inventors: Rabinowicz Sigi; JANSEN Ralph; Roberts Emily
Original assignee: Great Pacific Holdings Ltd; Rabinowicz Sigi; JANSEN Ralph; Roberts Emily
Priority date: 2022-03-02
Filing date: 2022-03-02
Publication date: 2023-10-01

Description

0285514915- ARTICLE OF CLOTHING TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD The presently disclosed subject matter relates to articles of clothing, in particular garments to be worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user .

BACKGROUND Articles of clothing are commonly worn for a variety of reasons, including protection against the elements, comfort, social norms, fashion and so on.

Some such articles of clothing are in the form of garments designed for being worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user. In some examples of such garments the crotch portion abuts against the crotch of the user when worn, and such examples can include for example pants, leotards, swimsuits and so on. In other examples of such garments the crotch portion covers the crotch area of the user without being in contact with the crotch area of the user - for example the crotch portion is in the form of a piece of material that is draped over the general crotch area when worn, and such examples can include for example skirts and dresses.

Some female users may at times require to use sanitary napkins or the like, for example during menstruation, while wearing such garments. However, when such garments are tight fitting, for example yoga pants, such conventional sanitary napkins (particularly when worn with panties) can cause a corresponding bulging on the yoga pants. 0285514915- GENERAL DESCRIPTION According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided an article of clothing including a garment and a sling element, the garment configured for being worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user, the sling element comprising a crotch band dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area and having a band length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the garment such that the intermediate portion is in overlying and non-fixed relationship with respect to at least the garment crotch, and wherein the intermediate portion comprises a liquid retaining arrangement.

For example, the crotch band is affixed to the garment exclusively at said first longitudinal end portion and at said second longitudinal end portion.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion is affixed to the garment at an anterior location on the garment, and wherein the second longitudinal end portion is affixed to the garment at a posterior location on the garment.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the garment comprises a waistband portion, and wherein the said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the waistband portion.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion comprises a first elastic portion having a first elasticity greater than an elasticity of the intermediate portion, and wherein the second longitudinal end portion comprises a second elastic portion having a second elasticity greater than the elasticity of the intermediate portion. For example, at least one of said first elastic portion and said second elastic portion is made from an elastic material. For example, said elastic material is any one of: elastic fabrics; elastic bands; knitted or woven fabrics including elastic yarns, for example Elastane yarns. 0285514915- Additionally or alternatively, for example, at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is non-removably affixed to the garment. For example, at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is affixed to the garment via any one of: stitching; adhesive bonding; ultrasonic bonding.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is removably affixed to the garment. For example, the article of clothing comprises a first connection system for affixing the first longitudinal end portion of the crotch band to the garment. For example, the first longitudinal end portion comprises at least a part of said first connection system for affixing the first longitudinal end portion to the garment.

In one example, said first connection system comprises at least one button provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding and complementary button hole provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

In another example, said first connection system comprises at least one first hook and loop fastener, wherein a hook part of at least one said first hook and loop fastener is provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding loop part of the at least one said first hook and loop fastener is provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

In another example, said first connection system comprises at least one first zip fastener having two respective interlocking strips, wherein a first said strip of at least one said first zip fastener is provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second said strip of the at least one said first zip fastener is provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

In another example, said first connection system comprises at least one first string fastener having two respective knotable string portions, wherein a first string portion of at least one said first string fastener is provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second string portion of the at least one first string fastener is provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment. 0285514915- Additionally or alternatively, for example, the article of clothing comprises a second connection system for affixing the second longitudinal end portion of the crotch band to the garment. For example, the second longitudinal end portion comprises at least a part of the second connection system for affixing the second longitudinal end portion to the garment.

In one example, said second connection system comprises at least one button provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding and complementary button hole provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

In another example, said second connection system comprises at least one second hook and loop fastener, wherein a hook part of at least one said second hook and loop fastener is provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding loop part of the at least one said second hook and loop fastener is provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

In another example, said second connection system comprises at least one second zip fastener having two respective interlocking strips, wherein a first said strip of at least one said second zip fastener is provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second said strip of the at least one said second zip fastener is provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

In another example, said second connection system comprises at least one second string fastener having two respective knotable string portions, wherein a first string portion of at least one said second string fastener is provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second string portion of the at least one second string fastener is provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said band length dimension is within ±20% of the crotch length.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said band length dimension is equal to the crotch length of the user. 0285514915- Additionally or alternatively, for example, said crotch band has a generally rectangular plan form.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said liquid retaining arrangement comprises a pad including one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining liquids. For example, said pad is a sanitary pad configured for absorbing and retaining body liquids including at least blood. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said pad comprises a plurality of layers including at least one said layer comprising said one or more materials, wherein said plurality of layers is peripherally sandwiched between a first frame member and a second frame member, and wherein said first frame member and said second frame member are peripherally joined to one another and to a peripheral portion of the plurality of layers. For example, said plurality of layers includes a first said layer comprising a knitted fabric, and a second layer overlying said first layer, said second layer comprising at least one silver containing yarn. In at least some examples, the second layer comprises at least one non-silver containing yarn and at least one silver containing yarn. For example, said second layer comprises an outer membrane overlying the second layer.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the garment is a seamless garment. Alternatively, the garment is a cut and sewn garment.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the garment is in the form of yoga pants.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the garment is in the form of any one of: long pants; Jeans; hot-pants; cycling pants; leggings, sweatpants, shorts, boxer shorts, leotard; pantihose, onesie; boiler suit; coverall; sportswear; swimsuit; skirts; dresses; loincloth.

According to another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a sling element for use with a garment, the garment configured for being worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user, the sling element comprising a crotch band dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area and having a length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, 0285514915- and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are configured for being affixed to the garment such that the intermediate portion is in suspended relationship with respect to at least the garment crotch, and wherein the intermediate portion comprises a liquid retaining arrangement.

For example, the first longitudinal end portion comprises a first elastic portion having a first elasticity greater than an elasticity of the intermediate portion, and wherein the second longitudinal end portion comprises a second elastic portion having a second elasticity greater than the elasticity of the intermediate portion. For example, at least one of said first elastic portion and said second elastic portion is made from an elastic material. For example, said elastic material is any one of: elastic fabrics; elastic bands; knitted or woven fabrics including elastic yarns, for example Elastane yarns.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being non-removably affixed to the garment.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being removably affixed to the garment.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said band length dimension is equal to the crotch length of the user.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said crotch band has a generally rectangular plan form.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said liquid retaining arrangement comprises a pad including one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining 0285514915- liquids, and wherein optionally said pad is a sanitary pad configured for absorbing and retaining body liquids including at least blood.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said pad comprises a plurality of layers including at least one said layer comprising said one or more materials, wherein said plurality of layers is peripherally sandwiched between a first frame member and a second frame member, and wherein said first frame member and said second frame member are peripherally joined to one another and to a peripheral portion of the plurality of layers. For example, wherein said plurality of layers includes a first said layer comprising a knitted fabric, and a second layer overlying said first layer, said second layer comprising at least one silver containing yarn. In at least some examples, the second layer comprises at least one non-silver containing yarn and at least one silver containing yarn. For example, said second layer comprises an outer membrane overlying the second layer.

According to another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a sling element for use with a garment, the sling element comprising a crotch band and a belt, the crotch band being dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area and having a length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the belt, and wherein the intermediate portion comprises a liquid retaining arrangement.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being non-removably affixed to the belt. 0285514915- Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being removably affixed to the belt.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being non-removably affixed to the belt.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said liquid retaining arrangement comprises a pad including one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining liquids, and wherein optionally said pad is a sanitary pad configured for absorbing and retaining body liquids including at least blood.

According to another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided an article of clothing including a garment and a sling element, the garment configured for being worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering 0285514915- at least a crotch area of the user, the sling element comprising a crotch band dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area and having a band length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the garment such that the intermediate portion is in overlying and non-fixed relationship with respect to at least the garment crotch, and wherein the sling element is configured for enabling a liquid retaining arrangement to be mounted thereto.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first longitudinal end portion comprises a first elastic portion having a first elasticity greater than an elasticity of the intermediate portion, and wherein the second longitudinal end portion comprises a second elastic portion having a second elasticity greater than the elasticity of the intermediate portion. For example, at least one of said first elastic portion and said second elastic portion is made from an elastic material. For example, said elastic material is any one of: elastic fabrics; elastic bands; knitted or woven fabrics including elastic yarns, for example Elastane yarns.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is non-removably affixed to the garment. For example, at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is affixed to the garment via any one of: stitching; adhesive bonding; ultrasonic bonding. 0285514915- Additionally or alternatively, for example, at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is removably affixed to the garment. For example, the article of clothing comprises a first connection system for affixing the first longitudinal end portion of the crotch band to the garment. For example, the first longitudinal end portion comprises at least a part of said first connection system for affixing the first longitudinal end portion to the garment.

In another example, said first connection system comprises at least one first string fastener having two respective knotable string portions, wherein a first string portion of at least one said first string fastener is provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second string portion of the at least one first string fastener is provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the article of clothing comprises a second connection system for affixing the second longitudinal end portion of the crotch band to the garment. For example, the second longitudinal end portion comprises at least a part of the second connection system for affixing the second longitudinal end portion to the garment. 0285514915- In one example, said second connection system comprises at least one button provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding and complementary button hole provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said liquid retaining arrangement can comprise a pad including one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining 0285514915- liquids. For example, said pad is a sanitary pad configured for absorbing and retaining body liquids including at least blood. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said pad comprises a plurality of layers including at least one said layer comprising said one or more materials, wherein said plurality of layers is peripherally sandwiched between a first frame member and a second frame member, and wherein said first frame member and said second frame member are peripherally joined to one another and to a peripheral portion of the plurality of layers. For example, said plurality of layers includes a first said layer comprising a knitted fabric, and a second layer overlying said first layer, said second layer comprising at least one silver containing yarn. In at least some examples, the second layer comprises at least one non-silver containing yarn and at least one silver containing yarn. For example, said second layer comprises an outer membrane overlying the second layer.

Alternatively, the sling element, for example the intermediate portion, comprises a base strip onto which a disposable sanitary pad, for example a conventional sanitary pad, can be removably affixed.

Alternatively, the sling element, for example the intermediate portion, comprises a base strip comprising a pocket in which a disposable sanitary pad can be removably accommodated. In such examples, the respective sling element is thus configured for enabling a liquid retaining arrangement to be mounted thereto.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, the garment is in the form of any one of: long pants; Jeans; hot-pants; cycling pants; leggings, sweatpants, shorts, boxer shorts, leotard; pantihose, onesie; boiler suit; coverall; sportswear; swimsuit; skirts; dresses; loincloth. 0285514915- BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, examples will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a partially cut-out isometric front-side-top view of an article of clothing according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 1, taken along a plane corresponding to a median plane of the user. Fig. 3 is a top view of the example of Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is an isometric front-side-top view of an example of a garment corresponding to the example of Fig. 1. Fig. 5 is an isometric front-side-top view of an example of a sling element corresponding to the example of Fig. 1. Fig. 6 is a top view of the sling element example of Fig. 5 when laid flat. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the sling element example of Fig. 6 taken along A-A. Fig. 8 is a top view of an alternative variation of the sling element example of Fig. when laid flat. Fig. 9 is a partially cut-out isometric front-side-top view of an article of clothing according to an alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1, including first and second connection systems. Fig. 10 is an isometric front-side-top view of an article of clothing according to another alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1. Fig. 11 is an isometric front-side-top view of an article of clothing according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter. 0285514915- DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring to Figs. 1, 2 and 3, an article of clothing according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter, generally designated 100, comprises a garment 200and a sling element 500.

As will become clearer herein, the garment 200can comprise any garment that is configured for being worn by a user and that comprises a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user. In the example illustrated in Figs. 1 to 3, the garment 200is in the form of yoga pants or the like.

However, it is to be noted that such a garment can instead include, for example, any suitable garment that is tight fitting or loose fitting, and/or any suitable garment that is made in a seamless manner or in a traditional manner from cloth and stitched with seams. By "suitable garment" is meant any garment that is wearable by a user and comprises a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user. Such a crotch portion can be configured for abutting against the crotch of the user when worn, and can be generally shaped similarly to the crotch. Thus, for example, such a garment can instead include the aforementioned yoga pants or any one of: long pants; Jeans; hot-pants; cycling pants; leggings, sweatpants, shorts, boxer shorts, leotard; pantihose, onesie; boiler suit; coverall; sportswear; swimsuit.

Alternatively, and as illustrated in Fig. 10, in alternative variations of these examples, such a crotch portion 250' can be configured for covering the crotch area of the user without necessarily being in abutting contact the crotch area, for example in the form of a piece of material that is draped over the general crotch area when worn; such examples for the garment 200' can include for example skirts, dresses, loincloths, and the like, and comprises a waistband portion 240' . Thus, for example, such a garment can include any one of: Sports-Skirts, Tennis-Skirts, Tennis-Dresses or the like. In such an example, the respective article of clothing 100' comprises the garment 200' and a respective sling element 500' , which can be similar to the sling element 500as disclosed herein, mutatis mutandis.

Referring again Figs. 1, 2 and 3, and also to Fig. 4, in at least this example the garment 200comprises a generally tubular lower trunk portion 220, generally conforming to the lower trunk of the user, bifurcating at the lower end thereof to two leg portions 230, generally conforming to the legs of the user. 0285514915- In at least this example, the lower trunk portion 220comprises a waistband portion 240located generally at the waistline 245, and the respective crotch portion 250.

The crotch portion 250is located generally between the upper ends of the two leg portions 230, where the two leg portions 230meet the lower trunk portion 220.

While in at least this example, the lower trunk portion 220has an upper edge 225generally above the waistline 245, for example at or near the hip line, in alternative variations of this example the upper edge 225can correspond to the position of the waistline 245, or below the waistline 245.

Referring in particular to Fig. 2, the garment 200 defines a crotch length CL (corresponding to the crotch length of the user) between an anterior location AL of the waistline 245to a posterior location PL of the waistline 245via the crotch portion 250.

In at least this example, the garment 200is made from any suitable fabric as is well known in the art. For example, the garment can be made from any type of suitable yarns, including for example Nylons, Polyesters, Elastane, or any combination thereof, and can be produced using a conventional cut and sew and/or seamless manufacturing processes.

Referring in particular to Figs. 1, 2, 5 and 6, the sling element 500comprises a crotch band 550dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area thereof, in particular for abutting against the crotch area of the user in use of the article 100 .

In particular, the crotch band 550 has a band length dimension BL that is correlated to a crotch length CL of the garment 200, which in turn corresponds to the crotch length of the user. For example, the band length dimension BL can be within ±30% of the crotch length CL , or within ±20% of the crotch length CL , or within ±10% of the crotch length CL , or within ±5% of the crotch length CL . Alternatively, for example, the band length dimension BL can be equal to the crotch length CL .

The crotch band 550has a first longitudinal end portion 552, a second longitudinal end portion 554, and an intermediate portion 600in-between the first longitudinal end portion 552and the second longitudinal end portion 554. As best seen in Figs. 1 and 2, the first longitudinal end portion 552and the second longitudinal end portion 554are 0285514915- affixed to the garment 200such that at least the intermediate portion 600is in overlying and suspended relationship with respect to at least the garment crotch 250. In particular, the first longitudinal end portion 552is affixed to the garment at an anterior location on the garment 200, and the second longitudinal end portion 554is affixed to the garment 200at a posterior location on the garment 200.

In at least this example, the first longitudinal end portion 552 and the second longitudinal end portion 554are affixed to the waistband portion 240. For example, the sling element 500is affixed to the garment 200, via the first longitudinal end portion 552and the second longitudinal end portion 554, at respective locations on the garment 200, each between the respective hip line and the waistline 245.

According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, it is to be noted that the crotch band 550is affixed to the garment 200exclusively at the first longitudinal end portion 552and at the second longitudinal end portion 554of the crotch band 550. In at least this example, the crotch band 550is affixed to the garment 200exclusively at an anterior location on the garment 200 and at a posterior location on the garment 200.

In other words, no part of the intermediate portion 600per se is affixed in any way to the garment 200 in general, or to the garment crotch 250 in particular. Thus, the intermediate portion 600itself is not bonded, sewn, stitched or in any way directly affixed to the garment 200 Furthermore, the garment crotch 250does not of itself restrain relative sliding movement between the intermediate portion 600 and the garment crotch 250. Having said that, and as will become clearer herein, in at least this example, when the article 100is worn in a tight-fitting manner by the user, the intermediate portion 600is aligned with and abuts the garment crotch 250, and crotch band 550abuts the crotch of the user, the intermediate portion 600being essentially sandwiched between the garment crotch 250and the crotch of the user.

Without being bound to theory, inventor believes that, by not having the crotch band 550per se directly affixed to the garment 200, the sling element 500is barely visible externally and minimizes or does not cause any significant bulging under the garment, which could otherwise reveal the outline of the sling element 500via the garment 200. 0285514915- According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, it is to be noted that the intermediate portion 600comprises a liquid retaining arrangement 650configured for absorbing and retaining liquids that come into contact therewith.

In at least this example, the intermediate portion 600comprises an anterior bridge 620connecting the liquid retaining arrangement 650to the first longitudinal end portion 552, and a posterior bridge 670connecting the liquid retaining arrangement 650to the second longitudinal end portion 554.

In at least this example, the anterior bridge 620is in the form of a first elastic portion, having a first elasticity greater than an elasticity of the intermediate portion 600, and the posterior bridge 670is in the form of a second elastic portion having a second elasticity greater than the elasticity of the intermediate portion 600. In at least some examples, under the action of a typical tensile load corresponding to the article 100 being worn by a user, for example, the anterior bridge 620 and the posterior bridge 670 can each reversibly stretch or elongate by up to about 80% of their unstressed lengths, while concurrently under the same tensile conditions the intermediate portion 600 stretches or elongates up to about 5% of its unstressed length. For example, each one of the anterior bridge 620 and the posterior bridge 670 can stretch or elongate by more than 10 times the stretching or elongation of the intermediate portion 600.

For example, each one of the anterior bridge 620and the posterior bridge 670can be made from a suitable elastic material. For example, each one of the anterior bridge 620and the posterior bridge 670can be in the form of a strip of elastic material that can stretch, when the article 100is worn by the user, and provide a tensile force urging the liquid retaining arrangement 650into abutment against the crotch of the user. Such an elastic material can include any suitable elastic fabrics, for example elastic bands, or for example knitted or woven fabrics including elastic yarns, for example Elastane yarns.

In at least some alternative variations of this example, the anterior bridge 620and/or the posterior bridge 670have respective elasticities similar to the elasticity of the intermediate portion 600.

The liquid retaining arrangement 650is configured for absorbing and retaining therein bodily liquids, in particular blood and the like, that may come into contact with 0285514915- the liquid retaining arrangement 650 , for example when the article 100is worn during a menstrual cycle of the user, or after the user has undergone gynecological procedures or surgeries. Alternatively, such bodily liquids can relate to liquid discharges that can sometimes occur during the day while the user is wearing the article 100 .

In at least this example, the liquid retaining arrangement 650is in the form of a pad having one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining liquids that come into contact therewith. In at least this example, the liquid retaining arrangement 650is in the form of a sanitary pad having one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining liquids that come into contact therewith.

Without being bound to theory, inventor also believes that, by not having the crotch band 550with the liquid retaining arrangement 650per se directly affixed to the garment 200, the sling element 500and the liquid retaining arrangement 650are barely visible externally and minimizes or does not cause any significant bulging under the garment, which could otherwise reveal the outline of the sling element 500or of the liquid retaining arrangement 650via the garment 200.

In at least this example, and referring to Fig. 7, the liquid retaining arrangement 650comprises a pad 660including two superposed layers including a first layer 610, and a second layer 614 , and the pad 660is sandwiched and securely held in place between an upper frame member 720and a lower frame member 740.

The first layer 610is facing the user and configured as a contact layer for directly abutting the user when the article 100is worn by the user.

The second layer 614is facing away from the user and towards the crotch portion 250, and at least in this example abuts the crotch portion 250when the article 100is worn by the user. In at least this example, the second layer 614is not in direct contact with the user, when the article 100is worn by the user.

In at least this example, the first layer 610is configured for providing a dry feel to the user while drawing away from the exposed surface thereof any liquids that are placed on the first layer 610. For example, the first layer 610comprises a high wicking dry touch fabric. For example, such a fabric can include any suitable knitted structure, for 0285514915- example any one of a Terry knitted structure, a rib structure, a double knit structure or a plain knitted structure.

In at least this example, the second layer 614is configured for providing high absorbance of any liquid reaching the second layer 614for example from the user (in at least this example, via the first layer 610 ), and for retaining the liquid. For example, the second layer can be in the form of a knitted structure, for example any one of: toweling Terry knitted structure, a Terry knitted structure, a rib structure, a double knit structure or a plain knitted structure.

In at least this example, the second layer 614 comprises a silver component as well as one or more artificial yarns. For example, such a silver component may be provided coupled to an artificial yarn, in the form of a silver containing yarn. For example, such a silver containing yarn can include yarns of artificial materials, which can then optionally be twisted with non-silver containing yarns of the same or other artificial materials and/or with yarns of non-silver containing natural materials. For example, such artificial materials can include polymers, for example one or more of: Nylon; Polyester; a mix of Nylon and Polyester. For example, such natural materials can include cotton blend.

In at least one example, the silver containing yarn can be provided as follows. For example, the silver component comprises silver molecules and/or ionized silver molecules, and the silver component can be mixed with any suitable polymer pellets, for example polyester pellets and/or nylon pellets. The resulting mixture can be passed through an extruder to provide yarns integrally formed with the silver component, and such a yarn is referred to herein as extruded silver/polymer yarn. Alternatively, the silver containing yarn can instead be in the form of polyester yarn or other suitable polymer yarn comprising silver or silver ions, for example ionized encapsulated silver extruded yarns or of silver-containing yarns or of silver ion containing yarns.

For example, such silver containing polyester yarns can include the Aerosilver yarn, provided by Hyosung (Taiwan).

Alternatively, for example, such silver containing Nylon yarns can include the Meryl Skinlife Force yarn provided by Nylstar (Spain). 0285514915- For example, the second layer 614comprises a silver containing fabric structure. For example, such a fabric structure can be knitted from at least one non-silver containing yarn (i.e., a yarn devoid of such a silver component) and at least one silver containing yarn.

For example, such a non-silver containing yarn can include yarns of artificial materials and/or yarns of natural materials. For example, such artificial materials can include polymers, for example one or more of: Nylon; Polyester; a mix of Nylon and Polyester. For example such natural materials can include cotton blend.

For example, the silver containing fabric structure can be knitted from a first plurality P1 of non-silver containing yarns and a second plurality P2 of such the silver containing yarns.

For example, P1 and P2 can each have a value of 1. Alternatively, for example, P1 can have a value of 1, while P2 has a value of 2. Alternatively, for example, P1 can have a value of 2, while P2 has a value of 1. In at least some examples, P1 can have any value within the range of 1 to 10, including 1 or 10. In at least some examples, P2 can have any value within the range of 1 to 10, including 1 or 10.

The non-silver containing yarn(s) and the silver containing yarn(s) can be knitted together and engineered to create sufficient open volume for holding a large amount of liquid within the fabric.

In at least some alternative variations of this example, the fabric structure for the second layer 614 can be made entirely of the silver containing yarn, and thus for such examples P1 is zero.

In at least this example, the second layer 614is further configured for preventing outflow of liquids and comprises an impermeable membrane or foil 616 . For example, such a membrane or foil 616 can include a polyurethan foil or membrane.

In at least this example, for example, the membrane or foil 616 can be non-removably laminated or otherwise affixed to silver extruded fabric structure. The membrane or foil 616is facing away from the user and towards the crotch portion 250, and at least in this example directly abuts the crotch portion 250at least when the article 0285514915-

Claims

- 29 - 0285514915- CLAIMS:

1. An article of clothing including a garment and a sling element, the garment configured for being worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user, the sling element comprising a crotch band dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area and having a band length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the garment such that the intermediate portion is in overlying and non-fixed relationship with respect to at least the garment crotch, and wherein the intermediate portion comprises a liquid retaining arrangement.

2. The article of clothing according to claim 1, wherein the crotch band is affixed to the garment exclusively at said first longitudinal end portion and at said second longitudinal end portion.

3. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first longitudinal end portion is affixed to the garment at an anterior location on the garment, and wherein the second longitudinal end portion is affixed to the garment at a posterior location on the garment.

4. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the garment comprises a waistband portion, and wherein the said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the waistband portion.

5. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first longitudinal end portion comprises a first elastic portion having a first elasticity greater than an elasticity of the intermediate portion, and wherein the second longitudinal end portion comprises a second elastic portion having a second elasticity greater than the elasticity of the intermediate portion.

6. The article of clothing according to claim 5, wherein at least one of said first elastic portion and said second elastic portion is made from an elastic material.

7. The article of clothing according to claim 6, wherein said elastic material is any one of: elastic fabrics; elastic bands; knitted or woven fabrics including elastic yarns, for example Elastane yarns.. - 30 - 0285514915-

8. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is non-removably affixed to the garment.

9. The article of clothing according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is affixed to the garment via any one of: stitching; adhesive bonding; ultrasonic bonding.

10. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion is removably affixed to the garment.

11. The article of clothing according to claim 10, wherein the article of clothing comprises a first connection system for affixing the first longitudinal end portion of the crotch band to the garment.

12. The article of clothing according to claim 11, wherein the first longitudinal end portion comprises at least a part of said first connection system for affixing the first longitudinal end portion to the garment.

13. The article of clothing according to claim 12, wherein said first connection system comprises at least one button provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding and complementary button hole provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

14. The article of clothing according to claim 12, wherein said first connection system comprises at least one first hook and loop fastener, wherein a hook part of at least one said first hook and loop fastener is provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding loop part of the at least one said first hook and loop fastener is provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

15. The article of clothing according to claim 12, wherein said first connection system comprises at least one first zip fastener having two respective interlocking strips, wherein a first said strip of at least one said first zip fastener is provided in one of the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second said strip of the at least one said first zip fastener is provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

16. The article of clothing according to claim 12, wherein said first connection system comprises at least one first string fastener having two respective knotable string portions, wherein a first string portion of at least one said first string fastener is provided in one of - 31 - 0285514915- the first longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second string portion of the at least one first string fastener is provided in the other one of said first longitudinal end portion and the garment.

17. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the article of clothing comprises a second connection system for affixing the second longitudinal end portion of the crotch band to the garment.

18. The article of clothing according to claim 17, wherein the second longitudinal end portion comprises at least a part of the second connection system for affixing the second longitudinal end portion to the garment.

19. The article of clothing according to claim 18, wherein said second connection system comprises at least one button provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding and complementary button hole provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

20. The article of clothing according to claim 18, wherein said second connection system comprises at least one second hook and loop fastener, wherein a hook part of at least one said second hook and loop fastener is provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding loop part of the at least one said second hook and loop fastener is provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

21. The article of clothing according to claim 18, wherein said second connection system comprises at least one second zip fastener having two respective interlocking strips, wherein a first said strip of at least one said second zip fastener is provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second said strip of the at least one said second zip fastener is provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

22. The article of clothing according to claim 18, wherein said second connection system comprises at least one second string fastener having two respective knotable string portions, wherein a first string portion of at least one said second string fastener is provided in one of the second longitudinal end portion and the garment, and a corresponding second string portion of the at least one second string fastener is provided in the other one of said second longitudinal end portion and the garment.

23. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein said band length dimension is within ±20% of the crotch length. - 32 - 0285514915-

24. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein said band length dimension is equal to the crotch length of the user.

25. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein said crotch band has a generally rectangular plan form.

26. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein said liquid retaining arrangement comprises a pad including one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining liquids.

27. The article of clothing according to claim 26, wherein said pad is a sanitary pad configured for absorbing and retaining body liquids including at least blood.

28. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 26 to 27, wherein said pad comprises a plurality of layers including at least one said layer comprising said one or more materials, wherein said plurality of layers is peripherally sandwiched between a first frame member and a second frame member, and wherein said first frame member and said second frame member are peripherally joined to one another and to a peripheral portion of the plurality of layers.

29. The article of clothing according to claim 28, wherein said plurality of layers includes a first said layer comprising a knitted fabric, and a second layer overlying said first layer, said second layer comprising at least one silver containing yarn.

30. The article of clothing according to claim 29, wherein said second layer comprises an outer membrane overlying the second layer.

31. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the garment is a seamless garment.

32. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the garment is in the form of yoga pants.

33. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the garment is in the form of any one of: long pants; Jeans; hot-pants; cycling pants; leggings, sweatpants, shorts, boxer shorts, leotard; pantihose, onesie; boiler suit; coverall; sportswear; swimsuit.

34. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the garment is in the form of any one of: skirts; dresses; loincloth.

35. A sling element for use with a garment, the garment configured for being worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user, the sling element comprising a crotch band dimensioned for fitting the user in the - 33 - 0285514915- crotch area and having a length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are configured for being affixed to the garment such that the intermediate portion is in suspended relationship with respect to at least the garment crotch, and wherein the intermediate portion comprises a liquid retaining arrangement.

36. The sling element according to claim 35, wherein the first longitudinal end portion comprises a first elastic portion having a first elasticity greater than an elasticity of the intermediate portion, and wherein the second longitudinal end portion comprises a second elastic portion having a second elasticity greater than the elasticity of the intermediate portion.

37. The sling element according to claim 36, wherein at least one of said first elastic portion and said second elastic portion is made from an elastic material.

38. The sling element according to claim 37, wherein said elastic material is any one of: elastic fabrics; elastic bands; knitted or woven fabrics including elastic yarns, for example Elastane yarns..

39. The sling element according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being non-removably affixed to the garment.

40. The sling element according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being removably affixed to the garment.

41. The sling element according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are each configured for being non-removably affixed to the garment.

42. The sling element according to any one of claims 35 to 41, wherein said band length dimension is within ±20% of the crotch length.

43. The sling element according to any one of claims 35 to 42, wherein said band length dimension is equal to the crotch length of the user.

44. The sling element according to any one of claims 38 to 43, wherein said crotch band has a generally rectangular plan form. - 34 - 0285514915-

45. The sling element according to any one of claims 35 to 44, wherein said liquid retaining arrangement comprises a pad including one or more materials configured for absorbing and retaining liquids, and wherein optionally said pad is a sanitary pad configured for absorbing and retaining body liquids including at least blood.

46. The sling element according to any one of claims 35 to 45, wherein said pad comprises a plurality of layers including at least one said layer comprising said one or more materials, wherein said plurality of layers is peripherally sandwiched between a first frame member and a second frame member, and wherein said first frame member and said second frame member are peripherally joined to one another and to a peripheral portion of the plurality of layers.

47. The sling element according to claim 46, wherein said plurality of layers includes a first said layer comprising a knitted fabric, and a second layer overlying said first layer, said second layer comprising at least one silver containing yarn.

48. The sling element according to claim 47, wherein said second layer comprises an outer membrane overlying the second layer.

49. A sling element for use with a garment, the sling element comprising a crotch band and a belt, the crotch band being dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area and having a length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the belt, and wherein the intermediate portion comprises a liquid retaining arrangement.

50. An article of clothing including a garment and a sling element, the garment configured for being worn by a user and comprising a garment crotch portion for covering at least a crotch area of the user, the sling element comprising a crotch band dimensioned for fitting the user in the crotch area and having a band length dimension correlated to a crotch length of the user, the crotch band having a first longitudinal end portion, a second longitudinal end portion, and an intermediate portion in-between said first longitudinal end portion and said second longitudinal end portion, and wherein the first longitudinal end portion and the second longitudinal end portion are affixed to the garment such that the intermediate portion is in overlying and non-fixed relationship with respect to at least - 35 - 0285514915- the garment crotch, and wherein the sling element is configured for enabling a liquid retaining arrangement to be mounted thereto. For the Applicants, REINHOLD COHN AND PARTNERS By: