With Means To Separably Retain Breast-form-supplementing Pads Patents (Class 450/54)
  • Patent number: 11357657
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid-carrying application, comprising: a first sheet with a first surface and a second surface; a second sheet with a third surface and a fourth surface, wherein a part of the third surface and a part of the second surface of the first sheet are welded or adhered to at least one band-shaped region, thereby forming a first chamber having at least a first drainage port, and the inside of the chamber can communicate with the outside through the first drainage port; an adhesive layer, which is provided on the fourth surface of the second sheet; and a release layer, which covers at least a part of the adhesive layer, wherein, the first drainage port is formed at the first sheet or an open portion where the first sheet and the part adjacent to the edge of the second sheet are not welded or adhered to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Inventor: Kuo Huang Yang
  • Patent number: 11160630
    Abstract: A tissue expansion device can be implanted temporarily beneath skin of a patient and removed upon predetermined expansion of overlying tissue. The device can include an expandable shell having a smooth or glossy outer surface and an injection port. The expandable shell can form an expandable chamber and have an anterior portion and a posterior portion. The injection port can be coupled to the anterior portion of the shell and be in fluid communication with the chamber and configured to permit injection of fluid into the chamber from a hypodermic needle. The device can have a plurality of tabs coupled to the posterior portion of the shell having one or more colors or attributes. The device can also include an orientation indicator visible along the anterior portion of the shell for assisting a clinician and orienting the device during the implantation procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: Allergan, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Schuessler, Alberto J. Flores, Daniela Rodriguez, Luis M. Solano
  • Patent number: 10799337
    Abstract: An implantable device includes a first sealed flexible shell configured for implantation within a breast of a human subject, an elastic filler material contained within the first sealed flexible shell, and a second sealed flexible, inelastic shell, which is disposed within the elastic filler material inside the first sealed flexible shell and is inflated with a volume of gas. The second shell includes a material selected such that an amount of the gas escaping from the second shell does not exceed 10?8 Torr-liter/second when the gas pressure inside the second shell is 250 mbar higher than the gas pressure outside the second shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: BIOSENSE WEBSTER (ISRAEL) LTD.
    Inventors: Dganit David, Yehuda Algawi, Assaf Govari, Ilya Sitnitsky
  • Patent number: 9011199
    Abstract: Provided is a women's garment with cup parts which make bust top positions look higher, while enabling breasts to appear larger in volume. A women's garment with cup parts has a pair of cup parts, each cup part having a first shaping region for covering a nipple and pressing a breast at the time of putting the cup part on the breast and a second shaping region, located lower than the first shaping region, for pressing the breast, the second shaping region having a volume larger than that of the first shaping region, the cup part having a top on a front face side residing within the first shaping region when seen from the front face side. While the second shaping region pushes the breast up, the first shaping region further presses the pushed-up breast, so the bust top positions look higher, while the breasts appear larger in volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventors: Masaru Yuasa, Megumi Tachiiri, Junko Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 8956199
    Abstract: There is provided a breast cup assembly comprising an outer panel comprising an outer fabric layer, an inner panel comprising an inner fabric layer, an inner flexible film applied over the convex surface of the inner panel, an outer flexible film applied to the inner flexible film such that the inner and outer flexible films are sealed substantially proximal to a periphery of the inner panel forming a cavity between the inner and outer flexible films, and a gel pad positioned in the cavity formed between the inner and outer flexible films. A method of producing such a breast cup assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Regina Miracle International (Group) Limited
    Inventor: Zhenqiang Liu
  • Patent number: 8888556
    Abstract: A method is provided for shaping breast tissue via a liquid adhesive that may be applied to an article of clothing and/or a portion of a breast of a user. The liquid adhesive can be applied to a breast or clothing of a user. The breast may then be positioned within the clothing to maintain the desired appearance. A liquid adhesive is further provided that includes a mixture of a polymer and a solvent, where the mixture has a pH ranging from about 6 to about 8 and where the solvent comprises denatured alcohol and water and where the polymer is selected from the group consisting of: a methacrylate copolymer; a polyquaternium cationic polymer, a poly(acrylic acid) polymer; an acrylate copolymer; and combinations of two or more of the foregoing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventors: Dawn E. Jackson, Mehrdad Jahedschoar
  • Patent number: 8845388
    Abstract: A mass of memory foam or similar elastic material is sized and shaped to fit within a cleavage area to space breasts away from the cleavage area and lift the breasts somewhat. The spacer includes a front surface opposite a rear surface and with a base portion opposite a top portion. The base portion is larger than the top portion. Side portions extend from the base portion to the top portion on opposite sides of the spacer. These side portions act upon the breasts to lift and separate the breasts from each other. A band can optionally be provided girding the spacer. The band can be provided as camouflage or decorations can be placed on the band to decorate the spacer. The bands can be replaceable to switch between appearance options.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Darlene S. Dempsey
  • Patent number: 8840442
    Abstract: An apparatus to be used as a woman's undergarment is provided. The apparatus is a bra having a strap that fastens to the cups of the bra that protect and hold the breast of the user. The apparatus has a cup having at least a first layer which contacts the individual's skin. The apparatus further has a second layer which is directly opposed to the first layer and may contact the outer clothing of the individual. Moreover, the device has a third layer and/or insert which is positioned between the first layer and the second layer, and further wherein the third layer may provide an extra zone of thickness for the breast nipple and thereby may enable concealment of an erect breast nipple. The third layer may be of varying thickness and in an embodiment that may be thicker than the first and second layer and may be removable from the undergarment if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Nicole Linkon
  • Patent number: 8840441
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bra for female breast support and formation that is particularly suited to provide the wearer a choice of support and shaping parameters. The bra comprises a pair of interconnected breast receiving cups, a conventional back strap and optional shoulder straps. A pair of skin gripping pads are sized and positioned to fit within the respective cups in a position to embrace the under and lateral side of the respective breast and include a selectively adjustable link interconnecting the support pads across and under the medial port ion of the bra. By shortening the link the support pads move laterally, drawing the breasts together. In a second embodiment the support pads may also be adjusted up and down by shortening or lengthening secondary shoulder straps that are attached to the upper portion of the respective pads and are positioned underneath the conventional bra shoulder straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph S. Sporn
  • Patent number: 8827765
    Abstract: There is provided a breast cup assembly for a bra. An outer panel has an outer fabric layer attached to a first foam layer. An inner panel has an inner fabric layer attached to a second foam layer. A pad is located between the inner panel and the outer panel. The inner panel has a surface area the majority of which is overlaid with the pad, and the outer panel and the inner panel are attached to each other about a periphery of each panel to retain the pad in its location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Regina Miracle International (Group) Limited
    Inventor: Wen Bo Zhang
  • Patent number: 8808057
    Abstract: A breast-enhancing brassiere is provided having a pair of breast-receiving cups, each cup including at least one cushioned layer having an inner breast-receiving side and an outer side, and having at least one outer fabric layer affixed to the outer side of the cushioned layer, the inner breast-receiving side including a lower portion and an upper portion, the lower portion having a cushioned thickness greater than the cushioned thickness of the upper portion and projecting inwardly to provide lift and breast enhancement to a wearer, a first pocket formed on the inner breast-receiving side and having a slit formed therein, and a first cushion conforming substantially to the shape of the pocket, the cushion being removably insertable into the pocket to provide supplemental lift and breast enhancement to a wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: HBI Branded Apparel Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Xiao Qing Hu
  • Patent number: 8727830
    Abstract: A brassiere comprising: breast cups for supporting a breast of a wearer; each said breast cups including at least one inflatable air envelope having at least one internal space which receives air from at least one air pump; connection means allowing communicating between a pump and the at least one inflatable envelope, such that when a pump is actuated, the at least one inflatable envelope is air inflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Garth Fleeton
  • Patent number: 8708772
    Abstract: A brassiere consisting of an integral body having a front portion, and a rear portion as a lateral extension of the front portion. The edge considered to be the lower edge, of the front portion as well as of the rear portion, has an elastic band which supports the entire structure of the brassiere. The center of the elastic band extends into an ascending sector defining a bridge having concave lateral edges and a lower edge which is also curved-concave, while the tops of the lateral edges also have divergent sections suitable for adapting to the contour of the breasts of the user. The bridge has cushioned padding, which affects the intermammary area up to the neckline as well as the semi-perimeter of the lower contour of the breasts including the lateral portions or sides of the armholes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Marta Maria Fernandez Cuevas
  • Patent number: 8702471
    Abstract: Post-operative medical prosthetic devices, more particularly a combined garment and prosthesis that is useful for female patients having major chest trauma, including post-op mastectomy, burn, heart and lung surgery, and for patients having severe chest skin sensitivity, including skin and sub-dermal post-op surgical exposed tissue, healing scars, gangrenosis, chemotherapy and the like. The inventive garment/prosthesis includes an undergarment comprising a uniquely designed upper-half-bra having a special pocket for an insertable/removable upper-half-breast prosthesis that only contacts the upper portion of the chest, well above areas of surgical trauma. This provides a cantilever, permitting over-garments to drape free from contact with the chest and stomach exterior surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Linda C. Lyman
  • Patent number: 8696403
    Abstract: A surgical compression bra for patient support with a mastectomy kit. The surgical bra includes a body portion with a releasable front closure, shoulder straps with releasable closures, an internal pocket, adjustable poly filled pad prostheses, and a detachable mastectomy pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Bras To Help Save The Ta Tas, LLC
    Inventor: Kim P. Haley
  • Patent number: 8672728
    Abstract: A female breast pad comprises a rounded, concave cup portion configured to cover a female breast and a side portion, contiguous therewith, that is configured to extend laterally to one side away from the cup portion. The pad includes an elevated protrusion on its inner surface, located in an area between the cup portion and the outer edge of the side portion which is farthest from the cup portion. This protrusion as well as the lateral extension of the side portion inhibit the pad from sliding toward the center of the wearer during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Jennifer Wu Chan
  • Patent number: 8668550
    Abstract: A prosthetic nipple undergarment device is wearable to give an appearance of an erect nipple of a desired size and shape beneath an outer garment. The device includes a brassiere having a breast receiving cup. A prosthetic nipple is selectively coupled to the cup. The prosthetic nipple comprises a base and a projection coupled to and extending from the base wherein the prosthetic nipple is configured to resemble an erect human nipple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Richard B. Sartell
  • Patent number: 8668547
    Abstract: Nursing bras with at least one cup (1) for supporting a breast, wherein the cup comprises a first part (2) for supporting of the breast, characterized in that the cup is provided with a second part (4) which at least in part overlaps with the first part (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: BEAUnen bvba
    Inventors: Eva Boonen, Martine Boonen
  • Patent number: 8657643
    Abstract: A nursing bra comprising a mesh fabric pocket formed inside of a bra cup for receiving a pad of absorbent material, the pocket interior member having an opening proximate the weaver's breast nipple permitting direct contact between the nipple and pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Carlos F. Perez
  • Patent number: 8641475
    Abstract: A bra cup with an air bag contains a body including an inner cup portion and an outer cup portion hot pressed together. The inner cup portion has a first elastic layer having a first connecting face for connecting with the outer cup portion. The inner cup portion also has an inner layer hot embossed and connected with the first elastic layer. The outer cup portion has a second elastic layer having a second connecting face for connecting with the inner cup portion. The outer cup portion also has an outer layer hot embossed and connected with the second elastic layer. At least one screen adhesive is connected between the inner cup portion and the outer cup portion of the body. An air bag is connected between the inner cup portion and the outer cup portion of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Cheng Hung-Ming
  • Publication number: 20130303050
    Abstract: An imperceptible undergarment fabricated from a transparent material or a skin tone colored material. The clandestine material creates an illusion whereby the undergarment is not easily visible to onlookers. This discretionary look may be beneficial when a wearer is wearing low cut or minimal outer garments that do not fully cover the undergarment. Numerous straps, fasteners, and adjustment clasps provide myriad options for the wearer to adjust the imperceptible undergarment for a proper fit, and to further conceal the undergarment. The imperceptible undergarment may also be fabricated from a clear plastic or breathable fabric that is efficacious in dissipating heat and providing outlets for sweat in areas of high heat generation, such as the breast, the buttocks, and the groin area. A plurality of apertures, thin webbings, or pin holes strategically positioned throughout the imperceptible undergarment provides release points for the heat and sweat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Lynnae Jackson
  • Patent number: 8562388
    Abstract: The present document describes a prosthesis for a mastectomy bra comprising: a lower portion comprising a manually malleable material having a first density; and an upper portion comprising a manually malleable material having a second density smaller than the first density, the lower portion being substantially located below the upper portion thereby insuring stability of the prosthesis when in use. There is also described a bra for receiving the prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: La Vie en Rose
    Inventors: John Izzo, Sarah Giroux, Christine Harding
  • Patent number: 8512093
    Abstract: An invisible bra has two breast boosting sections, two central concave openings and two wing sections. Each breast boosting section has an arcuate cross section, a convex top edge and a convex bottom edge. The central concave openings are respectively located below and above where the breast boosting sections are connected with each other. The wing sections are respectively and integrally connected with the breast boosting sections and are respectively located at two opposite sides of the invisible bra. Each wing section has a top section, a free side and a wrinkle-proof concave. The wrinkle-proof concaves can effectively reduce wrinkles and make the invisible bra well attached to the breasts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Ju-Chung Chang
  • Patent number: 8506349
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a breast covering garment apparatus comprising a breast cup comprising (i) an inner shell having a concave shape selected from a number of available cup sizes and (ii) an outer shell having a convex shape selected from a number of available breast cup sizes. The inner shell of the breast cup and the outer shell of the breast cup may be shaped from a solid piece of flexible material. The inner shell of the breast cup may be smaller than the outer shell of the breast cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Mary C. Sobah-Wilhelm
  • Patent number: 8506348
    Abstract: A brassiere is provided having a pair of breast-receiving cups, each cup comprising at least one fabric layer molded to at least one foam layer, and an inner breast-receiving side and a lower periphery and an upper periphery. A first shaped pocket is formed on the breast-receiving side having a slit formed therein. A first shaped cushion conforming substantially to the shape of the pocket is removably insertable into the pocket to provide breast enhancement to a wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: HBI Branded Apparel Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Xiao Qing Hu
  • Patent number: 8480452
    Abstract: A seamless athletic bra includes different regions with different levels of support. The bra is formed from layers of material adhered together. Altering the types of materials comprising the layers in a region changes the level of support in that region as compared with other regions of the bra. A first region having the lowest level of support is found in a back panel and in the molded cups. A second region having a medium level of support is found in the front portion of the strap. A third region having a high level of support is found in a framework that follows the contours of the molded cups and in a back portion of the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Dana Reinisch, Susan L. Sokolowski
  • Patent number: 8465341
    Abstract: A bra for compression stabilizing the breast mass against motion relative to the torso includes a closed cell foam layer having a front, back, sides, and shoulder straps in a pattern to approximately match the contours of a female user's torso. A first fabric layer adjacent to the inner surface of the cell foam layer adjacent to the user's skin, substantially matching the pattern of the closed cell foam fabric layer, provides moisture wicking and comfort. A portion of the closed cell foam fabric layer extends below the breast line and encircles the torso to add motion stabilizing support to the breasts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Mary Helen Shashy
  • Patent number: 8419502
    Abstract: A bra or other garment pad for breast support has a top fabric layer, a top polyurethane foam layer adhered to the top fabric layer and a nipple concealing disk of shaved polyurethane foam adhered to or formed as part of the top foam layer. The disk is at a nipple covering location of an outer perimeter of the pad and is substantially circular, and is spaced inwardly on all sides from the outer perimeter of the pad. The disk has a graduated thickness at a minimum at the disk perimeter and increasing to a maximum at its center. A substantially 100% spandex fabric layer is adhered to the inner surface of the top foam layer and disk and a bottom polyurethane foam layer is adhered to an inner surface of the spandex layer with a fabric lining layer adhered to the bottom foam layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignees: Victoria's Secret Stores Brand Management, Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventor: Zhen Qiang Liu
  • Patent number: 8388406
    Abstract: A breast cup for a bra that has an outermost layer and an innermost layer and at least one intermediate panel that is captured between the innermost layer and the outermost layer. At least part of an edge of the intermediate panel is positioned at a location that is non-contiguous the perimeter of the cup. This defines within the cup perimeter at least two zones of different cross sectional composition that may offer a different hand feel of different parts of the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Regina Miracle International Limited
    Inventor: Zhen Qiang Liu
  • Patent number: 8371902
    Abstract: The push-up adhesive bra includes a pair of bra cups each comprising a generally concave inside surface opposite a generally convex outside surface. Each cup defines an eye-shaped perimeter including a generally curved top and bottom edge meeting at an inner and outer peak. An adhesive is disposed along a portion of the inside surface for removably adhering the bra to a pair of woman's breasts when worn. A two-piece connector is individually fixed to each cup and engagedly connects the pair of cups and is configured such that the connector is disposed substantially at or below a bottom breast line when worn. A shelf-like padding is disposed within each cup adjacent to the bottom edge generally disposed below the woman's breasts. The top edge of each cup comprises a plurality of strap engagement receiving slots where a strap can be selectively attached at any one of the slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Juliana Lutzi Sherwood
  • Publication number: 20120270473
    Abstract: The invention relates to a brassiere consisting of an integral body having a front portion (1), and a rear portion (2) as a lateral extension of the front portion (1). The edge considered to be the lower edge, of the front portion (1) as well as of the rear portion (2), has an elastic band (3) which supports the entire structure of the brassiere. The centre of the elastic band (3) extends into an ascending sector defining a bridge (4) having concave lateral edges (5) and a lower edge (6) which is also curved-concave, while the tops of said lateral edges also have divergent sections (7) suitable for adapting to the contour of the breasts of the user. The bridge (4) has cushioned padding (12), which affects the intermammary area up to the neckline (9) as well as the semi-perimeter of the lower contour of the breasts (14), including the lateral portions or sides (10) of the armholes, said padding also affecting the rear area, the bottom elastic band (3), and the inner semi-circle of the breast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Marta Maria Fernandez Cuevas
  • Patent number: 8277276
    Abstract: A brassiere cup, and brassiere formed therewith, is provided for enhancing the shape of a wearer's breast. The brassiere cup comprises an outer fabric layer having a lower peripheral portion, and an inner liner fabric layer having a lower peripheral portion. A breast enhancement insert having upper and lower peripheral portions and inner and outer surfaces is attached along the lower peripheral portions of the outer fabric layer and the inner liner layer, the upper peripheral portion and the inner and outer surfaces of the insert being substantially unattached. The breast enhancement insert comprises a padding material encapsulated within a fabric cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: HBI Branded Apparel Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Sandra A. Waitz, Anthony J. Nuzzo
  • Patent number: 8262433
    Abstract: A bra cup includes: an inner cup portion, comprising one or more inner foam layers; and an outer cup portion, attached to the inner cup portion, comprising one or more outer foam layers, the inner cup portion and the outer cup portion together forming the bra cup. The inner foam layers form first and second convex portions with respect to an inner surface of the inner cup portion. The first and second convex portions form, at an intersection therebetween, a channel on the inner surface extending from a lower portion of the cup towards an apex of the bra cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Maidenform, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Castellano
  • Patent number: 8251772
    Abstract: A method for forming a brassiere cup includes the steps of: forming an inner cup member and an outer cup member of the brassiere cup, respectively; spraying or coating the predetermined joining surfaces of the inner and outer cup members with a glue; heating a film and, while the film is softened, attaching it to the glue-sprayed or glue-coated surfaces of the inner and outer cup members by vacuum suction; and assembling and sealing the inner and outer cup members and filling a filler in between the inner and outer cup members. The filler in the brassiere cup thus formed can comply with the breast shape of each user to achieve optimal shaping and supporting effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: Mei Hui Lin
  • Patent number: 8221189
    Abstract: A backless, strapless breast form system to be worn in place of a traditional bra including a pair of breast forms, wherein each breast form includes a volume of silicone gel encased between thermoplastic film material; an interior surface adapted to be attached to a user's breast, wherein substantially an entire interior surface from edge to edge comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive layer and wherein the interior surface has a plurality of bumps adapted to increase a push up effect of the breast form; a lateral side adapted to face the user's armpit and a medial side facing opposite the lateral side, wherein the breast form is adapted to be secured to the user's breast solely by the pressure sensitive adhesive layer; and a connector adapted to adjoin the pair of breast forms, wherein the connector is positioned between the medial side of each of the pair of breast forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Bragel International, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Chen, Jasper Chang
  • Patent number: 8216023
    Abstract: A brassiere for minimizing the effects of wrinkling having two cups for the wearer's breasts and a central space therebetween, having a pouch wovenly positioned in the central space, the pouch having a suspension-styled stitching assembly for articulating the cups and hence the women's breasts in a structural and weight supported manner such that when the wearer is in a supine position the breasts are disinclined to sag; an aperture for receiving one or more articles; and a rear aperture such that the rear aperture leaves skin in the décolletage open for contact with one or more articles. The articles are selected from the group consisting of wickable stuffing material, foam material, memory-styled foam material, medicant, transdermal patch, and squeezable tubular assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventors: Helene Donnelly, Eric Koenig, Mitchell A. Stein
  • Patent number: 8216021
    Abstract: Kidney-shaped push up insert including first lobe and second lobe is provided. Notch is formed in top side between first lobe and second lobe. Insert has depression formed adjacent top side extending towards notch. Second main surface opposes first main surface. Second main surface is substantially smooth arcuate-shaped surface. First lobe has narrower width between top side and bottom side than second lobe, and second lobe is thicker between first main surface and second main surface than first lobe. Ratio of maximum thickness between first main surface and second main surface to maximum length between opposing ends of first lobe and second lobe is less than about 9 and/or ratio of depth of notch from a straight line connecting first lobe and second lobe along top side of insert to width of insert from top side to bottom side at depth of notch is less than about 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Debra MacKinnon
  • Patent number: 8210899
    Abstract: According to the improved systems and methods described herein, a patient may be immobilized so that one or both breasts are returned to a known position. Additionally, the improved systems and methods reduce respiratory movement of the breasts. Thus, the immobilization devices and techniques described herein provide accurate and reproducible breast positioning while simultaneously reducing respiratory motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Loma Linda University Medical Center
    Inventor: David A. Bush
  • Patent number: 8167678
    Abstract: A bra cup that supports and augments different areas of the breast. The bra cup includes different sections having different combinations of multilayer fabric and foam materials to create a round, smooth, silhouette underneath the clothing of the wearer without sacrificing the comfort of the wearer or the accuracy of the fit. The bra cup includes two or more discrete sections that are attached together and then covered on an outward facing surface with a continuous foam and fabric layer that provides a smooth outer surface. The first section includes a stabilizer material that creates a sling-like mechanism that causes the first section to cradle the breasts of a wearer, while pushing the breasts simultaneously upwards towards the neckline and inwards towards the other breast. The second section includes an area of increased thickness in a location corresponding to the superior lateral quadrant of the breast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Maidenform, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Castellano
  • Patent number: 8162718
    Abstract: A bra pad includes a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film, a silicone gel layer and a cloth layer. The silicone gel layer is formed in a concave shape. On the edge of the silicone gel layers is attached to TPU films and the cloth layers. The silicone gel layers is semi-secured on the edge of the cloth layers to form the bar pad structure. Between the silicone gel layer and the TPU film, there is formed a first space and between the silicone gel layer and the cloth layer, there is formed a second space. The present bra pad employs the silicone gel material layer to enhance the softness and comfort. With the first and second space between the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film, the silicone gel layer, and the cloth layer, the bra pad has effective breathing capability and heat-dissipating capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Hui-Mei Chen
  • Patent number: 8142255
    Abstract: A pad for relieving breast engorgement includes a material comprising absorbent fibers and an acidic agent. The pad is configured to insert within the cup of a bra. A bra pad has a layer of absorbent fiber material with a front surface and a back surface. A liquid barrier layer has a first side interfacing the back surface of the absorbent fiber material and an opposing second side. An acidic agent is disposed within the absorbent fiber material. A method of relieving breast engorgement includes providing an absorbent pad including absorbent fibers and an acidic agent shaped to insert within a cup of a bra and disposing the pad between the cup of the bra and an engorged breast to be relieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Sharon Johnston
  • Patent number: 8128456
    Abstract: The invention includes a molded breast cup comprising an outer panel which includes an outer fabric layer and an inner panel including an inner fabric layer to be worn against a wearer's skin. A middle layer is disposed between the outer panel and the inner panel. The middle layer comprises fill being sufficiently thick such that the outer panel corresponds to a breast cup size which is more than one breast cup size and preferably two breast cup sizes above the breast cup size which corresponds to the inner panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Regina Miracle International Limited
    Inventor: Zhen Qiang Liu
  • Patent number: 8118639
    Abstract: An apparatus for concealing a bodily protrusion such as a human nipple comprising a foam pad for placing against the protrusion and a rubber pad for placing against a garment interior like the inside of a brassiere cup wherein the foam pad and the rubber pad are attached together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Angela Boon
  • Patent number: 8109806
    Abstract: A bra that is adapted to be a face mask has first and second bra cups, each of which includes an air filter and which are removably coupled to each other with a first attachment member. A formable member is incorporated into the upper rim of each bra cup as a structural element of the bra. A first body strap is coupled to the first bra cup and a second body strap is coupled to the second bra cup. A second attachment member removably couples ends of the first and second body straps together. When the bra is used as a face mask, first and second body straps are separated and the second attachment member couples the first body strap to the first bra cup via the first attachment member as the first bra cup is separated from the second bra cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Inventor: Elena Bodnar
  • Patent number: 8105129
    Abstract: An inflating and deflating device for connecting to an inner face of a pad includes a top cover having a first domed portion, an air intake and an air exit aperture; a bottom base connected to a lower side of the top cover; a bottom sealing cap; a deflating button located on the top cover to openably seal the air exit aperture; and a first and a second air locker unit. The bottom base has a second domed portion, which and the first domed portion together define a substantially spherical pump body, and is provided with an air intake and exit aperture. The first and second air locker units respectively openably close the air intake and the air intake and exit aperture. The inflating and deflating device has short airflow path and is airtight, and can be used to both inflate and deflate the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Ying-Tze Chen
  • Patent number: 8047892
    Abstract: An undergarment for wearing about the torso of a woman. The undergarment includes a central spacer of elongate form which is sized to reside between the breasts and keep them spaced from each other, particularly when the woman is lying down. A lower band girds the torso of the woman and supports a lower end of the central spacer. Shoulder straps extend from the upper end of the central spacer which are of adjustable length to help keep the central spacer firmly in position against the skin of the woman between the breasts. A central pad can also be provided, such as by being removably attachable, over a cleavage area between and above the breasts to press directly against the skin to prevent wrinkle formation and to eliminate wrinkles from the chest of the woman.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Darlene S. Dempsey
  • Publication number: 20110217903
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to sports bras with breast enhancement features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Shannon M. Harlow
  • Patent number: 8007343
    Abstract: A bust support device utilizing a pillow member having a top, a bottom, and a pair of curving side portions to permit the pillow to be placed in the cleavage area of the bust. The side portions adjoining the bottom of the pillow underlie the breasts. The pillow may be supported to a garment worn by the user, or directly to the torso of the user by a pair of straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Irena Komsky
  • Patent number: 7959488
    Abstract: A brassiere pad assembly is provided for use in a brassiere for delivering optimal support, aesthetic enhancement and health benefits including a first panel comprised of a flexible material having a plurality of perforations and a bottom edge. A second panel is provided having an interior surface and an exterior surface, the second panel having at least a bottom edge affixed to at least the bottom edge of the first panel. A third panel is provided comprising a membrane defining a cavity having at least one attachment means formed therein, the third panel being placed between the first and second panels and having at least a bottom edge affixed to the second panel. An insertable element may be provided configured to be receivable and securable within the cavity of the third panel for imparting skin therapeutic benefits to a wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Tania Alessandra Talamo
  • Patent number: 7942722
    Abstract: A cup includes an air cushion, which has first and second plastic sheets, an elastic plate, a compressible component, and a third plastic sheet; the first sheet has an air inlet; the first and the second sheets are joined together to form an air receiving space between them; an air passage exists between the elastic plate and the first sheet to allow air to flow into the air space; the elastic plate has a displaceable portion, which can be disposed in a first direction to have a concave contour and allow the cushion to be inflated, and which can be disposed in an opposite direction to have a convex contour and allow the cushion to be bled; the compressible component is resilient and interposed between the air inlet and the displaceable portion, and can contain air therein; the third plastic sheet has a hole facing the displaceable portion, and an air outlet exists between the third plastic sheet and the elastic resilient plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Feng-Mao Tseng