WO2022007922A1 - Breast support structure - Google Patents

Breast support structure Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022007922A1
WO2022007922A1 PCT/CN2021/105388 CN2021105388W WO2022007922A1 WO 2022007922 A1 WO2022007922 A1 WO 2022007922A1 CN 2021105388 W CN2021105388 W CN 2021105388W WO 2022007922 A1 WO2022007922 A1 WO 2022007922A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
frame
cup
edge
joining material
bra
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CN2021/105388
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Emily May ROBERTS
Original Assignee
Clover Mystique Co. Limited
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 Clover Mystique Co. Limited filed Critical Clover Mystique Co. Limited
Publication of WO2022007922A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022007922A1/en

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/0021—Brassieres with suspension construction for the breasts

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to a breast support structure.
  • it relates to an under bust support structure which allows movement of a cup relative to a frame.
  • Bras are generally split into two-categories, wired and non-wired, dependent on whether they include underwires extending along the breast root (inframammary fold) .
  • a bra 1 generally includes bra cups 10, a frame 20, a band 30 extending around the back with fasteners, and optional shoulder straps 40.
  • the bra cups 10 are designed to enclose and hold the breast tissue and also to help shape the breasts.
  • the frame 20 is the front of the bra 1 where the cups 10 are sewn into or joined to the bra 1.
  • the band 30 of the bra 1 is a continuation of the frame 20 that extends to the centre back of the bra 1.
  • the frame 20 and band 30 must be fitted snugly on the body to provide suitable support.
  • Underwires 16 are usually located inside a casing that surrounds the cup 10, for example in a flange 15 of the bra cup, as shown in Fig. 1A and 1B.
  • the support structure 2 of the bra of Fig. 1A is shown in Fig. 1B.
  • Fig. 1B illustrates a cross-section taken through the cup 10 and frame 20 of the bra 1.
  • the support structure 2 comprises the cup 10 including the cup flange 15, the frame 20, and an optional underwire 16.
  • the cups 10 may be formed from foam.
  • the cups 10 are stitched to the bra frame 20 via the cup flanges 15.
  • the cup flange 15 is a ridge extended from the foam cup 10 that allows the cups 10 to be attached to the frame 20, fixing the garment to the body around the breast root. This manufacturing method is used across all breast sizes and styles.
  • wired bras can be difficult to fit, due to their lack of flexibility, because each woman has a different inframammary fold shape and therefore no hard underwire can match every woman. If underwires do not fit properly, this can cause pain and damage to the breast tissue and ligaments. Women may therefore have a preference for non-wired bras for increased comfort.
  • Non-wired bras 1 with molded foam cups 10 are manufactured in the same way as previously described, with the cups 10 being attached to the frame 20 via the cup flanges 15.
  • the underwires 16 there can be a problem with the fit of the bra 1.
  • the breast tissue can force the frame 20 away from the wearer’s body, preventing the frame from sitting flat, causing the cup 10 to sit in an undesired shape and moving it away from its intended position along the breast root.
  • a breast support structure comprising:
  • the predefined hinge may be provided by a joining material which extends between the cup and frame, to join the cup to the frame, whilst allowing movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
  • the joining material may be joined to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup, and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame, wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart.
  • At least one of the first and second joins may be formed by at least one of stitching, ultrasonic welding, gluing, or laminating.
  • the gap may be preferably less than 2mm and, more preferably, less than 1mm
  • the joining material may be a fabric and the fabric is preferably non-stretchable and foldable.
  • the cup and frame may be firmer than the joining material to allow movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
  • the cup is a molded cup with no flange.
  • the structure may be for breast support within a bra.
  • a breast support structure comprising:
  • joining material is joined to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame;
  • first and second joins are spaced apart, such that the edge of the cup is moveable relative to the edge of the frame.
  • At least one of the first and second joins may be formed by at least one of stitching, ultrasonic welding, gluing, or laminating.
  • the gap may be preferably less than 2mm and, more preferably, less than 1mm
  • the joining material may be a fabric and the fabric is preferably non-stretchable and foldable.
  • the cup and frame may be firmer than the joining material to allow movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
  • the cup is a molded cup with no flange.
  • the structure may be for breast support within a bra.
  • a bra comprising:
  • first and second molded cups each cup having a lower edge
  • the at least one piece of joining material is joined at a first join along at least a portion of the lower edge of the first cup and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the upper edge of the frame;
  • the at least one piece of joining material is joined at a third join along at least a portion of the lower edge of the second cup and is joined to the frame at a fourth join along at least a portion of the upper edge of the frame;
  • first and second joins are spaced apart, and the third and fourth joins are spaced apart, such that the lower edges of the first and second cups are moveable relative to the upper edge of the frame.
  • At least one piece of joining material preferably comprises first and second pieces of joining material, the first piece of joining material joining the first cup to the frame and the second piece of joining material joining the second cup to the frame.
  • the bra cups preferably do not have cup flanges.
  • a method for making a breast support structure comprising:
  • the predefined hinge may comprise a joining material, and the method may further comprises:
  • first and second joins are spaced apart.
  • Fig. 1A is a schematic drawing of a known bra, shown wearer side up;
  • Fig. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the known bra of fig. 1A, taken through the cup and frame;
  • Fig. 2 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, the bra having a support structure according to one of Figs. 3A-F;
  • Figs. 3A-3F are cross-sectional views, taken though a cup and frame of the bra, of different embodiments of the support structures according to the present invention.
  • Fig. 4 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of one of Figs. 3A-3C;
  • Fig. 5 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of Fig. 3D;
  • Fig. 6 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of Fig. 3E;
  • Fig. 7 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of Fig. 3F.
  • the present invention provides a breast support structure and a method of manufacturing it.
  • the structure and method of making it will be described with reference to a bra including the structure.
  • the breast support structure is intended to be provided in various other clothing items, for example sports bras, vests, tops, dresses, swimsuits, etc., and is not limited to the bras discussed below.
  • the bra 1000 has breast cups 100, a frame 200, an optional band 300 (which is an extension of the frame 200) , and optional straps 400.
  • the bra 1000 comprises a support structure 2000A-F according to the present invention.
  • the support structures 2000A-F are shown in cross-section (taken through the cup 100 and frame 200 of the bra 1000) in Figs. 3A-3F, each figure illustrating a different embodiment of the support structure of the present invention.
  • the bra 1000 may have one or more additional fabric or foam layers (including decorative layers) over the cup and/or frame which cover or partially cover the support structures 2000A-F.
  • the support structures 2000A-F of the present invention comprises a breast cup 100, a frame 200, and a predefined hinge between the cup 100 and frame 200, such that the lower edge of the breast cup 100 is able to move relative to the upper edge of the frame 200.
  • the hinge enables the cup 100 to pivot about the hinge towards or away from the frame 200 (as is illustrated by the dotted arrows showing a direction of motion) .
  • the extent of pivoting can be dictated by the size of the gap between the cup 100 and frame 200, and the ‘stiffness’ of the hinge.
  • the hinge is formed from a joining material 500a-f, which extends between the cup 100 and the frame 200, and is joined to the cup 100 at a first join j1 and to the frame 200 at a second join j2.
  • the first join j1 extends along at least a portion of the lower edge of the cup 100 and, preferably, across the length of the lower (U-shaped) edge of the cup 100.
  • the second join j2 extends along at least a portion of the upper (U-shaped) edge of the frame, and preferably along the extent of the upper edge of the frame 200 adjacent the cup.
  • the bra 3000 comprises a support structure 2000A-C, according to one of Figs. 3A-C.
  • the bra 3000 has first and second joins j1 and j2, which are shown extending along the lower edge of the cups 100 and the upper edges of the frame 200, adjacent the lower edges of the cup 100, for the support structure shown in cross-section in Fig. 3A-C, i.e. where the joining material 500a-c is joined to the inside of the cups 100 and frame 200 (with respect to wearer) , so the joining material 500a-c is only visible from the front of the bra through a gap between the cups 100 and frame 200 (if a gap is present) .
  • One or more additional fabric or foam layers may be placed over the cup and/or frame, such that the support structure of the bra is covered, and the bra looks as shown in Fig. 2.
  • a bra comprising the support structure of Figs. 3D-F would have the joining material 500d-f visible via a gap (where present) between the cups 100 and frame 200 from the inside (e.g. the side that sits against the wearer) , rather than the outside as shown in Fig. 4.
  • one or more additional fabric layers can be provided over the cups 100 and/or frame 200, such that the support structure covered.
  • the support structures 200B, 200D of Figures 3B and 3D have U-shaped joining material 500b, 500d.
  • a bra 4000 in accordance with the present invention having a support structure 2000D, according to Fig. 3D.
  • the joining portion comprises a U-shaped band to join the cup to the frame, on the outer (with respect to wearer) surfaces of the cup and frame.
  • the first and second joins j1 and j2 are shown extending along the lower edge of the cups 100 and the upper edge of the frame 200.
  • the joining fabric 500b of the support structure 2000B of Fig. 3B will look the same but be attached to the inner side of the cups 100 and frame 2000.
  • the joining material 500a, 500c, 500e, 500f may extend across the whole of the cups 100 or frame 200 as well as between the cup and frame.
  • Fig. 6 shows a bra 5000 having the support structure 2000E of Fig. 3E, where the joining material 500e extends across the outside of the frame 200 as well as extending from the frame 200 to the cups 100, to attach the cups 100 to the frame 200.
  • the support structure 2000C of Fig. 3C will look substantially the same as that shown in Fig. 6, but from the opposite side of the bra (i.e. on the inside of the bra rather than the outside of the bra) , i.e. the joining material 500c will cover the inside of the frame 200 and will extend across to the lower edge of the cups 100.
  • Fig. 7 shows a bra 6000 having the support structure 2000F of Fig. 3F, where the joining material 500f extends across the outside of the cups 100 as well as extending from the cups 100 to the frame 200, to attach the cups to the frame.
  • the support structure 2000A of Fig. 3A will look substantially the same as that shown in Fig. 7, but from the opposite side of the bra (i.e. on the inside of the bra rather than the outside of the bra) , i.e. the joining material 500a will cover the inside of the cups 100 and will extend across to the upper portion of the frame 200.
  • the joining material 500a-f could extend across the whole of the inside/outside of the cup and frame.
  • one or more additional fabric or foam layers can be provided over the cups 100 and/or frame 200, such that the support structures 2000A, 200C, 2000E, 2000F are covered, and the bras 5000, 6000 resemble that of Fig. 2.
  • joins j1 and j2 are shown as stitching lines in Figs. 2, 3A-F, 4, 5, 6 and 7, but this is by way of example only, and any suitable joining means can be used including ultrasonic welding, gluing, laminating, etc.
  • the joins j1 and j2 are preferably spaced apart from one another, as shown in Figs. 3A-F, 4, 5, 6 and 7. By spacing the joins j1 and j2 from one another, it is possible to provide the hinge design, since the separation of the join lines allows movement of the joining material 500a-f between the cups 100 and frame 200, such that the cups 100 can rotate/pivot with respect to the frame 200 (which remains fixed relative to the wearer’s body) .
  • the distance between the joins j1, j2 will vary as the cup 100 pivots relative to the frame 200. However, the distance from each join line j1, j2 to the centre of the hinge (i.e. centre of the joining material 500a-f between the cup 100 and frame 200) will be fixed.
  • each cup 100 and the frame 200 there may also be a gap between each cup 100 and the frame 200, created by the joining material 500a-f, which extends between the cup 100 and the frame 200.
  • the gap distance varies as the hinge moves, such that in certain positions there may be no gap, and in other positons of rotation of the cup 100 relative to the frame 200, there is a gap.
  • the gap is less than 2mm and, even more preferably, less than 1mm.
  • the gap provides for greater pivoting of the lower cup 100 edge relative to the upper frame 200 edge, as will be understood from Figures 3A-F. This gap (or lack thereof) applies to each of the embodiments of Figs. 3A-3F.
  • the joining material 500a-f is preferable non-stretchable (particularly in the sideways direction) and foldable, such that it enables rotation of the cup 100 lower edge relative to the frame 200 upper edge but maintains support.
  • the joining material 500a-f is a joining fabric, but other materials are contemplated, as long as they provide the right support whilst allowing the required pivoting.
  • This joining fabric can be man-made, natural or synthetic. It can be woven or knitted.
  • the joining material 500a-f may comprise multiple fabric layers attached to one another.
  • the support structures 2000A-F have been shown having a single joining material layer 500a-f attached to either the inside or the outside of the cup 100 and frame 200, it may be desirable to provide an additional joining material layer 500a-f, such that there are two joining material layers 500a-f, one on the inside of the cup 100 and frame 200, and one on the outside of the cup 100 and frame 200.
  • the frame 200 can be made from foam, plastic, fabric (e.g. ‘spacer’ fabric) , etc.
  • the fabric can also be fabric piece which has not been shaped.
  • the cups 100 are preferably foam cups including a molded foam cup, a shaped foam cup structure, or foam layers joined together.
  • the foam layers can have different properties.
  • the frame has more than one layer, e.g. one fabric layer and one elastic band layer.
  • the frame can be stretchable.
  • the frame can have more layers (e.g. 2 or more layers of fabric /foam /elastic band) to increase the firmness of the frame relative to the joining fabric.
  • the cup is preferably a shaped structure, preferably a foam cup made by molding.
  • the cup can also be a shaped structure made of thick fabric and by molding. Further, the cup can also be a shaped structure made of some fillings enclosed by fabric and made by molding.
  • the joining fabric should be flimsy while the cup and the frame should be firm, when these three separate pieces are being compared with each other.
  • a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises the combination of (i) a separate layer for the joining material 500a-f, (ii) no or a small gap between the cup 100 and the frame 200, and (iii) a small distance between the two join j1 and j2. This combination creates multiple pivotal axes for flexible fitting of the bra cup 100 to a wearer’s particular bust shape.
  • the bras 1000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 can be manufactured with different standard cup sizes, but the support structures 2000A-F of the invention allow a standard cup size to fit more women due to the movement of the cup relative to the frame, accommodating different bust shapes or sizes within a given cup size.
  • Bras 1000, 3000, 4000, 4000, 5000, 6000 having a support structure 2000A-F according to the invention may provide at least one of a better fit to the wearer’s body shape (and in particular shape of breast root and breast tissue) , greater comfort, greater flexible to fit different body shapes, and greater movement with the body.
  • the present invention also provides a method for making a breast support structure 2000A-F, the method comprising providing a cup 100 having an edge; providing a frame 200 having an edge; and providing a predefined hinge between the edge of the cup 100 and the edge of the frame 200, such that the edge of the cup 100 is move relative to the edge of the frame 200.
  • the predefined hinge may comprise a joining material 500a-f, and the method further comprises: joining the joining material 500a-f to the cup 100 at a first join j1 along at least a portion of the edge of the cup 100, and joining the joining material 500a-f to the frame 200 at a second join j2 along at least a portion of the edge of the frame 200, wherein the first and second joins i1, j2 are spaced apart.

Abstract

A breast support structure (2000A-F), and a method of making the structure (2000A-F). The breast support structure (2000A-F) comprises a cup (100) having an edge, a frame (200) having an edge, and a predefined hinge between the edge of the cup (100) and the edge of the frame (200), such that the edge of the cup (100) is able to move relative to the edge of the frame (200).

Description

Breast support structure Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to a breast support structure. In particular, it relates to an under bust support structure which allows movement of a cup relative to a frame.
Background
Bras and clothing with breast support are well known in the art.
Bras are generally split into two-categories, wired and non-wired, dependent on whether they include underwires extending along the breast root (inframammary fold) .
As shown in Fig. 1A (prior art) , a bra 1 generally includes bra cups 10, a frame 20, a band 30 extending around the back with fasteners, and optional shoulder straps 40.
The bra cups 10 are designed to enclose and hold the breast tissue and also to help shape the breasts. The frame 20 is the front of the bra 1 where the cups 10 are sewn into or joined to the bra 1. The band 30 of the bra 1 is a continuation of the frame 20 that extends to the centre back of the bra 1. The frame 20 and band 30 must be fitted snugly on the body to provide suitable support. Underwires 16 are usually located inside a casing that surrounds the cup 10, for example in a flange 15 of the bra cup, as shown in Fig. 1A and 1B.
The support structure 2 of the bra of Fig. 1A, is shown in Fig. 1B. Fig. 1B illustrates a cross-section taken through the cup 10 and frame 20 of the bra 1. The support structure 2 comprises the cup 10 including the cup flange 15, the frame 20, and an optional underwire 16. The cups 10 may be formed from foam.
Typically, to manufacture the support structure 2 having foam cups 10, the cups 10 are stitched to the bra frame 20 via the cup flanges 15. The cup flange 15 is a ridge extended from the foam cup 10 that allows the cups 10 to be attached to the frame 20, fixing the garment to the body around the breast root. This manufacturing method is used across all breast sizes and styles.
This method of joining the cup 10 and frame 20 works well when including an underwire 16 in the cup flange 15, because the shape of the bra is formed with the frame 20 flat against the body and the cup 10 shaped around the breast root by the underwire 16.
However, wired bras can be difficult to fit, due to their lack of flexibility, because each woman has a different inframammary fold shape and therefore no hard underwire can match every woman. If underwires do not fit properly, this can cause pain and damage to the breast tissue and ligaments. Women may therefore have a preference for non-wired bras for increased comfort.
Non-wired bras 1 with molded foam cups 10 are manufactured in the same way as previously described, with the cups 10 being attached to the frame 20 via the cup flanges 15. However, without the underwires 16, there can be a problem with the fit of the bra 1. In particular, when there are no underwires 16, the breast tissue can force the frame 20 away from the wearer’s body, preventing the frame from sitting flat, causing the cup 10 to sit in an undesired shape and moving it away from its intended position along the breast root.
There is therefore a need for an improved breast support structure, and method of manufacture, which improves the fit and comfort of the breast support structure.
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having reference to the following specification together with its drawings.
Summary of Invention
In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a breast support structure comprising:
a cup having an edge;
a frame having an edge; and
a predefined hinge between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, such that the edge of the cup is able to move relative to the edge of the frame.
The predefined hinge may be provided by a joining material which extends between the cup and frame, to join the cup to the frame, whilst allowing movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
The joining material may be joined to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup, and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame, wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart.
At least one of the first and second joins may be formed by at least one of stitching, ultrasonic welding, gluing, or laminating.
There may be no gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame
There may be a gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, wherein the gap is preferably less than 2mm and, more preferably, less than 1mm
The joining material may be a fabric and the fabric is preferably non-stretchable and foldable.
The cup and frame may be firmer than the joining material to allow movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
In a preferred embodiment, the cup is a molded cup with no flange.
The structure may be for breast support within a bra.
In a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a breast support structure comprising:
a cup having an edge;
a frame having an edge; and
a joining material;
wherein the joining material is joined to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame;
wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart, such that the edge of the cup is moveable relative to the edge of the frame.
At least one of the first and second joins may be formed by at least one of stitching, ultrasonic welding, gluing, or laminating.
There may be no gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame
There may be a gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, wherein the gap is preferably less than 2mm and, more preferably, less than 1mm
The joining material may be a fabric and the fabric is preferably non-stretchable and foldable.
The cup and frame may be firmer than the joining material to allow movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
In a preferred embodiment, the cup is a molded cup with no flange.
The structure may be for breast support within a bra.
In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a bra comprising:
first and second molded cups, each cup having a lower edge;
a frame having an upper edge; and
at least one piece of joining material;
wherein the at least one piece of joining material is joined at a first join along at least a portion of the lower edge of the first cup and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the upper edge of the frame;
wherein the at least one piece of joining material is joined at a third join along at least a portion of the lower edge of the second cup and is joined to the frame at a fourth join along at least a portion of the upper edge of the frame;
wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart, and the third and fourth joins are spaced apart, such that the lower edges of the first and second cups are moveable relative to the upper edge of the frame.
At least one piece of joining material preferably comprises first and second pieces of joining material, the first piece of joining material joining the first cup to the frame and the second piece of joining material joining the second cup to the frame.
The bra cups preferably do not have cup flanges.
In a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for making a breast support structure, the method comprising:
providing a cup having an edge;
providing a frame having an edge; and
providing a predefined hinge between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, such that the edge of the cup is move relative to the edge of the frame.
The predefined hinge may comprise a joining material, and the method may further comprises:
joining the joining material to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup, and
joining the joining material to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame,
wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart.
By joining the cup to the frame via a predefined hinge or a joining material (rather than by direct coupling of the cup to the frame via the cup flange, as in the prior art) , there is free movement of the cup relative to the frame allowing the cups to move and shape around the individual’s breast. This may provide an improved fit of the bra, with the frame sitting flatter against the body, and the cups shaping around the inframammary fold, whilst providing greater comfort and flexibility.
Brief Description of the Drawings
Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -
Fig. 1A is a schematic drawing of a known bra, shown wearer side up;
Fig. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the known bra of fig. 1A, taken through the cup and frame;
Fig. 2 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, the bra having a support structure according to one of Figs. 3A-F;
Figs. 3A-3F are cross-sectional views, taken though a cup and frame of the bra, of different embodiments of the support structures according to the present invention;
Fig. 4 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of one of Figs. 3A-3C;
Fig. 5 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of Fig. 3D;
Fig. 6 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of Fig. 3E;
Fig. 7 is a schematic drawing of a bra according to the present invention, including the support structure of Fig. 3F.
Detailed description of the invention
The present invention provides a breast support structure and a method of manufacturing it. By way of a non-limiting example, the structure and method of making it will be described with reference to a bra including the structure. However, the breast support structure is intended to be provided in various other clothing items, for example sports bras, vests, tops, dresses, swimsuits, etc., and is not limited to the bras discussed below.
With reference to Fig. 2, there is shown a bra 1000 in accordance with the present invention. The bra 1000 has breast cups 100, a frame 200, an optional band 300 (which is an extension of the frame 200) , and optional straps 400. The bra 1000 comprises a support structure 2000A-F according to the present invention. The support structures 2000A-F are shown in cross-section (taken through the cup 100 and frame 200 of the bra 1000) in Figs. 3A-3F, each figure illustrating a different embodiment of the support structure of the present invention. The bra 1000 may have one or more additional fabric or foam layers (including decorative layers) over the cup and/or frame which cover or partially cover the support structures 2000A-F.
As will be seen from Figs. 3A-3F, the support structures 2000A-F of the present invention comprises a breast cup 100, a frame 200, and a predefined hinge between the cup 100 and frame 200, such that the lower edge of the breast cup 100 is able to move relative to the upper edge of the frame 200. In particular, the hinge enables the cup 100 to pivot about the hinge towards or away from the frame 200 (as is illustrated by the dotted arrows showing a direction of motion) . The extent of pivoting can be dictated by the size of the gap between the cup 100 and frame 200, and the ‘stiffness’ of the hinge.
As shown in Figs. 3A-F, the hinge is formed from a joining material 500a-f, which extends between the cup 100 and the frame 200, and is joined to the cup 100 at a first join j1 and to the frame 200 at a second join j2. The first join j1 extends along at least a portion of the lower edge of the cup 100 and, preferably, across the length of the lower (U-shaped) edge of the cup 100. Similarly, the second join j2 extends along at least a portion of the upper (U-shaped) edge of the frame, and preferably along the extent of the upper edge of the frame 200 adjacent the cup.
With reference to Fig. 4, there is shown a bra 3000 in accordance with the present invention. The bra 3000 comprises a support structure 2000A-C, according to one of Figs. 3A-C. The bra 3000 has first and second joins j1 and j2, which are shown extending along the lower edge of the cups 100 and the upper edges of the frame 200, adjacent the lower edges of the cup 100, for the support structure shown in cross-section in Fig. 3A-C, i.e. where the joining material 500a-c is joined to the inside of the cups 100 and frame 200 (with respect to wearer) , so the joining material 500a-c is only visible from the front of the bra through a gap between the cups 100 and frame 200 (if a gap is present) . One or more additional fabric or foam layers (which may include decorative layers) may be placed over the cup and/or frame, such that the support structure of the bra is covered, and the bra looks as shown in Fig. 2.
As will be understood, a bra comprising the support structure of Figs. 3D-F would have the joining material 500d-f visible via a gap (where present) between the cups 100 and frame 200 from the  inside (e.g. the side that sits against the wearer) , rather than the outside as shown in Fig. 4. Once again, one or more additional fabric layers can be provided over the cups 100 and/or frame 200, such that the support structure covered.
The support structures 200B, 200D of Figures 3B and 3D have U-shaped joining  material  500b, 500d. With reference to Fig. 5, there is shown a bra 4000 in accordance with the present invention having a support structure 2000D, according to Fig. 3D. The joining portion comprises a U-shaped band to join the cup to the frame, on the outer (with respect to wearer) surfaces of the cup and frame. The first and second joins j1 and j2 are shown extending along the lower edge of the cups 100 and the upper edge of the frame 200. The joining fabric 500b of the support structure 2000B of Fig. 3B will look the same but be attached to the inner side of the cups 100 and frame 2000.
As seen in Figs, 3A, 3C, 3E and 3F, the joining  material  500a, 500c, 500e, 500f may extend across the whole of the cups 100 or frame 200 as well as between the cup and frame.
Fig. 6 shows a bra 5000 having the support structure 2000E of Fig. 3E, where the joining material 500e extends across the outside of the frame 200 as well as extending from the frame 200 to the cups 100, to attach the cups 100 to the frame 200. It will be understood that the support structure 2000C of Fig. 3C will look substantially the same as that shown in Fig. 6, but from the opposite side of the bra (i.e. on the inside of the bra rather than the outside of the bra) , i.e. the joining material 500c will cover the inside of the frame 200 and will extend across to the lower edge of the cups 100.
Fig. 7 shows a bra 6000 having the support structure 2000F of Fig. 3F, where the joining material 500f extends across the outside of the cups 100 as well as extending from the cups 100 to the frame 200, to attach the cups to the frame. It will be understood that the support structure 2000A of Fig. 3A will look substantially the same as that shown in Fig. 7, but from the opposite side of the bra (i.e. on the inside of the bra rather than the outside of the bra) , i.e. the joining material 500a will cover the inside of the cups 100 and will extend across to the upper portion of the frame 200.
In other embodiments (not illustrated) , the joining material 500a-f could extend across the whole of the inside/outside of the cup and frame. Once again, one or more additional fabric or foam layers can be provided over the cups 100 and/or frame 200, such that the  support structures  2000A, 200C, 2000E, 2000F are covered, and the  bras  5000, 6000 resemble that of Fig. 2.
The joins j1 and j2 are shown as stitching lines in Figs. 2, 3A-F, 4, 5, 6 and 7, but this is by way of example only, and any suitable joining means can be used including ultrasonic welding, gluing, laminating, etc.
The joins j1 and j2 are preferably spaced apart from one another, as shown in Figs. 3A-F, 4, 5, 6 and 7. By spacing the joins j1 and j2 from one another, it is possible to provide the hinge design, since the separation of the join lines allows movement of the joining material 500a-f between the cups 100 and frame 200, such that the cups 100 can rotate/pivot with respect to the frame 200 (which remains fixed relative to the wearer’s body) . The distance between the joins j1, j2 will vary as the cup 100 pivots relative to the frame 200. However, the distance from each join line j1, j2 to the centre of the hinge (i.e. centre of the joining material 500a-f between the cup 100 and frame 200) will be fixed.
As discussed above, there may also be a gap between each cup 100 and the frame 200, created by the joining material 500a-f, which extends between the cup 100 and the frame 200. It will be understood that the gap distance varies as the hinge moves, such that in certain positions there may be no gap, and in other positons of rotation of the cup 100 relative to the frame 200, there is a gap. Preferably the gap is less than 2mm and, even more preferably, less than 1mm. The gap provides for greater pivoting of the lower cup 100 edge relative to the upper frame 200 edge, as will be understood from Figures 3A-F. This gap (or lack thereof) applies to each of the embodiments of Figs. 3A-3F.
To provide the desired properties of the hinge, the joining material 500a-f is preferable non-stretchable (particularly in the sideways direction) and foldable, such that it enables rotation of the cup 100 lower edge relative to the frame 200 upper edge but maintains support. In a preferred embodiment, the joining material 500a-f is a joining fabric, but other materials are contemplated, as long as they provide the right support whilst allowing the required pivoting. This joining fabric can be man-made, natural or synthetic. It can be woven or knitted. The joining material 500a-f may comprise multiple fabric layers attached to one another.
Although the support structures 2000A-F have been shown having a single joining material layer 500a-f attached to either the inside or the outside of the cup 100 and frame 200, it may be desirable to provide an additional joining material layer 500a-f, such that there are two joining material layers 500a-f, one on the inside of the cup 100 and frame 200, and one on the outside of the cup 100 and frame 200.
The frame 200 can be made from foam, plastic, fabric (e.g. ‘spacer’ fabric) , etc. The fabric can also be fabric piece which has not been shaped.
The cups 100 are preferably foam cups including a molded foam cup, a shaped foam cup structure, or foam layers joined together. The foam layers can have different properties.
In one embodiment, the frame has more than one layer, e.g. one fabric layer and one elastic band layer. Thus, although the joining fabric is non-stretchable, the frame can be stretchable. However, in preferred embodiments, the frame can have more layers (e.g. 2 or more layers of fabric /foam /elastic band) to increase the firmness of the frame relative to the joining fabric. The cup is preferably a shaped structure, preferably a foam cup made by molding. The cup can also be a shaped structure made of thick fabric and by molding. Further, the cup can also be a shaped structure made of some fillings enclosed by fabric and made by molding. To allow the hinge to work well, the joining fabric should be flimsy while the cup and the frame should be firm, when these three separate pieces are being compared with each other.
A preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises the combination of (i) a separate layer for the joining material 500a-f, (ii) no or a small gap between the cup 100 and the frame 200, and (iii) a small distance between the two join j1 and j2. This combination creates multiple pivotal axes for flexible fitting of the bra cup 100 to a wearer’s particular bust shape.
The  bras  1000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 can be manufactured with different standard cup sizes, but the support structures 2000A-F of the invention allow a standard cup size to fit more women due to the movement of the cup relative to the frame, accommodating different bust shapes or sizes within a given cup size.
Bras  1000, 3000, 4000, 4000, 5000, 6000 having a support structure 2000A-F according to the invention may provide at least one of a better fit to the wearer’s body shape (and in particular shape of breast root and breast tissue) , greater comfort, greater flexible to fit different body shapes, and greater movement with the body.
Although the invention has been described with respect to non-wired bras and, in particular, with respect to such bras having molded cups, the invention has applicability it both wired and non-wired bras with molded cups or other types of cups.
The present invention also provides a method for making a breast support structure 2000A-F, the method comprising providing a cup 100 having an edge; providing a frame 200 having an edge;  and providing a predefined hinge between the edge of the cup 100 and the edge of the frame 200, such that the edge of the cup 100 is move relative to the edge of the frame 200.
The predefined hinge may comprise a joining material 500a-f, and the method further comprises: joining the joining material 500a-f to the cup 100 at a first join j1 along at least a portion of the edge of the cup 100, and joining the joining material 500a-f to the frame 200 at a second join j2 along at least a portion of the edge of the frame 200, wherein the first and second joins i1, j2 are spaced apart.
Additional features of the method will be understood by reference to the above-described support structures and bras.
It will be appreciated that this description is by way of example only; alterations and modifications may be made to the described embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

Claims (20)

  1. A breast support structure comprising:
    a cup having an edge;
    a frame having an edge; and
    a predefined hinge between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, such that the edge of the cup is able to move relative to the edge of the frame.
  2. The structure of claim 1, wherein the predefined hinge is provided by a joining material which extends between the cup and frame, to join the cup to the frame, whilst allowing movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
  3. The structure of claim 2, wherein the joining material is joined to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup, and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame, wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart.
  4. The structure of claim 3, wherein at least one of the first and second joins is formed by at least one of stitching, ultrasonic welding, gluing, or laminating.
  5. The structure of claim 1, wherein there is no gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame
  6. The structure of claim 1, wherein there is a gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, wherein the gap is preferably less than 2mm and, more preferably, less than 1mm.
  7. The structure of claim 3, wherein the joining material is a fabric and the fabric is preferably non-stretchable and foldable.
  8. The structure of claim 1, wherein the cup and frame are firmer than the joining material to allow movement of the cup edge relative to the frame edge.
  9. The structure of claim 1, wherein the cup is a molded cup with no flange.
  10. The structure of claim 1, wherein the structure is for breast support within a bra.
  11. A breast support structure comprising:
    a cup having an edge;
    a frame having an edge; and
    a joining material;
    wherein the joining material is joined to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame;
    wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart, such that the edge of the cup is moveable relative to the edge of the frame.
  12. The structure of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first and second joins is formed by at least one of stitching, ultrasonic welding, gluing, or laminating.
  13. The structure of claim 11, wherein there is no gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame.
  14. The structure of claim 11, wherein there is a gap between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, wherein the gap is preferably less than 2mm and, more preferably, less than 1mm.
  15. The structure of claim 11, wherein the joining material is a fabric and the fabric is preferably non-stretchable and foldable.
  16. A bra comprising:
    first and second molded cups, each cup having a lower edge;
    a frame having an upper edge; and
    at least one piece of joining material;
    wherein the at least one piece of joining material is joined at a first join along at least a portion of the lower edge of the first cup and is joined to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the upper edge of the frame;
    wherein the at least one piece of joining material is joined at a third join along at least a portion of the lower edge of the second cup and is joined to the frame at a fourth join along at least a portion of the upper edge of the frame;
    wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart, and the third and fourth joins are spaced apart, such that the lower edges of the first and second cups are moveable relative to the upper edge of the frame.
  17. The bra of claim 16, wherein the at least one piece of joining material comprises first and second pieces of joining material, the first piece of joining material joining the first cup to the frame and the second piece of joining material joining the second cup to the frame.
  18. The bra of claim 16, wherein the cups have no cup flanges.
  19. A method for making a breast support structure, the method comprising:
    providing a cup having an edge;
    providing a frame having an edge; and
    providing a predefined hinge between the edge of the cup and the edge of the frame, such that the edge of the cup is move relative to the edge of the frame.
  20. The method of claim 19, wherein the predefined hinge comprises a joining material, and the method further comprises:
    joining the joining material to the cup at a first join along at least a portion of the edge of the cup, and
    joining the joining material to the frame at a second join along at least a portion of the edge of the frame,
    wherein the first and second joins are spaced apart.
PCT/CN2021/105388 2020-07-10 2021-07-09 Breast support structure WO2022007922A1 (en)

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US202063050273P 2020-07-10 2020-07-10
US63/050,273 2020-07-10

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2180391A (en) * 1938-08-08 1939-11-21 Blair David Undergarment
US7427226B1 (en) * 2007-08-20 2008-09-23 Ce Soir Lingerie Co., Inc. Floating cup breast support garment
CN204969503U (en) * 2015-08-11 2016-01-20 深圳市爱戴内衣有限公司 Novel no steel ring underwear
CN105342021A (en) * 2015-11-13 2016-02-24 浙江威信纺织有限公司 Rectification-type seamless underwear
CN206675012U (en) * 2017-04-07 2017-11-28 浙江惠侬丝针织内衣有限公司 One kind gathers sizing seamless underwear without steel ring

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2180391A (en) * 1938-08-08 1939-11-21 Blair David Undergarment
US7427226B1 (en) * 2007-08-20 2008-09-23 Ce Soir Lingerie Co., Inc. Floating cup breast support garment
CN204969503U (en) * 2015-08-11 2016-01-20 深圳市爱戴内衣有限公司 Novel no steel ring underwear
CN105342021A (en) * 2015-11-13 2016-02-24 浙江威信纺织有限公司 Rectification-type seamless underwear
CN206675012U (en) * 2017-04-07 2017-11-28 浙江惠侬丝针织内衣有限公司 One kind gathers sizing seamless underwear without steel ring

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