Multi-faceted brassiere assembly

Abstract

A brassiere generally conformed to the shape of a female upper torso comprising (1) a front portion comprising: a left mesh panel and a right mesh panel; an internal inset pouch; a brassiere insert; a lateral adjustment strap; a first lower panel; a second lower panel; a chest band; a left upper panel wherein the bottom portion of the left upper panel extends from the top portion of the left mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user; a right upper panel; a left adjustable strap; and a right adjustable strap; (2) side portions comprising: a left adjustable side closure and a right adjustable side closure; and (3) a back portion comprising: a dorsal panel having a octagonal union at the center thereof; a back band; a left upper dorsal strap; a right upper dorsal strap; a left lower dorsal strap; and a right lower dorsal strap.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to brassieres which cover, support and elevate the breasts, while simultaneously preventing the formation of wrinkles and other aging effects brought upon by both vertical breast movement and lateral breast movement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Anatomically, the breasts are non-rigid areas of glandular tissue, with few support structures, such as connective tissue. Breasts are composed of the mammary glands, which remain relatively constant throughout life, as well as the adipose tissue or fat tissue that surrounds the mammary glands. Generally, it is the amount and distribution of adipose tissue that leads to variations in breast size.

In addition, the breasts contain internal ligaments, although their exact function as related to breast support is unknown. These ligaments, and the overlying skin (referred to as the dermal brassiere) help determine the resulting breast shape. As the breasts mature, they fold over the lower attachment to the chest wall (infra-mammary fold), and their lower (inferior) surface lies against the chest wall when vertical. In popular culture, this maturation is referred to as “sagging” or “drooping”, although plastic surgeons refer to it as ptosis, and recommend mastopexy (breast lift) for correction.

A brassiere, commonly referred to as a bra, is an article of clothing that covers, supports, and elevates the breasts. Bras are typically worn to support one's breasts or to restrain breast movement. However, bras may also be worn to reduce or to enlarge the perceived size of one's breasts, to enhance one's cleavage, or to facilitate nursing.

Most bras are designed to lift the breasts off the chest. Bras are typically designed to lift the breasts from their normal position, for a more youthful look or for enhancing cleavage. These roles are sometimes conflicting. Designers usually aim at producing a garment that fulfills a practical role as well as making it look attractive. However, certain bras, which are engineered to counter these effects mentioned above, have been designed to reduce or prevent the “sagging” effect and thereby reducing the production of wrinkles in a woman's upper chest by preventing vertical breast movement. In addition to vertical breast movement, wrinkles on breasts may form as a result of lateral breast movement, such as when the breasts sag medially, sometimes contacting one another. The bra is considered a foundation garment, as well as an undergarment, because of its role in shaping the wearer's figure.

The present invention relates to brassieres and in particular to a bra that is structured to reduce the formation of wrinkles in the upper chest of women by, inter alia, providing an internal insert pouch into which a brassiere insert is inserted and held in between two breasts, functioning to separate the two breasts, and thus prevent lateral breast movement, while simultaneously preventing vertical breast movement. Therefore, the brassiere of the present invention provides adequate coverage and support to prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously separating the two breasts, to prevent lateral breast movement, and hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,955 to Fisher describes a soft fabric bra with a center breast support pad that is designed to keep an upper breast suspended while a woman sleeps on her side, to prevent lateral breast movement and thereby prevent the formation of wrinkles on the breasts.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,144,295 to Fisher describes a breast support pad for supporting the upper breast when the wearer of a brassiere is lying on one side. A breast support pad is set inside and against the central portion of the brassiere between the two curved portions and away from the other portions of the brassiere. The breast support pad is comprised of a body having a front face with a thick vertical section and a back face adapted to conform with the chest of the wearer between the breasts. The back face is comprised of a concave cavity on each side of a centrally located vertical surface, each concave cavity adapted to conform to and support either breast when the wearer lies on one side.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,422 to McGee describes a brassiere that has a pair of shoulder supports, which extend to a back support. The brassiere also has a back support that extends from the back toward the front of the wearer, a portion encircling the wearer and a pair of cup-shaped breast supports. Each breast support has a crescent-shaped portion that curves around the outside and top of the wearer's breast. The crescent-shaped portion has an upper end adjoining the shoulder supports and a lower end adjoining the back supports portion that encircles the wearer at a position between and below the center of the woman's breasts when worn.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,083,555 to Lewis describes an apparatus suitable aimed to reduce and prevent skin deformation near the breasts, which includes a support member that has both a first and second end. A removable outer casing encompasses the support member.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,961,986 to Killen describes an apparatus that employs a substrate with an adhesive for securing the apparatus to the user's skin for the reduction or prevention of skin folding, and, thus, the appearance of wrinkles on the user's skin.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,102,772 to Fernandez describes a brassiere that alleges to prevent inter-mammary wrinkles.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,807,160 to Wehmeye describes a cleavage-wrinkle protector that is constructed of satin or similar lingerie-type fabric and stuffed with polyester fiberfill. The apparatus is engineered to be worn between the woman's breasts to protect the cleavage skin from folding.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,746,007 to Hand describes a woman's sleeping garment that has the elements of a supportive brassiere. The garment simply molds and positions the breast even when the wearer is in an unusual sleeping position.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,891,871 to Donnet describes a brassiere with a resilient, stiff and bent strip with rounded edges that is centrally located, which serves as a separating member between the breasts of a woman.

Heretofore unknown is a brassiere which provides adequate coverage and support to prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously separating the two breasts using a brassiere insert which is held in place by an internal insert pouch, to prevent lateral breast movement, and hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that provides adequate coverage and support to prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously separating the two breasts using a brassiere insert which is held in place by an internal insert pouch, to prevent lateral breast movement, and hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is an adaptation of an earlier filed patent application by Donnelly, one of the inventors herein, for a “Suspension-Styled Brassiere Primarily for Minimization of Intra-Breast Wrinkling, currently pending under U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/893,645, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

An object of the present invention is to provide a bra which supports the breasts to prevent lateral breast movement and thereby prevent wrinkles on the breasts and in the center of the upper chest.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a bra suspends the breast in a natural position as well as a number of dynamic positions.

One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that equally counters and resists lateral breast movement regardless of dynamic position.

One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that augments the frontal support of a human female's breasts.

One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that utilizes a brassiere insert housed within an internal insert pouch to prevent lateral breast movement.

One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that is comfortable and is not excessively snug.

One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that is cheap, economical and easy to manufacture.

In order to achieve the aforementioned objectives, the present invention provides a brassiere comprising a front portion, side portions, and a back portion, generally conformed to the shape of a female upper torso. However, it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the brassiere of the present invention may conform to any shape or size such that lateral breast movement and vertical breast movement are simultaneously prevented.

The front portion includes a left mesh panel and a right mesh panel each having a top portion, a bottom portion, a middle portion, a medial side, and a distal side, wherein the left mesh panel is configured to cover a left breast of a user and the right mesh panel is configured to cover a right breast of a user. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention the left mesh panel and the right mesh do not completely cover the left and right breast of a user. Instead, the left and right breasts are covered in part by the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel, and the remaining exposed portions of the user's left and right breasts are covered by remaining components of the brassiere of the present invention. As such, the left mesh panel may cover from 25-100% of the left breast; where as the right mesh panel may cover from 25-100% of the right breast. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, left mesh panel forms a cup which conforms to the size and shape of the left breast; whereas the right mesh panel forms a cup which conforms to the size and shape of the right breast.

The front portion further includes an internal insert pouch having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the internal insert pouch connects the medial side of the left mesh panel at the middle portion thereof and the medial side of the right mesh panel at the middle portion thereof such that the internal insert pouch will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the diaphragm. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the internal insert pouch may be positioned in any area sufficient to separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement, when a brassiere insert is inserted into the internal insert pouch. It is envisioned that the internal insert pouch may be substantially flat until the brassiere insert is inserted into the internal insert pouch. As such, the internal insert pouch itself may not be sufficient to separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement. In other embodiments of the present invention, the internal insert pouch is sufficiently rigid to itself separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement.

The front portion further includes a brassiere insert having a top portion, bottom portion, front portion, back portion, left portion, and right portion generally conformed to fit within the internal insert pouch. In particular, the brassiere insert fits within the internal insert pouch to separate the breasts of a user, thus preventing lateral breast movement. It is envisioned that brassiere insert may be of any size and shape sufficient to separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement. In one embodiment of the present invention, the brassiere insert pushes the two breasts of a user apart, thus preventing lateral breast movement. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the brassiere insert is springable, so as to exert force from the medial portion of the brassiere insert, thus pushing the two breasts of a user apart, thus preventing lateral breast movement.

The front portion further includes a lateral adjustment strap extending from the distal side of the left mesh panel through the medial side of the left mesh panel and the distal side of the right mesh panel through the medial side of the right panel, and connecting the middle portions of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel on the medial side of each mesh panel. It is envisioned that the lateral adjustment strap will function to bring the two breasts of a user together, thus preventing lateral breast movement. As such, one end of the lateral adjustment strap is affixed to the left mesh cup and the other end of the lateral adjustment strap is affixed to the right mesh cup, such that the user's breasts are brought together. In one embodiment of the present invention, the lateral adjustment strap is first laid across the breasts of a user to keep the user's breasts in a desired position. Following the positioning of the user's breasts using the lateral adjustment strap, the remaining portions of the brassiere of the present invention the remaining portions of the brassiere of the present invention are put on to initially prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement, to further prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement. As such, the lateral adjustment strap is the first or initial layer of the brassiere of the present invention, upon which additional layers or components are applied thereon, so as to form a multi-layer brassiere.

The front portion further includes a first lower panel having a top portion, bottom portion, and side portions, wherein the top portion of the first lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the internal inset pouch, and the side portion of the first lower panel extends from the bottom portions of the left and right mesh panels, on the medial side thereof. The first lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the present invention below and between the left and right mesh panels. As such, the first lower panel functions to prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement.

The front portion further includes a left second lower panel having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion of the left second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the left mesh panel, on the distal side thereof. The second left second lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the present invention to outside of the distal sides of the left and right mesh panels. As such, the left second lower panel functions to prevent vertical breast movement.

The front portion further includes a right second lower panel having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion of the right second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the right mesh panel, on the distal side thereof. The right second lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the present invention to outside of the distal sides of the left and right mesh panels. As such, the right second lower panel functions to prevent vertical breast movement.

The front portion further includes a chest band attached below the first lower panel and second lower panel terminating at the bottom portions of the left and right panels, on the distal side thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, the chest band forms the bottom portion of the brassiere. In another embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is manufactured of an elastomeric material. Accordingly, the chest band is configured to conform to the circumference of a user's upper torso, so as to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in a desired position. In another embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is manufactured of a water-resistant material. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is manufactured of a padded material, to facilitate comfort.

The front portion further includes a left upper panel having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of the left upper panel extends from the top portion of the left mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user. As such, the left upper panel forms the transition from the left mesh panel to the left shoulder strap of the brassiere of the present invention. It is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that the left upper panel will function to limit vertical breast movement by aiding in lifting the left breast of user from the user's chest.

The front portion further includes a right upper panel having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of right upper panel extends from the top portion of the right mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user. As such, the right upper panel forms the transition from the right mesh panel to the right shoulder strap of the brassiere of the present invention. It is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that the right upper panel will function to limit vertical breast movement by aiding in lifting the right breast of user from the user's chest.

The front portion further includes a left adjustable strap having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom portion of the left adjustable strap extends from the top portion the left upper panel. The left adjustable strap functions to create tension between the left mesh panel and the left upper panel so as to lift the left breast of a user from the user's chest.

The front portion further includes a right adjustable strap having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom portion of the right adjustable strap extends from the top portion the right upper panel. The right adjustable strap functions to create tension between the right mesh panel and the right upper panel so as to lift the right breast of a user from the user's chest.

The side portions of the brassiere of the present invention include a left side mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side mesh panel; and a right side mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the right mesh panel, on the proximal side of the right side mesh panel.

In one embodiment of the present invention, left side mesh panel and right side mesh panel do not open. As such, the brassiere functions as a traditional sports bra, wherein the brassiere is worn by pulling the brassiere over the head of a user and is positioned about the upper torso of the user, around the user's breasts, to maintain the user's breasts in a desired position.

In another embodiment, left side mesh panel opens, while the right side mesh panel does not. Accordingly, the brassiere may be worn by opening the left side mesh panel and then positioning the brassiere about the upper torso of the user. Once the brassiere is in position, the left side mesh panel is closed, thereby maintaining the brassiere in position about the upper torso of the user. As such, a user may put the brassiere on by laying the brassiere on a flat surface, and then laying on the brassiere. The user positions the front portion of the brassiere over the user's chest, positioning the user's breasts within the brassiere to prevent both vertical and horizontal breast movement. To maintain the brassiere in position, the user closes the left side mesh panel thus merging the front and back portions of the brassiere to form one unitary brassiere.

In an alternative embodiment, both left side mesh panel and right side mesh panel open, such that the brassiere of the present invention assumes two distinct portions, a front portion and a back portion. Accordingly, the brassiere may be worn by opening both the left side mesh panel and the right mesh panel. The back portion of the brassiere is then laid flat. The user puts on the brassiere by laying on the back portion of the brassiere. The front portion of the brassiere is then positioned over the chest of a user. Once the front portion of the brassiere is positioned correctly over the chest of a user to adequately prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement, the left side mesh panel and the right side mesh panel are then closed, thus merging the front portion of the brassiere and the back portion of the brassiere, to create one unitary brassiere. In order to remove the brassiere, the left side mesh panel and the right side mesh panel are opened.

The back portion of the brassiere of the present invention includes a dorsal panel configured to cover the upper back of a user having an octagonal union in the center thereof such that the octagonal union will be positioned in the middle of the back of a user. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the dorsal panel may cover all or part of the upper back of a user, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dorsal panel is manufactured from a breathable material.

The back portion further includes a back band extending horizontally from the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel on the proximal side thereof to the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel on the proximal side thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, the chest back forms the bottom portion of the back portion of the brassiere. In another embodiment of the present invention, the back band is manufactured of an elastomeric material. Accordingly, the back band is configured to conform to the circumference of a user's upper torso, so as to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in a desired position. In another embodiment of the present invention, the back band is manufactured of a water-resistant material. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the back band is manufactured of a padded material, to facilitate comfort.

The back portion further includes a left upper dorsal strap extending from the top portion of the left adjustable strap to the upper left corner of the octagonal union.

The back portion further includes a right upper dorsal strap extending from the top portion of the right adjustable strap to the upper right corner of the octagonal union. The left upper dorsal strap and the right upper dorsal strap function to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in position on the upper torso of the user. In particular, the left upper dorsal strap and the right upper dorsal strap support the brassiere in position on the upper torso.

The back portion further includes a left lower dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back band meets the left side mesh panel to the lower left corner of the octagonal union.

The back portion further includes a right lower dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back band meets the right side mesh panel to the lower right corner of the octagonal union.

The left lower dorsal strap and the right lower dorsal strap function to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in position on the upper torso of the user. In particular, the left lower dorsal strap and the right lower dorsal strap support the brassiere in position on the upper torso.

The present invention also involves a brassiere insert having a top portion, bottom portion, front portion, back portion, left portion, and right portion generally conformed to the shape between the breasts of a female. In one embodiment, the top portion and the bottom portion are both roughly circular. In another embodiment, the brassiere insert tapers from the top portion to the bottom portion, such that the bottom portion is approximately 60 to 75% smaller than the top portion. In alternative embodiment, the left portion and the right portion of the brassiere insert are both concave, and the front portion and back portion are both convex.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other details of the present invention will be described in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are finished only by way of illustration and not in limitation of the invention, and in which drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin.

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin demonstrating the insertion of brassiere insert into the internal insert pouch.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the upper torso of a female mannequin demonstrating the location of the brassiere insert when the brassiere insert is inserted into the internal insert pouch (not shown) of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere insert of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere insert of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin.

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin.

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In FIGS. 1-3 one embodiment of the brassiere 2 of the present invention is shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin 1. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that brassiere 2 can be altered to fit various forms, including, for example, the upper torsos of individuals of different sizes and shapes, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Likewise it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that brassiere 2 can be made of any material know in the art, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Brassiere 2 includes a left mesh panel 4 having a top portion 4a, a bottom portion 4b, a middle portion 4c, a medial side 4d, and a distal side 4e, wherein left mesh panel 4 is configured to cover a left breast of a user. Brassiere 2 also includes a right mesh panel 6 having a top portion 6a, a bottom portion 6b, a middle portion 6c, a medial side 6d, and a distal side 6e, wherein right mesh panel 6 is configured to cover a right breast of a user.

Brassiere 2 further includes an internal insert pouch 8 having a top portion 8a and a bottom portion 8b, wherein internal insert pouch 8 connects medial side 4d of left mesh panel 4 at middle portion 4c thereof and medial side 6d of right mesh panel 6 at middle portion 6c thereof such that internal insert pouch 8 will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the diaphragm. In one embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch 8 is on the inside of brassiere 2, such that internal insert pouch 8 is not visible from the outside of brassiere 2. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch 8 is on the outside of brassiere 2, such that internal insert pouch 8 is visible from the outside of brassiere 2.

A brassiere insert 9 having a top portion 9a, a bottom portion 9b, a front portion 9c, a back portion 9d, a left portion 9e, and a right portion 9f is provided which is generally conformed to fit within internal insert pouch 8. In particular, brassiere insert 9 fits within internal insert pouch 8 to separate the breasts of a user, thus preventing lateral breast movement.

As shown in FIG. 4, brassiere insert 9 is inserted into internal insert pouch 8 by inserting brassiere insert 9 into the opening in top portion 8a of internal insert pouch 8 and pushing brassiere insert 9 down until bottom portion 9b reaches bottom portion 8b of internal insert pouch 8, whether internal insert pouch 8 is on the inside or the outside of brassiere 2. Accordingly, brassiere insert 9 is removable, thus allowing the user to insert brassiere inserts of various shapes, sizes, and materials, depending on the user's preference. In addition, allowing brassiere insert 9 to be removed from the remaining components of brassiere 2, allows for removal before washing brassiere 2.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9 is sewn into or otherwise encapsulated in internal insert pouch 8, such that brassiere insert 9 is not removable. In one embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch 8 is located between the breasts of a user, as shown in FIG. 5.

In one embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIGS. 6-7, top portion 9a of brassiere insert 9 and bottom portion 9b of brassiere insert 9 are both roughly circular. It is envisioned that brassiere insert 9 may take any shape that would allow brassiere insert 9 to fit between the breasts of a user so as to separate the breasts of the user. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9 is moldable to conform to the shape in between the breasts of any user, so as to separate the breasts of the user. For example, brassiere insert 9 may be manufactured of a gel-like material, a more rigid clay-like material, or a firm plastic-like material. It is envisioned that brassiere insert 9 may be hollow or monolithic, depending on, among other things, the desired material of manufacture. In one particular embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9 is pouch filled with a liquid, gel-like or solid material, or a combination thereof. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9 is a pouch filled with water or another liquid capable of freezing at relatively low temperatures, such that brassiere insert 9 may be inserted into internal insert pouch 8 while frozen, thus providing a cooling effect.

In another embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9 tapers from top portion 9a to bottom portion 9b, such that bottom portion 9b is approximately 60 to 75% smaller than top portion 9a. In one particular embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9 tapers from top portion 9a to bottom portion 9b, such that bottom portion 9b is approximately 30 to 59% smaller than top portion 9a. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert 9 tapers from top portion 9a to bottom portion 9b, such that bottom portion 9b is approximately 1 to 29% smaller than top portion 9a.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, left portion 9e of brassiere insert 9 and right portion 9f of brassiere insert 9 are both concave. In another preferred embodiment, front portion 9c and back portion 9d of brassiere insert 9 are both convex.

Brassiere 2 includes a lateral adjustment strap 10 extending from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4 through medial side 4d of left mesh panel 4 and distal side 6e of right mesh panel 6 through medial side 6d of right panel 6, and connecting middle portions 4c and 6c of left mesh panel 4 and right mesh panel 6 on medial sides 4d and 6d of each mesh panel.

A first lower panel 12 is provided having a top portion 12a, a bottom portion 12b, and side portions 12c, wherein top portion 12a of first lower panel 12 extends from bottom portion 8b of internal inset pouch 8, and side portion 12c of first lower panel 12 extends from bottom portions 4b and 6b of left mesh panel 4 and right mesh panel 6, on medial sides 4d and 6d thereof.

A left second lower panel 14 is also included having a top portion 14a and a bottom portion 14b, wherein top portion 14a of left second lower panel 14 extends from bottom portion 4b of left mesh panel 4, on distal side 4e thereof.

A right second lower panel 16 is included having a top portion 16a and a bottom portion 16b, wherein top portion 16a of right second lower panel 16 extends from bottom portion 6b of right mesh panel 6, on distal side 6e thereof.

A chest band 18 is attached below first lower panel 12 and second lower panels 14 and 16, terminating at bottom portion 4b of left mesh panel 4 and bottom portion 6 b of left mesh panel 6, on the distal sides 4e and 6e thereof.

A left upper panel 20 is provided having a top portion 20a and a bottom portion 20b wherein bottom portion 20b of left upper panel 20 extends from top portion 4a of left mesh panel 4, toward the shoulder of a user.

A right upper panel 22 is provided having a top portion 22a and a bottom portion 22b wherein bottom portion 22b of right upper panel 22 extends from top portion 6a of right mesh panel 6, toward the shoulder of a user.

A left adjustable strap 24 is provided having a bottom portion 24a and a top portion 24b wherein bottom portion 24a of left adjustable strap 24 extends from top portion 20a of left upper panel 20.

A right adjustable strap 26 is provided having a bottom portion 26a and a top portion 26b wherein bottom portion 26a of right adjustable strap 26 extends from top portion 22a of right upper panel 22.

A left side mesh panel 30 is provided having a top portion 30a, a bottom portion 30b, a proximal side 30c, and a distal side 30d, wherein bottom portion 30b of left side mesh panel 30 contacts lateral adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4, on proximal side 30c of left side mesh panel 30. Also provided is a right side mesh panel 28 having a top portion 28a, a bottom portion 28b, a proximal side 28c, and a distal side 28d, wherein bottom portion 6b of right side mesh panel 6 contacts lateral adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from distal side 6e of right mesh panel 6, on proximal side 28c of right side mesh panel 28.

A dorsal panel 32 is provided which is configured to cover the upper back of a user having an octagonal union 34 in the center thereof such that octagonal union 34 will be positioned in the middle of the back of a user.

A back band 36 is provided extending horizontally from bottom portion 30b of left side mesh panel 30 on proximal side 30c thereof to bottom portion 28b of right side mesh panel 28 on proximal side 28c thereof.

A left upper dorsal strap 38 is provided extending from top portion 24b of left adjustable strap 24 to the upper left corner of octagonal union 34.

A right upper dorsal strap 40 is provided extending from top portion 26b of right adjustable strap 26 to the upper right corner of octagonal union 34.

A left lower dorsal strap 42 is provided extending from an area of back band 36 proximate to where back band 36 meets left side mesh panel 30 to the lower left corner of octagonal union 34.

A right lower dorsal strap 44 is provided extending from an area of back band 36 proximate to where back band 36 meets right side mesh panel 28 to the lower right corner of octagonal union 34.

It is envisioned that internal insert pouch 8 may be constructed of any material suitable to create a pouch capable of encasing a brassiere insert such as brassiere insert 9. In one embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch 8 is a multi-layer mesh pocket. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch 8 is configured to receive a brassiere insert such as brassiere insert 9 such that brassiere insert 9 would affix to internal insert pouch 8 by means of a snappable, form-fit configuration, an adhesive, and the like.

In one particular embodiment of the present invention, left side mesh panel 30 is an adjustable closure having a top portion 30a, a bottom portion 30b, a proximal side 30c, and a distal side 30d, wherein bottom portion 30b of left side mesh panel 30 contacts lateral adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4, on proximal side 30c of left side mesh panel 30. In this embodiment, brassiere 2 may be opened or adjusted using the adjustable closure of left side mesh panel 30. The opposite side is not an adjustable closure, thus allowing brassiere 2 to facilitate nursing.

In another embodiment of the present invention, brassiere 2 includes a left side mesh panel 30 and a right side mesh panel 28 which are both adjustable closures. In this embodiment, left side mesh panel includes a top portion 30a, a bottom portion 30b, a proximal side 30c, and a distal side 30d, wherein bottom portion 30b of left side mesh panel 30 contacts lateral adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4, on proximal side 30c of left side mesh panel 30. Right side mesh panel 28 includes a top portion 28a, a bottom portion 28b, a proximal side 28c, and a distal side 28d, wherein bottom portion 28b of right side mesh panel 28 contacts lateral adjustment strap 10 where lateral adjustment strap 10 extends from distal side 4e of left mesh panel 4, on proximal side 28c of right side mesh panel 28. In this embodiment, brassiere 2 may be opened or adjusted using the adjustable closure of left side mesh panel 30 and/or the adjustable closure of right side mesh panel 28. Both sides are adjustable, thus allowing brassiere 2 to be easily worn and removed, even when movement is limited, such as after surgery.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, lateral adjustment strap 10 includes a lateral closure 48 at a midpoint of lateral adjustment strap 10 such that lateral closure 48 will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, above internal insert pouch 8. Lateral closure 48 facilitates opening and closing of the lateral adjustment strap, which can be opened to remove tension across the chest caused by lateral adjustment strap 10 when lateral adjustment strap 10 is taut. It is envisioned that lateral closure 48 will allow a user to adjust lateral adjustment strap 10 to maximize comfort as well as fit. In that tightening lateral adjustment strap 10 functions to bring a user's breasts closer together, loosening lateral adjustment strap 10 will have the opposite effect—allowing the user's breasts to move further apart. Accordingly, lateral closure 48 may be used to tighten or loosen lateral adjustment strap 10 as desired, depending on the preference.

In one particular embodiment of the present invention, left mesh panel 4 and right mesh panel 6 each have an upper panel (4f and 6f, respectively) and a lower panel (4g and 6g, respectively), wherein each lower panel (4g and 6g) is configured to cover the portion of a user's breast below the nipple of the breast and each upper panel 4f and 6f is configured to cover the portion of a user's breast above the nipple of the breast. By providing left mesh panel 4 and right mesh panel 6 with both upper and lower panels, it is therefore possible to vary the amount of stretch in the upper and lower panels. For example, if a more stretchable material is desired above the nipple of the breast than below, this can be achieved, and vice versa.

In another embodiment, the brassiere of the present invention comprises a left lower lateral adjustment strap 50 extending along bottom portion 4b of left mesh panel 4 and a right lower lateral adjustment strap 52 extending along bottom portion 6b of right mesh panel 6. As discussed above, tightening lateral adjustment strap 10 functions to bring a user's breasts closer together, while loosening lateral adjustment strap 10 will have the opposite effect—allowing the user's breasts to move further apart. However, lateral adjustment strap 10 is somewhat limited to bringing the upper portion of a user's breasts closer together, or allowing the upper portion of a user's breasts to move further apart. Accordingly, left lower lateral adjustment strap 50 and right lower lateral adjustment strap 52 function to bring the lower portion of a user's breasts closer together, or to allow the lower portion of a user's breasts to move further apart. As such, the combination of lateral adjustment strap 10, left lower lateral adjustment strap 50 and right lower lateral adjustment strap 52 allow a user to control the separation of the upper and lower portions of the user's breasts.

In one embodiment of the present invention, back band 36 includes a back closure 54 having a left side 54a and a right side 54b such that back band 36 extends horizontally from bottom portion of the left adjustable side closure 30 on proximal side 30c thereof to left side 54a of back closure 54; back band 36 then continues from right side 54b of back closure 54 to bottom portion 28b of right adjustable side closure 28 on proximal side 28c thereof.

In one particular embodiment of the present invention, at least some portion of dorsal panel 32 between left lower dorsal strap 42, right lower dorsal strap 44, and back band 36 contains an aperture 56 (is free of fabric), as shown in FIG. 10. It is envisioned that the area of aperture 56 may vary depending on the type of material used, the desired amount of ventilation, and the like. It is further envisioned that dorsal panel 32 may contain additional apertures at different locations to provide additional ventilation, as desired, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a left bidirectional mesh panel 58 is provided on dorsal panel 32 where left upper dorsal strap 38 and left lower dorsal strap 42 meet the left side of octagonal union 34. A right bidirectional mesh panel 60 is provided on dorsal panel 32 where right upper dorsal strap 40 and right lower dorsal strap 44 meet the right side of octagonal union 34.

In another embodiment of the present invention, first lower panel 12 is bisected longitudinally to form two symmetrical panels.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, upper panel 4f of left mesh panel 4 and upper panel 6f of right mesh panel 6 have stretch values of about 1-3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lower panel 4g of left mesh panel 4 and lower panel 6g of right mesh panel 6 have stretch values of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Internal insert pouch 8 has a stretch value of about 1-2 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lateral adjustment strap 10 has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). First lower panel 12 has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left second lower panel 14 and right second lower panel 16 each have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left upper panel 20 and right upper panel 22 each have a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Dorsal panel 32 has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength. Left upper dorsal strap 38 has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right upper dorsal strap 40 has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower dorsal strap 42 has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right lower dorsal strap 44 has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Octagonal union 34 has a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower lateral adjustment strap 50 and right lower lateral adjustment strap 52 each have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength).

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, upper panel 4f of left mesh panel 4 and upper panel 6f of right mesh panel 6 have stretch values of 2 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lower panel 4g of left mesh panel 4 and lower panel 6g of right mesh panel 6 have stretch values of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Internal insert pouch 8 has a stretch value of about 1 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lateral adjustment strap 10 has a stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). First lower panel 12 has a stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left second lower panel 14 and right second lower panel 16 each have a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left upper panel 20 and right upper panel 22 each have a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Dorsal panel 32 has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength. Left upper dorsal strap 38 has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right upper dorsal strap 40 has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower dorsal strap 42 has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right lower dorsal strap 44 has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Octagonal union 34 has a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower lateral adjustment strap 50 and right lower lateral adjustment strap 52 each have a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength).

However, it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the stretch value of the various components of the brassiere of the present invention may be varied depending upon, for example, the user's preference, the desired amount of mobility, and the like. For example, should a user prefer a particular shape over mobility, a material with a high stretch value should be employed, whereas a material with a low stretch value should be employed when a user prefers mobility over a particular shape.

It is understood that the preceding description is given merely by way of illustration and not in limitation of the invention and that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed. The description has not attempted to exhaustively enumerate all possible variations. That alternate embodiments may not have presented for a specific portion of the invention or that further undescribed alternate embodiments may be available for a portion is not to be considered a disclaimer of those alternate embodiments.

Claims

1. A brassiere comprising a front portion, side portions, and a back portion, generally conformed to the shape of a female upper torso wherein:

(a) the front portion comprises: (1) a left mesh panel and a right mesh panel each having a top portion, a bottom portion, a middle portion, a medial side, and a distal side, wherein the left mesh panel is configured to cover a left breast of a user and the right mesh panel is configured to cover a right breast of a user; (2) an internal insert pouch having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the internal insert pouch connects the medial side of the left mesh panel at the middle portion thereof and the medial side of the right mesh panel at the middle portion thereof such that the internal insert pouch will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the diaphragm; (3) a brassiere insert having a top portion, bottom portion, front portion, back portion, left portion, and right portion generally conformed to fit within the internal insert pouch; (4) a lateral adjustment strap extending from the distal side of the left mesh panel through the medial side of the left mesh panel and the distal side of the right mesh panel through the medial side of the right panel, and connecting the middle portions of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel on the medial side of each mesh panel; (5) a first lower panel having a top portion, bottom portion, and side portions, wherein the top portion of the first lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the internal inset pouch, and the side portion of the first lower panel extends from the bottom portions of the left and right mesh panels, on the medial side thereof; (6) a left second lower panel having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion of the left second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the left mesh panel, on the distal side thereof; (7) a right second lower panel having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion of the right second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the right mesh panel, on the distal side thereof; (8) a chest band attached below the first lower panel and second lower panel terminating at the bottom portions of the left and right panels, on the distal side thereof; (9) a left upper panel having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of the left upper panel extends from the top portion of the left mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user; (10) a right upper panel having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of right upper panel extends from the top portion of the right mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user; (11) a left adjustable strap having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom portion of the left adjustable strap extends from the top portion the left upper panel; and (12) a right adjustable strap having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom portion of the right adjustable strap extends from the top portion the right upper panel;

(b) the side portions comprise: (1) a left side mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side mesh panel; and (2) a right side mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the right mesh panel, on the proximal side of the right side mesh panel; and

(c) the back portion comprises: (1) a dorsal panel configured to cover the upper back of a user having an octagonal union in the center thereof such that the octagonal union will be positioned in the middle of the back of a user; (2) a back band extending horizontally from the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel on the proximal side thereof to the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel on the proximal side thereof; (3) a left upper dorsal strap extending from the top portion of the left adjustable strap to the upper left corner of the octagonal union; (4) a right upper dorsal strap extending from the top portion of the right adjustable strap to the upper right corner of the octagonal union; (5) a left lower dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back band meets the left side mesh panel to the lower left corner of the octagonal union; and (6) a right lower dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back band meets the right side mesh panel to the lower right corner of the octagonal union.

2. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein the internal insert pouch is a multi-layer mesh pocket.

3. The brassiere of claim 2, wherein the left side mesh panel is an adjustable closure having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side mesh panel.

4. The brassiere of claim 2, wherein:

(a) the left side mesh panel is an adjustable closure having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side mesh panel; and

(b) the right side mesh panel is an adjustable closure having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the right side mesh panel.

5. The brassiere of claim 4, wherein the lateral adjustment strap includes a lateral closure at a midpoint of the lateral adjustment strap such that the lateral closure will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, above the internal insert pouch.

6. The brassiere of claim 5, wherein the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel each have an upper panel and a lower panel, wherein each lower panel is configured to cover the portion of a user's breast below the nipple of the breast and each upper panel is configured to cover the portion of a user's breast above the nipple of the breast.

7. The brassiere of claim 6, further comprising a left lower lateral adjustment strap extending along the bottom portion of the left mesh panel and a right lower lateral adjustment strap extending along the bottom portion of the right mesh panel.

8. The brassiere of claim 7, wherein the back band includes a back closure having a left side and a right side such that the back band extends horizontally from the bottom portion of the left adjustable side closure on the proximal side thereof to the left side of the back closure; the back band then continues from the right side of the back closure to the bottom portion of the right adjustable side closure on the proximal side thereof.

9. The brassiere of claim 8, wherein at least some portion of the dorsal panel between the left lower dorsal strap, the right lower dorsal strap, and the back band is free of fabric.

10. The brassiere of claim 9, further comprising:

(a) a left bidirectional mesh panel on the dorsal panel where the left upper dorsal strap and the left lower dorsal strap meet the left side of the octagonal union; and

(b) a right bidirectional mesh panel on the dorsal panel where the right upper dorsal strap and the right lower dorsal strap meet the right side of the octagonal union

11. The brassiere of claim 10, wherein the first lower panel is bisected longitudinally to form two symmetrical panels.

12. The brassiere of claim 11 wherein:

(a) the upper panels of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel have stretch values of about 1-3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(b) the lower panels of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel have stretch values of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(c) the internal insert pouch has a stretch value of about 1-2 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(d) the lateral adjustment strap has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(e) the first lower panel has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(f) the left second lower panel and the right second lower panel each have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(g) the left upper panel and the right upper panel each have a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(h) the dorsal panel has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(i) the left upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(j) the right upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(k) the left lower dorsal strap has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(l) the right lower dorsal strap has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(m) the octagonal union has a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); and

(n) the left lower lateral adjustment strap and the right lower lateral adjustment strap each have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength).

13. The brassiere of claim 11 wherein:

(a) the upper panels of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel have stretch values of 2 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(b) the lower panels of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel have stretch values of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(c) the internal insert pouch has a stretch value of 1 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(d) the lateral adjustment strap has a stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(e) the first lower panel has a stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(f) the left second lower panel and the right second lower panel each have a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(g) the left upper panel and the right upper panel each have a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(h) the dorsal panel has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(i) the left upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(j) the right upper dorsal strap has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(k) the left lower dorsal strap has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(l) the right lower dorsal strap has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength);

(m) the octagonal union has a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength); and

(n) the left lower lateral adjustment strap and the right lower lateral adjustment strap each have a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength).

14. The brassiere of claim 1, wherein the top portion and the bottom portion of the brassiere insert are both roughly circular.

15. The brassiere of claim 14, wherein the brassiere insert tapers from the top portion to the bottom portion, such that the bottom portion is approximately 60 to 75% smaller than the top portion.

16. The brassiere of claim 15, wherein the left portion and the right portion of the brassiere insert are both concave, and the front portion and back portion of the brassiere insert are both convex.