Methods of manufacturing a garment apparatus

Abstract

Methods of manufacturing a garment apparatus are provided. The garment apparatus can be, for example, a device, a panty, a boyshort, a short, a lingerie item, a barrier, a garment, an undergarment, a membrane, a prophylactic, and/or a system.

Claims

1. A method of manufacturing a garment, comprising: providing a shaping mold; contacting the shaping mold with a first solution; contacting the first solution covered shaping mold with a second solution, the second solution being at least one of: latex, natural rubber latex, synthetic latex, butyl rubber, polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene, polypropylene, olefin copolymer, styrene/butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane, polyisoprene, polyvinylidene chloride, polychloroprene, carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, nitrile, graphene, spinifex grass, other grass, nanocellulose, vegan material, hypoallergenic material, organic material, superelastomer, other elastomer, other polymer, other copolymer, other polyolefin, and a combination of any of the foregoing materials; removing the shaping mold from the second solution when at least one of a gelled and a solidified coating of a desired thickness is produced on the shaping mold; drying the coating on the shaping mold; separating the coating from the shaping mold; and excising any excess material from at least one of a thigh portion and a torso portion of the coating, wherein the shaping mold is in the shape of one of: a planar flat portion, a planar curved portion, and dual cones extending from a rectangular portion.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first solution is a coagulant.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the coating is at least one of: a completely non-permeable material, a partially non-permeable material, a partially pliable material, and a completely pliable material.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the partially non-permeable material has at least one of: a microscopic opening, a deficiency in the material, a weakness in the material, and an opening for design purposes.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein the partially pliable material is at least one of: material having a non-flexible region and material having a reduced flexibility region.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein the coating is an elastomeric material having a thickness of one of: more than 0.33 millimeters, 0.33 millimeters, and less than 0.33 millimeters.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein the excising of the excess material occurs so that there is a front portion and a back portion of the coating joined so as to form an opening at a top portion of the coating, and so that two thigh portions for covering at least part of two respective thigh regions are provided.

8. A method of manufacturing a garment, comprising: providing a shaping housing; contacting the shaping housing with a solution, the solution having at least one non-coagulant; removing the shaping housing from the solution when at least one of: a gelled and a solidified coating of a desired thickness, is produced on the shaping housing; drying the coating on the shaping housing; separating the coating from the shaping housing; and excising any excess material from at least one of a thigh portion and a torso portion of the coating, wherein after contacting the mold with the solution, the solution having at least one of a first solution and a second solution, the mold is at least one of shifted and rotated while being contacted with the at least one of the first solution and the second solution to spread the respective solution along at least one of a portion of and an entire surface of the mold.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the solution is at least one of: latex, natural rubber latex, synthetic latex, butyl rubber, polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene, polypropylene, olefin copolymer, styrene/butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane, polyisoprene, polyvinylidene chloride, polychloroprene, carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, nitrile, graphene, spinifex grass, other grass, nanocellulose, vegan material, hypoallergenic material, organic material, superelastomer, other elastomer, other polymer, other copolymer, other polyolefin, and a combination of any of the foregoing materials.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the coating is at least one of: seamless and wearable by a human.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the coating is at least one of a completely non-permeable material, a partially non-permeable material, a partially pliable material, and a completely pliable material.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the partially non-permeable material has at least one of: a microscopic opening, a deficiency in the material, a weakness in the material, and an opening for design purposes.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the partially pliable material is at least one of: material having a non-flexible region and material having a reduced flexibility region.

14. The method of claim 8, wherein the shaping housing is put into contact with at least one solution more than once to create the coating that has a thickness is at least one of: 0.33 millimeters, less than 0.33 millimeters, and greater than 0.33 millimeters.

15. A method of manufacturing a garment, comprising: providing a shaping housing; contacting the shaping housing with a solution, the solution having at least one non-coagulant; removing the shaping housing from the solution when at least one of: a gelled and a solidified coating of a desired thickness, is produced on the shaping housing; drying the coating on the shaping housing; separating the coating from the shaping housing; and excising any excess material from at least one of a thigh portion and a torso portion of the coating, wherein the shaping mold is in the shape of one of: a planar flat portion, a planar curved portion, and dual cones extending from a rectangular portion, and wherein after contacting the mold with the solution, the solution having at least one of a first solution and a second solution, the mold is at least one of shifted and rotated while being contacted with the solution to spread the respective solution along at least one of a portion of and an entire surface of the mold.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein the first solution is the same as the second solution.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1A shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(2) FIG. 1B shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(3) FIG. 1C shows a left side view of an embodiment of the present invention folded such that the back portion and the front portion touch.

(4) FIG. 2 shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's lower torso and upper legs.

(5) FIG. 3 shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's lower backside and upper legs.

(6) FIG. 4A shows a side view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's right lower torso and upper leg.

(7) FIG. 4B shows a caudal view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(8) FIG. 5A shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(9) FIG. 5B shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(10) FIG. 5C shows a left side view of an embodiment of the present invention folded such that the back portion and the front portion touch.

(11) FIG. 6 shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's lower torso and upper legs.

(12) FIG. 7 shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's lower backside and upper legs.

(13) FIG. 8A shows a side view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's right lower torso and upper leg.

(14) FIG. 8B shows a caudal view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(15) FIG. 9A shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(16) FIG. 9B shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(17) FIG. 9C shows a left side view of an embodiment of the present invention folded such that the back portion and the front portion touch.

(18) FIG. 9D shows a front view and measurements of an embodiment of the present invention.

(19) FIG. 9E shows a front view and measurements of an embodiment of the present invention.

(20) FIG. 10A shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's lower torso and upper legs.

(21) FIG. 10B shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's lower backside and upper legs.

(22) FIG. 10C shows a side view of an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a body's right lower torso and upper leg.

(23) FIG. 10D shows a caudal view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(24) FIG. 11A shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(25) FIG. 11B shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(26) FIG. 11C shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(27) FIG. 11D shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(28) FIG. 11E shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(29) FIG. 11F shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(30) FIG. 11G shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(31) FIG. 11H shows a front and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention as worn on a body.

(32) FIG. 12 shows a front view of multiple embodiments of the present invention as worn on a body.

(33) FIG. 13 shows a rear view of multiple embodiments of the present invention as worn on a body.

(34) FIG. 14A shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(35) FIG. 14B shows a side and rear view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(36) FIG. 14C shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(37) FIG. 14D shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(38) FIG. 14E shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(39) FIG. 15A shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(40) FIG. 15B shows a right side view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(41) FIG. 15C shows a rear view of an embodiment of the present invention.

(42) FIG. 16A shows a caudal view of an embodiment of the present invention having pleats in the vulval area.

(43) FIG. 16B shows a caudal view of an embodiment of the present invention having pleats in the vulval and anal area.

(44) FIG. 16C shows a caudal view of an embodiment of the present invention having texture beads.

(45) FIG. 17 shows a chart illustrating a comparison of thicknesses of the state of the art.

(46) FIG. 18 shows a chart illustrating an approximate expandability of the state of the art.

(47) FIG. 19 shows a flow chart illustrating a method of using an embodiment of the present invention.

(48) FIG. 20 shows a flow chart illustrating a manufacturing process embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(49) FIG. 21A shows a front view of a flat mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(50) FIG. 21B shows a top view of a flat mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(51) FIG. 21C shows a front view of a flat mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(52) FIG. 21D shows a front view of a flat mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(53) FIG. 21E shows a front view of a flat mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(54) FIG. 22A shows a front and top view of a curved mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(55) FIG. 22B shows a front and top view of a curved mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(56) FIG. 22C shows a front and top view of a curved mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(57) FIG. 22D shows a front and top view of a curved mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(58) FIG. 22E shows a side and bottom view of a curved mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(59) FIG. 22F shows a front and top view of a curved mold embodiment for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(60) FIG. 23 shows a flowchart of a manufacturing process embodiment using a substantially planar flat mold form embodiment of the present invention.

(61) FIG. 24 shows a flowchart of a manufacturing process embodiment using a substantially planar curved mold form embodiment of the present invention.

(62) FIG. 25A shows a semi-anatomical mold embodiment with a flat bottom for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(63) FIG. 25B shows a semi-anatomical mold embodiment with a conical bottom for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(64) FIG. 25C shows a semi-anatomical mold embodiment with a conical bottom for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(65) FIG. 25D shows a semi-anatomical mold embodiment with a conical bottom for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(66) FIG. 26 shows a flowchart of a manufacturing process embodiment using a semi-anatomical mold form embodiment of the present invention.

(67) FIG. 27A shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention as held up by a hand.

(68) FIG. 27B shows a front top view of an embodiment of the present invention when a hand is inserted into it.

(69) FIG. 28 shows a top view of a pattern used for manufacturing a garment embodiment of the present invention.

(70) FIG. 29 shows an example method of manufacturing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

(71) FIG. 30 shows an example garment apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(72) An embodiment of the barrier is illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C. FIG. 1A is a front view of an embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a rear view of the embodiment. The barrier, generally designated 10, is configured in the overall shape of an undergarment. Barrier 10 includes a front portion 12, a genital portion 14, and a back portion 16. In this embodiment, genital portion 14 and back portion 16 include a crease 15. This embodiment also includes thigh portions 18 and 19, which are each connected to front portion 12 and to back portion 16. FIG. 1C is a left view of the embodiment folded such that back portion 16 and front portion 12 are touching.

(73) An embodiment of barrier 10 is illustrated in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIGS. 4A to 4B, in front, rear, side, and caudal views, respectively. In FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIGS. 4A, 4B, barrier 10 is being worn by a wearer or body or receiver 11, depicted here as female. Wearer 11's sexual partner is described herein as the “performer” of oral sex. In FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIGS. 4A, 4B, front portion 12 extends from the vicinity above wearer 11's pelvis downward and meets with genital portion 14. Genital portion 14 covers wearer 11's vulva, perineum, anus, and groin and extends to back portion 16. Back portion 16 covers wearer 11's buttocks. In some embodiments, inner-thigh portions 28 and 29 extend down the wearer's inner thighs at least 2 mm and as far as knee-length, in order to anchor the barrier in place, to prevent skin-to-skin contact between the performer and the wearer's thighs, and to provide for extra material that can slide up the inner thighs to allow penetration beyond the elastomeric capabilities of the material.

(74) An embodiment of the barrier is illustrated in FIGS. 5A to 5C. FIG. 5A is a front view, and FIG. 5B is a rear view. In this embodiment, genital portion 14 does not include a crease. This embodiment includes thigh portions 18 and 19, which have less curvature than in some other embodiments, and which are each connected to front portion 12 and to back portion 16, which also has less curvature than in some other embodiments. FIG. 5C is a left view folded such that back portion 16 and front portion 12 are touching.

(75) An embodiment of barrier 10 is illustrated in FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and FIGS. 8A, 8B in front, rear, side, and caudal views, respectively. In FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and FIGS. 8A, 8B, barrier 10 is worn by a human wearer 11. In this embodiment, genital portion 14 does not have a crease.

(76) An embodiment of the barrier is illustrated in FIGS. 9A to 9E. FIG. 9A is a front view, and FIG. 9B is a rear view. In this embodiment, the genital portion 14 is wider than in some other embodiments and wider than the genital area of most female humans, and the bottom edges for the legs extend up from the genital portion 14 and out to the thigh portions 18 and 19. FIG. 9C is a left view folded such that back portion 16 and front portion 12 are touching. In the various embodiments illustrated in the Drawings, certain edges 54 in FIGS. 11 to 15 can show different curvatures due to the drafting of the embodiment drawing rather than an indication of a specific curvature. In fact, these edges 54 can be straight, curved, scalloped, etc.

(77) An embodiment of barrier 10 is illustrated in FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, in front, rear, side, and caudal views, respectively. In FIGS. 10A to 10D, barrier 10 is being worn by a wearer 11. In this embodiment, the genital portion 14 is wider than in some other embodiments, and when placed on the body the outside edges of genital portion 14 form inner-thigh portions 28 and 29. The bottom edges for the legs extend up from the genital portion 14 and out to the thigh portions 18 and 19. In an embodiment, the outside edges of the genital portion 14 forming inner-thigh portions 28 and 29 provide for some slight or small excess material to gather on each of the outer sides of the labia adjacent to the wearer's inner thigh. In an embodiment, it is possible that a very slight excess or a crease will form in the inner labia when some wearers don the barrier 10—but this very slight excess is much less than the slight excess material gathering at the outside edges of the genital portion 14. This slight excess material allows for the excess material of the genital portion 14 to move slightly in response to small penetrations or touching in the vaginal or inner labia regions of a wearer, without exposing portions of the outer and/or inner labia. For example, in this embodiment, the excess material does not leave the outer sides of the labia unless there is a vaginal or inner labia penetration or touching necessitating a movement of the slight excess material as the material stretches to accommodate the penetration or touching. In an embodiment, the T-shape barrier shown in FIGS. 9A to 9E, when worn by a person can look like FIGS. 10A to 10D. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9D, the top edge is approximately 15 inches wide and has a circumference of approximately 30 inches, the genital portion is approximately 7 inches wide, the garment is approximately 10 inches high when laid flat, and the thigh portion is approximately 6 inches high. In an embodiment similar to FIGS. 9A to 9E and FIGS. 10A to 10D, thigh portions 18 and 19 are shorter, such that the barrier when worn resembles a bikini style. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9E, the top edge is approximately 15 inches wide and has a circumference of approximately 30 inches, the genital portion is approximately 7 inches wide, the garment is approximately 10 inches high when laid flat, and the thigh portion is approximately 2 inches high.

(78) One feature of embodiments of the barrier including bottom edges (e.g., bottom edges 54) as depicted in FIGS. 9A to 9E, FIGS. 10A to 10D, FIGS. 11C, 11H, FIGS. 14A to 14E, and FIGS. 15A to 15C, or bottom edges 57 as depicted in FIG. 11G, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13, is that the material along the groin portion 14 gathers in useful ways on different bodies—on some bodies the material gathers into wrinkles, and on other bodies the material rests along the inner thighs—and the material along the groin portion 14 can be moved inward on the groin to allow additional penetration into the vagina, beyond what is possible from the material's elastomeric qualities.

(79) Some embodiments cover more or less surface area than other embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11A to 11H, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13. Some embodiments have bottom edges 50 that extend several centimeters down the thighs and are parallel to the ground, bottom edges 52 that extend only a few centimeters or millimeters down the inner thighs and are parallel to the ground, or bottom edges 54 or 57 that extend only a few millimeters down the inner thighs and extend up on the outer thighs. Other embodiments do not cover the inner thighs and have bottom edges 56 or 58 that extend from each side of the genital portion to the sides of the waist in a boy-short (56) or bikini (58) style. Any of these embodiments could have top edges 60, 62, or 64 that extend to various heights of a body's torso and backside. FIGS. 11A to 11H show various embodiments of the barrier including an assortment of top edges 60, 62, or 64 and bottom edges 50, 52, 54, 56, 57, and 58. The embodiment depicted in FIG. 11H also includes seam 68.

(80) FIGS. 14A to 14E and FIGS. 15A to 15C show photographs of an embodiment including the bottom edges 54 depicted in FIGS. 9A to 9E and FIGS. 10A to 10D. On a female human wearer, FIG. 14A shows a front view (redacted for modesty), FIG. 14B shows a side and rear view, FIG. 14C shows a rear view, FIG. 14D shows a front view (redacted for modesty), and FIG. 14E shows a rear view. FIG. 15A shows a front view, FIG. 15B shows a right side view, and FIG. 15C shows a back view, of an embodiment as worn on an (anatomically female) mannequin.

(81) In an embodiment, all portions, including genital portion 14, are configured to fit tightly to the body, both at rest and while engaging in sexual activity. Genital portion 14 contours the body, unlike conventional barriers, for several reasons. First, the aesthetics of sexual activity are very important in maintaining arousal, particularly among partners who may be distracted by concern regarding STIs. Sexual partners utilizing a prophylactic want to view the body-contouring look of many contemporary fashions. Some embodiments so tightly contour the body that wrinkles 20 are created by folds of the material and shadows 22 are created by the barrier's contour of the wearer's anatomy, as in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIGS. 4A to 4B, FIGS. 10A to 10D, FIGS. 14A to 14E, and FIGS. 15A to 15C. In an embodiment, for example, those wrinkles 20 and shadows 22, while most likely to appear on the creases between the inner thighs and the genital region and under the curves of the buttocks, will appear in different locations when worn by wearers of different shapes and sizes. Also, some embodiments, such as that depicted in FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and FIGS. 8A, 8B, do not have wrinkles 20 or shadows 22. Also, genital portion 14 fits snugly such that in most cases only one layer of material—rather than additional layers created by the folding of excess material, such as a long protrusion—exists between the performer and the wearer. If additional layers created by the folding of excess material are present, they could diminish sensation for the wearer and prevent breathing and cause gagging for the performer. Furthermore, the excess material could allow bacteria from the anus to reach the vaginal cavity. In some embodiments, the sides of the garment provide for a friction between the material of the garment and the wearer's hips and/or thighs. The friction or resistance to movement allows for better staying ability on the wearer, so that the garment does not move or shift significantly during activity, while preventing the necessity of tight or uncomfortable straps used in other apparatuses to hold dental dams in place. In an embodiment, the friction of the garment against the wearer's body provides a close, stable fit. This can provide a more stable and relatively non-moving garment on the wearer's body, in a comfortable-like manner, so that the material is held in place on the wearer specifically in the genital area, without the addition or use of tight uncomfortable straps or ties.

(82) In an embodiment, barrier 10 is formed of one or more layers, with each layer including one or more substantially impervious material(s) such as natural rubber latex, synthetic latex, latex, butyl rubber, polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene, polypropylene, olefin copolymer, styrene/butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane, polyisoprene, polyvinylidene chloride, polychloroprene, carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, nitrile, graphene, spinifex grass, other grass, nanocellulose, superelastomer, vegan material, hypoallergenic material, organic material, other elastomer, other polymer, other copolymer, other polyolefin, and/or a combination of any of these materials. The material can also include additives such as ammonia, water, soap, softening agents, accelerators, antioxidants, salts, stabilizers, defoamers, dispersants, wetting agents, de-aeraters, antifungal and antibacterial compounds, preservatives, pigments, anticoagulants, lubricants, potassium laureate, potassium oleate, potassium hydroxide, sulfur, zinc oxide, corn starch, sulfur, chlorine, chalk, silica, clay, and other additives. The barrier 10 is flexible enough for the wearer to comfortably reposition her body; pliable enough to show an outline of the wearer's anatomy for aesthetic appeal and for easy identification by the performer; strong enough to prevent breakage during vigorous use; and of a thickness similar to a conventional condom or a dental dam, to allow the greatest degree of tactile sensitivity and to prevent fatigue of the performer.

(83) In an embodiment, the garment can be one or more layers of an elastomeric material or other flexible-type material such as a moisture-resistant spandex or other textile. In an embodiment, the garment can be composed of more than one type of material in the same garment or layers of the garment. In an embodiment, the garment can include material that is dipped in or otherwise coated in a solution or material. In an embodiment, the garment can include at least one printed pattern. For example, the printed pattern/coloring can be included in the solution, be added as a subsequent solution for dipping, be painted/sprayed on, and/or be added in another available manner to the garment. In some embodiments, items of material known in the fashion arts are attached to the barrier for decorative purposes.

(84) Some embodiments of the barrier have an interchangeable front and back, such that the wearer can quickly put on the garment without determining which side is the front portion and which side is the back portion. For example, the barrier depicted in FIGS. 14A to 14E and FIGS. 15A to 15C has an interchangeable front and back. Other embodiments include a different cut, seam, embellishment, and/or design in the front as compared to the back, such that there is a designated front portion and a designated back portion of the garment. For example, the barrier embodiment depicted in FIG. 11H has a different cut in the front and the back.

(85) In some embodiments of the barrier, color, pattern, scent, and taste are varied, and some embodiments of the barrier are coated with lubricant and/or powder. In an embodiment, the material of the barrier, the powder dusted on the barrier, and/or the lubricant applied to the barrier is scented and/or has a taste. For example, the scent and/or taste can be strawberry, raspberry, any other fruit flavor, chocolate, vanilla, caramel, any other confectionary flavor, bacon, steak, chicken, pistachio, peanut, any other food flavor, spearmint, peppermint, sage, any other herb flavor, and/or any other flavor known in the art. For example, the scent and/or taste can be organic/vegan.

(86) Some embodiments include texture to increase sensation, such as (but not limited to) the accordion folds 80 depicted in FIG. 16A over the vulva and FIG. 16B over the full genital region and the texture beads 82 depicted in FIG. 16C (which, in addition to providing texture, can also decrease the wearer's insecurity regarding bumps that are characteristic of STI outbreaks). In some embodiments, creases and/or seams such as crease or seam 68, as depicted in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13—or the shorter crease 15 as depicted in FIGS. 1A to 1C, FIG. 3, and FIGS. 4A to 4B—increase sensation through texture and allow greater access for the performer to the area between the wearer's right and left labia majora and to the anus and perineum. Some embodiments include texture or cut-outs in a “figure eight”, a swirl, an alphanumeric symbol, a heart, a logo, a brand name, a brand initial, and/or another shape, either as a decorative element, to keep the garment in place, and/or to instruct the performer where to move their tongue. Some embodiments include other textures including bumps, ruched material, et al. Some embodiments include lubricant, cooling lubricant, warming lubricant, cooling liquid, and/or warming liquid to increase sensation.

(87) In some embodiments, the genital region of the garment is manufactured as a wider area than that of fashion undergarments, to allow different uses. In some embodiments, the genital region of the garment is manufactured as a wider area to allow for less pulling of garment material away from the thigh regions or the sides of the genital region. In some embodiments, as the garment with a wider area is pulled up over the legs, the material on the sides of the genital region will drag along the inner thighs; on some users that material will rest into place on the top of the inner thighs, and in other users that material will gather on the sides of the genital region, i.e., between each outer labia and its adjacent leg. Due to this excess width, while oral sex is being performed on a wearer of such an embodiment, the material that sits at the inner thighs and/or on the sides of the genital region can move slightly in response to vaginal penetration by a tongue, fingers, or other objects without exposing portions of the outer and/or inner labia, as would a garment with a genital region having the width of fashion undergarments. In an embodiment, material can gather slightly between a left outer side of the labia and the respective adjacent left thigh region, and/or between a right outer side of the labia and the respective adjacent right thigh region. For example, in this embodiment, the material does not gather in the inner labia and/or vaginal area unless, or gathers only minimally in the inner labia and/or vaginal area until, the user effects a vaginal or other penetration or touching which necessitates the movement of the slight material excess as the material stretches due to such penetration or action.

(88) In an embodiment, the outer edges of the thigh regions and/or the torso region are a smaller circumference to enforce an effective seal or closure to prevent fluids from escaping during use.

(89) In some embodiments, the top edges are straight across the waist or hips. In some embodiments, the top edges are scooped in the front and/or the back such that the thigh portions extend higher than the middle portion and/or the back portion. This scooping can be achieved through cutting, die-cutting, excising, or any other method known in the art. In some embodiments, other functional and/or design options are available for the top edges or the bottom edges, including a downward diamond cut, scalloped cuts, fringing, and so forth. Likewise, after the manufacturing of the barrier garment, in embodiments, additional embellishments can be glued, heated, or attached to the barrier garment including lace, spandex, cotton, and other materials for aesthetic and/or functional purposes. For example, different material can be added to the barrier garment in order to increase the usability, design, and/or aesthetic of the barrier garment for a different texture or a handle device to pull on the barrier garment.

(90) Some embodiments have bottom edges 50, 52, 54, 56, or 58 and/or top edges 60, 62, or 64 that are rolled, reinforced, sewn, heated, cut, multi-layered, sealed, and/or manufactured in another way so as to provide additional strength to the edges and, in some embodiments, to prevent ingress and/or egress of fluids. Some embodiments have bottom edges 50, 52, 54, 56, 57, or 58 and/or top edges 60, 62, or 64 that are tighter than the remainder of the barrier. Some embodiments have bottom edges 50, 52, 54, 56, 57, or 58 and/or top edges 60, 62, or 64 that are cut in a decorative manner, for example scalloped, fringed, or any other manner known in the art.

(91) The thickness of the barrier is varied in some embodiments. FIG. 17 shows a chart 170 that depicts the thickness (in millimeters) of the state of the art. The thickness of novelty rubber underwear, at 0.33 mm or thicker, is more than four times thicker than an oral dam, more than five times thicker than a condom, and more than six times thicker than a thin condom. As a result, the novelty rubber underwear transfers substantially less sensation from the performer's side to the recipient's side, causing a less-pleasurable sexual experience. In some embodiments, the barrier has a thickness comparable to a thin condom, condom, and/or oral dam and therefore is substantially thinner than novelty rubber underwear. FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B show a thickness of a barrier embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 27A shows that the barrier embodiment is extremely thin when held up by a hand, and it drapes down gracefully. FIG. 27B shows that the barrier embodiment curves along the anatomy of the hand. The barrier responds similarly when placed on a genital region.

(92) Some embodiments have more expandability than other embodiments. For example, FIG. 18 contains chart 180 that depicts the expandability of the state of the art. The condom, thin condom, and oral dam have expandability of 250-350%, or more, of their length at rest. (For example, a 10 mm piece of a thin condom will stretch to 40 mm.) Plastic wrap and novelty rubber underwear are significantly less expandable. In some embodiments, the barrier has an expandability comparable to a condom, thin condom, and/or oral dam.

(93) In an embodiment, the barrier responds to the application of pressure by expanding, though it need only be expandable enough to fit slightly-different sized wearers and to allow insertion of a tongue. In an embodiment, the barrier is manufactured in a range of sizes, reducing the need for expandability of the material. In another embodiment, the barrier is sufficiently expandable such that a single barrier can expand to fit wearers of most shapes and sizes.

(94) In an embodiment, the barrier is donned before sexual activity takes place, either immediately before or as an undergarment worn for non-sexual activity. To don the barrier, one leg of the wearer is inserted in each of the spaces between the genital portion and the thigh portions, with the front portion facing forward. If desired, a lubricant can be applied inside the barrier for ease of donning and to increase sensation for the wearer. A performer then contacts the exterior portion of the membrane with their tongue, mouth, nose, fingers, and/or other small protuberances. After use, the device is pulled off or rolled downward off the wearer.

(95) As process 190 depicted in FIG. 19 shows, a method of oral-sexual relations includes:

(96) Step 1 (191): Don the undergarment by: (i) inserting each of the wearer's legs between the top opening and one side of the membrane, and (ii) pulling the membrane against the genital area and around the torso of the wearer.

(97) Step 2 (192): A person other than the wearer contacts the exterior portion of the membrane with said person's tongue, mouth, nose, fingers, or other small protuberances.

(98) In some embodiments, the barrier is formed by cutting a sheet of material in a pattern and creating seams 152 to connect portions of said material. Seams can be created using adhesive, liquid latex, UV-cured adhesive, tape, glue, thread, or any method known in the art. In some embodiments, said seams 152 can be located on the sides of the thighs (e.g., as shown in FIG. 15B), in the genital region of the barrier, and/or in any other location(s) suitable for a seam. FIG. 28 shows a pattern that can be cut into a sheet of material to create an embodiment of the barrier. Front portion 281 connects to genital portion 282, which connects to back portion 283. Side portion 286 is seamed with side portion 284, and side portion 287 is seamed with side portion 285.

(99) FIG. 29 shows an embodiment 290 of a method of manufacturing a barrier garment (for example, one such as that shown in FIG. 30) from a sheet of latex as follows:

(100) Step 1 (291): Prepare a sheet of latex or other material, as described herein, for a barrier garment for use in sexual relations. The sheet of material can be a continuous sheet or roll of material that is extended when needed either manually or via a machine.

(101) Step 2 (292): Stamp out or cut out an I-shaped form in the sheet of material. For example, the stamp out can be by a machine having the shape predetermined. For example, the cut out can be done manually or by a machine to cut away with a blade, laser, or other device, unneeded material from the sheet of material. For example, the I-shaped form can be a variety of different measurements, depending upon the intended wearer or needs. In an embodiment, the I-shaped form has measurements according to those provided in FIG. 9D or FIG. 9E, or, for example, in FIG. 30.

(102) Step 3 (293): Apply an adhesive, liquid latex, UV-cured adhesive, tape, glue, thread, or any binding method available to approximately an outer edge of the garment. In an embodiment, the binding method is applied to only the outer edges of the longer horizontal region. See, e.g., FIG. 30, binding method applied 309, 310.

(103) Step 4 (294): Fold the I-shaped form in half so that the two horizontal regions of the I-shaped form meet flush against their top edges, and so that the outer edges having the binding method applied on the longer horizontal region are not touching the opposing shorter horizontal region.

(104) Step 5 (295): Fold each of the outer edges of the longer horizontal region onto the shorter horizontal region so that the two bind via the binding method applied, forming a seam on each side.

(105) Step 6 (296): Trim any unwanted material from the edges of the formed seams.

(106) In FIG. 30, an example garment material is shown in the either stamped out or cut out or made I-shaped form 300. For example, in an embodiment, the measurement of a first horizontal region 308 is of a shorter width than the second horizontal region 307. For example, in an embodiment, the first horizontal region 308 has a width of approximately 15 inches. For example, in an embodiment, the second horizontal region 307 has a width longer than approximately 15 inches. For example, the second horizontal region 307 has an approximate width of 15.5 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, or longer. In an embodiment, the form 300 has a total length 301 which encompasses the first horizontal region length 302, the vertical region length 303, and the second horizontal region length 304. For example, the form's total length 301 can be approximately 20 inches. For example, the form's total length 301 can be more or less than approximately 20 inches depending upon the size of the intended wearer or of the intended garment. For example, the first horizontal region length 302 and the second horizontal region length 304 are equal in length. For example, the horizontal region lengths 302, 304 are each approximately 6 inches. For example, the horizontal region lengths 302, 304 are each approximately 2 inches. For example, the horizontal region lengths 302, 304 are a size that is useful for a specific type of garment (e.g., boyshort, panty, bikini, et al.). For example, one of the first or second horizontal region lengths 302, 304 is longer in length than the second or first horizontal region lengths 304, 302, respectively. For example, when the first and second horizontal region lengths 302, 304 are different, then, when binding the two horizontal regions as in FIG. 29, for example, the side seams formed on the horizontal region can be ruched seams. The vertical region length 303 is equal in length to the vertical region length 305 plus the vertical region length 306. In an embodiment, the vertical region lengths 305, 306 are equal in length. For example, the vertical region lengths 305, 306 are approximately 4 inches each. For example, the vertical region lengths 305, 306 are approximately 8 inches each. In an embodiment, the vertical region lengths 305, 306 are different in length. For example, the difference in length can be to handle a specific body type or desired fit or aesthetic look. The vertical region width 311 is less than the horizontal region widths 308, 307. For example, the vertical region width 311 is approximately 7 inches. For example, the vertical region width is greater than or less than approximately 7 inches. For example, the vertical width is wider than the gusset of fashion underwear.

(107) In an example, referring to the form of FIG. 30, the first horizontal region width 308 is approximately 15 inches, and the second horizontal region width 307 is more than approximately 15 inches, e.g., approximately 16 inches. The first and second horizontal region lengths 302, 304 are each approximately 6 inches. The vertical region lengths 305, 306 are each approximately 4 inches. The vertical region width 311 is approximately 7 inches.

(108) In an example, referring to the form of FIG. 30, the first horizontal region width 308 is approximately 15 inches, and the second horizontal region width 307 is more than approximately 15 inches, e.g., approximately 16 inches. The first and second horizontal region lengths 302, 304 are each approximately 2 inches. The vertical region lengths 305, 306 are each approximately 8 inches. The vertical region width 311 is approximately 7 inches.

(109) For example, in FIG. 30, the I-shaped garment form 300 shown can be stamped cut or somehow removed from a sheet of material such as latex or other material. A binding material can be applied to the outer edges 309, 310 of at least one horizontal region. The I-shaped garment form 300 can then be folded in half along the dotted line shown, separating the vertical region lengths 305, 306 in half or essentially half. The top edges of the horizontal regions can be flush. The outer edges having the binding material 309, 310 can then be folded over to make a seam, thus forming a barrier garment embodiment.

(110) In some embodiments, the barrier is formed as one integrated unit through dip molding or dipping. Some embodiments of the barrier, as well as other garments, are manufactured using a mold form or mandrel or former or mold. The mold is made of any suitable material, including but not limited to ceramic, glass, metal and/or alloy, and/or hard plastic. The garments that can be made with a mold form embodiment include the barrier, latex or non-latex novelty underwear, and other garments.

(111) In an embodiment, dip molding allows for a thin material to be used as the garment. Current fashion undergarments are not dip molded. In an embodiment, dip molding allows for a variety of different solutions to be used as the undergarment—which allows for flexibility of taste, smell, texture, and appearance values. This also allows for a change of underlying material due to discovered attributes of viruses, user's allergies, and/or materials regulations. In an embodiment, dip molding as described allows for a manufacturer to avoid having to glue, sew, or otherwise attach pieces of a garment together to form a wearable garment. In an embodiment, dip molding allows for an inexpensive and/or biodegradable version of the garment to be manufactured, thus supporting, e.g., the disposability of the garment.

(112) Some embodiments of the mold form are shaped in a semi-anatomical manner. FIGS. 25A to 25D show several embodiments of a semi-anatomical mold 250 that can be used to manufacture some embodiments of the barrier. This mold embodiment includes a general shape of a barrier. FIG. 25A shows a mold form that contains a genital-portion crease 253 and a back-portion crease 251 that can produce an embodiment of a barrier similar to that shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIGS. 4A to 4B. FIG. 25B shows a mold form that does not contain creases 251 or 253 and instead has a smooth genital portion 256 and a smooth torso and back portion 255; this mold embodiment can produce an embodiment of the barrier similar to that shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and FIGS. 8A to 8B. FIG. 25C and FIG. 25D show additional views of the embodiment of the mold shown in FIG. 25B. The bottom portion of the semi-anatomical mold embodiment can be flat 252, can be conical 257, or can be any other shape known in the art. When a barrier 10 is created using a semi-anatomical mold form 250 and is then flattened to cut leg openings, the conical shape 257 or another shape of the bottom can ease the cutting process while minimizing loss of material.

(113) Other embodiments of the mold form are substantially planar and are not anatomically shaped. FIGS. 21A to 21E and FIGS. 22A to 22F show substantially planar mold embodiments. FIG. 21A shows a planar flat mold embodiment 210. FIG. 21B and FIG. 21C show additional views of the embodiment of the mold shown in FIG. 21A. FIGS. 22A to 22D show planar curved mold embodiments 220. Planar curved mold embodiments 220 create a similar shape of the material as do planar flat mold embodiments 210 once the material has been dried and removed from the mold, yet planar curved mold embodiments 220 take up less space in a production line and can allow for ease of dip molding, mass dip molding, and/or removal of the garment from the mold. Planar curved mold embodiments 220 can be curved in any manner to optimize their usability in an existing production line. The mold embodiments can produce an embodiment of the barrier similar to that shown in FIGS. 9A to 9E and FIGS. 10A to 10D, can produce other embodiments of the barrier, or can produce other garments. FIG. 22E and FIG. 22F show additional views of the substantially planar, curved mold embodiment 220 shown in FIG. 22A.

(114) In some embodiments, semi-anatomical mold embodiment 250, planar flat mold embodiment 210, and/or planar curved mold embodiment 220 have a top portion 258, 212, or 222 (respectively) manufactured with any of the various fasteners available in the art, such that the molds 250, 210, and 220 can be attached to dip-molding machinery. In some embodiments, the mold embodiment is hollow. In some embodiments, the mold embodiment is not hollow. In some embodiments of planar mold forms, sides 214, sides 224, bottom 216, and bottom 226, are curved to minimize the appearance of edges in the garment. In some embodiments, the mold used is a planar mold that is bent or curved into a shape to allow for ease of dip molding, mass dip molding, and/or removal of the garment from the mold. In some embodiments, such as in FIG. 21D, the mold is a planar mold in a U-shape with curved corners 217 to allow for less waste of material and/or solution. In some embodiments, such as in FIG. 21E, the planar mold has a cut-out 219 in the middle of the bottom part of the mold simulating the legs 218 of a boy-short version. Planar curved mold embodiments similar to those shown in FIGS. 22A to 22F can also contain curved corners 217 or cut-out 219.

(115) Various embodiments of a manufacturing process to produce a barrier garment embodiment described herein can also be used to produce a latex, non-latex, or other material garment, underwear, etc. To manufacture an embodiment of barrier 10 or another garment, a process 200 illustrated in FIG. 20 is followed:

(116) Step 1 (201): The mold is contacted with a solution or material that can be used to cause a second solution or other material to solidify; the former solution or material can be a coagulant. The mold is removed from the coagulant, such that a layer of coagulant of a desired thickness remains on the mold. The removal of the mold from the coagulant can be by machine, by hand, and/or by air. The desired thickness is dependent upon the necessary thickness of the coagulant needed for reacting with and/or acting in concert with the later solution or material(s) added, for example, one or more of the materials listed in Step 2 below. In some embodiments, Step 1 is repeated before Step 2 occurs. In some embodiments, the coagulant-coated mold is dried before Step 2 occurs.

(117) Step 2 (202): The mold is contacted with a material such as natural rubber latex, synthetic latex, latex, butyl rubber, polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene, polypropylene, olefin copolymer, styrene/butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane, polyisoprene, polyvinylidene chloride, polychloroprene, carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, nitrile, graphene, spinifex grass, other grass, nanocellulose, vegan material, hypoallergenic material, organic material, superelastomer, other elastomer, other polymer, other copolymer, other polyolefin, and/or a combination of any of these materials, for a sufficient period of time to form a gelled and/or solidified coating of a desired thickness on the mold. The material can also include additives such as ammonia, water, soap, softening agents, accelerators, antioxidants, salts, stabilizers, defoamers, dispersants, wetting agents, de-aeraters, antifungal and antibacterial compounds, preservatives, pigments, anticoagulants, lubricants, potassium laureate, potassium oleate, potassium hydroxide, sulfur, zinc oxide, corn starch, sulfur, chlorine, chalk, silica, clay, and other additives. The material-coated mold is removed from the excess material. The removal of the mold from the material can be by machine, by hand, and/or by air. In some embodiments, this step is repeated one or more times before Step 4 occurs; in some embodiments, a different material is used upon a different contact with the mold.

(118) Step 3 (203): The coated mold is dried. In an embodiment, the drying can involve any of the various methods available in the art.

(119) Step 4 (204): The material is removed from the mold. In an embodiment, the removal from the mold is described herein. In an embodiment, the removal from the mold can involve any of the various methods available in the art.

(120) Step 5 (205): Excess material is removed from the legs and/or the torso portions of the barrier. In an embodiment, the removal can involve die-cutting. In an embodiment, the removal can involve any of the various methods available in the art. In an embodiment, both the front and back of the garment are cut in a similar fashion at the same time with a cutting press.

(121) In some embodiments, the mold is never in contact with and/or removed from the coagulant. For example, the manufacturing process begins with Step 2 as listed above.

(122) In some embodiments, the mold is shifted and/or rotated while being contacted with material and/or coagulant to spread the material and/or coagulant along a portion of and/or the entire surface of the mold.

(123) In some embodiments, the temperature of the mold is varied to extend or to limit the amount of time the mold is contacted with material and/or to change the properties of the material and/or the texture of the barrier.

(124) In some embodiments, the mold is coated with material more than one time. In some embodiments, the mold is coated with more than one type of material.

(125) In some embodiments, the thickness of the barrier can be varied by changing the ingredients in the coagulant and/or the material, and/or by dipping certain portions of the barrier more than once.

(126) In some embodiments, the mold is contacted with coagulant by dipping said mold into said coagulant. In some embodiments, the mold is contacted with material by dipping said mold into said material. In some embodiments, the mold is contacted with coagulant by pouring said coagulant into said mold, and then excess coagulant is removed from said mold. In some embodiments, the mold is contacted with material by pouring said material into said mold, and then excess material is removed from said mold.

(127) In some embodiments, between Step 3 and the end of the process described above, one or more of the following steps occurs, in any order: (a) the material-coated mold is leached to remove impurities; (b) the material is cured in an oven to set the material; (c) the material is vulcanized; (d) the edges of the material are thickened, by adding additional material, rolling the existing material, or by another means; and/or (e) powder is applied to said material.

(128) In some embodiments, Step 4 is facilitated by applying powder to the material prior to removing it from the mold. In some embodiments, the material is removed from the mold by hand. In other embodiments, the material is removed from the mold by a stream of air.

(129) FIG. 26 shows an embodiment of a manufacturing process 260 that can be used to manufacture a barrier 10 or another garment. A mold form embodiment 260 (shown in 261) is dipped into and removed from coagulant (C) (shown in 262) and then dipped into and removed from material (M) (shown in 263). 264 shows mold form embodiment 260 after it has been removed from material and is coated with material. 265 shows the material after it has dried and has been removed from said mold form embodiment. 266 shows where the leg holes will be cut.

(130) FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 show embodiments of manufacturing processes 230 and 240, respectively, that can be used to manufacture a barrier 10 or another garment. A planar flat mold form embodiment 210 or a planar curved mold form embodiment 220 (shown in 231 and 241) is dipped into and removed from coagulant (C) (shown in 232 and 242) and then dipped into and removed from material (M) (shown in 233 and 243). 234 shows planar flat mold form embodiment 210 after it has been removed from material and is coated with material. 244 shows planar curved mold form embodiment 220 after it has been removed from material and is coated with material. 235 shows the material after it has dried and has been removed from planar flat mold form embodiment 210, and 235 shows the material after it has dried and has been removed from planar curved mold form embodiment 220. 236 shows where the leg holes will be cut on planar flat mold form embodiment 210, and 246 shows where the leg holes will be cut on planar curved mold form embodiment 220.

(131) In some embodiments, the barrier is manufactured so as to include an extra piece of material not removed from the thigh region. This extra piece of material still attached to the thigh region is used to cover the barrier when folded into a compact item. In some embodiment, the extra piece or extension of material extends from a portion of the top of the torso, and folds down since there is no opposing piece of material to serve as tension or friction inducing in order to keep the extended material from folding down. In some embodiments, a separate carrying case is provided to hold the garment. The case may be made of similar material, or a different material, than the garment.

(132) The modifications listed herein and other modifications can be made by those in the art without departing from the ambit of the invention. Although the invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments, the invention is not limited to the above embodiments and the specific configurations shown in the drawings. For example, some components shown can be combined with each other as one embodiment, and/or a component can be divided into several subcomponents, and/or any other known or available component can be added. The operation processes are also not limited to those shown in the examples. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention can be implemented in other ways without departing from the substantive features of the invention. For example, features and embodiments described above can be combined with and without each other. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Other embodiments can be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This Specification, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

(133) Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter can be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose can be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations and/or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.