Dynamic function fashion tape and methodology

11779061 · 2023-10-10

    Inventors

    Cpc classification

    International classification

    Abstract

    An engineered adhesive fashion tape element comprising a constructed dynamic function includes a multilayered embodiment with strategically placed predetermined predisposed direction and designed with multilayered materials, a modern dynamic function solution lifting projecting and supporting a user's breast tissue and body tissue to defy gravity for a sustained period while wearing and functioning with daily activities. An adhesive tape and methodology to replace wearing a bra, for a healthier and improved solution so the user can have an alternative to wearing an underwire bra, and traditional bra, shapewear, breast tissue and body tissue shaping structure. An improved alternative to wearing an adhesive bra cup and shaping garments with a variety of fashion which achieves projection lift support and defies gravity for the breast tissue and body tissue.

    Claims

    1. A multilayered fashion tape comprising: a first flexible textile layer having an inner surface and an outer surface; a first adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said first adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the first flexible textile layer; and a second adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said second adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the first adhesive layer, wherein the said first adhesive layer and said second adhesive layer are attached to a first paper liner layer to keep debris out and said first and second adhesive layers clean.

    2. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 1, wherein the said fashion tape is at least one piece.

    3. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer comprises hypoallergenic adhesive.

    4. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer comprises spun lace.

    5. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer comprises a porous adhesive.

    6. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer comprises an adhesive conformable to a body.

    7. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer comprises an adhesive that is medically safe for repeat skin contact up to 10 days consistent duration and environmentally friendly.

    8. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 1, wherein inner surface of said fashion tape is configured to be placed on at least one body tissue area to lift sculpt project and/or support user's body tissue.

    9. A multilayered breast tape comprising: a first flexible textile layer having an inner surface and an outer surface; at least one first adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said at least one first adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the first flexible textile layer; and a second adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said second adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the at least one first adhesive layer, wherein said at least one first adhesive layer and said second adhesive layer are attached to a first paper liner layer to keep debris out and said at least one first adhesive layer and said second adhesive layer clean.

    10. The multilayered breast tape of claim 9, wherein the said breast tape is at least one piece.

    11. The multilayered breast tape of claim 9, wherein the at least one first adhesive layer comprises hypoallergenic adhesive.

    12. The multilayered breast tape of claim 9, wherein the at least one first adhesive layer comprises spun lace.

    13. The multilayered breast tape of claim 9, wherein the at least one first adhesive layer comprises a porous adhesive.

    14. The multilayered breast tape of claim 9, wherein the at least one first adhesive layer comprises an adhesive conformable to a body.

    15. The multilayered breast tape of claim 9, wherein the at least one first adhesive layer comprises an adhesive that is medically safe for repeat skin contact up to 10 days consistent duration and environmentally friendly.

    16. The multilayered breast tape of claim 9, wherein inner surface of said breast tape is configured to be placed on at least one body tissue area to lift sculpt project and/or support user's body tissue.

    17. A multilayered body tissue lift tape comprising: a first flexible textile layer having an inner surface and an outer surface; a first adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said first adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the first flexible textile layer; and a second adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said second adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the first adhesive layer, wherein said first adhesive layer and said second adhesive layer are attached to a first paper liner layer to keep debris out and said first adhesive layer and said second adhesive layer clean.

    18. The multilayered body tissue lift tape of claim 17, wherein the said body tissue lift tape is at least one piece.

    19. The multilayered body tissue lift tape of claim 17, wherein the first adhesive layer comprises hypoallergenic adhesive.

    20. The multilayered body tissue lift tape of claim 17, wherein the first adhesive layer comprises spun lace.

    21. The multilayered body tissue lift tape of claim 17, wherein the first adhesive layer comprises a porous adhesive.

    22. The multilayered body tissue lift tape of claim 17, wherein the first adhesive layer comprises an adhesive conformable to a body.

    23. The multilayered body tissue lift tape of claim 17, wherein the first adhesive layer comprises an adhesive that is medically safe for repeat skin contact up to 10 days consistent duration and environmentally friendly.

    24. The multilayered body tissue lift tape of claim 17, wherein inner surface of said body tissue lifts tape is configured to be placed on at least one body tissue area to lift sculpt project and/or support user's body tissue.

    25. A multilayered fashion tape comprising: a first flexible textile layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said first flexible textile layer being placed directionally on a first grain line to provide support for breast tissue of a user; a first adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said first adhesive layer being placed on a second grain line, different from the first grain line, to provide lift support and projection for the breast tissue of the user said first adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the first flexible textile layer; and a second adhesive layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, said second adhesive layer being placed on a third grain line, different from the first grain line and the second grain line, to provide additional lift support and projection for the breast tissue of the user, said second adhesive layer being laminated to said inner surface of the first adhesive layer wherein said first adhesive layer and said second adhesive layer are attached to a first paper liner layer to keep debris out and said first and second adhesive layers clean.

    26. The multilayered fashion tape of claim 25, wherein each of the first adhesive layer and second adhesive layer is made of medical grade adhesive.

    Description

    4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

    (1) The accompanying figures illustrate one or more embodiments of the disclosed dynamic function fashion tape and methodology with a one-time wearable adhesive bra being one possible application. These figures, together with the detailed description, explain the aspects and implementations of the apparatus and its applications. Embodiments are described in conjunction with the appended figures. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

    (2) FIG. 1 is an example of an outer view of one layer of an elastic lace of a two-piece embodiment of a dynamic function fashion tape 20 with right and left sides on a reduced scale.

    (3) FIG. 2 is an example of an outer view of one layer of an inner medical grade adhesive of the two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 20 with right and left sides on a reduced scale.

    (4) FIG. 3 is an example of an outer view of one layer of an inner medical grade adhesive side support of the two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 20 with right and left sides on a reduced scale.

    (5) FIG. 1-3 is an example of the two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 20 with right and left sides on a reduced scale with parts separated for clarity.

    (6) FIG. 4 is an example of an outer view of a completely laminated without paper liner two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 20 with right and left sides on a reduced scale as it touches the skin by the user.

    (7) FIG. 5 is an example of an inner view, skin side of the two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 20 with the paper liner on a reduced scale.

    (8) FIG. 6 is an example of the cross section of all layers laminated together without paper liner, creating the embodiment of the outer elastic lace layer, inner body medical grade adhesive layer, and inner side support medical grade adhesive layer, as used in the dynamic function fashion tape 20.

    (9) FIG. 6a is an example of the cross section of all layers laminated together including paper liner protection, creating the embodiment of an outer flexible textile layer, inner body medical grade adhesive layer, and additional support medical grade adhesive layer, paper liner layer, as an example used in said dynamic function fashion tape 20, different flexible textile layers and support adhesive layers used in a dynamic function fashion tape 10, and a dynamic function fashion tape 40.

    (10) FIG. 7 is an example of an outer view of the assembled embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 20 in elastic lace on a reduced scale.

    (11) FIG. 8 is an example of a body sketch before applying the dynamic function fashion tape 20. Breasts are low, sagging and not projected. They lack a youthful breast tissue appearance.

    (12) FIG. 9 is an example of an on-body sketch after applying one side of the dynamic function fashion tape 20. The dashed lines represent the areola and breast tissue underneath the fashion tape 20. One breast is lower sagging and has no projection. The other breast is lifted and projected with a feminine youthful shape.

    (13) FIG. 10 is an example of the front view of an on-body sketch after applying both sides of the dynamic function fashion tape 20. The dashed lines are representing the breast tissue underneath the fashion tape 20. The wearer will also look thinner in the waistline immediately due to the flattering round lifted projected breast tissue.

    (14) FIG. 11 is an example of a side view of an on-body sketch after applying the dynamic function fashion tape 20. The dashed lines represent the areola and breast tissue underneath the fashion tape 20 to show placement on the wearer's breast and inframammary fold.

    (15) FIG. 12 is an example of an outer view of one layer of an elastic fabric of a two-piece embodiment of a dynamic function fashion tape 10 with right and left sides on a reduced scale.

    (16) FIG. 13 is an example of an outer view of one layer of the inner body medical grade adhesive side of a two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 10 with right and left sides on a reduced scale.

    (17) FIG. 14 is an example of an outer view of one layer of the inner side support medical grade adhesive of a two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 10 with right and left sides on a reduced scale.

    (18) FIG. 15 is an example of an outer view of a completely laminated without paper liner two-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 10 with right and left sides on a reduced scale as it touches the skin by the user. Not shown is the paper liner which is removed upon application. See FIGS. 6 and 6a for a cross section example of layers.

    (19) FIG. 16 is an example of an outer view of the assembled embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 10 in elastic fabric from the front as the user would see it.

    (20) FIG. 17 is an example of the front view of an on-body sketch after applying both sides of the dynamic function fashion tape 10. The dashed lines are representing the areola and the breast tissue underneath the fashion tape 10.

    (21) FIG. 18 is an example of the side and back view of an on-body sketch after applying both sides of the dynamic function fashion tape 10.

    (22) FIG. 19 is an example of an outer view of a one layer of an elastic lace one-piece embodiment of a dynamic function fashion tape 40 on a reduced scale.

    (23) FIG. 20 is an example of an outer view of one layer of the inner body medical grade adhesive of the one-piece dynamic function fashion tape 40 on a reduced scale.

    (24) FIG. 21 is an example of an outer view of one layer of an inner front support medical grade adhesive of the dynamic function fashion tape 40 on a reduced scale.

    (25) FIG. 22 is an example of an outer view of a completely laminated without paper liner one-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 40 with right and left sides on a reduced scale as it touches the skin by the user. Not shown is the paper liner which is removed upon application. See FIGS. 6 and 6a for a cross section example of layers.

    (26) FIG. 23 is an example of an outer view of an assembled one-piece embodiment of the dynamic function fashion tape 40 in elastic lace on a reduced scale.

    (27) FIG. 24 is an example of an on-body sketch after applying the one-piece dynamic function fashion tape 40 worn as a breast cradling option and worn with a nipple cover for modesty in this sketch as one of my options.

    (28) FIG. 25 is an example of an on-body sketch using two of the one-piece dynamic function fashion tape lace 40 worn as a pair on both sides of the breast and torso. Dashed lines on the shoulder area represent possible cut lines for style option, and dashed lines on breast tissue represent the tissue underneath the fashion tape 40.

    5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

    (29) The present invention will now be described more fully herein with reference to the accompanying figures, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. The invention, may however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

    (30) The term “dynamic function” as used herein represents the force of the embodiment. It is the performance on the body with a certain controlled stretchability that creates lift and shape when recovering, which is referring to said modulus.

    (31) The term “fashion tape” as used herein represents the solution many have used trying to keep the breast in place and lifted without being revealed when wearing challenging outerwear pieces such as a gown, plunging necklines, a backless super elongated triangle style, a deep cut underarm and other skin revealing necklines and cutouts in clothing.

    (32) A better understanding of the present invention may be obtained from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments described in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

    (33) FIG. 1 represents the first embodiment 20 of first layer made of elastic lace 21 with outer surface 22 and inner surface 24 of first layer 21 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 2 represents the first inner body layer of embodiment 20 made of medical grade adhesive 26 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 3 represents the second inner side support layer of embodiment 20 made of medical grade adhesive member 28 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 4 represents all layers laminated together of embodiment 20 with first layer lace 21 with second layer medical grade adhesive 26 and with third layer medical grade adhesive 28. This FIG. 4 is shown without the backing layer of paper liner 32 for purpose of showing the layers of predisposed predetermined directionally placed lace and adhesive members. FIG. 5 represents the complete laminated embodiment 20 from the backing layer protective paper liner 32 point of view which is used to keep debris out before applying and to ensure proper function of the tape. FIG. 6 represents an example of the cross section of laminated layers with lace layer 21 with body medical grade adhesive layer 26 with additional support medical adhesive layer 28 shown without protective paper liner. FIG. 6a represents an example of the preferred order of placement of the combination of layers which may vary from embodiment to embodiment; cross section of laminated layers with lace layer 21 (or other flexible fabrics) with body medical grade adhesive layer 26 and additional support medical grade adhesive layer 28 (or other support layers) shown including protective paper lining layer 32. FIG. 7 represents an example of a final laminated lace version embodiment 20 ready to apply on the body.

    (34) Further explanation to the above detailed description in embodiment 20 the outer lace layer 21 is placed directionally on one grain line strategically placed intentionally providing support for the breast tissue combined with the inner body medical grade adhesive layer 26 shown in FIG. 2, which is placed on a different grain line strategically placed intentionally for additional lift support and projection for the user's breast tissue. Furthermore, an additional side support medical grade adhesive layer 28 represented in FIG. 3 is added with another directional grain line strategically placed intentionally therefore adding even more lift support and projection for the user's breast tissue.

    (35) Instructions to adhering and wearing the first embodiment of the present invention dynamic function fashion tape 20 on the breast tissue and torso area are listed here. Before and after on-body sketches are shown in drawing FIGS. 8 through 11.

    (36) To apply embodiment 20, the user will begin by removing paper lining layer 32 from one of the pair either right or left side of the two-piece embodiment 20. Step two the wearer should hold the breast tissue up with their free hand while applying the tape with the other hand. Step 3 start from the outer side at the underarm, applying across the bust line and finish adhering with the inner side at the center of the wearer's sternum. Applying the tape to the farthest outer portion of one breast near the underarm and finishing at the center front sternum this will achieve the best lift and projection of the wearer's breast tissue. Repeat these steps on the opposite breast.

    (37) FIG. 11 is an example of the side view of the on-body sketch after applying dynamic function fashion tape 20. The dashed lines in the drawing represent breast tissue underneath to show placement on the wearer's breast and inframammary fold.

    (38) The dynamic function fashion tape 20 providing a demi or balconet look of a bra silhouette is smooth and conforming to the body while creating the desired shape. The user will love how comfortable, feminine, and natural they will look with a soft projected and lifted breast tissue. The ease of movement and freedom from not having to wear a traditional bra will be very enjoyable to the user. The user will enjoy a wireless backless frameless strapless scooping breast volume device as it is truly a two-dimensional (2D) device that transforms and performs as a three-dimensional (3D) device.

    (39) The second embodiment of the present invention, dynamic function fashion tape 10 is a two-piece cup version like said lace dynamic function fashion tape 20 but in a fabric combination and slightly different design lines and shape to represent the variety of endless possibilities in the methodology.

    (40) FIG. 12 represents the first layer of second embodiment 10 made of elastic fabric 11 with outer surface 22 and inner surface 24 of first layer 11 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 13 represents the first inner body layer of embodiment 10 made of medical grade adhesive member 26 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 14 represents the second inner side support layer of embodiment 10 made of medical grade adhesive member 28 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 15 represents embodiment 20 of the complete laminated embodiment with first layer in elastic fabric 11 with second layer in medical grade adhesive layer 26 and with third layer in medical grade adhesive 28. Not shown is the paper backing liner 32 that is used to keep debris out and secure proper function of the tape as illustrated in FIG. 5. FIG. 6a represents an example of the cross section of complete laminated layers, with outer flexible textile layer representing different textile cover layers used depending on embodiment. FIG. 16 represents an example of an outer fabric as the final laminated second embodiment 10 before applying on the body. The user will apply embodiment 10 as the same application as embodiment 20 as FIGS. 8-11 and the user can vary the areola being shown or covered depending on breast tissue size and preference. FIG. 17 represents embodiment 10 on a user's body from the front after applying. Dashed lines represent areola partially covered and breast tissue underneath embodiment 10. FIG. 18 represents embodiment 10 on a user's body from the side and back view after applying.

    (41) The dynamic function fashion tape 10 performs and feels like a second skin controlling the body's shape and movement in an ideal healthy way like the dynamic function fashion tape 20. It lifts and re-shapes the breast tissue in a feminine natural look, is very comfortable breathable body temperature neutral and light weight, the user may forget they are wearing it with the smooth surface underneath clothing being so enjoyable.

    (42) The third embodiment of the present invention dynamic function fashion tape 40 is a one-piece cup version like lace dynamic fashion tape 20 in performance features and methodology but in an elastic lace one-piece combination and slightly different design lines and shape to represent the variety of endless possibilities in the methodology. For example, the one-piece dynamic function fashion tape 40 can be worn singularly or in pairs as desired by the user. All dynamic function fashion tape embodiments can be worn layered or in various combinations as desired by the user with endless possibilities of application of the methodology.

    (43) FIG. 19 represents the first layer of third embodiment 40 made of elastic lace 41 with outer surface 22 and inner surface 24 of first layer 41 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 20 represents the first inner body layer of third embodiment 40 made of medical grade adhesive member 26 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 21 represents the second inner center front support layer of third embodiment 40 made of medical grade adhesive 34 predisposed predetermined directionally placed. FIG. 22 represents all layers laminated together of embodiment 40 with first layer in elastic lace 41 with second layer in medical grade adhesive 26 and with third layer in medical grade adhesive 34. This FIG. 22 is shown without the backing layer of paper liner 32 for purpose of showing the layers of predisposed predetermined directionally placed lace and adhesive members. FIG. 6a represents an example of the cross section of laminated layers, with flexible textile layer representing different textile cover layers used depending on embodiment and body adhesive layer and additional support adhesive layer representing different additional support members depending on embodiment, shown including protective paper liner layer. FIG. 23 further represents an example of the outer lace as the final third embodiment 40 before applying on the body.

    (44) FIG. 24 is an example of a one-piece version of dynamic function fashion tape lace 40 worn cradling both breast tissues with nipple cover shown for modesty, and dashed lines shown for representing the breast tissue underneath fashion tape 40. In this FIG. 24, the user is starting at the sternum applying fashion tape 40 across one breast tissue while holding breast tissue to desired height to the underarm and then repeating the same steps on other side. FIG. 25 is an example of a one-piece lace version of dynamic function fashion tape 40 worn in a pair on both sides of the breast and torso with very deep plunge outerwear. The dashed lines on the breast tissue represent where the breast tissue most probably is located underneath fashion tape 40 depending on breast tissue volume and desired placement. The dashed lines at the neckline and armhole represent a possible cut line and easily trim for adjustment. In this FIG. 25, the user is starting at the lower portion of the torso waistline area with one of the pieces of fashion tape 40 and applying it going up the torso holding the breast tissue up and into the desired height applying over the tissue on the outer side of breast tissue at underarm and end at the shoulder area depending on the desired neckline placement. Can be trimmed before applying. Repeat on the second side or as desired.

    (45) There are one piece and two-piece variations that can be used. The third embodiment, dynamic function fashion tape 40 is a one-piece embodiment that can be worn cradling the breast tissue from one breast to the other including both breast tissue areas. It can also be worn from neckline or shoulder area down along the underarm and the side of the breast or underneath the breast. The user can also wear it on the side of the breast toward the back, or in combination of any of the above. Many possibilities of applying the two-piece and one-piece embodiments together and/or separately, depending on the user's needs and desires. These examples are a great solution to wearing a strapless bra without the feeling of wanting to pull it up all day long because it naturally adheres to the breast tissue and torso areas. It eliminates a support frame and fastener. Traditional strapless bras also have very strong elastics with hot, uncomfortable silicone attached to the elastic. The silicone is also not breathable and irritates many users' skins while wearing including some having allergic reactions and all of this is eliminated with the present embodiments.

    (46) The present invention and methodology may provide lift smoothing and slimming benefits without the unsightly view of a bra, shape wear or other garments. The user can also wear multiple pairs of the present invention and layer them in different areas of their body for lift support and smoothing. The user can create their own silhouette and body art. There are endless combinations to create a solution to wearing traditional bras, lingerie, and other innerwear and outerwear garments. The present invention and methodology are made in pretty colors, fabrics, and laces, it lifts the user's breasts and spirit making you feel feminine while wearing and free of restriction. The opportunity and possibility to cover a large range of breast sizes, shapes and volume is endless, no matter if the breast is very different in size from left to right, or if the user had a mastectomy.

    (47) The present invention began as a replacement of a bra and has been further developed into a replacement for shape wear and solution garment options and a methodology of strategically designed dynamically functioning solutions. Additionally, it can be a replacement for swim, active, inner, and outer wear garments and accessories depending on the style of dynamic function fashion tape worn by the user.

    (48) The user will love how comfortable, feminine, and natural they will look with a soft projected and lifted breast tissue. The ease of movement and freedom from not having to wear a traditional bra will be very enjoyable to the user. Traditional bras have elastics, straps, underwire, support frame, and hardware that many find uncomfortable particularly larger breasted people. The user will also be able to enjoy wearing many different types of clothing with the present invention and methodology because of the lack of underwire, bra straps, support frame and a tight back. The user's body will move more freely, and user will feel healthier, and more feminine with the alternative to wearing a bra in the present invention and methodology.

    (49) The present invention and methodology lifts and re-shapes the breast tissue ideally, smooths body tissue in a healthy way, is very comfortable breathable body temperature neutral and light weight, the user may forget they are wearing it, is easy to apply, can wear continuously for up to 10 days during light physical activities, it is waterproof and showerproof, it is a non-surgical breast lift, and provides breast projection without underwire or any other harmful, rigid force around the tissue that would achieve some kind of uncontrolled projection. The present invention and methodology are a wireless backless frameless strapless scooping breast volume device. It is truly a two-dimensional (2D) device that transforms and performs as a three-dimensional (3D) device.

    (50) All illustrations of the drawings are for describing selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The specifications describe a dynamic function fashion tape 20, dynamic function fashion tape 10 and dynamic function fashion tape 40 as applied to breast tissue. However, the inventive dynamic function fashion tape design and methodology may be used in any application in which the user may benefit from and/or require projection lift support and/or concealing shaping smoothing of breast tissue and/or other body tissue.

    (51) Others have invented fashion tapes that are difficult to apply, and don't perform easily or in a satisfying way. The present invention of fashion tape is dynamically functioning and dynamically performing because of the various aspects and advantages of the present methodology. It is a well-researched and well-tested, solution and high-performance driven methodology that provides controlled projection fit lift and ultimate comfort due to consciously selected materials and components that are strategically placed to create reinforced power zones.

    (52) The present invention is not to be limited in scope by the embodiments disclosed in the examples which is intended as illustrations of the aspect of the invention and the methodology which are functionally equivalent are within the scope of the invention. Various modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. It is realized that other variations and modifications of the embodiments listed are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, any equivalents to the embodiments described herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the claims.