Breast Or Chest, E.g., Brassieres Patents (Class 450/1)
  • Patent number: 7234993
    Abstract: A bra includes two cups and each cup is connected with a side wrap and has a connection portion for connecting a shoulder strap which is connected to the side wrap. Each cup has a protrusion protruding from a top edge thereof so as to cover the nipple of the wearer and at least one concave portion is defined between the protrusion and the connection portion. The concave portion eliminates the stress on the top edge of each cup so as to reduce the pressing force to the breast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Shian Yi Lin
  • Patent number: 7234996
    Abstract: A brassiere has two breast-receiving cups each having an inner breast-receiving surface and an opposing outer surface. A pocket component is affixed to the outer surface of one of the breast-receiving cups. The pocket component opposes a portion of the outer surface of the one of the breast-receiving cups. The pocket component and the portion of the outer surface of the one of the breast-receiving cups forms a storage space having a first shape and an opening into the storage space. A substrate, having a second shape, is disposed in the storage space and is capable of accepting writing applied thereto by a writing instrument, in which the substrate is removable from the storage space through the opening. The second shape of the substrate conforms substantially to the first shape of the storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Christine Donker
  • Patent number: 7234995
    Abstract: A D-ring for a shoulder strap assembly and brassiere can have a catch which enables the D-ring to be locked in use or opened for lateral insertion of the loop of the shoulder strap. The catch can be formed by a pin on the bow of the D-ring laterally engageable in an eye of a limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Fildan Accessories Corporation
    Inventors: Gerhard Fildan, Karl Wanzenböck
  • Patent number: 7232359
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable bra having first and second bra cups; one or more adjustable back bands connected to the respective bra cups; first and second detachable shoulder straps connected at one end to the respective bra cups and connected at the other end to the adjustable back band or bands; a removable or non-removable underwire in each bra cup that is shorter in length than standard underwire; and a plurality of shoulder strap fastener receiving elements incorporated along an entire length of the back band or bands, wherein the shoulder strap fastener receiving elements are adapted to receive and attach the first and second shoulder straps anywhere along the entire length of the back band or bands, including to both single and double layer back bands to enable a wearer to adjust the fit and comfort of the bra to a wearer's breast size and dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Margaret A. Richardson
  • Patent number: 7222372
    Abstract: A method and device for securing a tee shirt to a bra. The device is an elongated fabric strip with a first fastener on one end and a second fastener on the other end. The fasteners are preferably of the hook and loop type. They are positioned so that when the elongated fabric strip is curled into a loop, the first and second fasteners can be attached to maintain the fabric strip in the loop. The method for applying the device is as follows: The lower portion of the tee shirt is passed under the center web of the bra, then back out through the neck opening. The present device is then looped around the looped portion of the tee shirt. The hook and loop fasteners are pressed together to secure the tee wrap. In that state it securely attaches the tee shirt to the bra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventors: Debra A. Bruckart, David B. Bruckart
  • Patent number: 7201629
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method of manufacture and method of use that provides for an easily changeable costume system that allows for quick costumes changes without having to entirely undress and allows for the purchase of add on decorative items to allow for costume changes without having to buy an entirely new costume. According to a preferred embodiment, an interchangeable costuming system is disclosed comprising: a washable foundation with a plurality of first ends of an attachment device fixedly attached; and at least one non-washable decorative cover with at least two second ends of an attachment device fixedly attached. The second ends of the attachment device are intended to removably attach the non-washable decorative cover to the washable foundation so as to provide a washable garment with a non-washable decorative cover. Additional decorative items may be added on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventor: Angela Lambru
  • Patent number: 7144294
    Abstract: A garment (1) for providing compressive forces to a torso to help eliminate or reduce swelling caused by an accumulation of lymph fluid in the torso region. An embodiment of the present invention includes an outer covering (10) of compression fabric, wide shoulder straps (22, 24), front and back panels of compression fabric (12, 14, 16, 18), a non-rolling rib band (72), axilla gussets (82, 84), and both front closure (40) and back closure (50). The garment may also include one or more princess seams (102, 104, 102?, 104?) so as to enable the front panel(s) to encapsulate and hold the user's breasts in place at the same time that compressive forces are applied, as well as one or more front shelves (132, 134) in the front panel(s) for providing upward compressive support to the breast tissue, thereby holding the tissue in a proper neutral position so that inward compressive forces acting on the tissue provide maximum effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Lightning2 LLC
    Inventors: Lesli R. Bell, Eugenie Z. Lindahl
  • Patent number: 7090558
    Abstract: A bra to be worn by a woman during exercising includes front and rear portions. A plurality of pockets are disposed in the front and rear portions of the bra. A plurality of weights may be disposed in the pockets. Any one of the weights may be connected in any one of a plurality of locations relative to the bra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Patrick M. Ott
  • Patent number: 7077719
    Abstract: A breast support apparatus for use in supporting and positioning surgically augmented breasts and methods of use have been developed. The breast support apparatus is worn around the circumference of the torso under augmented breasts of a user to give support to and properly position the augmented breasts in such a way so as to make the augmented breasts appear more natural, while maintaining the appearance that no bra support is being worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Suzanne A. Shiekman
  • Patent number: 7074108
    Abstract: A multi-layer uplift bra which enhances a woman's natural curves while providing adequate support and coverage for the breasts includes a bottom portion capable of encircling the torso of a wearer, a pair of breast cups joined at a center portion, and a pair of straps, each of which being connected at one end to a breast cup and at another end to the bottom portion of the bra. The pair of straps are capable of extending over a pair of shoulders of the wearer. The breast cups include a first layer for lifting the breasts and creating cleavage and a second layer for supporting and holding the breasts in place. A joining means is provided for joining the first and second layers together along the bottom portion of the multi-layer uplift bra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Heather M. Knox
  • Patent number: 6899590
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a breast cup for a brassiere by taking a sheet of moldable material and adhering a plurality of pellets against a major surface of the sheet of moldable material. A molding to a breast cup form of the sheet of moldable material occurs prior, during or subsequent to the application of pellets in a manner such that the pellets are or becomes located in a desired location on the convex side major surface of the then molded sheet of molded material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Regina Miracle International Limited
    Inventor: Theone Luk
  • Patent number: 6860789
    Abstract: A garment (1) for providing compressive forces to a torso to help eliminate or reduce swelling caused by an accumulation of lymph fluid in the torso region. An embodiment of the present invention includes an outer covering (10) of compression fabric, wide shoulder straps (22, 24), front and back panels of compression fabric (12, 14, 16, 18), a non-rolling rib band (72), axilla gussets (82, 84), and both front closure (40) and back closure(50). The garment may also include one or more princess seams (102, 104, 102?, 104?) so as to enable the front panel(s) to encapsulate and hold the user's breasts in place at the same time that compressive forces are applied, as well as one or more front shelves (132, 134) in the front panel(s) for providing upward compressive support to the breast tissue, thereby holding the tissue in a proper neutral position so that inward compressive forces acting on the tissue provide maximum effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Lightning2 LLC
    Inventors: Lesli R. Bell, Eugenie Z. Lindahl
  • Patent number: 6857935
    Abstract: Reusable adhesive body apparel is disclosed. The reusable adhesive body apparel includes a decorative component and an adhesive component coupled to the decorative component. The adhesive component is formed of a material that permits the apparel to be reused multiple times. In one configuration, the apparel includes an adhesive tape with a decorative image provided on a non-adhesive surface of the tape, and a gel coupled to the adhesive surface of the tape. In another configuration, the apparel includes a decorative component with an uneven surface topography, and an adhesive gel. The apparel may be used for any suitable purpose, for example, the apparel may be used as a breast cover, a bathing suit, a costume, or a tattoo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Jewel L. Dohan
  • Patent number: 6837771
    Abstract: Feminine undergarments, particularly brassieres and other body shaping garments that are fabricated using a multi-layered fabric laminate that is formed by gluing multiple fabric layers together, preferably to permit body shaping garments to be substantially fabricated from a single main piece of material or blank cut from the multi-layered fabric laminate and which has finished edges which do not require separate binding or narrow edge finishing, together with a method of making such garments, both on an individual, batch basis, as well as an automated process for making the fabric laminate and multiple garments on a continuous basis, are disclosed. Multi-layer composite fabric laminate materials wherein different portions of at least one fabric layer thereof are made of different fabrics, and a method for making them, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Playtex Apparel, Inc.
    Inventor: Gloria Falla
  • Publication number: 20040224603
    Abstract: A brassiere for supporting a wearer's breasts has breast cups with each of the breast cups connected to a central panel therebetween. The brassiere has a pair of side panels. Each side panel is connected to a different one of the pair of breast cups. The breast cups have a first fabric layer, a second fabric layer and a third fabric layer that is between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer. The third fabric layer provides breathability and support to the wearer's breasts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Applicant: SARA LEE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joanne Kaye, Michael D. Abbott
  • Patent number: 6814647
    Abstract: An electromagnetic wave proof cup structure for bra includes a first layer, a second layer and an intermediate layer joined to the first and the second layers. The intermediate layer contains metallic fiber so as to screen the electromagnetic wave and the contact area between the breast and the bra cup can be reduced effectively to decrease the hurt resulting from electromagnetic wave. The intermediate layer includes a first sheet piece and a second sheet piece and the two sheet pieces are attached to two lateral sides of the bra cup respectively in a way of extending upward so that the breast can be held upward and centrally disposed in the bra cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Shin-Heng Huang
  • Publication number: 20040219864
    Abstract: A breast stabilizing and positioning device comprises a torso band for enveloping and securement about the chest of a human female patient, a breast elevating module and a breast stabilizing ring. The torso band defines a through aperture sized to receive a human breast therethrough. The breast elevating module is attached to the torso band, and comprises a base framing the through aperture of the torso band and a plurality of flexible, elongate tabs extending radially from the base. The breast stabilizing ring is adapted for securement about the areolar region of a human breast and defines an opening sized to receive a human breast nipple therethrough. The breast stabilizing ring is adapted for removable engagement with the tabs of the breast elevating module. The devices of the present invention conveniently and effectively hold a human breast in a stable position suitable for performing a diagnostic procedure, such as ductal lavage, or a surgical procedure, such as removal of ducts from the breast nipple.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: James Kermode, Yumee Gang, Charles M. Schwimmer, Tammy Gravelle, Douglas Murphy-Chutorian
  • Patent number: 6796875
    Abstract: A system for sizing surgically implantable human breasts prostheses includes a disposable brassiere-like garment having two breast-receiving cups of predetermined size and shape, each having a pocket formed on an inner surface thereof. Disposable inflatable, flexible and resilient bladders are respectively receivable in the pockets and may be inflated and/or deflated with an associated disposable graduated syringe, either before or after insertion in the pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: Otto J. Placik
  • Patent number: 6793556
    Abstract: A front closure for a brassiere which is invisible in the connected state of the front flaps of the brassiere has two closure halves each with a semielliptical plate and one with an annular formation and the other with a lug snap fitted into the annular formation. Outwardly of the annular formation and the lug, the plates form sewing flanges which can be stitched through to attach fastener halves to the brassiere halves, e.g. with a zigzag stitching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Fildan Accessories Corporation
    Inventors: Gerhard Fildan, Karl Wanzenböck
  • Patent number: 6786798
    Abstract: The Invention is a brassiere to be worn after breast surgery. The fabric of the brassiere includes antimicrobial fibers that control microbes on the skin of the woman's breast area both before and after surgical incisions are healed. The antimicrobial fiber is a synthetic fiber incorporating a silver sodium hydrogen zirconium phosphate ion exchange resin. The antimicrobial fiber contains silver ions in antimicrobial amounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Kathleen Gendel
  • Publication number: 20040142632
    Abstract: A decoratively patterned, laminated brassiere, including an outer fabric layer, a foam core and an inner fabric layer. The outer fabric layer having embossing therein to define the decorative pattern of the brassiere, the core having a corresponding embossed pattern in the surfaces thereof underlying the fabric layer and which is impressed through the latter into the core so that the material of the core impregnates the fabric layer to permanently retain the decorative pattern therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Applicant: Regina Miracle International Limited
    Inventor: Theone Luk
  • Publication number: 20040142631
    Abstract: In or for a brassiere, a breast cup of a molded single or multiply cup shaped panel having a perimeter which includes an or part of an edge which when the breast cup forms part of a brassiere, is a free perimeter edge, the free perimeter edge having engaged thereto a piping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Applicant: Regina Miracle International Limited
    Inventor: Theone Luk
  • Publication number: 20040142630
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method of manufacture and method of use that provides for an easily changeable costume system that allows for quick costumes changes without having to entirely undress and allows for the purchase of add on decorative items to allow for costume changes without having to buy an entirely new costume. According to a preferred embodiment, an interchangeable costuming system is disclosed comprising: a washable foundation with a plurality of first ends of an attachment device fixedly attached; and at least one non-washable decorative cover with at least two second ends of an attachment device fixedly attached. The second ends of the attachment device are intended to removably attach the non-washable decorative cover to the washable foundation so as to provide a washable garment with a non-washable decorative cover. Additional decorative items may be added on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Angela Lambru
  • Publication number: 20040142629
    Abstract: A brassiere for extending around a wearer's torso and supporting the wearer's breasts. The brassiere includes a torso strap supporting a pair of breast cups which in turn support the wearer's breasts. The breast cups are constructed of a two-ply fabric, preferably a circularly knit fabric, and each of the breast cups has a fold line positioned along at least a portion of its top edge so as to improve wearer comfort and reduce seams visible through clothing. Also, an underwire may be attached to an exterior side of one of the plies of the two-ply material of each of the breast cups to provide extra support. Optionally, the fold may be knit to have a thinner material than the remaining plies to facilitate formation of a smooth folded upper edge of the breast cup with a finished appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Applicant: Alba-Waldensian, Inc.
    Inventors: Sigi Rabinowicz, Talya Hanan
  • Patent number: 6755717
    Abstract: An improvement for a typical brassiere, halter or bra garment comprises a pair of wide, unidirectional elastic, plush pile, fabric breast bands each affixed to a lateral side section of the garment on opposite sides of the person's thoracic torso. Hook fastener material is secured transversely across to the exterior surface at the distal of one breast band, and transversely across to the interior surface at the distal end of the other breast band for allowing a wearer, alternatively, (i) to secure the breast bands together in an overlapping fashion across her front torso over the upper (pole) portion of her breasts for restraining upward movement of breast mass and any associated implants, or (ii) to secure the breast bands together in an overlapping fashion across her back torso when such upward restraint is not desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Veronica C. Smith
  • Patent number: 6733362
    Abstract: An improved brassiere of the type having a pair of cups, torso bands, and shoulder strap, and apparatus for connecting the pair of shoulder straps. The improvement includes the apparatus including a strip of fabric loops extending along free upper edges of the pair of torso bands and free upper edges of the pair of cups, a pair of fabric loops that are overlying aligned with each other, and are disposed in a space between the pair of cups at free upper edges of the pair of cups, an upper strip of material that is preferably silicon and overlies the strip of fabric loops and the pair of fabric loops for preventing discomfort to a wearer and keeping the brassiere in place, and a lower strip of material that is preferably silicon and overlies free lower edges of the pair of torso bands for further keeping the brassiere in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Katerina Plew
  • Publication number: 20040058617
    Abstract: A brassiere cup has a pair of fabric layers, a layer of soft material in between the two fabric layers, a foam cup-bottom support wire made of material harder than the soft material layer and situated in between the two fabric layers adjacent the soft material layer. The brassiere is made in part by taking a first pre-laminated sheet comprising a fabric layer and a foam layer and forming a flute in the foam layer, placing the hard foam wire in the flute, and taking a second pre-laminated sheet comprising a fabric layer and a foam layer and moulding its foam layer against the foam layer of the first laminated sheet to encase the foam wire between the fabric layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Applicant: Regina Miracle International Limited
    Inventor: Zhonglin Li
  • Publication number: 20040053556
    Abstract: An underwire for use with supporting garments, such as brassieres, has one or more zones of increased lateral flexibility along the longitudinal axis of the arcuate member in order to provide greater comfort to the individual wearer, without substantially affecting the arcuate rigidity that provides support. The increased flexibility can be provided by reducing the cross-sectional area, by heat treatment, and by providing a hinge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph Horta, Ajit Thakur
  • Publication number: 20040029484
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a breast supporter which can be worn or held to a person's breast to provide protection and comfort, and particularly to reduce discomfort during or following breast implant surgery. The breast supporter can provide one or more depressions or cups for resting of breasts, wherein the breast supporter can be inflatable, and wherein the size(s) of the depression(s) or the cup(s) or the opening(s) is/are adjustable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: R. Scott Smith
  • Publication number: 20040029485
    Abstract: Shaped supports for brassieres are made of plastic material, such as polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride and other materials, that can be high frequency soldered or bonded to fabric from which the brassiere is fabricated. The supports are shaped and positioned to follow the breast curvature in order to provide support and can also be shaped to provide a decorative effect in one or more neutral or contrasting colors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Elia Pagliarulo, Emilia Bernardo
  • Patent number: 6688942
    Abstract: An activity bra comprising a shield that is inserted into a harness having pockets that receive the shield. The harness has an adjustment device that allows the shield to be pulled against the breasts to compress the breasts of the wearer. A process for producing a suitable shield is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: David L Holliday
  • Patent number: 6666747
    Abstract: A method for embellishing the shape of a human body utilizes a cosmetic plaster and suitable embodiments of cosmetic plasters. The cosmetic plaster is attached on the one hand, to skin over loose tissues (breast, abdomen, thighs, buttock) and on the other hand, to skin over firm tissues, preferably adjacent to human bone structure, so that the loose tissue parts are stretched towards the firm tissue parts. The plasters are used to lift the buttock, abdomen, breast and thighs in order to improve their aesthetics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Antonia Buntz
  • Publication number: 20030224698
    Abstract: A breast cup comprising a lower most cup panel of a flexible material having an upper joining edge of a predetermined curvature, and an intermediate cup panel of a flexible material having a upper joining edge of a predetermined curvature, and a lower joining edge secured to the upper joining edge of the lower most cup panel, and an upper cup panel of a flexible material having a lower joining edge secured to the upper joining edge of the intermediate cup panel, wherein the lower joining edge of the intermediate panel is of a length to be co-terminus with the upper joining edge of the lower most panel, and wherein the lower joining edge of the upper panel is of a length to be co-terminus with the upper joining edge of the intermediate panel, and wherein the three dimensional cup form formed by the panels and the seams of the joining edges, includes an inner region and outer perimeter line wherein the seam of the joining edges of the lower panel with the intermediate panel starts as a first point at the inner
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: David William Otto
  • Patent number: 6645040
    Abstract: A two-ply support garment such as a brassiere, panty, or the like, is made by positioning a piece of heat-bondable polymer film between two fabric plies of a two-ply fabric blank in one or more selected areas that will become portions of the garment, heating the film to bond the plies to the opposite faces of the film in the one or more selected areas, and fashioning a two-ply garment from the blank. A brassiere embodiment includes the film in partial regions of the cups, in a central panel between the cups, and in side panels of the brassiere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Tefron Ltd.
    Inventors: Sigi Rabinowicz, Meir Azulay
  • Publication number: 20030199224
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting milk extraction devices includes an elongated band that is adjusted to frictionally engage a woman's breasts, a pair of slits, a front adjustment and a back adjustment. The pair of slits is formed in the band, and each of the slits is positioned proximate the woman's breasts and configured to support a milk extraction device therethrough. The front adjustment is located between the pair of slits and the back adjustment is located opposite the front adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventors: Catherine Luciano, Laurie Zanotti
  • Patent number: 6634923
    Abstract: A brassiere shoulder strap is provided that is shaped so that it conforms to the shape of the shoulder of the wearer. By conforming to the shape of the shoulder, the strap provides and maintains a cushioning effect. The shoulder strap has a curvilinear shaped area that is wider than a conventional brassiere strap in order to increase the size of the load bearing region of the wearer's shoulder. This curvilinear shaped area has an outer cover that surrounds an interior hollow portion. This interior hollow portion is filled with a cushioning material. In a preferred embodiment, the cushioning material is a silicone gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Sara Lee Corporation
    Inventor: Sandy Ann Waitz
  • Publication number: 20030190861
    Abstract: A bra structure comprising: (a) a frontal assembly including a pair of cup shaped support members; (b) a pair of shoulder straps each of which is adapted to extend forwardly and rearwardly over one shoulder of the wearer in use; (c) respective means for interconnecting the front and rear ends of each strap under the corresponding arm of the wearer, for each strap, the means for interconnecting the front and rear ends of the strap including a rigid support member which is connected directly or indirectly to the rear end of the strap and also to the corresponding side of the frontal assembly, whereby the load of the frontal assembly is balanced between the front and rear ends of the strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher David Shelton
  • Publication number: 20030166375
    Abstract: A restraint that reduces breast movement while a person exercises or performs some other activity, as well as a method of using the restraint. The restraint includes a strap that fits across the tops of the person's breasts, under the person's arms, and around the person's back, and also includes an adjustable fastener for fastening the strap together. At least part of the strap is sufficiently elastic so as to ensure a close fit, but is also sufficiently inelastic so that the restraint avoids contributing to movement of the breasts during exercising or other activities. The strap preferably is at least one inch wide at a portion that fits across the tops of the breasts. The strap can be all of a uniform width, or the strap can be shaped so as to be wider at the portion that fits across the tops of the breasts. Other arrangements are possible. Preferably, the strap is all of a single elastic material and the fastener is a velcro fastener. The restraint can be adapted to be worn in addition to a bra.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventors: Natalie Rose Noel, Dane Butzer
  • Patent number: 6604983
    Abstract: The front section of this garment is made of silky, stretch material sewn to a cotton backing that is split so that prosthesis can be inserted. The cup is attached to an adjustable bottom strap and an adjustable shoulder strap. The bottom strap circles the area of the body just under the breast. It can have an adjustment on two sides (right and left)—the side nearest the cup only, or on both that side and the opposite side. The breast sling could also be made without mechanical adjustments on the bottom strap and simply be made in sizes small, medium and large. A thicker strap at the bottom of the cup gives extra support to the breast. The single cup is designed for women who have had mastectomies, and the cup can be made for the right or left side. Additionally, it can be turned inside out and worn on the remaining breast by women who want such support while sleeping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Elualou Ann Denn
  • Publication number: 20030143923
    Abstract: A garment is formed as a brassiere by exchangeably combining at least a part of a right bust cup, a left bust cup, a right belt portion, a left belt portion, a front portion and a midriff band with the provision of at least one fastener, thereby designs of these garments maybe changed for satisfying an individual taste and repairs done easily for keeping long life, enhancing enjoyment of many variations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Applicant: Mikio Kuzuu
    Inventor: Masayuki Kuzuu
  • Publication number: 20030134567
    Abstract: An article of manufacture for stabilizing and positioning of breast implants post-operatively to help prevent the upward migration of said breast implants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Veronica C. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030119419
    Abstract: A brassiere comprises a pair of cups for supporting and shaping the breasts of the wearer. The cups are connected by connecting structure. A side panel is attached to each cup. Each side panel has a surface for contacting the wearer. The side panels are adapted to apply substantially uniform pressure to the wearer across the surface in contact with the wearer for the purpose of increasing comfort and reducing unsightly bulging of tissue of the wearer's sides and back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Brian Hass
  • Publication number: 20030119420
    Abstract: The present invention is related to garments with cupwires which have a hingepin provided at the front center portion of the garments, and inner ends of a left and right cupwire 3a, 3b thereof are rotatably attached to the hingepin 1. A good fit is provided for each breast due to the rotation of the cupwires, regardless of differences in the shape and size of one breast with respect to the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Shohei Utaka
  • Publication number: 20030104759
    Abstract: A ladies garment is composed of left and right cups 1, 2, and stretchable first and second tapes 5, 6 which are attached to a left side part 1a of the left cup 1 and a right side part 2a of the right cup 2 and which are put on in such a manner as to wrap the body from each side and across the back. The first tape 5 is attached to a top end 1b of the side part 1a of the first cup 1 and to a bottom end 2c of the side part 2a of the second cup 2. The second tape 6 is attached to a bottom end 1c of the side part 1a of the first cup 1 and to a top end 2b of the side part 2a of the second cup 2. The first tape 5 and the second tape 6 are arranged to cross over each other at the center of the back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Fumiko Kawami
  • Patent number: 6572437
    Abstract: There is provided a brassiere made of a stretchable material for comfort. Each breast cup has a breast receiving portion with an inner layer and an outer layer, and a support panel portion with the inner and outer layers and a breast supporting panel between the inner and outer layers. The breast supporting panel is substantially inelastic in all directions and, preferably, forms an arcuate edge for supporting the breast. Thus, the entire brassiere stretches and moves with the wearer, while each non-elastic breast supporting panel provides the desired breast support. The bottom edge of the breast supporting panel is spaced from the bottom edge of the brassiere. Decreasing the length of the breast supporting panel so that its bottom edge does not contact the bottom edge of the brassiere allows the bottom periphery of the brassiere to have additional flex that improves the overall comfort of the brassiere. Preferably, the bottom edge of the brassiere is turned to form the waistband of the brassiere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Sara Lee Corporation
    Inventor: Sandra Ann Waitz
  • Publication number: 20030096557
    Abstract: There is provided a brassiere made of a stretchable material for comfort. Each breast cup has a breast receiving portion with an inner layer and an outer layer, and a support panel portion with the inner and outer layers and a breast supporting panel between the inner and outer layers. The breast supporting panel is substantially inelastic in all directions and, preferably, forms an arcuate edge for supporting the breast. Thus, the entire brassiere stretches and moves with the wearer, while each non-elastic breast supporting panel provides the desired breast support. The bottom edge of the breast supporting panel is spaced from the bottom edge of the brassiere. Decreasing the length of the breast supporting panel so that its bottom edge does not contact the bottom edge of the brassiere allows the bottom periphery of the brassiere to have additional flex that improves the overall comfort of the brassiere. Preferably, the bottom edge of the brassiere is turned to form the waistband of the brassiere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: Sara Lee Corporation
    Inventor: Sandra Ann Waitz
  • Publication number: 20030092355
    Abstract: A two-ply support garment such as a brassiere, panty, or the like, is made by positioning a piece of heat-bondable polymer film between two fabric plies of a two-ply fabric blank in one or more selected areas that will become portions of the garment, heating the film to bond the plies to the opposite faces of the film in the one or more selected areas, and fashioning a two-ply garment from the blank. A brassiere embodiment includes the film in partial regions of the cups, in a central panel between the cups, and in side panels of the brassiere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Applicant: Alba-Waldensian, Inc.
    Inventors: Sigi Rabinowicz, Meir Azulay
  • Patent number: 6550067
    Abstract: This invention relates to a brassiere garment for use in nursing. The brassiere garment is constructed as a garment. The brassiere garment portion of the garment has adequate support and is provided with cups which can be opened and closed without having to unfasten a brassiere garment from a wearer. The cups fit snugly enough to hold breast pads in place. The garment portion is aesthetically pleasing. Thus the invention provides a garment which is self sufficient, not requiring a bra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Jillaine Bee Force
  • Patent number: 6551171
    Abstract: A brassiere comprises a pair of cups for supporting and shaping the breasts of the wearer. The cups are connected by connecting structure. A side panel is attached to each cup. Each side panel has a surface for contacting the wearer. The side panels are adapted to apply substantially uniform pressure to the wearer across the surface in contact with the wearer for the purpose of increasing comfort and reducing unsightly bulging of tissue of the wearer's sides and back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventors: Brian Hass, Linda Schaeffer
  • Publication number: 20030060123
    Abstract: A hook and eye fastener is provided in which either, or both of, the hook fastener fabric tape or the eye fastener fabric tape is made of a stretchable material. Preferably, the fabric tape can stretch primarily in a horizontal direction. The fabric tape may be single or multi-ply. In an alternative embodiment, the eye fastener fabric tape is a one piece, open knit construction. This open knit construction provides a number of eyes for a variety of adjustment possibilities with the corresponding hooks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: Playtex Apparel, Inc.
    Inventors: Cal Rossi, Gloria Falla