BRASSIERE

Abstract

A brassiere includes a first wing and a second wing, each wing including a first end and a second end, a closure including a first closure portion provided on the first end of the first wing and a second closure portion provided on the first end of the second wing, and a pair of cups, a first cup connected to the second end of the first wing, and a second cup connected to the second end of the second wing. Each cup includes an inner contour shaped to substantially match a breast to receive the breast, and an outer contour having a diameter size larger than the inner volume and falling material provided between the inner contour and the outer contour in medial, lateral and lower points of each of the cups to fill in the space between the breast root and the larger diameter of the cup, whereby minimal pressure is exerted on the breast or breast root. A gore is connected to each of the first cup and the second cup, between the first cup and the second cup.

Claims

1. A brassiere, comprising: a first wing and a second wing, each wing including a first end and a second end; a closure including a first closure portion provided on the first end of the first wing and a second closure portion provided on the first end of the second wing; a pair of cups, a first cup connected to the second end of the first wing, and a second cup connected to the second end of the second wing; each cup including an inner contour shaped to substantially match a breast to receive the breast, and an outer contour having a diameter size larger than the inner volume and filling material provided between the inner contour and the outer contour in medial, lateral and lower points of each of the cups to fill in the space between the breast root and the larger diameter of the cup, whereby minimal pressure is exerted on the breast or breast root; and a gore connected to each of the first cup and the second cup, between the first cup and the second cup.

2. A method of designing a line of brassieres, each having a pair of wings, a pair of cups connected to the pair of wings, and a gore connected between the cups, the method comprising; determining an outer contour of each cup shaped with an outer apex determining an inner contour of each cup in such a manner that each inner contour has a volume size smaller than the outer diameter and contour and is shaped with an inner apex spaced one of medially, centered or laterally from the respective outer apex, and determining a configuration of filling material provided between the inner contour and the outer contour so as to fill in space between the breast root and the larger diameter cup whereby minimal pressure is extended on the breast or breast root.

3. A brassiere, in an unworn state, comprising: a first wing having a first end and a second end; a second wing having a first end and a second end; a first closure portion arranged on the first end of the first wing; a second closure portion arranged on the first end of the second wing; and either or both of: a first cup comprising: a medial side; a lateral side connected to the second end of the first wing; an inner contour defining a cup volume and a first area; an outer contour defining a volume larger than the cup volume and having a first cup perimeter; said first cup perimeter including an inwardly curved bottom having a varying radius of curvature and a curved top having a varying radius of curvature; said inwardly curved bottom including a middle inwardly curved portion as well as medial and lateral inwardly curved portions with greater radius of curvature than the middle inwardly curved portion and arranged on opposite sides of the middle inwardly curved portion; the middle inwardly curved portion having a smaller radius of curvature than the curved top; a fill material extending to both the medial side and to the lateral side and defining an area, when viewed from a rear side that is greater than half of the first area; said fill material being U-shaped and having: an inwardly curved bottom perimeter having a varying radius of curvature; an inwardly curved indentation being spaced from an apex of the first cup; and upper lateral and medial spaced apart ends extending above the apex of the first cup and positioned closer to the curved top of said first cup perimeter than to the apex of the first cup; and a width of the fill material being different on the medial side of the first cup than on the lateral side of the first cup; the curvature of the inwardly curved indentation of the fill material being different than the varying radius of curvature of the inwardly curved bottom of the first cup perimeter; or a second cup comprising: a medial side; a lateral side connected to the second end of the second wing; an inner contour defining a cup volume and a second area; an outer contour defining a volume larger than the cup volume and having a second cup perimeter; said second cup perimeter including an inwardly curved bottom having a varying radius of curvature and a curved top having a varying radius of curvature; said inwardly curved bottom including a middle inwardly curved portion as well as medial and lateral inwardly curved portions with greater radius of curvature than the middle inwardly curved portion and arranged on opposite sides of the middle inwardly curved portion; the middle inwardly curved portion having a smaller radius of curvature than the curved top; a till material extending to both the medial side and to the lateral side and. defining an area, when viewed from a rear side, that is greater than half of the second area; said fill material being U-shaped and having: an inwardly curved bottom perimeter having a varying radius of curvature; an inwardly curved indentation being spaced from an apex of the second cup; and upper lateral and medial spaced apart ends extending above the apex of the second cup and positioned closer to the curved top of said second cup perimeter than to the apex of the second cup; a width of the fill material being different on the medial side of the second cup than on the lateral side of the second cup; and the curvature of the inwardly curved indentation of the fill material being different than the varying radius of curvature of the inwardly curved bottom of the second cup perimeter, wherein, in the unworn state, the first and second wings extend out and away from the respective first and second cups and are separated from one another so that the first and second closure portions extend in opposite directions.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0194] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be made apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, given as no limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0195] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a brassiere according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing an inside view of the brassiere;

[0196] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a brassiere according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing an outside view of the brassiere;

[0197] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a brassiere according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing an inside view of the brassiere;

[0198] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a brassiere according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing an outside view of the brassiere;

[0199] FIG. 5 is a front view of a brassiere according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0200] FIG. 6 is a front view of a prior art brassiere;

[0201] FIG. 7 is a front view of a brassiere according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0202] FIG. 8 is a rear view of a brassiere according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0203] FIG. 9 is a front view of a brassiere according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing an outside view of the brassiere;

[0204] FIG. 10 is rear view of a brassiere according to an embodiment, showing an inside view of the brassiere;

[0205] FIG. 11 is an schematic diagram of the brassiere of the invention showing the outside cup shape with a wider breast root diameter, and the location of the cup outer apex spaced medially from the inner cup apex and the bust point;

[0206] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the brassiere of the invention showing the inside cup shape with a wider breast root diameter, inside fill surrounding the breast and the location of the cup outer apex spaced medially from the inner cup apex and the bust point;

[0207] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the brassiere of the invention showing the spheroid inside cup shape with a wider breast root diameter, and the location of the cup outer apex spaced medially from the inner cup apex and the bust point;

[0208] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a brassiere from prior art showing the cup shape for augmented breasts;

[0209] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the invention for augmented breasts showing the inside cup and fill around the medial, lower and lateral side of the breast with a greater amount of fill on the medial side;

[0210] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the invention for augmented breasts showing the inside cup and fill around the medial, lower and lateral side of the breast with a greater amount of fill on the lateral side

[0211] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the invention for augmented breasts showing the outside cup shape with a wider breast root diameter, and the location of the cup outer apex spaced medially from the inner cup apex and the breast point;

[0212] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the invention for augmented breasts showing the inside cup shape with a wider breast root diameter, and a wider apical zone;

[0213] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of larger size pendulous breasts in a natural position and showing a superimposed brassiere;

[0214] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of larger size pendulous breasts contained in a brassiere, showing that the breast points have been moved toward each other for the breast to be contained in the brassiere; and

[0215] FIG. 21 is a depiction of FIGS. 3 and 4 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,485,855.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0216] The present invention is directed to an undergarment, and more particularly to a brassiere.

[0217] As shown in FIG. 5, the brassiere 1 includes first and second wings, each wing including a first end and a second end, a closure 3 including a first closure portion on the first end of the first wing, and a second closure portion on the first end of the second wing, a pair of cups 3, a first cup connected to the second end of the first wing, and a second cup connected to the second end of the second wing, a gore 4 connected to each of the first cup and the second cup, between the first cup and the second cup; and a pair of straps 5 including a first strap connected to the first cup and the first wing, and a second strap connected to the second cup and the second wing.

[0218] As shown in FIG. 5, each cup 3 includes an inner contour shaped with an inner apex 7 substantially matching a breast to receive the breast in a natural bust point position, and an outer contour having a size larger, and a diameter size 9 larger than the inner contour and shaped with an outer apex 8 spaced medially, centered or laterally from the respective inner apex 7, and filling material provided between the inner contour and the outer contour.

[0219] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the inner breast volume is smaller than the larger outer diameter. The cup is surrounded with fill to hold up the larger diameter. The wider cup has a variable inner apical zone (FIGS. 1 and 3) and outer apex (FIGS. 2 and 4). The wider cups fill in and camouflage the wide distance between the breasts for that embodiment.

[0220] Breast tissue extends laterally to the mid-axillary line and medially to the center of the chest. The mid-axillary line is considered the anatomic edge border of the breast. The breast root is the border of the breast. In the brassiere of the invention, the cup extends the boundary of the breast (breast root), differing from the present industry, which uses the breast root trace, (the inframammary fold). Thus, the brassiere of the invention gives a fullness or the illusion of fullness because the cup extends the natural anatomic border of the breast laterally, underneath and medially allowing a new method of enhancement and bra engineering and design to be obtained.

[0221] The brassiere of the invention takes into account a form of enhancement is laterally, underneath and medially. With breasts, the width can be emphasized to give the illusion of maximum volume. The extended breast root diameter enhances and supports the root in a way that has not been discussed before, and supports the breast tissue with foam (fill) which makes for a more comfortable fit. The flexibility of the foam (fill) and the larger cup enables the sizing to have greater accommodation for variations in breast size, shape and spacing. The wider breast root base allows the cup to be designed from a wider trajectory.

[0222] Because there is more wire (or wireless) cup on the body and foam (etc.) counterforcing the cups, the cups with the extended breast root diameter, is maintained on the chest wall more securely, and does not lie up onto or press against the outside of the wearers breast tissue. This makes for a more comfortably fitting brassiere and enables the engineering of the bra to work more efficiently.

[0223] The brassiere of the invention contains the breast with the cup extending further laterally, outwardly and inwardly, instead of first projecting in the forward direction as industry does. The diameter of the breast can be enhanced at the root. In the brassiere of the invention, the diameter of the arc of the cup wire (or wireless) is larger than in the current bras. A contour of greater fullness in the upper portion of the breast is created by the extension of the breast root and the extended enhancement of the lateral, lower and medial tissue.

[0224] Industry bras lift breasts that have volume up and together.

[0225] The website Her Room teaches “breast tissue is malleable. For best results, lean forward and place your breasts in your cup making sure your breast apex (nipple) is in the deepest point in your cup before fastening your bra”.

[0226] In the design and manufacture of bras and bra cups, an initial design and fit decision is made about breast position, breast projection, apex position, and overall breast shape. In actuality, breast tissue is illusive with day to day, month to month variations. The industry with a close fitting cup shape does not easily allow for these variations. The current invention's larger diameters with foam (etc.) surrounding the wider perimeter is more adaptable.

[0227] The brassiere of the invention takes into account that breasts extend laterally and medially and that not all customers want to bring breasts up and together. Bringing cups closer together does not work for smaller breasts, and breasts that are augmented. We are not pushing the cups close together to create cleavage. Prior art moves cups close together and tilts them to create cleavage. This is uncomfortable for many women and it also places the underwire into the breasts in many cases. The spacing between cups should be wide enough for the gore to contact the body, which is why we have developed a new system of sizing. We incorporated the spacing between the bust point location and the location of the cups on the band. By spreading out the cups and allowing the gore to sit flat against the chest wall the bra wings and cups are evenly distributed in tension and allow the bra to sit comfortably on the body.

[0228] Industry push-up bras push tissue from the sides and bottom and move the tissue to the cups. The brassiere of the invention positions the cups on the breasts and fills in the deficits. The brassiere includes pads that extend higher on the upper portion of the cup on the sides both medially and laterally, to fill in missing breast tissue and to hold up the larger cup diameter. This enables the cups (underwire, wireless etc.), gore, wings and straps (or strapless) to allow the design to work properly in tension and engineering. The inside bra cups of the brassiere of the invention are designed to contain tissue and fill (foam etc.). The fill, fills in the tissue deficits in the cup instead of relying on tissue that doesn't move, or isn't there. We build the breast from out to in first, and use fill to fill in the larger diameter.

[0229] Pendulous breasts fall down and to the side in their natural state. Industry takes them from the side, brings them to the center and lifts them up. The brassiere of the invention extends the area of the breast root by using a larger diameter for the cup than the standard diameter industry grade. Instead of moving the breast tissue toward the center of the body to create cleavage, the brassiere of the invention contains the breast tissue and the lateral, lower and medial edge of the breast is redefined. Depending on the amount of fill inside the cup, the fill can lift the breast tissue and create a globulosity of the upper portion of the breast if that is desired. This globulosity can create cleavage in a different way than pushing breast tissue together as from the sides does. The outside of the cup was created to look like a well-proportioned breast based on the outer diameter, and the inside was designed to compensate for the differences in volume, shape and sizes.

[0230] Fullness in lateral, lower and medial positions provides that the bust is supported in its natural position. This is a much more comfortable position than trying to uncomfortably move tissue. Instead of taking breast tissue and trying to push it forward, we are maximizing its appearance first by filling out the breast laterally, underneath and medially. By widening the cups (using a larger diameter and three sides of the cup with fill) we support and enhance the breast tissue in a different manner. This is more natural, and comfortable to the wearer. The mechanics of the cup act differently from setting the cup diameter tight to the breast root circumference. There is reduced pressure on the breasts because the cup is spread wider and the inner surrounding foam allows a balance of tension on the breasts and the torso .

[0231] The wider outer diameter cups and inner foam (fill) counterforce the bra.

[0232] The foam (fill) on the inside pads, make the cups more adaptable to a variety of breast shapes while also increasing the accuracy of the fit with the foams (fill) cushioning characteristic.

[0233] The wider diameter makes the engineering of the bra fit better and more comfortably.

[0234] The engineering of the bra and bra cup designed from a wider diameter and supportive fill around three sides inside, supports the breasts in a different manner.

[0235] In the prior art, the tight fitting diameter of the underwire or wireless cups has too small of a diameter to contain the breasts comfortably against the ribcage and move comfortably with the breast tissue.

[0236] The tight fit also does not allow room for variation in the cups or for differences in breast shapes and tissue distribution.

[0237] By using a tight breast root and tissue measurement as industry does, the only way to project is anteriorly.

[0238] By using a wider diameter we can project anteriorly, medially, and laterally which allows many new options for outer cup shapes including a wider projection. We emphasize width fullness first, not necessarily front projection fullness to give the illusion of volume. By using a larger (than standard) size diameter on the outside and a smaller breast volume on the inside , and fill inside this invention gives the customer new and different choices in fit and sizes.

[0239] In the brassiere of the invention, we have emphasized the width fullness, and not necessarily front projection fullness. In extending laterally, lower and medially, the tissue deficits are enhanced (built up). We enhance the lateral aspect to provide the natural curve in the natural anatomy of the breast, and not necessarily the forward projection as industry does. We defined the lateral and medial projection, which has not before been discussed or recognized, nor does the prior art recognize its importance. The outside curve provides voluptuousness without projection in the forward direction. The brassiere of the invention thus includes a different way of approaching enhancement. The assumption of the prior art bras is that to make the breast look as big as possible, front projection and cleavage must be increased since cleavage is an indication of volume. However, we are indicating that there are other indications of volume, including the outer lateral curve for lateral fullness and the medial curve. Creating cleavage by pushing the breasts together isn't necessarily the desired goal. To increase the illusion of fullness, outer lateral fullness, lower and medial fullness must first be obtained, and then, if there is enough tissue, cleavage can be provided naturally.

[0240] An embodiment of the brassiere of the invention serves breasts that are immovable . Many small breast customers and augmented customers do not have breast tissue that is easy to move and manipulate. This embodiment leaves the breast in its natural position and defines the anterior shape of the cup. We define the lateral, lower and medial shape of the cup and place the apex of the cup in the correct proportional place on the outside irrespective of the actual placement of the apex (nipple) inside the cup.

[0241] The brassiere of the invention contains the breast in a larger cup and extends the breast perimeter. Our cup is a smaller cup volume size, on the inside (i.e. 34C/d cup about 480-580 cc) and a larger size cup (and diameter) on the outside (i.e. 34D diameter about 5 inch ⅙″) .

[0242] The brassiere of the invention also includes pads on the upper portion of the cup that extend higher on the sides than in the prior art to fill in the deficits of the larger diameter outside cup.

[0243] The brassiere of the invention is a bra designed for the customer who does not fit comfortably into the current system of design and sizing . The brassiere was designed in response to the absence of correct fitting and correct looking bras for the women whose measurements and breast type does not conform to the current standards.

[0244] Breasts are currently described with many different variations to find a correct fit.

[0245] The website Her Room asks the customer to choose features which best describe their breasts to determine a bra that has the best fit for them.

[0246] There are variations in breast spacing (touching, separated, splayed, wide set, and wide set splayed). There are variations in shape (conical, thin, omega), variations in upper breast fullness (full, semi full, shallow, deflated) and variations in breast position (self-supporting, semi supported, settled, pendulous) as an example.

[0247] The suggested solution for “outward pointing nipples” is to find a bra designed with closer apex points, wide support panels, arched center support, and/or narrow center panels. The suggested solutions for “thin breasts” are bandeau bras, push up bras, breast enhancers and contour cup bras.

[0248] The sizing of the present invention is based on proportion. The cups are made up of an inside criteria and an outside criteria. Each criteria has a separate function.

[0249] Our outside 34C diameter cup has an inside accommodation for between 390-470 cc volume and is called 34B/c.

[0250] Our outside 34A diameter cup has an inside accommodation for less than 310 cc volume and is called 34AA/a.

[0251] Our outside 34B diameter cup has an inside accommodation for between 310-380 cc volume and is called 34A/b.

[0252] Our outside 34C diameter cup has an inside accommodation for between 390-470 cc volume and is called 34B/c.

[0253] Our outside 34D diameter cup has an inside accommodation for between 480-580 cc and is called 34C/d.

[0254] Our outside 34E diameter cup has an inside accommodation for between 590-700 cc and is called 34D/e.

[0255] Our outside 34B diameter double fill cup has an inside accommodation for less than 310 cc volume and is called 34AA/b.

[0256] Our outside 34C diameter double fill cup has an inside accommodation for between 310-380 cc volume and is called 34A/c.

[0257] Our outside 34D diameter double fill cup has an inside accommodation for between 390-470 cc volume and is called 34B/d.

[0258] Our outside 34E diameter double fill cup has an inside accommodation for between 480-580 cc volume and is called 34C/e.

[0259] Our outside 34EE diameter double fill cup has an inside accommodation for between 590-700 cc volume and is called 34D/ee.

[0260] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 in an embodiment, the cup spacing, or gore, is different from that in the prior art. Our cups for small and augmented breasts are spaced wider apart to accommodate immovable tissue. This allows the cups to be properly positioned on the breasts. It also allows the gore to sit flat on the chest wall and allow the engineering of the bra to work properly. Our sizing for that embodiment recognizes the differences in bust point location on the body and is called 1, and 2.

[0261] The sizes are listed below:

[0262] Size 1=6½″ and less than 6½″ bust point spacing

[0263] Size 2=6½″ and greater than 6½″ bust point spacing

[0264] (Bust point spacing is measured from apex to apex)

[0265] Band size—26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 (measured according to industry)

[0266] (Band sizes may be combined ie 26/28, 30/32, 34/36, 38/40)

[0267] Cup sizes—AA/a, A/b, B/c,C/d,D/e, E/ee (inner volume measured according to industry)

[0268] The AA/a (AA inside/a outside) measures inside volume <1″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (A) breast root measurement underwire and our sculpted outside cup. The AA/b (AA inside /b outside) measures inside volume about <1″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (B) breast root measurement underwire, and inside fill equivalent to a volume between an (AA) and a (A) projected from chest wall and a volume between an (A) and a (B) sculpted outside cup.

[0269] The A/b (A inside/b outside) measures inside volume about 1″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (B) breast root measurement underwire and our sculpted outside. The A/c (A inside /c outside) measures inside volume about 1″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (C) breast root measurement underwire, and inside fill equivalent to a volume between a (A) and a (B) projected from chest wall and a volume between a (B) and a (C) sculpted outside cup.

[0270] The B/c (B inside/c outside) measures inside volume about 2″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (C) breast root measurement underwire and our sculpted outside. The B/d (B I nside /d outside) measures inside volume about 2″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (D) breast root measurement underwire, and inside fill equivalent to a volume between a (B) and a (C) projected from chest wall and a volume between a (C) and a (D) sculpted outside cup.

[0271] The C/d (C inside/d outside) measures inside volume about 3″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (D) breast root measurement underwire and our sculpted outside. The C/e (C inside /e outside) measures inside volume about 3″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (E) breast root measurement underwire, and inside fill equivalent to a volume between a (C) and a (D) projected from chest wall and a volume between a (D) and a (E) sculpted outside cup.

[0272] The D/e (D inside/e outside) measures inside volume about 4″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (E) breast root measurement underwire and our sculpted outside. The D/ee (D inside /ee outside) measures inside volume about 4″ highpoint projected from chest wall with inside fill to compensate for outside diameter equivalent to industry (EE) breast root measurement underwire, and inside fill equivalent to a volume between a (D) and a (E) projected from chest wall and a volume between a (E) and a (EE) sculpted outside cup.

[0273] The industry assigns the (C) projection as 3″ from the chest wall and (B) projection as 2″ from the chest wall. The B/c cup of this invention is about 2½″-2¾″ projected from the chest wall as the projection of the fill is spread wider than industry. The AA/a projects about 1″ from the chest wall. The A/b cup projects about 1½″-1¾″ from the chest wall. The B/c cup projects about 2½″-2¾″ from the chest wall. The C/d cup projects about 3½″-3¾″ from the chest wall. The D/e cup projects about 4½″-4¾″ from the chest wall.

[0274] The double fill A/c is about 2½″-2¾″ projected from the chest wall as the projection of the fill is spread wider than industry. The AA/b double fill cup projects about 1½″-1¾″ from the chest wall. The A/c double fill cup projects about 2½″-2¾″ from the chest wall. The B/d double fill cup projects about 3½″-3¾″ from the chest wall. The C/e double fill cup projects about 4½″-4¾″ from the chest wall. The D/ee double fill cup projects about 5½″-5¾″ from the chest wall.

TABLE-US-00013 26AA/a1 26A/b1 26B/c1 26C/d1 26D/e1 26E/ee1 28AA/a1 28A/b1 28B/c1 28C/d1 28D/e1 28E/ee1 30AA/a1 30A/b1 30B/c1 30C/d1 30D/e1 30E/ee1 32AA/a1 32A/b1 32B/c1 32C/d1 32D/e1 32E/ee1 34AA/a1 34A/b1 34B/c1 34C/d1 34D/e1 34E/ee1 36AA/a1 36A/b1 36B/c1 36C/d1 36D/e1 36E/ee1 38AA/a1 38A/b1 38B/c1 38C/d1 38D/e1 38E/ee1 40AA/a1 40A/b1 40B/c1 40C/d1 40D/e1 40E/ee1

[0275] Sizing may be, but not limited to:

TABLE-US-00014 26AA/a 26A/b 26B/c 26C/d 26D/e 26E/ee 28AA/a 28A/b 28B/c 28C/d 28D/e 28E/ee 30AA/a 30A/b 30B/c 30C/d 30D/e 30E/ee 32AA/a 32A/b 32B/c 32C/d 32D/e 32E/ee 34AA/a 34A/b 34B/c 34C/d 34D/e 34E/ee 36AA/a 36A/b 36B/c 36C/d 36D/e 36E/ee 38AA/a 38A/b 38B/c 38C/d 38D/e 38E/ee 40AA/a 40A/b 40B/c 40C/d 40D/e 40E/ee

TABLE-US-00015 26AA/b 26A/c 26B/d 26C/e 26D/ee 28AA/b 28A/c 28B/d 28C/e 28D/ee 30AA/b 30A/c 30B/d 30C/e 30D/ee 32AA/b 32A/c 32B/d 32C/e 32D/ee 34AA/b 34A/c 34B/d 34C/e 34D/ee 36AA/b 36A/c 36B/d 36C/e 36D/ee 38AA/b 38A/c 38B/d 38C/e 38D/ee 40AA/b 40A/c 40B/d 40C/e 40D/ee

TABLE-US-00016 26AA/a2 26A/b2 26B/c2 26C/d2 26D/e2 26E/ee2 28AA/a2 28A/b2 28B/c2 28C/d2 28D/e2 28E/ee2 30AA/a2 30A/b2 30B/c2 30C/d2 30D/e2 30E/ee2 32AA/a2 32A/b2 32B/c2 32C/d2 32D/e2 32E/ee2 34AA/a2 34A/b2 34B/c2 34C/d2 34D/e2 34E/ee2 36AA/a2 36A/b2 36B/c2 36C/d2 36D/e2 36E/ee2 38AA/a2 38A/b2 38B/c2 38C/d2 38D/e2 38E/ee2 40AA/a2 40A/b2 40B/c2 40C/d2 40D/e2 40E/ee2

[0276] For example, for size 32AA/a1, 32 is the ribcage measurement, (measured according to industry). AA is the breast tissue volume of (<1″) according to industry calculation. a is the outer diameter. 1 is the location of the bust point spacing (6½″ or less)(as an example for that embodiment) . The grade of the outside cup will be based on the anatomical correct proportion of the breast based on the ribcage measurement. The grade of the inside cup will be based on the amount of breast tissue volume and the amount of fill required to support the outside cup diameter.

[0277] According to Dr. Pechters “Chart for Determining Your Breast/Bra Size ” an underbust circumference measuring 29″ is equivalent to a 34 band size. A breast width measuring 6″ and 6.5″ with a 29″ underbust circumference is considered a 34A. A breast width measurement of 7″ and 7.5″ on the same band measurement is considered a B, a breast width measurement of 8″ and 8.5″ is considered a C, etc.

[0278] According to Dr. Pechter's, “Chart for Determining Your Breast/Bra Size ” in the current invention a 34C/d would have an inside accommodation for about an 8″-8¾″ breast width (C cup) and an outside diameter of about 5inch ⅙ (13.1 cm) which is equivalent to a D cup diameter (between a 9″ and a 9¾″ outer cup width). A 34C/e would have an inside accommodation for about an 8″-8¾″ breast width (C cup) and an outside diameter of about 5 inch ⅚ (14.8 cm) which is equivalent to an E cup diameter (between a 10-10¾″ outer cup width).

[0279] The cups of the brassiere of the invention were also designed to create the appearance of a fuller, wider bust for augmented breasts. The cups are a hybrid. That is, the cups are comprised of a variation of a C volume sized and sculpted outer cup with a variation of a B volume sized and sculpted inner cup. The inside is designed and created to fill in the areas that the B bust is missing due to its augmented shape and to hold up and fill out the larger outer shell of the cup.

[0280] The outside of the cup is sculpted to have a simulated look of a weighted bust and the apex of the bust is placed in a proper position separate and apart from the at rest position of the apex positioned in the inside cup. For example, the natural bust point spread of a B bust might be 8″. We designed the inside cup to be placed on the bust in its natural resting position inside and we designed the outside B/c cup to have the most desired B/c cup shape irrespective of the inside sitting position and bust point spread. In other words, we created the outside look first, and then built the inside to properly accommodate the bust, and vice versa. See particularly FIGS. 15 and 16.

[0281] Calculating cup volume and breast weight:

[0282] The average breast weighs about 0.5 kg (1.1 lb). Each breast contributes to about 4%-5% of the body fat.

[0283] The density of fatty tissue is more or less equal to 0.9 kg/l for all women. The volume of a woman's individual breasts can vary. Bra designers can give it the shape of a hemisphere or a hemi-spheroid by fitting it into a cup. If the bust is considered essentially a half sphere, its volume V is determined by the following formula:

V=2π.sup.3/3 V=2.1×r.sup.33 V=0.26×D.sup.3

[0284] Where D is the diameter of the sphere and r is the radius of the sphere.

[0285] If the breast is shaped more like a spheroid, the designer might use the formula like the following:

V=0.26×D.sup.2/b×h

Where b equals diameter of the hemispheroid's base and h equals the height of the spheroid.

[0286] Other formulas can be derived as needed to design bras for differently shaped breasts. All of these formulas assume that the breasts conform to the mentioned mathematical model.

[0287] Cups give a hemispherical shape to the breast, and underwires give shape to the cups. So the curvature radius of the underwire is key to determine volume and weight of the breast. The same underwires are used for the cups of sizes 36A, 34B, 32C, 30D, and etc., so these cups have the same volume. The reference numbers of underwire sizes are based on a B cup bra, for example, underwire size 32 is for 32B cup (and 34A, 30C, . . . ). An underwire size 30 width has a curvature diameter of 3⅚=9.7 cm and this diameter increases by ⅓ in=0.847 cm by size. 27

[0288] The table below shows volume calculations for some cups that can be found in ready to wear large size shop.

TABLE-US-00017 Underwire Bra size Cup Volume of size (US system) Diameter one cup Weight 30 32A, 30B, 28C 9.7 cm (3⅚ in) 240 cc (0.51 US pt) 0.43 kg 32 34A, 32B, 30C, 28D 10.6 cm (4⅙ in) 310 cc (0.66 US pt) 0.56 kg 34 36A, 34B, 32C, 30D 11.4 cm (4½ in) 390 cc (0.82 US pt 0.70 kg 36 38A, 36B, 34C, 32D 12.3 cm (4⅚ in) 480 cc (1.0 US pt) 0.86 kg

[0289] By using the above chart based on the volume of a 34A cup (310 cc) and a 34B cup (390 cc) we are filling the invention for a 34A/b cup with approximately the equivalent of about 80 cc of foam which is the difference between the volume of a standard industry A cup and a standard industry B cup. For a 34A/c cup (310 cc and 480 cc) we are filling the invention with approximately the equivalent of about 170 cc of foam which is the difference between the volume of a standard industry A cup and a standard industry C cup.

[0290] The cup diameter we are using is equivalent to approximately a 34B (11.4 cm=4½ in) according to the above chart for our 34A/b bra which according to the above chart industry uses 10.6 cm (4⅙ in) for an A cup. For a 34A/c cup diameter according to the above chart, we are using approximately the equivalent to a 34C (12.3 cm=4⅚ in.) for our 34A/c.

[0291] We are using dimensions of a 34B diameter for our 34A bras and filling in the deficits in circumference and volume with fill. The foam (fill) is built up on the inside to fill in the breast tissue deficit, and the cup is designed on the outside to make the cup look like it has the weight and volume of a B cup. We put the exterior bust point location on what would have been a 34B diameter and we made the appearance in the cup look like it has the weight of a 34B volume. We made what normally would be a 34B cup into an A cup using a B wire or diameter and spread the cup wider so there is more width in the cup on the body. The location that the cup sits on the body is integral to a correct fit.

[0292] Industry bras shape the breast and manipulate tissue. Our invention does not necessarily use the breast inside to affect the shape on the outside. We are not molding the breasts per se, we are designing the cups externally and filling the inside cup to accommodate and surround the larger diameter. In one embodiment, the inside fill around the diameter may be a separate insert placed inside the cup between the breast tissue, breast root and larger diameter. The insert may be put into a sleeve, a pocket, a channel. The insert may be a separate attachment.

[0293] In the prior art, the tight fitting diameter of the underwire or wireless cups has too small of a diameter to contain the breasts comfortably against the ribcage and move comfortably with the breast tissue. The tight fit also does not allow room for variation in the cups or for differences in breast shapes and tissue distribution By using a larger (than standard) size diameter on the outside and a smaller breast volume on the inside, and fill inside this invention gives the customer new and different choices in fit and sizes.

[0294] This invention does not need to have precise measurements.

[0295] The foam (fill) is adaptable to variations on the inside, and outside shape, and is not necessarily dependent on the inside tissue. There is room built in for error in measurement and also variation.

[0296] The wearer's body doesn't have to be exactly like the original “core” form. Because the apical zone has more area to accommodate the breast, it doesn't have to fit into the cup in the same manner as the outside shape. The outside shape acts to a degree, independently from the inside.

[0297] From the website Beauty Lies Beneath, under the heading “Finding your bra size”:

TABLE-US-00018 Difference Standard Cup Size 0″-½″ (1.3 cm) AA ½″-1″ (2.6 cm) A 1″-2″ (5.1 cm) B 2″-3″ (7.6 cm) C

[0298] According to this chart, we use about the difference between an A cup (2.6 cm) and a B cup (5.1 cm) to fill the diameter of the B cup measurements we are using for our A/b cup. We use about the difference between an A cup (2.6 cm) and a C (cup) (7.6 cm) to fill the diameter of the C cup measurements we are using for our A/c.

[0299] A goal of the brassiere of the invention is to maximize the look of the existing bust using larger wider sized diameters and cups outside, and fill inside around the sides, to create a comfortable and well-fitting bra by creating a counter force between the bust, the cups, and the wings using foam (fill) to counter balance the cups and to give the illusion of weight and mass. Special tension engineering was used to make the bra fit comfortably without pressing the bust to the pads or the body. And to give the nonstandard size customer a wide range of designs accommodating variations of size, shape and spacing.

[0300] The brassiere of the invention also has a line of swim wear and exercise wear taking these same needs into account. In some embodiments the invention may be used as a separate top (straps, strapless, etc.), as a combination with the swim or exercise wear, or as cups sewn into the garments, as inserts etc.

[0301] Another embodiment of this invention is for augmented breasts.

[0302] By using a larger diameter and filling the cups medially, laterally and underneath we are able to change the exterior look of breast implants. Augmented breasts have a smaller base diameter (see FIG. 15) and get fuller with the width of the implant. We support the base of the implant with foam (fill) around the implant between the implant and the torso. This is a much more effective means of support and comfort

[0303] Because we design the outside cup with a larger diameter we are able to weight the outside of the cup giving it a more natural lower weight and disguise the unnatural hemisphere that the implants create.

[0304] The larger cups extend medially (see FIG. 15I) and can disguise the large gap many women have between the breasts. This also enables the gore to sit flat on the chest making the bra function properly

[0305] By having an inside volume and outside volume and placing the cups on the breasts without pushing them together and sculpting the outside apex (see FIG. 15III) irrespective of the inside apex(see FIG. 15II) we are able to create a natural apex placement on the outside and sculpt the apex inside to sit the breast comfortably in the cup. The sizing for this bra may be based on bust point measurements. Size 1 is a bust point spread of 6½″ and smaller. Size 2 is a bust point spread of 6½″ and wider.

[0306] The sizing of the present invention is based on proportion. The cups are made up of an inside criteria and outside criteria. Each criteria has a separate function.

[0307] By using a larger diameter than standard per size and enhancing the cups medially, laterally and underneath we are able to accommodate and hide the obvious tell-tale signs of augmented breasts. By using a system of bust point spacing (see FIG. 16IV) we are able to leave the relatively immovable breast in place and allow the gore to touch the body making for a more comfortable and functional bra. By using wider cup diameters and filling the inside with foam (fill) we are able to camouflage the hemispheric shape of the implant (see FIGS. 15 and 16) and give the bust more support on the inside (FIG. 16I), and a more natural shape on the outside (FIG. 16II)

[0308] By using a wider diameter on the outside of the cup, we are able to create a wider variety of shapes (i.e, spheroid, oblate spheroid, hemisphere, etc.) on the outside.

[0309] Additionally, by using a wider diameter than standard per volume size, (see FIGS. 15 and 16) and a system of bust point spacing, (FIG. 16 IV), an external apex sculpturally placed on the outside of the cup (FIG. 15III) irrespective of the actual apex placement inside (FIG. 15II), and a wider inner apical zone inside, we are better able to accommodate a greater variety of breasts that are immovable (see FIG. 11). FIG. 11(I) shows a wider diameter with medial fill, FIG. 11(II) shows inside apex placement, FIG. 11(III) shows outer cup apex. FIG. 12(I) shows inside fill inside a wider diameter, FIG. 12(II) shows inside apex placement, FIG. 12(III) shows an outer cup apex. By using fill inside and outside the larger diameter we are better able to accommodate and support a greater variety of breast shapes and sizes (see FIG. 13).

[0310] Women can have moderate sized implants and use our bras to increase the size by one or two sizes because the inner volume is separate from the outer cup size

[0311] Because the inner foam (fill) surrounds the augmented breasts it counterforces the bra against the torso taking tension off of the breasts. The foam (fill) supports the bra and balances the breasts, cups and torso to counterforce the bra. This is a much more comfortable fit as it surrounds the breasts with foam (fill).

[0312] The design of the invention has a wider apical zone giving the nipple (apex) more room and alleviates the pressure on the nipple (apex). It can also disguise the forward pointing nipples (greater anterior projection than natural breasts) that augmentation creates.

[0313] Implants come in two shapes—round and teardrop.

[0314] Profile refers to an implants width and forward projection: the narrower the implant the more it projects. The implant profile is selected according to the width of your breast, which is measured during the consultation. If you have a larger frame and wider breasts, lower or medium profile implants will better conform to your shape. If you have a small frame, you might be a candidate for higher profile implants, the narrowest of all.

[0315] The brassiere of this invention disguises the implant on the outside while surrounding it and cushioning it with foam (fill) around the inside. Our cup is smaller on the inside and a larger cup and diameter on the outside . The invention provides a bra that makes the augmented breasts look anatomically correct.

[0316] The brassiere of the invention includes pads that extend laterally, underneath and medially. The brassiere of the invention also includes pads on the upper portion of the cup that extend higher than in the prior art to fill in the deficits of the wider diameter.

NON-LIMITING EXAMPLES

[0317] An exemplary brassiere is shown in FIGS. 1-2, 5 and 15, which shows a brassiere 1 that includes first and second wings 2. A first closure portion 6 is arranged on the first end of the first wing and second closure portion 6 arranged on the first end of the second wing.

[0318] A first left-side cup 3 includes a medial side (side adjacent the gore 4 and on one side of the apex 8) and a lateral side (opposite side of apex 8) connected to the second end of the first wing 2. An inner contour defines a cup volume and an outer contour defines a volume larger than the cup volume. The first left-side cup has a first cup perimeter. The first cup perimeter includes a curved bottom and a non-circular curved top. The curved bottom has a middle curved portion C as well as a medial portion B and a lateral portion D and these have less curvature and are arranged on opposite sides of the middle curved portion C. The non-circular curved top has a middle curved portion H as well as a medial portion G and a lateral portion I and these have less curvature and are arranged on opposite sides of the middle curved portion H. The middle curved portion H of the non-circular curved top has less curvature than the middle curved portion C of the curved bottom. A fill material 10 extends to both the medial side and to the lateral side of the first left-side cup 3 and is disposed between the inner contour and the outer contour. The fill material 10 has a non-circular curved bottom FB and an inwardly curved portion IC disposed on an upper end between two upward projecting portions PP. The two upward projecting portions PP are closer to the non-circular curved top than to the curved bottom. A thickness of the fill material 10 is greater on the medial side of the first cup than on the lateral side of the first cup (see FIG. 15) or vice versa (see FIG. 16). A medial end A of the curved bottom extends to a medial end F of the non-circular curved top.

[0319] A second right-side cup is similarly configured (and will be described with the same reference numbers as the left-side cup) includes a medial side (side closer to the gore 4) and a lateral side connected to the second end of the second wing 2.

[0320] An inner contour defines a cup volume and an outer contour defines a volume larger than the cup volume. The second right-side cup has a second cup perimeter. The second cup perimeter includes a curved bottom and a non-circular curved top. The curved bottom has a middle curved portion C as well as a medial portion B and a lateral portion D and these have less curvature and are arranged on opposite sides of the middle curved portion C. The non-circular curved top has a middle curved portion H as well as a medial portion G and a lateral portion I and these have less curvature and are arranged on opposite sides of the middle curved portion H. The middle curved portion H of the non-circular curved top has less curvature than the middle curved portion C of the curved bottom. A fill material 10 extends to both the medial side and to the lateral side and is disposed between the inner contour and the outer contour. The fill material 10 has a non-circular curved bottom FB and an inwardly curved portion IC disposed on an upper and between two upward projecting portions PP. The two upward projecting portions PP are closer to the non-circular curved top than to the curved bottom. A thickness of the fill material 10 is greater on the medial side of the second right-side cup 3 than on the lateral side of the second cup 3 or vice versa. A medial end A of the curved bottom extends to a medial end F of the non-circular curved top. A gore 4 has one end connected to the medial side of the first cup 3 and an opposite end connected to the medial side of the second cup 3. A first strap 5 is connected to the non-circular curved top of the first cup 3. A second strap 5 is connected to the non-circular curved top of the second cup 3.

[0321] The first cup perimeter can also include a lateral side portion L having a lower end M extending to a lateral end E of the curved bottom and an upper end K extending to a lateral end J of the non-circular curved top. The lateral side portion L and the lateral portion D of the non-circular curved bottom can form an L-shaped lateral edge of the first cup 3. The second cup perimeter can also include a lateral side portion L having a lower end M extending to a lateral end E of the curved bottom and an upper end K extending to a lateral end J of the non-circular curved top. The lateral side portion L and the lateral portion D of the non-circular curved bottom can form an L-shaped lateral edge of the second cup 3.

[0322] Another exemplary brassiere is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, which shows a brassiere 1′ that includes, among other things, a C-shaped fill 10′.

[0323] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 5 and 8, an exemplary brassiere, in an unworn state, can comprise a first wing 2 having a first end and a second end. A second wing 2 has a first end and a second end. A first closure portion 6 is arranged on the first end of the first wing. A second closure portion 6 is arranged on the first end of the second wing. A first cup 3 comprises a medial side, a lateral side connected to the second end of the first wing 2, an inner contour defining a cup volume and an outer contour defining a volume larger than the cup volume and having a first cup perimeter. The first cup perimeter includes an inwardly curved bottom defined by A-E in FIG. 2 which has varying radius of curvature and a curved top defined by F-J in FIG. 2 which can have varying radius of curvature. The inwardly curved bottom includes a middle inwardly curved portion C as well as medial A-B and lateral D-E inwardly curved portions with greater radius of curvature arranged on opposite sides of the middle inwardly curved portion C. The middle inwardly curved portion has smaller radius of curvature than the curved top F-J. A fill material 10 extends to both the medial side and to the lateral side. The fill material 10 is U-shaped and has an inwardly curved bottom perimeter FB having a varying radius of curvature and an inwardly curved indentation IC having a varying radius of curvature and is spaced from an apex 8 of the first cup. The fill material 10 also has upper lateral and medial spaced apart ends PP extending above the apex of the first cup and positioned closer to the curved top F-J of the first cup perimeter than to the apex of the first cup. A width of the fill material 10 is different on the medial side of the first cup than on the lateral side of the first cup. The varying radius of curvature of the inwardly curved indentation IC of the fill material 10 is different than the varying radius of curvature of the inwardly curved bottom A-E of the first cup perimeter. A second cup 3 comprises a medial side, a lateral side connected to the second end of the second wing 2, an inner contour defining a cup volume, an outer contour defining a volume larger than the cup volume and having a second cup perimeter. The second cup perimeter includes an inwardly curved bottom A-E having varying radius of curvature and a curved top F-J having varying radius of curvature. The inwardly curved bottom A-E includes a middle inwardly curved portion C as well as medial A-B and lateral D-E inwardly curved portions with greater radius of curvature arranged on opposite sides of the middle inwardly curved portion C. The middle inwardly curved portion C having smaller radius of curvature than the curved top F-J. A fill material 10 extends to both the medial side and to the lateral side. The fill material 10 is U-shaped and has an inwardly curved bottom perimeter FB. The fill material 10 also has an inwardly curved indentation IC spaced from an apex of the second cup as well as upper lateral and medial spaced apart ends PP extending above the apex of the second cup and positioned closer to the curved top F-J of the second cup perimeter than to the apex of the second cup. A width of the fill material 10 is different on the medial side of the second cup than on the lateral side of the second cup. The varying radius of curvature of the inwardly curved indentation IC of the fill material 10 is different than the varying radius of curvature of the inwardly curved bottom A-E of the second cup perimeter. In the unworn state, the first and second wings 2 are outstretched and separated from one another so that the first and second closure portions 6 extend in opposite directions (see FIG. 8).

[0324] Although the invention has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the words that have been used are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the purview of the appended claims, as presently stated and as amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention in its aspects. Although the invention has been described with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed. Rather, the invention extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses such as are within the scope of the appended claims.