WO2004019711A1 - Soutien-gorge - Google Patents

Soutien-gorge Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2004019711A1
WO2004019711A1 PCT/IE2003/000117 IE0300117W WO2004019711A1 WO 2004019711 A1 WO2004019711 A1 WO 2004019711A1 IE 0300117 W IE0300117 W IE 0300117W WO 2004019711 A1 WO2004019711 A1 WO 2004019711A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
bra
cup
polymer material
portions
polymer
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/IE2003/000117
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Olive Gunning
Noel. J. Murphy
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
EUROMAIL Ltd
Original Assignee
EUROMAIL Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by EUROMAIL Ltd filed Critical EUROMAIL Ltd
Priority to AU2003267805A priority Critical patent/AU2003267805A1/en
Publication of WO2004019711A1 publication Critical patent/WO2004019711A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/06—Strapless brassieres
    • A41C3/065—Strapless brassieres attached directly to the body, e.g. by means of adhesive
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/10—Brassieres with stiffening or bust-forming inserts

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to lingerie or undergarments, and in particular to bras intended to enhance cleavage or "pad" the bust line of the wearer.
  • the current trend in lingerie is for garments which provide for a full cleavage with increasing popularity of "push-up" bras, which are designed to support the breasts from beneath in order to push them upwards and improve or enhance the bust line, or enhance the image of the wearer generally.
  • "push-up" bras which are designed to support the breasts from beneath in order to push them upwards and improve or enhance the bust line, or enhance the image of the wearer generally.
  • padded fabric bras which are designed to have the same effect, but these tend to be underwired bras which have a generally horseshoe shaped strengthener, of wire or a similar material, along the lower edge of the bra cup, which can work loose from the bra and protrude into the user's skin which is particularly uncomfortable.
  • enhancers are liquid gel pouches which can be placed into any bra cup, to give enhanced cleavage and the appearance of fuller breasts.
  • the disadvantage of such enhancers is that they are difficult to position correctly and can easily move and work loose from the bra, and because they are liquid gels, they can also leak.
  • the term "bra" is intended to include conventional brassieres, bikini tops, basques and corsets, a slip or petticoat incorporating bra cups and bodices generally.
  • fabric means any material made by weaving, felting, knitting or crocheting fibres.
  • a bra which can enhance cleavage and give the appearance of fuller breasts without the need for a liquid pouch or under wiring.
  • a further object is to provide a bra which can be worn beneath backless, sleeveless, strapless or other relatively revealing clothing without being seen. It is a further object to provide a bra which has very few or no seams or ridges so that it provides a smooth outline when worn under clothing.
  • a further object is to provide a garment which can be worn as an under garment or an outer garment depending on the wearer's style or the end use.
  • a bra having two-cup portions and two underarm flap portions, the bra comprising a moulded polymer material with at least one-cup portion and at least one flap portion being formed integrally with each other.
  • the polymer material may be moulded by injection moulding, back forming, blow moulding or extrusion moulding.
  • the polymer material may be a polymer gel, a silicone or an elastomeric material.
  • the polymer is a self-skinning polymer.
  • the material is a liquid resistant material which is suitable for use in wet or dry conditions, i.e. as lingerie or swimwear.
  • the two-cup portions and the two underarm flap portions are formed as one integral front piece.
  • the two-cup portions may be spaced from each other by a linking portion.
  • the lower in use edge of the bra may be provided with a panel or series of panels which extend along the edge of the bra to create a basque or corset.
  • the panel may be made of a moulded polymer material or of fabric.
  • the bra may further be provided with a back strap, which may be formed in one or two portions.
  • a back strap which may be formed in one or two portions.
  • Such strap arrangements are known in the art as docking systems
  • the two portions may be fastened together by means of a conventional clasp mechanism, such as a hook, hooks and eyes or snap fit connectors.
  • a conventional clasp mechanism such as a hook, hooks and eyes or snap fit connectors.
  • the back strap may be attachable to one underarm flap portion by a similar mechanism.
  • the back strap may be formed as one continuous piece, formed integrally with the underarm flap portions or attachable to those portions, and the bra may be fastenable by a clasp mechanism provided between the cup portions.
  • the bra may be provided with two shoulder straps.
  • the bra cup portions and the underarm flap portions may be provided with loops or holes for engagement with the shoulder straps and the back strap(s).
  • the shoulder straps and back strap(s) may be formed from an extruded material such as silicone or polyurethane.
  • the loops on the bra cup portions and underarm flap portions may be formed integrally within the mould. There is therefore no welding or sewing of parts together as would be the case in a conventional bra.
  • the shoulder straps are provided with hooks which can engage with the loops on the bra cups and flaps. Similarly, with the back straps.
  • a conventional barrel closing mechanism can also be provided on the back and shoulder straps.
  • each cup is provided along a portion of its lower and outer side edges with a region of increased thickness.
  • This area of increased thickness supports the breasts and pushes them upwards and closer together to enhance cleavage and provide uplift.
  • the thickness of the portion can be varied to provide bras with different amounts of cleavage and uplift enhancement.
  • the cups may also be provided with a region of increased thickness around the lower in use rim of the cup. This thicker rim acts like a conventional underwire, but is formed integrally with the cup. As such the underwire replacement cannot separate from the cup as happens with conventional bras on repeated wear and washing.
  • the cups, the underarm flaps and the straps may be provided with a means for enhancing skin breathability.
  • One means of enhancing skin breathability may be a plurality of ridges on the inner surface of the bra which define channels therebetween, to provide regions which allow for air circulation between the skin of the wearer and the bra.
  • the inner surface of the bra may be provided with a textured, embossed or patterned surface which defines minute ridges or protrusions which serve to allow air circulation between the skin of the wearer and the bra.
  • the bra may be provided with a plurality of air holes in the cups, flap portions or straps which allow for ventilation.
  • the bra cup may further be provided with a pocket into which an enhancer piece may be positioned.
  • an enhancer piece may be adhered to the inner surface of the cup with a removable adhesive or other attachment mechanism.
  • the invention also provides a bra cup formed from a moulded polymer material.
  • the cup may be held in place with an adhesive or other conventional holding system.
  • the cups can thus be worn individually.
  • the garment may be an undergarment such as a bra, panties, or suspender belt, but it may also be any garment which enhances the image and body shape of the wearer.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a one-piece bra in accordance with the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a front view of the bra of Figure 1 with the straps in the opened configuration
  • Figure 3 is a rear view of the bra of Figure 2 with the straps in the opened configuration
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of a front fastening bra in accordance with the present invention
  • Figure 5 is a rear view of one cup showing the loops for attachment to the shoulder and backs straps
  • Figures 6 shows the bra cup with a rim of increased thickness
  • Figures 7 shows an individual bra cup which may be attached to the body with adhesive.
  • the bra generally comprises a front piece (1) with two-cup portions (2,3), a back strap (4) and two shoulder straps (5,6).
  • the bra of the present invention is formed with a one-piece moulded front piece (1) comprising two cups (2,3) separated by a linking portion (7).
  • the cups (2,3) are adapted to surround and support a breast, and taper in an upward in use direction to provide a tapered portion (8) for connection with a shoulder strap (5,6).
  • the cups (2,3) are connected together at an inner edge (9) by the linker (7).
  • each cup is provided with a flap (11) which is formed integrally with the cup (2,3) and which in use extends under the arm of the wearer.
  • the back strap (4) comprises two elongate parts (12,13) and each flap (11) is provided, at the edge (14) remote from the bra cup (2,3), with a loop or a hole (15) for engagement with one elongate part (12,13) of the back strap (4).
  • the end (16) of the back strap (4) remote from the hole (15) is provided with a clasp mechanism (17) for engagement with a co-operating portion (18) of the clasp which is provided on the other part (12,13) of the strap.
  • Each cup (2,3) is also provided with a loop or hole (19) at the tapered portion (8) for engagement with one end of a shoulder strap (5,6) which is engageable at its other end with the back strap (4).
  • the loops (15) and (19) are shown more clearly in Figure 5.
  • the entire front piece (1) of the bra that is, the cups (2,3), the linker (7) and the side flaps (11) are formed by moulding in one continuous part, so that there are no seams, wiring or other surface protrusions.
  • the back strap (4) and the shoulder straps (5,6) may be formed integrally with the bra front piece (1) by moulding so that there are no loops or holes required to join these portions together.
  • each cup (2,3) is provided along its lower (20) and outer side edges (10) with a portion (21) of increased thickness which is positioned such that it pushes the breast upwards and towards the other breast in order to enhance cleavage and give the appearance of fuller breasts.
  • portion of the front piece which lies along the underside of the breast in use is made of a thicker material to provide support and uplift for the breasts.
  • each cup (2,3) is also provided with a plurality of ridges (23) which define a series of channels (24) there between.
  • These ridges (23) and channels (24) serve to keep the skin of the wearer cool by providing ventilation along the channels (24) and so improve skin breathability.
  • the same effect can be achieved by a series of small holes, provided in the front piece (1) or elsewhere, which allow for breathability.
  • the bra is provided with a surface texture on the inner surface (22) of the front piece (1) which also allows breathability. The surface texture creates minute protrusions, ridges and channels which allow for air circulation.
  • the bra can be provided with a closure mechanism (25) at the front, between the cups (2,3), rather than at the back.
  • a closure mechanism (25) at the front, between the cups (2,3), rather than at the back.
  • the back strap (4) is formed in one piece and is joined to the underarm flap (11) by a conventional closure mechanism.
  • the back strap (4) could be formed integrally with the flap (11) without the need for a side closure mechanism, or it could be glued or sewn in place.
  • the closure mechanism for the front of bra and for the side portions is a conventional closure.
  • the base of the cup (2,3) is provided with an area of increased thickness which defines a rim (26) along the edge of the cup.
  • This rim (26) acts like an underwire in a conventional fabric bra, to provide support and uplift. It has the advantage that it cannot come loose in wear or protrude through the fabric as a wire would.
  • the invention also provides an individual bra cup (27) has shown in Figure 7.
  • the bra cup (27) comprises a breast covering cup portion (28) which may be provided with an area of increased thickness which defines a rim (29) along the lower in the use edge of the cup portion (28).
  • the bra cup (27) is also provided with side flaps (30 and 31) which project from the cup portion (28). In use, one flap (30) projects in the direction of the wearers underarm area and flap (31) proj ects towards the between breast area.
  • flaps (30 and 31) are provided with an adhesive surface so that the cup (27) can be pressed against the wearers skin and held there by the adhesive.
  • the moulded front piece is formed from a mouldable polymer.
  • Suitable polymers include silicone and elastomeric materials, particularly self- skinning polymers.
  • the polymer has a shore hardness of between 20 and 40 as tested by the industry standard Shore 00 test, with an elongation of 500 to 800% as measured on a tensile tester.
  • the material is a high performance elastomeric product which has high durability, high tear strength and is non-toxic. It is also skin compatible.
  • the polymer gel has a clear colour, but it is advantageous that it should be an easily pigmentable polymer so that the colour of the product can be varied.
  • liquid silicone rubber is forced under pressure into a mould cavity at pressure ranges of from 5,000 to 20,000 psi.
  • the cavity is a negative form of the product and is made of hardened steel or aluminium.
  • a textured finish is etched onto the inside cavity of the mould to provide a textured surface on the inner surface of the bra.
  • the mould is clamped shut during moulding using clamping forces measured in tonnes.
  • a hydraulic ram is used to force the liquid silicone into the mould chamber. Pressure is kept on the mould while the silicone is being cured at a temperature of between 130 and 150°C.
  • the material has a fast cure rate and when cooled, the product is ejected from the mould.
  • two moulds could be used to produce the front section of the bra and the product is then assembled afterwards.
  • the surface finish on the inner surface of the garment can be created by a spark finish which creates texture on the mould surface by eating out the required pattern with an electrical discharge.
  • a spark finish which creates texture on the mould surface by eating out the required pattern with an electrical discharge.
  • the outer surface of the garment can be finished with a vaporising technique. This involves a vapour blast in which a water-based liquid containing beads is applied to the mould. The beads in the vapour mark the mould surface which results in the product having surface texture and finish.
  • a surface finish may also be produced by laser cutting the mould, resulting in a specific design being cut into the mould surface. Alternatively, the textured surface on the mould could be produced while the mould is being machined, by including the required pattern with the cutting programme. These methods are well-known in the injection moulding industry.
  • the garment of the invention has many advantages over conventional fabric undergarments. It is possible to produce large numbers of garments in various colours, shapes and sizes in a very short period of time. Production is dependent on mould qualities and machine capabilities rather than on sewing capabilities. Mass production results in a shorter lead time and for fast delivery of, for example, up-to-date fashion bras in fashion colours.
  • the use of a moulded polymer material allows the production of garments which are clear, or opaque or in an endless variety of colours.
  • the shape of, for example, the bra is determined by the mould, not by pattern pieces in a conventional bra or by differences which result from the sewing skills of the person assembling a traditional fabric bra.
  • the shape of the cups leads to a flattering bust line and cleavage or other personal enhancement. Because the raw materials are mouldable the resulting garment is fully supportable and can conform to the wearers body and is comfortable to wear. The garment itself moulds to the body when worn which gives support, cleavage, comfort and shape.
  • a significant advantage is that the elasticity of the material remains throughout the life of the garment, whereas conventional garments use elastic which fails during their lifetime.
  • the inner and/or the outer surface finishes of the bra results in the bra being soft to touch and giving a natural feel.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Corsets Or Brassieres (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un soutien-gorge (1) comportant deux bonnets (2, 3) et deux pattes sous aisselles (11) en matière polymère moulée.
PCT/IE2003/000117 2002-08-29 2003-08-29 Soutien-gorge Ceased WO2004019711A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2003267805A AU2003267805A1 (en) 2002-08-29 2003-08-29 Brassiere

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IES20020699 IES20020699A2 (en) 2002-08-29 2002-08-29 Improvements in lingerie
IES2002/0699 2002-08-29

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2004019711A1 true WO2004019711A1 (fr) 2004-03-11

Family

ID=31972029

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IE2003/000117 Ceased WO2004019711A1 (fr) 2002-08-29 2003-08-29 Soutien-gorge

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (1) AU2003267805A1 (fr)
IE (1) IES20020699A2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2004019711A1 (fr)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2006025754A1 (fr) * 2004-08-31 2006-03-09 Trifinity Limited Soutien-gorge rehausseur
CN102008131A (zh) * 2010-11-12 2011-04-13 苏州美山子制衣有限公司 一种无痕内衣及其生产方法
US8864550B2 (en) 2004-08-31 2014-10-21 Trifinity Limited Uplift bra

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2445767A (en) * 1945-10-05 1948-07-27 Edward Dickerson J Brassiere
US2659085A (en) * 1951-08-09 1953-11-17 Hilda M Ericson Brassiere
GB753906A (en) * 1953-11-11 1956-08-01 Stanley Williams Deane Plastic brassieres
US3446213A (en) * 1967-03-15 1969-05-27 Cleo W Goldman Brassiere
GB1261194A (en) * 1968-06-07 1972-01-26 Dora Noble Improvements in or relating to breast support assemblies
US5522892A (en) * 1995-03-28 1996-06-04 Lin; Chin-Lung Breast augmentation device
US6200195B1 (en) * 1998-03-17 2001-03-13 Yoshimoto Club Co., Ltd. Adhesive pad and method for its production

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2445767A (en) * 1945-10-05 1948-07-27 Edward Dickerson J Brassiere
US2659085A (en) * 1951-08-09 1953-11-17 Hilda M Ericson Brassiere
GB753906A (en) * 1953-11-11 1956-08-01 Stanley Williams Deane Plastic brassieres
US3446213A (en) * 1967-03-15 1969-05-27 Cleo W Goldman Brassiere
GB1261194A (en) * 1968-06-07 1972-01-26 Dora Noble Improvements in or relating to breast support assemblies
US5522892A (en) * 1995-03-28 1996-06-04 Lin; Chin-Lung Breast augmentation device
US6200195B1 (en) * 1998-03-17 2001-03-13 Yoshimoto Club Co., Ltd. Adhesive pad and method for its production

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2006025754A1 (fr) * 2004-08-31 2006-03-09 Trifinity Limited Soutien-gorge rehausseur
US8864550B2 (en) 2004-08-31 2014-10-21 Trifinity Limited Uplift bra
CN102008131A (zh) * 2010-11-12 2011-04-13 苏州美山子制衣有限公司 一种无痕内衣及其生产方法

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU2003267805A1 (en) 2004-03-19
IES20020699A2 (en) 2004-03-10

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