[go: up one dir, main page]

US20060046615A1 - Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement - Google Patents

Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20060046615A1
US20060046615A1 US11/199,335 US19933505A US2006046615A1 US 20060046615 A1 US20060046615 A1 US 20060046615A1 US 19933505 A US19933505 A US 19933505A US 2006046615 A1 US2006046615 A1 US 2006046615A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
user
restraint
end portions
breasts
breast restraint
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/199,335
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Donna Zecher
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ZECHER ENTERPRISES LLC
Original Assignee
ZECHER ENTERPRISES LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by ZECHER ENTERPRISES LLC filed Critical ZECHER ENTERPRISES LLC
Priority to US11/199,335 priority Critical patent/US20060046615A1/en
Assigned to ZECHER ENTERPRISES, LLC reassignment ZECHER ENTERPRISES, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: ZECHER, DONNA F.
Publication of US20060046615A1 publication Critical patent/US20060046615A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/005—Brassieres specially adapted for specific purposes
    • A41C3/0057—Brassieres specially adapted for specific purposes for sport activities
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41C—CORSETS; BRASSIERES
    • A41C3/00—Brassieres
    • A41C3/06—Strapless brassieres, i.e. without shoulder straps

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excess breast movement.
  • the present invention includes methods for restraining excessive breast movement while a user engages in vigorous activity.
  • a method generally includes substantially entirely covering the user's breasts by wrapping a breast restraint around the user's torso. The method also includes engaging first and second end portions of the breast restraint to one another to thereby fasten the breast restraint about the user's torso, whereby the breast restraint compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user.
  • a breast restraint generally includes first and second end portions, and an attachment device for engaging the first end portion with the second end portion.
  • the breast restraint is configured to be wrapped around the user's torso and substantially entirely cover the user's breasts to compress the user's breasts firmly against the user.
  • the breast restraint can be used in combination with a bra, or the breast restraint can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra. Further aspects of the invention include methods of using and making breast restraints.
  • FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary strapless breast restraint being used in conjunction with a sports bra according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 1 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over the sports bra being worn by the wearer;
  • FIG. 3 is a side view of the strapless breast restraint and its wearer shown in FIG. 2 ;
  • FIG. 4 is a front view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 5 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 6 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including hooks and corresponding holes for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 7 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including hook and loop fasteners for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another, wherein the hook and loop fasters also allow adjustment to the breast restraint's functional length according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 8 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including elastic and ruffles along the upper and lower edge portions of the breast restraint and zipper for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 9 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 8 ;
  • FIG. 10 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over a sports bra also being worn by the wearer;
  • FIG. 11 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the torso of a wearer, who is not wearing a sports bra underneath the breast restraint as is the wearer shown in FIG. 10 ;
  • FIG. 12 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including elastic and ruffles along the upper and lower edge portions of the breast restraint and hooks and eyelets for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another, wherein the hook and eyelets also allow adjustment to the breast restraint's functional length according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;
  • FIG. 13 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 12 ;
  • FIG. 14 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over a sports bra also being worn by the wearer;
  • FIG. 15 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the torso of a wearer, who is not wearing a sports bra underneath the breast restraint as is the wearer shown in FIG. 14 ;
  • FIG. 16 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including elastic and ruffles along the upper and lower edge portions of the breast restraint and hooks and eyelets along a back portion of the breast restraint for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another, wherein the hook and eyelets also allow adjustment to the breast restraint's functional length according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;
  • FIG. 17 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 16 ;
  • FIG. 18 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over a sports bra also being worn by the wearer;
  • FIG. 19 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the torso of a wearer, who is not wearing a sports bra underneath the breast restraint as is the wearer shown in FIG. 18 .
  • the invention provides breast restraints that can be used in combination with a sports bra (or other type of bra) to restrain or inhibit (and in some cases even prevent) excessive breast movement while the wearer is actively moving, exercising, running, jumping, riding a horse, etc.
  • a breast restraint can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra.
  • Further aspects of the invention include methods of using breast restraints and methods of making breast restraints.
  • a strapless breast restraint generally includes first and second end portions, and an attachment device for engaging the first end portion with the second end portion.
  • the breast restraint is configured to be wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso such that the breast restraint substantially entirely covers and compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user.
  • the restraint compresses the entire breasts against the user especially at the forward-most portion of the breasts.
  • the breast restraint is configured to be positioned over a bra that is being worn by the user, while other embodiments include the breast restraint being wrapped around and fastened about the torso of a user who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra.
  • the breast restraint compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user. Accordingly, the breast restraint can restrain or inhibit excessive breast movement as a compressed bust exhibits little tendency to move side-to-side and/or move up-and-down. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can reduce, if not eliminate, discomfort otherwise caused by excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.
  • the method generally includes substantially entirely covering a user's breasts by wrapping a strapless breast restraint around the user's torso. While wrapping the breast restraint around the user's torso, the breast restraint may be positioned over a bra being worn by the user. Alternatively, the strapless breast restraint can be wrapped around the user's torso, when the user is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra.
  • the breast restraint's first and second end portions are then engaged to one another to fasten the breast restraint about the user's torso, whereby the breast restraint compresses the substantially entirety of the user's breasts firmly against the user.
  • the restraint compresses the user's breasts against the user especially at the forward-most portion of the breasts. Accordingly, these methods relating to the breast restraint can restrain or inhibit excessive breast movement as a compressed bust exhibits little tendency to move side-to-side and/or move up-and-down. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can reduce and provide relief from excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.
  • various aspects and embodiments of the invention can be used independent of or in combination with a sports bra (or other bra type) to reduce or inhibit excessive breast movement of people participating in athletics and other endeavors, such as running, jumping, riding horses, among other activities.
  • the inventor has recognized and fulfilled this need by providing various embodiments and aspects of the present invention that can provide more breast support than that provided solely by many conventional sports bras. Any of the aspects of the present invention can be used individually or in combination with any one or more of the other aspects of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1 through 5 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 100 in accordance with the principles of this invention.
  • the restraint 100 does not include any shoulder straps or arm holes, and thus is generally referred to herein as being strapless.
  • other embodiments of the invention may include a breast restraint that includes shoulder straps and/or arm holes.
  • the restraint 100 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 104 .
  • the restraint 100 can also be used with a wide range of other types of sports bras, traditional bras, and the like.
  • the restraint 100 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 100 .
  • FIGS. 11, 15 , and 19 respectively show strapless breast restraints 400 , 500 , 600 being worn by a wearer without a sports bra underneath the breast restraint 400 , 500 , 600 .
  • the restraint 100 includes generally opposed first and second end portions 108 and 112 , and a medial portion 116 therebetween.
  • the restraint 100 also includes means for engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another to thereby fasten the restraint 100 about the user's torso.
  • suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, such as magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, elastic bands, combinations thereof, etc.
  • a breast restraint is configured such that its first and second end portions and the means for engaging the first and second end portions to one another are located at the front portion of the breast restraint when positioned about a user's torso, such as restraint 100 ( FIGS. 1 through 5 ), restraint 200 ( FIG. 6 ), restraint 300 ( FIG. 7 ), restraint 400 ( FIGS. 8 through 11 ), and restraint 500 ( FIGS. 12 through 15 ).
  • a breast restraint device can alternatively, or additionally, be configured such that its first and second end portions and the means for engaging the first and second end portions to one another are located at the back portion of the breast restraint when positioned about a user's torso.
  • FIGS. 16 through 19 illustrate an exemplary breast restraint 600 having hooks 636 and eyelets 640 located at a back portion of the restraint 600 .
  • the end portions 108 and 112 can be generally rectangular.
  • the medial portion 116 of restraint 100 includes a generally straight lower edge portion 120 , and a generally curved upper edge portion 124 . From the first and second end portions 108 , 112 towards the medial portion 116 , the upper edge portion 124 curves generally downward towards the lower edge portion 120 . Accordingly, the upper edge portion 124 is generally downwardly and parabolically curved. This curved portion can accommodate the user's shoulder blades 128 . During use, the curved upper edge portion 124 can be positioned generally under the user's arms 132 and generally below the user's shoulder blades 128 .
  • Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.
  • the first and second end portions 108 and 112 include respective mating portions 136 and 140 of a hook and loop fastening system. These mating portions 136 and 140 are configured such that the end portions 108 and 112 can be secured to each other from the front of the user at about a middle of the bust, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . Accordingly, the restraint 100 can be fastened about the user by engaging the mating portions 136 and 140 to one another. That is, the user can maneuver the second end portion 112 relative to the first end portion 108 to tighten the restraint 100 about the user's torso and also to align and engage the mating hook and loop portions 136 and 140 with one another.
  • the restraint 100 can be unfastened by pulling (e.g., in a generally continuous sweeping or arcing motion, etc.) the second end portion 112 generally outwardly from the first end portion 108 to separate and disengage the hook and loop closure members 136 and 140 .
  • Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 100 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another.
  • Alternative embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts.
  • Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the user's torso and over the user's breasts.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary breast restraint 200 in which the end portions 208 and 212 can be engaged to one another by hooks and corresponding holes.
  • the first end portion 208 includes hooks 236 each configured to be engagingly received within a corresponding hole 240 extending through the second end portion 212 .
  • the restraint 200 includes three hooks 236 and three holes 240 .
  • any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) hooks and holes and in any suitable configuration can be provided for fastening the restraint's first and second end portions to one another.
  • a breast restraint can also include means for selectively adjusting the functional or operational length of the restraint.
  • the first end portion and/or second end portion can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) strips of a hook and loop closure system dimensionally sized to allow the functional length of the restraint to be varied.
  • the restraint 300 includes first and second end portions 308 and 312 .
  • the first end portion 308 has a Velcro strip 336 extending along a significant length of the first end portion 308 .
  • the functional length of the restraint 300 will thus depend on the particular location at which the mating portion 340 is engaged to the Velcro strip 336 .
  • first end portion can be employed at the first end portion, the second end portion, and/or the medial portion to enable selective adjustment to the functional length of the restraint, such as magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, elastic bands, elastic or stretching features of the material(s) used to form the breast restraint, etc.
  • suitable means such as magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, elastic bands, elastic or stretching features of the material(s) used to form the breast restraint, etc.
  • FIGS. 12 through 15 illustrate an exemplary breast restraint 500 that includes hooks 536 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 540 . Accordingly, the functional length of the restraint 500 will thus depend on which particular column of eyelets 540 are selectively engaged with the hooks 536 .
  • FIGS. 16 through 19 Another exemplary embodiment of a breast restraint 600 is shown in FIGS. 16 through 19 .
  • a back portion of the breast restraint 600 includes hooks 636 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 640 such that the restraint's functional length will thus depend on which particular column of eyelets 640 are selectively engaged with the hooks 636 .
  • FIGS. 8 through 11 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 400 having elasticized upper and lower edge portions 424 and 420 .
  • restraint 400 includes elastic 444 and ruffles 448 along the breast restraint's upper and lower edge portions 424 and 420 .
  • the elastic 444 and ruffles 448 extend continuously along substantially the entire length of the restraint 400 from the first end portion 408 to the second end portion 412 .
  • the elastic 444 and/or ruffles 448 may be discontinuous and/or extend along less than the substantial entire length of the restraint 400 .
  • the restraint 400 includes ruffles 448 on both the inside (as shown in FIG. 8 ) and the outside (as shown in FIGS. 8 through 11 ).
  • ruffles 448 include extra material to accommodate for the stretching of the elastic 444 .
  • having ruffles 448 on the outside of the restraint 400 can also improve the aesthetic appearance of the breast restraint 400 , as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 .
  • the inside and/or outside ruffles 448 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 400 is fastened about a wearer's torso.
  • the inside ruffles 448 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 400 is fastened about a wearer's torso, thus providing a restraint that may be more comfortable to wear.
  • other embodiments include ruffles only on the inside or the outside (but not both) and/or ruffles that are not configured to be smoothed out when the breast restraint is being worn.
  • the ruffles 448 along the upper edge portion 424 include stitching 452 generally along the middle thereof.
  • the ruffles 448 along the lower edge portion 420 also include stitching 452 generally along the middle thereof. Alternate embodiments, however, do not include such stitching along either or both of the ruffle portions.
  • the elastic 444 disposed along the upper edge portion 424 comprises two elastic band portions that are retained to the breast restraint 400 in part by sewing or stitching. More specifically, the upper elastic band portion is disposed generally between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 400 and retained therein by stitching 452 and 468 . The lower elastic band portion is also disposed between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 400 and retained therein by stitching 452 and 472 . Likewise, the elastic 444 disposed along the lower edge portion 420 also includes two elastic band portions, with the upper one being retained generally between stitching 452 and 468 , and the lower elastic band portion being retained generally between 452 and 472 .
  • the elastic 444 along either or both the upper and lower edge portions 424 , 420 can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) elastic bands.
  • other means of retaining the elastic 444 to the breast restraint 400 can also be employed in other embodiments.
  • the elastic 444 can help ensure that the breast restraint 400 creates and maintains a relatively snug fit about the wearer's torso (and thus sufficiently compresses the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts).
  • the particular material or materials used for the elastic portions 444 can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint 400 .
  • Alternate embodiments include breast restraints having elastic and ruffles along only one of the upper and lower edge portions. Further embodiments include breast restraints having elastic (but not ruffles) along one or both the upper and lower edge portions. Still other embodiments include breast restraints having ruffles (but not elastic) along one or both the upper and lower edge portions.
  • the breast restraint 400 also includes a zipper formed from portions 436 , 440 for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions 408 and 412 .
  • a wide range of other suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 408 and 412 to one another, including magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, combinations thereof, etc.
  • the lower edge portion 420 of restraint 400 is generally straight.
  • the upper edge portion 424 includes two curved end portions 460 and 464 and a generally straight medial portion 466 .
  • the curved end portions 460 and 464 curve generally downward towards the lower edge portion 420 .
  • the restraint 400 is wider at its end portions 408 and 412 than at its medial portion 416 .
  • This curved configuration can accommodate the user's shoulder blades and arms in that the narrower medial portion 416 of the restraint 400 can be positioned generally across the user's back generally under the arms and generally below the shoulder blades.
  • the restraint's end portions 408 and 412 can be positioned over the user's breasts.
  • Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.
  • Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 400 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 408 and 412 to one another.
  • Alternative embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts.
  • Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts.
  • the breast restraint 400 is sized dimensionally such that its width (distance separating the upper and lower edge portions 424 and 420 inclusive of the elastic and ruffle portions 444 and 448 ) is about ten and one-half inches at the end portions 408 and 412 and about three and three-fourths inches at the medial portion 416 . Excluding the elastic and ruffle portions for this particular embodiment, the width of the restraint 400 is about seven and one-half inches at the end portions 408 and 412 and about three-fourths inches at the medial portion 416 .
  • the dimensions set forth in this paragraph are mere examples and can be varied as understood by those skilled in the art.
  • the breast restraint 400 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 404 or other type bra. But the restraint 400 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 400 , as shown in FIG. 11 . In either case, the breast restraint 400 can help inhibit and reduce excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.
  • FIGS. 12 through 15 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 500 having elasticized upper and lower edge portions 524 and 520 .
  • the restraint 500 includes elastic 544 and ruffles 548 along the breast restraint's upper and lower edge portions 524 and 520 .
  • the elastic 544 and ruffles 548 extend continuously along substantially the entire length of the restraint 500 from the first end portion 508 to the second end portion 512 .
  • the elastic 544 and/or ruffles 548 may be discontinuous and/or extend along less than the substantial entire length of the restraint 500 .
  • the restraint 500 includes ruffles 548 on both the inside (as shown in FIG. 12 ) and the outside (as shown in FIGS. 12 through 15 ).
  • ruffles 548 include extra material to accommodate for the stretching of the elastic 544 .
  • having ruffles 548 on the outside of the restraint 500 can also improve the aesthetic appearance of the breast restraint 500 , as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 .
  • the inside and/or outside ruffles 548 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 500 is fastened about a wearer's torso.
  • the inside ruffles 548 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 500 is fastened about a wearer's torso, thus providing a restraint that may be more comfortable to wear.
  • other embodiments include ruffles only on the inside or the outside (but not both) and/or ruffles that are not configured to be smoothed out when the breast restraint is being worn.
  • the ruffles 548 along the upper edge portion 524 include stitching 552 generally along the middle thereof.
  • the ruffles 548 along the lower edge portion 520 also include stitching 552 generally along the middle thereof. Alternate embodiments, however, do not include such stitching along either or both of the upper and lower ruffle portions.
  • the elastic 544 disposed along the upper edge portion 524 comprises two elastic band portions that are retained to the breast restraint 500 in part by sewing or stitching. More specifically, the upper elastic band portion is disposed generally between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 500 and retained therein by stitching 552 and 568 . The lower elastic band portion is also disposed between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 500 and retained therein by stitching 552 and 572 . Likewise, the elastic 544 disposed along the lower edge portion 520 also includes two elastic band portions, with the upper one being retained generally between stitching 552 and 568 , and the lower elastic band portion being retained generally between 552 and 572 .
  • the elastic 544 along either or both the upper and lower edge portions 524 , 520 can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) elastic bands.
  • other means of retaining the elastic 544 to the breast restraint 500 can also be employed in other embodiments.
  • the elastic 544 can help ensure that the breast restraint 500 creates and maintains a relatively snug fit about the wearer's torso (and thus sufficiently compresses the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts).
  • the particular material or materials used for the elastic portions 544 can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint 500 .
  • the breast restraint 500 also includes hooks 536 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 540 . Accordingly, the functional length of the restraint 500 will thus depend on which particular column of eyelets 540 are selectively engaged with the hooks 536 .
  • any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) hooks and eyelets and in any suitable configuration e.g., spacing, in one or more rows, in one or more columns, combinations thereof, etc.) can be provided for fastening the restraint's first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another.
  • a wide range of other suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another, including magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, combinations thereof, etc.
  • the lower edge portion 520 of restraint 500 is generally straight.
  • the upper edge portion 524 includes two curved end portions 560 and 564 and a generally straight medial portion 566 .
  • the curved end portions 560 and 564 curve generally downward towards the lower edge portion 520 .
  • the restraint 500 is wider at its end portions 508 and 512 than at its medial portion 516 .
  • This curved configuration can accommodate the user's shoulder blades and arms in that the narrower medial portion 516 of the restraint 500 can be positioned generally across the user's back generally under the arms and generally below the shoulder blades.
  • the restraint's end portions 508 and 512 can be positioned over the user's breasts.
  • Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.
  • Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 500 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another.
  • Alternative embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 500 to position the restraint 500 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts.
  • Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 500 to position the restraint 500 generally around the user's torso and over the user's breasts.
  • the breast restraint 500 is sized dimensionally such that its width (distance separating the upper and lower edge portions 524 and 520 inclusive of the elastic and ruffle portions 544 and 548 ) is about ten and one-half inches at the end portions 508 and 512 and about three and three-fourths inches at the medial portion 516 . Excluding the elastic and ruffle portions for this particular embodiment, the width of the restraint 500 is about seven and one-half inches at the end portions 508 and 512 and about three-fourths inches at the medial portion 516 .
  • the dimensions set forth in this paragraph are mere examples and can be varied as understood by those skilled in the art.
  • the breast restraint 500 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 504 or other type bra. But the restraint 500 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 500 , as shown in FIG. 15 . In either case, the breast restraint 500 can help inhibit and reduce excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.
  • FIGS. 16 through 19 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 600 having elasticized upper and lower edge portions 624 and 620 .
  • the restraint 600 includes elastic 644 and ruffles 648 along the breast restraint's upper and lower edge portions 624 and 620 .
  • the elastic 644 and ruffles 648 extend continuously along substantially the entire length of the restraint 600 from the first end portion 608 to the second end portion 612 .
  • the elastic 644 and/or ruffles 648 may be discontinuous and/or extend along less than the substantial entire length of the restraint 600 .
  • the restraint 600 includes ruffles 648 on both the inside and the outside.
  • ruffles 648 include extra material to accommodate for the stretching of the elastic 644 .
  • having ruffles 648 on the outside of the restraint 600 can also improve the aesthetic appearance of the breast restraint 600 , as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 .
  • the inside and/or outside ruffles 648 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 600 is fastened about a wearer's torso.
  • the inside ruffles 648 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 600 is fastened about a wearer's torso, thus providing a restraint that may be more comfortable to wear.
  • other embodiments include ruffles only on the inside or the outside (but not both) and/or ruffles that are not configured to be smoothed out when the breast restraint is being worn.
  • the ruffles 648 along the upper edge portion 624 include stitching 652 generally along the middle thereof.
  • the ruffles 648 along the lower edge portion 620 also include stitching 652 generally along the middle thereof. Alternate embodiments, however, do not include such stitching along either or both of the upper and lower ruffle portions.
  • the elastic 644 disposed along the upper edge portion 624 comprises two elastic band portions that are retained to the breast restraint 600 in part by sewing or stitching. More specifically, the upper elastic band portion is disposed generally between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 600 and retained therein by stitching 652 and 668 . The lower elastic band portion is also disposed between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 600 and retained therein by stitching 652 and 672 . Likewise, the elastic 644 disposed along the lower edge portion 620 also includes two elastic band portions, with the upper one being retained generally between stitching 652 and 668 , and the lower elastic band portion being retained generally between 652 and 672 .
  • the elastic 644 along either or both the upper and lower edge portions 624 , 620 can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) elastic bands.
  • other means of retaining the elastic 644 to the breast restraint 600 can also be employed in other embodiments.
  • the elastic 644 can help ensure that the breast restraint 600 creates and maintains a relatively snug fit about the wearer's torso (and thus sufficiently compresses the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts).
  • the particular material or materials used for the elastic portions 644 can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint 600 .
  • the breast restraint 600 also includes hooks 636 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 640 located on the back portion of the breast restraint 600 when positioned about a user's torso.
  • the functional length of the restraint 600 will depend on which particular column of eyelets 640 are selectively engaged with the hooks 636 .
  • any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) hooks and eyelets and in any suitable configuration e.g., spacing, in one or more rows, in one or more columns, combinations thereof, etc.) can be provided for fastening the restraint's first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another.
  • a wide range of other suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another, including magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, combinations thereof, etc.
  • the lower edge portion 620 of restraint 600 is generally straight.
  • the upper edge portion 624 includes two generally straight end portions 660 and 664 and a generally upwardly curved medial portion 666 . Accordingly, the restraint 600 is wider at its medial portion 616 than at its end portions 608 , 612 .
  • This curved configuration can accommodate the user's shoulder blades and arms in that the narrower end portions 608 , 612 of the restraint 600 can thus be positioned generally across the user's back generally under the arms and generally below the shoulder blades.
  • Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.
  • Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 600 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another generally from the back of the user. Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 600 around the torso, engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 generally from the front of the user, and then rotating or twisting the restraint 600 such that the end portions 608 and 612 are at the back of the user. Further embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 600 to position the restraint 600 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts.
  • Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 600 to position the restraint 600 generally around the user's torso and over the user's breasts.
  • the breast restraint 600 is sized dimensionally such that its width (distance separating the upper and lower edge portions 624 and 620 inclusive of the elastic and ruffle portions 644 and 648 ) is about three and three-fourths inches at the end portions 608 and 612 and about ten and one-half inches at the medial portion 616 . Excluding the elastic and ruffle portions for this particular embodiment, the width of the restraint 600 is about three-fourths inches at the end portions 608 and 612 and about seven and one-half inches at the medial portion 616 .
  • the dimensions set forth in this paragraph are mere examples and can be varied as understood by those skilled in the art.
  • the breast restraint 600 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 604 or other type bra. But the restraint 600 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 600 , as shown in FIG. 19 . In either case, the breast restraint 600 can help inhibit and reduce excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.
  • a restraint e.g., 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 , etc.
  • a restraint and its components can be formed from a wide range of suitable materials, such as fabrics, leather, plastics, cotton, textiles, ferrous and non-ferrous metal foils, polymers, foams, elastic materials, combinations thereof, among others.
  • a restraint is formed of one or more fabric material(s) having sufficient elasticity so as to ensure a snug or close fit (and thus sufficient compression of the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts), but the material(s) is also sufficiently inelastic so that the restraint avoids contributing to movement of the breasts during exercising or other activities.
  • the particular material or materials used for a restraint can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint.
  • a restraint (e.g., 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 , etc.) can include an exterior surface comprising any of wide range of colors and/or color combinations.
  • a restraint can include lace, embroidery, indicia or graphic elements to make the restraint more visually appealing.
  • Restraints e.g., 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 , etc.
  • Restraints can also be provided in various sizes, depending on the particular application and size of the person that will be wearing the breast restraint.
  • the materials, shapes, sizes, and configurations of the various components described herein may vary depending on the requirements of the particular application in which the breast restraint or support will be used.
  • the various materials, shapes, sizes, and configurations shown in the figures are for illustrative purposes only.
  • the invention provides methods of restraining breast movement.
  • the method generally includes substantially entirely covering a user's breasts by wrapping a strapless breast restraint (e.g., 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 , etc.) around the user's torso. While wrapping, the breast restraint can also be positioned over a bra being worn by the user. Alternatively, the breast restraint can also be wrapped around the torso of a user who is not wearing a bra. The restraint's first and second end portions of the restraint are engaged such that the restraint compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user.
  • a strapless breast restraint e.g., 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 , etc.
  • the first and second end portions can be engaged to one another at a position generally between the user's breasts. Alternatively, the first and second end portions can be engaged at a position generally between the user's shoulder blades.
  • the method can also include positioning an upper curved edge portion of the restraint generally across the user's back under the arms and below the shoulder blades. The method can further include adjusting a functional length of the restraint.
  • various embodiments can restrain or inhibit excessive breast movement and the discomfort caused thereby.
  • embodiments of the present invention can allow well-endowed women to participate in activities without having to endure the discomfort normally caused by excessive breast movement during such activities.
  • embodiments of the present invention can be easier to fit and use than many traditional sports bra, which, at times, can be rather difficult to properly fit.
  • a restraint includes one or more of the following characteristics including simplicity in construction, use, ease of adjustability, and manufacture.
  • teachings, aspects, and various embodiments of the invention can be used in combination with a wide range of sports bras and traditional bras. Accordingly, the specific references to sports bras herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention to use with any specific form/type of sports bra.
  • teachings, aspects, and various embodiments can also be used by females or other persons regardless of whether that person is wearing a bra and/or participating in any athletic activity. Plus, aspects of the invention are not limited to use by just females or athletes as any person, male or female, who experiences discomfort from excessive breast movement may be able to benefit from one or more of the embodiments of this invention.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Corsets Or Brassieres (AREA)
  • Prostheses (AREA)
US11/199,335 2004-08-26 2005-08-08 Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement Abandoned US20060046615A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/199,335 US20060046615A1 (en) 2004-08-26 2005-08-08 Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US60460504P 2004-08-26 2004-08-26
US11/199,335 US20060046615A1 (en) 2004-08-26 2005-08-08 Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US60460504P Continuation 2004-08-26 2004-08-26

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20060046615A1 true US20060046615A1 (en) 2006-03-02

Family

ID=35943996

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/199,335 Abandoned US20060046615A1 (en) 2004-08-26 2005-08-08 Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (1) US20060046615A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2006026084A2 (fr)

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008109939A1 (fr) * 2007-03-12 2008-09-18 Janeen Rae Soutien-gorge
US20080287036A1 (en) * 2007-05-14 2008-11-20 Mcguire Renee Marie Gas permeable athletic breast restraint
WO2010065269A1 (fr) * 2008-11-25 2010-06-10 Susan Bodelson Kammerer Soutien-gorge réglable par le devant
US20110119876A1 (en) * 2009-11-23 2011-05-26 Goodman Joyce E Clasp
US20130205476A1 (en) * 2011-06-05 2013-08-15 Dayna Gentile Wearer-Friendly Bootsie Garter with Magnetic Bra Strap Slider, Extended Snap Fastener, and Box Barrel Clasp
US20170143048A1 (en) * 2015-11-24 2017-05-25 John A. Bucciarelli, III Counterbalance system for women's bras
US20200022421A1 (en) * 2018-07-23 2020-01-23 Bryan E. Kilbey Surgical Modesty Garment and Support Bra
USD918533S1 (en) * 2019-09-06 2021-05-11 Nike, Inc. Tank top
US20220211122A1 (en) * 2019-05-13 2022-07-07 Alignmed, Inc. Garment
US20230248081A1 (en) * 2020-08-31 2023-08-10 Professional Products, Inc. Surgical Modesty Garment and Support Bra

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN110996698A (zh) * 2017-07-31 2020-04-10 旭化成株式会社 内衣和文胸

Citations (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1584525A (en) * 1925-04-14 1926-05-11 Freeman Clara Brassiere
US1672770A (en) * 1926-08-30 1928-06-05 Sarah G Mountain Garment
US2723396A (en) * 1954-03-29 1955-11-15 Margaret L Stack Body muscle supporter
US3968803A (en) * 1975-06-04 1976-07-13 Golda, Inc. Surgical chest dressing
US4444191A (en) * 1979-06-21 1984-04-24 Harned Marguerite J Comfort garment
US4804351A (en) * 1987-11-16 1989-02-14 Raml Nancy M Surgical brassiere
US4816005A (en) * 1987-06-10 1989-03-28 Renelle Braaten Sports bra
US5011452A (en) * 1990-03-30 1991-04-30 Toby Kelly Breathable brassiere with adjustable drawstring
US5060648A (en) * 1990-10-11 1991-10-29 Shahla Zarkesh Breast binder
US5098331A (en) * 1990-08-03 1992-03-24 Leading Lady, Inc. Therapeutic chest dressing for breasts having implants
US6068538A (en) * 1997-05-23 2000-05-30 Alleyne; Julia Wrap-around sports bra
US6116985A (en) * 1997-09-17 2000-09-12 Lambert; Hilary Sports brassiere
USD438691S1 (en) * 2000-02-25 2001-03-13 Andre Zagame Sports bra
US20020022433A1 (en) * 2000-08-10 2002-02-21 Yeung Amy Patricia Dual-layered seamless sports bra and camisole
US20020132558A1 (en) * 2001-03-15 2002-09-19 Holliday David L. Activity bra and method of producing same
US6513209B1 (en) * 2000-10-13 2003-02-04 Nike, Inc. Fastening system for a bra
US6517410B1 (en) * 2001-04-11 2003-02-11 Annette K. Underhill Sports bra with floating storage pouch
US20030166375A1 (en) * 2002-03-04 2003-09-04 Noel Natalie Rose Breast restraint for athletic activity

Patent Citations (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1584525A (en) * 1925-04-14 1926-05-11 Freeman Clara Brassiere
US1672770A (en) * 1926-08-30 1928-06-05 Sarah G Mountain Garment
US2723396A (en) * 1954-03-29 1955-11-15 Margaret L Stack Body muscle supporter
US3968803A (en) * 1975-06-04 1976-07-13 Golda, Inc. Surgical chest dressing
US4444191A (en) * 1979-06-21 1984-04-24 Harned Marguerite J Comfort garment
US4816005A (en) * 1987-06-10 1989-03-28 Renelle Braaten Sports bra
US4804351A (en) * 1987-11-16 1989-02-14 Raml Nancy M Surgical brassiere
US5011452A (en) * 1990-03-30 1991-04-30 Toby Kelly Breathable brassiere with adjustable drawstring
US5098331A (en) * 1990-08-03 1992-03-24 Leading Lady, Inc. Therapeutic chest dressing for breasts having implants
US5060648A (en) * 1990-10-11 1991-10-29 Shahla Zarkesh Breast binder
US6068538A (en) * 1997-05-23 2000-05-30 Alleyne; Julia Wrap-around sports bra
US6116985A (en) * 1997-09-17 2000-09-12 Lambert; Hilary Sports brassiere
USD438691S1 (en) * 2000-02-25 2001-03-13 Andre Zagame Sports bra
US20020022433A1 (en) * 2000-08-10 2002-02-21 Yeung Amy Patricia Dual-layered seamless sports bra and camisole
US6513209B1 (en) * 2000-10-13 2003-02-04 Nike, Inc. Fastening system for a bra
US20020132558A1 (en) * 2001-03-15 2002-09-19 Holliday David L. Activity bra and method of producing same
US6688942B2 (en) * 2001-03-15 2004-02-10 David L Holliday Activity bra and method of producing same
US6517410B1 (en) * 2001-04-11 2003-02-11 Annette K. Underhill Sports bra with floating storage pouch
US20030166375A1 (en) * 2002-03-04 2003-09-04 Noel Natalie Rose Breast restraint for athletic activity

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008109939A1 (fr) * 2007-03-12 2008-09-18 Janeen Rae Soutien-gorge
AU2008226323B2 (en) * 2007-03-12 2012-06-14 Janeen Rae A breast support
US20080287036A1 (en) * 2007-05-14 2008-11-20 Mcguire Renee Marie Gas permeable athletic breast restraint
WO2010065269A1 (fr) * 2008-11-25 2010-06-10 Susan Bodelson Kammerer Soutien-gorge réglable par le devant
US20110119876A1 (en) * 2009-11-23 2011-05-26 Goodman Joyce E Clasp
US20130205476A1 (en) * 2011-06-05 2013-08-15 Dayna Gentile Wearer-Friendly Bootsie Garter with Magnetic Bra Strap Slider, Extended Snap Fastener, and Box Barrel Clasp
US20170143048A1 (en) * 2015-11-24 2017-05-25 John A. Bucciarelli, III Counterbalance system for women's bras
US20200022421A1 (en) * 2018-07-23 2020-01-23 Bryan E. Kilbey Surgical Modesty Garment and Support Bra
US10757982B2 (en) * 2018-07-23 2020-09-01 Bryan E. Kilbey Surgical modesty garment and support bra
US11596184B2 (en) * 2018-07-23 2023-03-07 Bryan E. Kilbey Surgical modesty garment and support bra
US20220211122A1 (en) * 2019-05-13 2022-07-07 Alignmed, Inc. Garment
USD918533S1 (en) * 2019-09-06 2021-05-11 Nike, Inc. Tank top
US20230248081A1 (en) * 2020-08-31 2023-08-10 Professional Products, Inc. Surgical Modesty Garment and Support Bra

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2006026084A3 (fr) 2007-03-22
WO2006026084A2 (fr) 2006-03-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
TWI554220B (zh) 具有罩杯部之衣物
US5221227A (en) Brassiere
US6083079A (en) Wireless ergonomic support brassiere
US10271585B2 (en) Bustier garment with support structures having a plurality of layers
US20130183885A1 (en) Garment with Cup Sections
US10334889B2 (en) Athletic wear nursing bra
US20150007374A1 (en) Transferable garment addition to swimwear
US20140256222A1 (en) Sports bra
US20060046615A1 (en) Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement
US20170013886A1 (en) Integrated supportive device in garments
US20170208873A1 (en) Sports garment
US20250241383A1 (en) Supportive undergarment and sports bra system
JP2009133027A (ja) スポーツ用ブラジャー
CN110996699A (zh) 可调运动胸罩
JP2019520491A (ja) ブラジャーの改良またはブラジャーに関連する改良
CN218245731U (zh) 一种包容性强的背带裤
KR20130017350A (ko) 벨트가 부착된 탈착형 히퍼지어
CN109714994A (zh) 露背支撑胸罩
CN218605193U (zh) 一种具有弹性口袋的运动服
CN210158045U (zh) 一种紧身运动裤
KR200479706Y1 (ko) 기능성 보정속옷
CN213029756U (zh) 一种运动内衣
CN210120903U (zh) 可摘肩带露背穿着的抹胸式文胸
JP7376074B2 (ja) サポーター付きズボン
US20220211122A1 (en) Garment

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: ZECHER ENTERPRISES, LLC, MISSOURI

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ZECHER, DONNA F.;REEL/FRAME:016429/0906

Effective date: 20050808

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION