MOISTURE ABSORBING ANTI-LEAK UNDERGARMENTS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application relates to and claims the benefit of U.S . Provisional Application

No. 62/501,013 filed May 3, 2017 and entitled "MOISTURE-WICKING ANTI-LEAK UNDERGARMENTS," the specification and drawings of which are provided as Appendix A hereto, incorporated herein by reference. STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT Not Applicable

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to wearing apparel and, more specifically, to undergarments that that are uniquely constructed to absorb fluids, such as those associated with sweat and lactation, in either prescribed areas of the undergarment or throughout the totality thereof. 2. Description of the Related Art

Undergarments may provide several functions, such as shaping the wearer's body, supporting parts of the body (e.g., during exercise), and offering protection to outer clothing. Undergarments can include everything from men's undershirts and women's brassieres or bras to their underwear.

Wearing a garment to support the chests or breasts may date back to ancient

Greece. Women wore an apodesmos, later stethodesme, mastodesmos and mastodeton, all meaning "breast-band", a band of wool or linen that was wrapped across the chests or breasts and tied or pinned at the back. Fragments of linen textiles found in East Tyrol in Austria dated to between 1440 and 1485 are believed to have been bras. Two of them had cups made from two pieces of linen sewn with fabric that extended to the bottom of the torso with a row of six eyelets for fastening with a lace or string. One had two shoulder straps and was decorated with lace in the cleavage. From the 16th century, the undergarments of wealthier women in the Western world were dominated by the corset, which pushed the breasts upwards. In the later 19th century, clothing designers began experimenting with alternatives, splitting the corset into multiple parts: a girdle-like restraining device for the lower torso, and devices that suspended the breasts from the shoulder to the upper torso.

Women have played a large part in the design and manufacture of the bra, accounting for half the patents filed. The Dresden-based German Christine Hardt patented the first modern brassiere in 1899. Sigmund Lindauer from Stuttgart-Bad Cannstatt, Germany, developed a brassiere for mass production in 1912 and patented it in 1913. It was mass-produced by Mechanischen Trikotweberei Ludwig Maier und Cie. in Boblingen, Germany. In the United States, Mary Phelps Jacob received a patent in 1914 for the first brassiere design that is recognized as the basis for modern bras. Mass production in the early-20th century made the garment widely available to women in the United States, England, Western Europe, and other countries influenced by western fashion. Metal shortages in World War I encouraged the end of the corset. Bras were initially manufactured by small production companies and supplied to retailers. The term "cup" was not used until 1916, and manufacturers relied on stretchable cups to accommodate different sized breasts. Women with larger or pendulous breasts had the choice of long-line bras, built-up backs, wedge-shaped inserts between the cups, wider straps, power latex, firm bands under the cup, and light boning.

Typically, bras are form-fitting undergarments that perform the function of supporting a woman's breasts. Swimsuits, camisoles, and backless dresses may be made with built-in support. Bras are complex garments made of many parts, with standards and methods of measurement varying widely. Men's undershirts are also form-fitting undergarments.

A common problem faced by men and women is when they sweat due to hot flashes, other medical conditions such as hyperhidrosis, anxiety, etc., due to heat and other weather conditions, or because they have large breasts, the sweat seeps through the undergarments to their outer garment. Many people also suffer from primary local hyperhidrosis. The symptoms of primary focal hyperhidrosis are fairly specific. It's called "local" because it only affects specific parts of the body, such as the underarms, breasts/chest, groin, etc. Symptoms also tend to be symmetrical, occurring on both sides equally. Women, especially with bigger breasts, suffer from localized sweats, especially under their breasts. Many women have a tendency to perspire around their bra line, especially when under stress, at work, or when performing physical activity. Excessive unwanted perspiration can result in embarrassing odors, sweat stains, or eventually discoloration of the surrounding clothes. Excessive perspiration can also lead to the need to constantly wash the affected bras, which increases the amount of wear and tear on those bras and thus requires that they be replaced more often. It can be expensive to have to constantly replace worn down bras, especially for women with a unique bra size who must specially order bras to fit their specific measurements. A similar problem is also faced by men who have male breasts. However, conventional undergarments do not help prevent the seeping or transmission of sweat from the body of the wearer to the outer garment.

Another problem is leaking that is related to breastfeeding. For all of the known benefits of breastfeeding, one major challenge is leaking. Leaking or spraying breasts are a natural part of a woman's nursing experience. Leaking can occur when the milk ejection reflex ("MER"), also referred to as the let-down reflex, is unintentionally triggered by various stimuli outside of nursing. The breasts can leak colostrum (the milk produced right around childbirth, which is rich in protein and antibodies) or the breastmilk that is produced after the early colostrum period. Unintentional triggers of the MER can be a woman thinking about her baby, hearing a crying baby, or when her breasts become uncomfortably full - e.g., when a woman's baby starts going longer between feedings, she is in a situation where she isn't able to nurse as often as she usually does, the baby starts sleeping through the night, or she goes back to work and is not able to pump on a regular schedule. Sometimes, a warm shower can trigger a leak. And sometimes it can even happen while she is asleep. Some women experience leaking from one breast while they are nursing their baby on the other breast. In fact, a woman's breasts can continue to leak for weeks, months, or even years after she stops nursing.

Unfortunately, conventional bras do not help prevent the sweat and milk or colostrum from leaking out of the bra and onto the shirt because of inadequate absorbing features. The leaking of milk, colostrum, or even sweat creates stains on the undergarments and the outer shirts or other garments that are visible to the public. Additionally, especially during lactation, a woman's breasts are tender. Conventional bras do not have the soft padding that this tenderness requires, and thus are uncomfortable and/or hurt the woman's breasts while also not performing the required absorbing feature.

While various pads and the like have been developed to respond to various other perspiration or moisture problems (e.g., underarm shields, sanitary napkins, etc.) none have been developed with enough flexibility to address the needs of numerous varieties of women suffering from breast perspiration and/or milk leakage. It is acknowledged that other devices have been developed for wear under the breast, but they are purposefully relatively thick and bulky and either intended for cosmetic, uplift purposes. Other pads have been developed to absorb perspiration; however, they are either bulky, address mainly the area between the breasts, or address the entire under area of the breast from underarm to cleavage. Such pads are too bulky and obvious as to not provide discretion of wearing by the user.

Further, there are pads that are available that can be inserted between a woman's bra and her breasts during lactation. The available pads have limited use because the leak-proof barrier is generally in contact with the breast and nipples and may create irritation and soreness, particularly if the nipples stay too moist due to the wet pad being directly in touch with the breasts without any other insulating layers. The thick absorbent pad is bulky and uncomfortable to wear. Additionally, the leak-proof barrier and thick absorbent pad may entrap moisture within the undergarment, thereby increasing the risk of yeast infections.

Additionally, some pads are disposable and not reusable and the cost of purchasing the pads may be an economic burden since it may add up to a significant sum per year. Additionally, the waste produced is environmentally unsustainable. Moreover, the pads may be positioned incorrectly or sized incorrectly, which adds to their low efficacy and discomfort. Finally, the available pads are cumbersome to use since a woman must remember to put on and change her pads, or wash previously worn reusable ones, each time she has to use them.

Consequently, there is a need for undergarments, such as undershirts and bras, which eliminate the need for using disposable pads while effectively absorbing liquid flow and preventing sweat, leaked milk, and other bodily fluids from seeping through to the outer garment. Additionally, it is desirable that the undergarments provide stain prevention, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial management, and skin comfort. The present disclosure addresses these particular needs, as will be described in greater detail below.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a moisture absorbing undergarment comprising a body having a front section shaped to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest area. The body is configured to be maintainable on the wearer's upper body such that the at least a portion of the wearer's chest area is covered by the front section.

The front section of the body is provided with a multi-layer construction. In greater detail, such construction includes a first layer fabricated from a soft, pliable material adapted to be placeable into contact with and provide a wicking effect drawing moisture from the wearer's chest area, a second layer disposed adjacent the first layer and fabricated from a material having prescribed moisture absorption properties, a third layer disposed adjacent the second layer and fabricated from an at least partially moisture blocking material, and a fourth layer disposed adjacent the third layer and fabricated from a material which defines an exteriorly presented surface of the front section and has prescribed aesthetic and tactile characteristics. The third layer is preferably laminated to the fourth layer, and may comprise a breathable, elastic polyurethane film. The second layer may be secured to the third layer via a prescribed attachment modality as maintains the second layer in substantially abutting contact with the third layer. Similarly, the first layer may be secured to the second layer via a prescribed attachment modality as maintains the first layer in substantially abutting contact with the second layer.

In the undergarment, the first layer may comprise a knit fabric having a first side positionable into contact with the wearer and a second side facing the second layer, with one or both of the first and second sides being treated with one of a hydrophilic composition and a hydrophobic composition. Along these lines, one of the first and seconds sides of the knit fabric may be treated with the hydrophilic composition, and the remaining one of the first and second sides is treated with the hydrophobic composition.

It is contemplated that within the undergarment, the first layer and the second layer may collectively define at least one pocket therebetween sized and configured to removably accommodate an ancillary absorption layer adapted to supplement the moisture absorption properties of the second layer.

It is further contemplated that, in one exemplary iteration of the undergarment, the body may further define an opposed pair of side sections generally positionable under respective ones of the wearer's arms, and a back section extensible along the wearer' s back, with each of the front, side and backs sections is provided with the multilayer construction. In accordance with a further contemplated refinement, the front section may define a pair of cup portions adapted to accommodate the wearer's breasts, a cradle portion which underlies the cup portions, and a center gore portion extending at least partially between the cup portions, with the cup, cradle and center gore portions each being provided with the multi-layer construction. With this particular construction, the first, second, third and fourth layers in each of the cradle and center gore portions may be operatively secured to each other in a manner which effectively maintains them in substantially abutting contact with each other, with the first layer and the second layer in each of the cup portions collectively define at least one pocket therebetween sized and configured to removably accommodate the aforementioned ancillary absorption layer adapted to supplement the moisture absorption properties of the second layer. Further, each of the cup portions may define a slot sized and configured to provide access into a respective one of the pockets.

The present disclosure is best understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These, as well as other features of the present disclosure, will become more apparent upon reference to the drawings wherein:

Figure 1A is a front-elevational view of a first exemplary undergarment constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure IB is a rear-elevational view of the undergarment shown in Figure 1A; Figure 1C is a right side-elevational view of the undergarment shown in Figure 1A, the left side-elevational view being a mirror image thereof;

Figure 2 is a rear-elevational view of a second exemplary undergarment constructed in accordance with the present disclosure; Figure 3 A is a front-elevational view of a third exemplary undergarment constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 3B is a rear-elevational view of the undergarment shown in Figure 3A;

Figure 4A is a front-elevational view of a fourth exemplary undergarment constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 4B is a rear-elevational view of the undergarment shown in Figure 3A;

Figure 5 is an exploded, cross-sectional view at least a portion of each of the exemplary undergarments shown in Figures 1A-1C and 2-4, depicting the multi-layer, moisture absorbing construction thereof;

Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 5, depicting a non- exploded, exemplary implementation of the multi-layer, moisture absorbing construction particularly suited to accommodate the optional, removable insertion of an ancillary absorption layer;

Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 6A, but further depicting the ancillary absorption layer as removably inserted into the pocket defined within the multi-layer, moisture absorbing construction;

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figures 6A and 6B, but depicting a first contemplated variant of the multi-layer, moisture absorbing construction shown therein; and

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figures 6A and 6B, but depicting a second contemplated variant of the multi-layer, moisture absorbing construction shown therein.

Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and detailed description to indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings wherein the showing are purposes of illustrating preferred implementations of the present disclosure only, and not for purposes of limiting the same, Figures 1A-1C depict a moisture absorbing undergarment 10 constructed in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The undergarment 10 is a bra comprising a body 12. The body 12 includes a front section 14 shaped to cover at least a portion of a wearer's chest area. In greater detail, in the bra version of the undergarment 10 shown in Figures 1A-1C, the front section 14 defines several discrete regions. These regions include a spaced pair of cup portions 16 adapted to accommodate the wearer's breasts, a cradle portion 18 which underlies the cup portions 16, and a center gore portion 20 which extends at least partially between the cup portions 16.

As will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art, the body 14 is configured to be maintainable on the wearer's upper body such that the at least a portion of the wearer's chest area is covered by the front section 14. In the bra version of the undergarment 10, the body 14 further defines an opposed pair of side sections 22 generally positionable under respective ones of the wearer's arms, and a back section 24 extensible along the wearer's back. In the undergarment 10, the back section 24 is further segregated into an opposed, generally identical pair of wing segments 26 which are releasably attachable to each other. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure IB, the releasable attachment of the wing segments 26 to each other is facilitated by complementary sets of hooks and eyes. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other, alternative fastening modalities, including but not limited to complementary snaps, clasps, hook and loop fastener material, etc., may be used to facilitate the releasable attachment of the wing sections 26 to each other without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

The body 14 is further maintained upon the wearer's upper body through the use of a pair of identically configured straps 28 extensible over respective ones of the wearer's shoulders. As seen in Figures 1A-1C, each of the straps 28 includes a first (front) end attached to a respective one of the cup portions 18 of the front section 14, and an opposed second (back) end attached to a respective one of the wing segments 26 of the back section 24. Any one of numerous permanent or selectively releasable of attachment modalities (e.g., stitching, buckles, clasps, etc.) may be used to facilitate the attachment of the straps 28 to the remainder of the undergarment 10.

Referring now to Figures 5, 6 A and 6B, in the undergarment 10, at least the front section 14 of the body 12 is provided with a multi-layer construction 30. It is contemplated that the form of the construction 30 that will be integrated into the undergarment 10 is that shown in Figures 6A and 6B, with Figure 5 providing a more fully exploded view of that construction 30 for illustrative purposes. In greater detail, the construction 30 includes a first layer 32 fabricated from a soft, pliable material adapted to be placeable into contact with and provide a wicking effect drawing moisture from the wearer's chest area. In an exemplary implementation, the first layer 32 may comprise a knit fabric having a first side 34 positionable into contact with the wearer and an opposed second side 36. It is contemplated that one or both of the first and second sides 34, 36 may be treated with one of a hydrophilic composition and a hydrophobic composition. Alternatively, one of the first and seconds sides 34, 36 of the first layer 32 may be treated with the hydrophilic composition, with the remaining one of the first and second sides 34, 36 being treated with the hydrophobic composition. Further, the weave density of the knit fabric may be selected in accordance with desired wicking efficacy, the density being correlated to the size of moisture transmission paths defined through the knit fabric.

In addition to the first layer 32, the construction 30 comprises a second layer 38 which is disposed adjacent the first layer 32, the second side 36 of the first layer 32 thus facing the second layer 38. The second layer 38 is preferably fabricated from a material having prescribed moisture absorption properties. In an exemplary implementation, the second layer 38 is fabricated from a liquid or moisture absorbing material (e.g., cotton, a cotton blend, an absorbent foam, modal, viscose-based fiber, etc.) with a weight in the range of from about 180- 300 g/m2. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other moisture absorbing materials provided in differing weights may be used for the second layer 38 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

The construction 30 further comprises a third layer 40 disposed adjacent the second layer 38. The third layer 40 is fabricated from an at least partially moisture blocking material. Also included in the construction 30 is a fourth layer 42 which is disposed adjacent the third layer 40 and fabricated from a material which defines an exteriorly presented surface of at least a portion of the front section 14, and has prescribed aesthetic and tactile characteristics. As seen in Figures 5, 6A and 6B, the third layer 40 is preferably laminated to the fourth layer 42, though it is also contemplated that such third and fourth layers 40, 42 need not necessarily be bonded to each other in the construction 30. In an exemplary implementation, the third layer 40 may comprise a breathable, elastic polyurethane film. Along these lines the composite structure achieved by the lamination of the third and fourth layers 40, 42 to each other, including materials which may be used for those third and fourth 40, 42 and techniques which may be employed to facilitate such lamination, can be selected in accordance with the teachings of Applicant's U.S. Patent No. 8,117,675 entitled "Waterproof Panty" and issued February 21, 2012, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

In the exemplary construction 30 as shown in Figures 6A and 6B, it is contemplated that the second layer 38 will be secured to the third layer 40 via a prescribed attachment modality as maintains the second layer 38 in substantially continuous, abutting contact with the third layer 40. Such attachment modalities may include stitching or adhesives, though the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to any particular modality. Along these lines, it is also understood that the attachment of the third and fourth layers 38, 40 to each other may be effectuated such that the contact therebetween is intermittent rather than substantially continuous. It is further contemplated that the construction 30 may be implemented in the manner shown in Figure 5 wherein the third layer 38 is not attached or secured to the fourth layer 40, except at perhaps peripheral regions as may be necessary to complete the fabrication of the undergarment 10.

Though the third layer 38 is attached to the fourth layer 40 in the exemplary construction 30 shown in Figures 6A and 6B, it is contemplated that the first layer 32 will not be attached to the second layer 38, at least in prescribed areas of the front section 14, and notably the cup portions 16 of the front section 14. In this regard, in the undergarment 10, at least portions of the first and second layers 32, 38 collectively define at least one pocket 44 therebetween which is sized and configured to removably accommodate an ancillary absorption layer 46 adapted to supplement the moisture absorption properties of the second layer 38. In the undergarment 10, the construction 30 integrated into the front section 14 defines two separate and distinct pockets 44 centrally positioned within respective ones of the cup portions 16. Each pocket 44 is sized and configured to accommodate a respective ancillary absorption layer 46.

In the undergarment 10, each ancillary absorption layer 46 takes the form of a generally circular absorption pad. While each pad and its corresponding pocket 44 may have complementary circular configurations, sizes and shapes other than those shown in Figures 1A-1C are contemplated to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, each pad and its associated pocket 44 need not necessarily have complementary configurations. The absorption layer 46 (e.g., pad) may be fabricated from materials having prescribed moisture absorption properties, including but not limited to those described above in relation to the second layer 38. The material selection may be such that the absorption layer 46 may be subjected to repeated washings when removed from its corresponding pocket 44 without suffering rapid, undue degradation. Conversely, the absorption layer 46 may disposable. As seen in Figure IB, the undergarment 10 is provided with a pair of elongate slots or slits 48 within respective ones of the cup portions 16, each of which provides access to the interior of a respective one of the pockets 44 to allow for the advancement of the absorption layer 46 into its associated pocket 44, and removal of the absorption layer 46 from therewithin.

Referring now to Figure 7, there is shown a construction 30a which is a variant of the construction 30, and may be integrated into the undergarment 10 in substitution for or in addition to the construction 30. The sole distinction between the constructions 30, 30a lies in the first layer 32 in the construction 30a being secured to the second layer 38 via a prescribed attachment modality as maintains the first layer 32 in substantially continuous, abutting contact with the second layer 38, i.e., no pocket 44 is defined therebetween. Such attachment modalities may include stitching or adhesives, though the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to any particular modality. Along these lines, it is also understood that the attachment of the first and second layers 32, 38 to each other may be effectuated such that the contact therebetween is intermittent rather than substantially continuous.

Referring now to Figure 8, there is shown a construction 30b which is another variant of the construction 30, and may itself be integrated into the undergarment 10 in substitution for or in addition to the construction 30. The sole distinction between the constructions 30, 30b lies in elimination of the second layer 38 in the construction 30b such that the pocket 44 is defined between the first and third layers 32, 40. Though not shown, yet a further variant of the construction 30 is contemplated wherein the construction 30b is modified such that the first layer 32 is secured to the third layer 40 via a prescribed attachment modality (such as those described above) as maintains the first layer 32 in substantially continuous, abutting contact with the third layer 40, i.e., no pocket 44 is defined therebetween.

As the chest/breast covering front section 14 of the undergarment 10 is that which is arguably the most essential to providing the moisture absorbing properties of the present disclosure, it follows that a typical implementation of the undergarment 10 will entail fabricating at least the cup portions 16 from either the construction 30 (with the two pockets 44), the construction 30a (with no pockets 44), the construction 30b (with no second layer 38 but with two pockets 44), or the aforementioned variant of the construction 30b (with no second layer 38 and no pockets 44). However, it is also contemplated that other parts of the undergarment 10 other than for the cup portions 16 may be fabricated from some iteration of the multi-layer construction, albeit typically one without pockets 44 (such as the construction 30a or variant of the construction 30b) to provide moisture/perspiration absorbing and/or transmission blocking qualities. By way of example, areas of the undergarment 10 susceptible to perspiration exposure, such as the cradle portion 18 which underlies the cup portions 16, the center gore portion 20, the side sections 22, and the back section 24 may, in addition to the cup portions 16, be fabricated from any one or more multi-layer construction iterations alone or in any combination.

Also, as is apparent from Figures 1 A-1C, assuming several different multi-layer constructions are integrated into the undergarment 10 in prescribed locations thereof, it is contemplated that the exteriorly presented layer included in each such construction (i.e., the layer 42) may differ based on aesthetic, tactile, or other preferences/considerations. For example, as shown in Figure 1A, the layer 42 of the multi-layer construction used for the cup portions 16 may differ the layer 42 of the multi-layer construction used for the cradle portion 18, which in turn may differ from the layer 42 of the multi-layer construction used for the center gore portion 20.

Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown a second exemplary undergarment 200 which may be fabricated to include any of the aforementioned iterations of the multi-layer construction in any of the aforementioned combinations. In this regard, the undergarment 200 differs from the undergarment 10 described above only in that it comprises a nursing bra wherein the cup portions 16 are releasably engaged to respective ones of the straps 28 as allows them to be selectively folded downwardly as the undergarment 200 is being worn. The straps are further attached to respective ones of pair of support panels 202 which are operative to maintain the undergarment 200 on the upper body of the wearer when either or both of the cup portions 16 are detached from the corresponding one of the straps 28.

Referring now to Figures 3A and 3B, there is shown a third exemplary undergarment 300 which may also be fabricated to include any of the aforementioned iterations of the multi-layer construction in any of the aforementioned combinations. In this regard, the undergarment 300 differs from the undergarment 10 described above in that it comprises a nursing sleep bra having a body 312 with a front section 314 predominantly defined by a partially overlapping pair of cup panels 316 in substitution for the cup portions 16 shown in Figures 1A-1C and 2 above. The body 312 also includes a back section 324, a pair of shoulder sections 328 which are each adapted to span a respective one of the wearer's shoulders and define continuous transitions from respective ones of the cup panels 316 to the back section 324, and an opposed pair of side sections 322 which also define continuous transitions from respective ones of the cup panels 316 to the back section 324. Each of these panels/sections is amenable to having any iteration of the multi-layer construction integrated therein. In the exemplary iteration shown in Figure 3 A, each of the cup panels 316 is fabricated in accordance with the construction 30, and thus includes the pockets 44 which accommodate respective absorption layers 46/pads.

Referring now to Figures 4 A and 4B, there is shown a fourth exemplary undergarment 400 which may also be fabricated to include any of the aforementioned iterations of the multi-layer construction in any of the aforementioned combinations. In this regard, the undergarment 400 differs from the undergarment 10 described above in that it comprises a sports bra having a body 412 with a front section 414 predominantly defined by a breast covering region 416 in substitution for the cup portions 16 shown in Figures 1A-1C and 2 above. The body 412 also includes a back section 424, a pair of shoulder sections 428 which are each adapted to span a respective one of the wearer's shoulders and define continuous transitions from the front section 414 to the back section 424, and an opposed pair of side sections 422 which also define continuous transitions from the front section 414 to the back section 424. Each of these sections is amenable to having any iteration of the multi-layer construction integrated therein. In the exemplary iteration shown in Figure 4A, at least the breast covering region 416 of the front section 414 is fabricated in accordance with the construction 30, and thus includes the pockets 44 which accommodate respective absorption layers 46/pads. However, in the context of the undergarment 400 wherein the breast covering region 416 is substantially continuous, it is possible that a single pocket 44 may be defined therein which accommodates a single absorption layer 46/pad of suitable size to span both the wearer's breasts. Though not shown, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any of the aforementioned iterations of the multi-layer construction may be integrated in any of the aforementioned combinations into corresponding areas or regions of wearing apparel items other than for undergarments, including tank tops, T-shirts, etc., without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

In various alternative embodiments, the materials described in specific embodiments herein may be substituted by materials that would be recognizable as compatible by those skilled in the art. Further, any chemicals, compounds, stains, dyes, and other treatments or elements of the garment, its design, or the process by which it is created may be substituted with other known materials recognized by those skilled in art, including but not limited to hydrophilic elements, hydrophobic elements, sealants, foams, and others. The various components or subparts of any embodiment may also be substituted and used with other subparts of other embodiments and various combinations thereof provided the claimed functionalities or general purpose of the design is preserved. Along these lines, all features, elements, components, functions, and steps described with respect to any embodiment provided herein are intended to be freely combinable and substitutable with those from any other embodiment unless otherwise stated. Thus, this disclosure provides exemplary embodiments, the scope of the present disclosure not being limited by these exemplary embodiments, with numerous variations, whether explicitly provided for by the specification or implied by the specification, such as variations in structure, dimension, type of material and manufacturing process, being capable of implementation by one of skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

APPENDIX A

MOISTURE-WICKING AND ANTI-LEAK UNDERGARMENTS

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to undergarments, and more specifically, to undergarments that absorb fluids, such as those associated with sweat and lactationA

BACKGROUND

Undergarments may provide several functions, such as shaping the wearer's body, supporting parts of the body during exercise, and offering protection to outer clothing. Undergarments can include everything from men's vests and women's brassieres or bras to their underwear.

Wearing a garment to support the chests or breasts may date back to ancient Greece. Women wore an apodesmos, later stethodesme, mastodesmos and mastodeton, all meaning "breast-band", a band of wool or linen that was wrapped across the chests or breasts and tied or pinned at the back. Fragments of linen textiles found in East Tyrol in Austria dated to between 1440 and 1485 are believed to have been bras. Two of them had cups made from two pieces of linen sewn with fabric that extended to the bottom of the torso with a row of six eyelets for fastening with a lace or string. One had two shoulder straps and was decorated with lace in the cleavage. From the 16th century, the undergarments of wealthier women in the Western world were dominated by the corset, which pushed the breasts upwards. In the later 19th century, clothing designers began experimenting with alternatives, splitting the corset into multiple parts: a girdle-like restraining device for the lower torso, and devices that suspended the breasts from the shoulder to the upper torso.

Women have played a large part in the design and manufacture of the bra, accounting for half the patents filed. The Dresden-based German Christine Hardt patented the first modern brassiere in 1899. Sigmund Lindauer from Stuttgart-Bad Cannstatt, Germany, developed a brassiere for mass production in 1912 and patented it in 1913. It was mass-produced by Mechanischen Trikotweberei Ludwig Maier und Cie. in Boblingen, Germany. In the United States, Mary Phelps Jacob received a patent in 1914 for the first brassiere design that is recognized as the basis for modern bras. Mass production in the early-20th century made the garment widely available to women in the United States, England, Western Europe, and other countries influenced by western fashion. Metal shortages in World War I encouraged the end of the corset. Bras were initially manufactured by small production companies and supplied to retailers. The term "cup" was not used until 1916, and manufacturers relied on stretchable cups to accommodate different sized breasts. Women with larger or pendulous breasts had the choice of long-line bras, built-up backs, wedge-shaped inserts between the cups, wider straps, power Lastex, firm bands under the cup, and light boning.

Typically, bras are form-fitting undergarments that perform the function of supporting a woman's breasts. Swimsuits, camisoles, and backless dresses may be made with built-in support. Bras are complex garments made of many parts. Most come in 36 sizes; standards and methods of measurement vary widely. Men's vests are also form-fitting undergarments.

A common problem faced by men and women is when they sweat due to hot flashes, other medical conditions such as hyperhidrosis, anxiety, etc., due to heat and other weather conditions, or because they have large breasts, the sweat bleeds through the shirt. Many people also suffer from primary local hyperhidrosis. The symptoms of primary focal hyperhidrosis are fairly specific. It's called "local" because it only affects specific parts of the body, such as the underarms, breasts/chest, groin, etc. Symptoms also tend to be symmetrical, occurring on both sides equally. Women, especially with bigger breasts, suffer from localized sweats, especially under their breasts. Many women have a tendency to perspire around their bra line, especially when under stress, at work, or when performing physical activity. Excessive unwanted perspiration can result in embarrassing odors, sweat stains, or eventually discoloration of the surrounding clothes. Excessive perspiration can also lead to the need to constantly wash the affected bras, which increases the amount of wear and tear on those bras and thus requires that they be replaced more often. It can be expensive to have to constantly replace worn down bras, especially for women with a unique bra size who must specially order bras to fit their specific measurements. A similar problem is also faced by men who have male breasts. Additionally, typically in geographical locations that are humid and/or hot that cause people to sweat a lot, men and women wear vests, such as Banyan, under their shirts or t-shirts to reduce bleeding of sweat onto the shirt. However, conventional bras or vests do not help prevent leaking of sweat through the bra or vests onto the shirt.

Additionally, most expectant mothers are aware of the wonderful opportunity they have to enhance the physical and emotional bond with their babies by breastfeeding as soon as possible after childbirth. As wonderful as breastfeeding is, it does present some challenges, such as leaking. Leaking or spraying breasts are a natural part of a woman's nursing experience. Leaking occurs due to the Milk Ejection Reflex ("MER"), which cannot be controlled. Leaking can be due to breast milk or colostrum. It can happen when a baby nurses, or when a woman thinks about her baby, or when she hears a baby in crying in the mall, or when her breasts become uncomfortably full - e.g., when a woman's baby starts going longer between feedings, she is in a situation where she isn't able to nurse as often as she usually does, or the baby starts sleeping through the night. A woman' s body doesn't know that she is not nursing twins, so every time MER occurs, both breasts leak at the same time. In fact, a woman's breasts can continue to leak for weeks, months, or even years after she stops nursing.

Conventional bras do not help prevent the sweat and milk or colostrum from leaking out of the bra and onto the shirt because of inadequate absorbing features. The leaking of milk, colostrum, or even sweat creates stains on the undergarments and the shirts that are visible to the public. Additionally, especially during lactation, a woman's breasts are tender. Conventional bras do not have the needed soft padding and thus are uncomfortable and/or hurt the woman's breasts while also not performing the required absorbing feature.

While various pads and the like have been developed to respond to various other perspiration or moisture problems (e.g., underarm shields, sanitary napkins, etc.) none have been developed with enough flexibility to address the needs of numerous varieties of women suffering from breast perspiration. It is acknowledged that other devices have been developed for wear under the breast, but they are purposefully relatively thick and bulky and either intended for cosmetic, uplift purposes. Other pads have been developed to absorb perspiration; however, they are either bulky, address mainly the area between the breasts, or address the entire under area of the breast from underarm to cleavage. Such pads are too bulky and obvious as to not provide discretion of wearing by the user.

Further, there are pads that are available that can be inserted between a woman's bra and her breasts during lactation. The available pads have limited use because the leak-proof barrier is generally in contact with the breast and nipples and may create irritation and soreness, particularly if the nipples stay too moist due to the wet pad being directly in touch with the breasts without any other insulating layers. The thick absorbent pad is bulky and uncomfortable to wear. Additionally, the leak-proof barrier and thick absorbent pad may entrap moisture within the undergarment, thereby increasing the risk of yeast infections.

Additionally, such pads are usually disposable and not reusable and the cost of purchasing the pads may be an economic burden since it may add up to a significant sum per year. Additionally, the waste produced is environmentally unsustainable. Moreover, the pads may be positioned incorrectly or sized incorrectly, which adds to their low efficacy and discomfort. Finally, the available pads are cumbersome to use since a woman has to remember to put on and change her pads each time she has to use them.

Consequently, there is a need for undergarments, such as vests and bras, that eliminate the need for using disposable pads while effectively absorbing liquid flow and reducing the risk of leaks. Additionally, it is desirable that the undergarments provide stain prevention, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial management, and skin comfort.

SUMMARY

The embodiments described herein are directed undergarments that are leak- proof, moisture wicking, attractive, antimicrobial, and comfortable to wear. More specifically, the undergarment may include a fabric body comprising at least one bra cup that accommodates a wearer's breasts and a means to attach the bra cup to an upper body of the wearer. The bra cup may include a multilayer pad secured inside an inner surface and an outer surface of the bra cup, wherein the multilayer pad may further include at least one moisture-absorbing pad layer and at least one moisture- impermeable pad layer on top of the moisture-absorbing pad layer. This summary and the following detailed description are merely exemplary, illustrative, and explanatory, and are not intended to limit, but to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the example embodiments will be or will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The figures provided are diagrammatic and not drawn to scale. Variations from the embodiments pictured are contemplated. Accordingly, illustrations in the figures are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

FIG. 1A illustrates a front-view of an undergarment, according to some embodiments of the present inventions.

FIG. IB illustrates a back -view of an undergarment, according to some embodiments of the present inventions.

FIG. 1C illustrates a side -view of an undergarment, according to some embodiments of the present inventions.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front-view of an undergarment, according to some embodiments of the present inventions.

FIG. 3 illustrates five layers of a multilayer pad, according to some embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates five layers of a multilayer pad, according to some embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates four layers of a multilayer pad, according to some embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates four layers of a multilayer pad, according to some embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The below described figures illustrate the described invention and method of use in at least one of its preferred, best mode embodiment, which is further defined in detail in the following description. Those having ordinary skill in the art may be able to make alterations and modifications to what is described herein without departing from its spirit and scope. While this invention is susceptible to different embodiments in different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail a preferred embodiment of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiment illustrated. All features, elements, components, functions, and steps described with respect to any embodiment provided herein are intended to be freely combinable and substitutable with those from any other embodiment unless otherwise stated. Therefore, it should be understood that what is illustrated is set forth only for the purposes of example and should not be taken as a limitation on the scope of the present invention.

In the following description and in the figures, like elements are identified with like reference numerals. The use of "e.g.," "etc.," and "or" indicates non-exclusive alternatives without limitation, unless otherwise noted. The use of "including" or "includes" means "including, but not limited to," or "includes, but not limited to," unless otherwise noted.

As used herein, the term "and/or" placed between a first entity and a second entity means one of (1) the first entity, (2) the second entity, and (3) the first entity and the second entity. Multiple entities listed with "and/or" should be construed in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the entities so conjoined. Other entities may optionally be present other than the entities specifically identified by the "and/or" clause, whether related or unrelated to those entities specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to "A and/or B," when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising" can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including entities other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including entities other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other entities). These entities may refer to elements, actions, structures, steps, operations, values, and the like.

The disclosure herein describes undergarments, such as bras and vests. FIGs. 1A, IB, and 1C illustrate the front view, back view, and side view, respectively, of an undergarment 100, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Although the undergarment 100 in FIGs. 1A-1C depicts a bra, in some embodiments, the undergarment 100 may be a bra, vest, temple garment, tank top, nursing bra, nursing tank top, sports bra, work out tank tops, swimwear, spank, lingerie, bandeau, etc. In some embodiments, the undergarment 100 may be a standalone piece. In some embodiments, the undergarment 100 may be a part of or attached to a shirt, t-shirt, dress, or any other form of western or non-western clothing. In some embodiments, the undergarment 100 may include straps 110. In other embodiments, the undergarment 100 may not have straps 110 and be strapless. In other embodiments, the undergarment 100 may only have one strap. The straps 110 may be of any shape, form, or size. The straps 110 may also be made of any material, such as cotton, polyester, wool, rubber, plastic etc., or combination of materials. In some embodiments, the straps 110 may be detachable from the cups 120 for both aesthetic purposes and/or to make it easier to nurse. The straps 110 may be attached to the undergarment 100 using attachments 140. The attachments 140 may be made of Velcro, snaps, buttons, zippers, etc. or any combination thereof. The undergarment 100 may also include cups 120. In some embodiments, the cups 120 may be made of the same material as the straps 110. In other embodiments, the cups 120 may be made of different materials compared to the straps 110. The cups 120 may have different sizes, shapes, and designs. The cups 120 may also have designs on their outer surface that may serve some usefulness or be solely for aesthetic purposes. The cups 120 may also include an underwire 125. In other embodiments, the cups 120 may not include an underwire 125. In some embodiments, the cups 120 may be attached to the straps 110 at the apex 155. As shown in FIG. IB, the undergarment 100 may also include wings 135. In some embodiments, there may be more than two wings 135. In some embodiments, the wings 135 may be attached to each other using hook 180 and eye 190. In some embodiments, the hook 180 and eye 190 may be at the back of the undergarment 100. In other embodiments, the hook 180 and the eye 190 may be in the front such that they are attached to the cradle center 160 on the cradle 130. In other embodiments, the hook 180 and the eye 190 may be on either side of the undergarment 100. In other embodiments, the undergarment 100 may not have a hook 180 and eye 190 and may just be one continuous piece. The hook 180 and eye 190 may be made of any forms of attachments such as buttons, snaps, hooks, Velcro, etc., or any combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the undergarment 100 may not have a hook 180 and eye 190 and may not be a continuous piece but may have some other form or attachment. In other embodiments, the undergarments may just be the cups 120 that can be attached to the chest or breast using some form of adhesive. In some embodiments, the undergarment 100 may also have an underarm section 150. The undergarment 100 may include adjusters 170 that allows the user to adjust the tightness of the undergarment 100. In some embodiments, the undergarment may not include the adjustors 170. The adjustors 170 may be made of sliders, buttons, Velcro, snaps, hooks, etc., or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the cups 120, the cradle 130, and the wings 135 may be made of the same materials as each other. In other embodiments, the cups 120, the cradle 130, and the wings 135 may be made of materials that are different to each other, such that any two may be made of the same material and the third may be made of a different material or all three may be made of different materials.

FIG. 2 illustrates an undergarment 200 that is similar to the description of the undergarment described in FIGs. 1A-1C. The undergarment 200 may be a bra, vest, temple garment, tank top, nursing bra, nursing tank top, sports bra, work out tank tops, swimwear, spank, lingerie, bandeau, etc. In some embodiments, the undergarment 200 may be a standalone piece. In some embodiments, the undergarment 200 may be a part of or attached to a shirt, t-shirt, dress, or any other form of western or non-western clothing. In some embodiments, the undergarment 200 may include straps 210, cups 220, underwire 225, cradle 230, wings 235, attachments 240, underarm 250, apex 255, cradle center 260, adjustors 270, hook 280, and eye 290 as described for undergarment 100 in FIGs. 1A-1C. Each element may include different embodiments as described for undergarment 100 in FIGs. 1A-1C. Additionally, in some embodiments, the cups 220 may include openings 224 such that absorbent padding, such as multilayer pads described below or any of their individual layers, can be inserted into the cups 220. In some embodiments, the opening 224 may be a pocket. In other embodiments, the opening 224 may be a sleeve. The opening 224 may be capable of being shut using a button, zipper, snaps, hooks, etc. or any combination thereof. The opening 224 may be located on any side of the cups 220. The opening 224 may be sized to at least facilitate the absorbent padding to be inserted covering the bust point 222. In some embodiments, the opening 224 may extend through the whole cups 220. In other embodiments, the opening 224 may also extend through at least the cradle 230 and/or the wings 235. In some embodiments, the opening 224 may be on the outer most layer of the cups 220. In other embodiments, the opening 224 may be on the inner most layer of the cups 220. In other embodiments, the opening 224 may be in some layer in between the inner and outer layers of the cups 220. In other embodiments, there may be more than one opening at different parts of the undergarment 200 to accommodate absorbent paddings. The openings may be either on the inner surface, outer surface, middle surface of the undergarment 200, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the undergarments 200 may not include cups 220. In such embodiments, the undergarments 200 may include a similar opening at locations that cover at least a portion of the nipples and at least a part of the chest and or breast. In some embodiments, the wings 235 may be clearly separated at from the cradle 230 at horizontal end 238 of the cradle 230. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGs. 1A-1C, the wings 235 may be a continuation of the cradle 230.

Referring to FIG. 3, a multilayer pad 300 is provided. The multilayer pad 300 may be a standalone, separate pad that may be inserted into the undergarments through the openings described above. In other embodiments, the multilayer pad 300 may be part of the undergarment itself such that at least a portion of the undergarment is attached to the multilayer pad 300. For example, in an embodiment, the multilayer pad 300 may be used in the undergarment, such as undergarments 100 or 200 described above, such that at least one of the cradle 130/230, wings 135/235, and/or the cups 120/220 may have the multilayer pad 300 stitched and hidden within its inner and outer surface. The multilayer pad 300 may include at least two pad layers: moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 and moisture-impermeable pad layer 320. Each pad layer, moisture- absorbent pad layer 310 and moisture-impermeable pad layer 320, may weigh the same as the other or be different to each other while being in a weight range (e.g., 100-300 g/m2). In some embodiment, there may only be one pad layer of each type. In other embodiments, there may be two or more of at least one of the pad layers. Each pad layer, moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 and moisture-impermeable pad layer 320, may extend over at least some or all of the nipple and chest or breast region. The pad layers may also have additional pad layers of different materials that perform other functions such as insulation or adding a size to the men's chest or women's breasts. The multilayer pad 300 includes a moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 disposed closest to the body of the wearer and moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 disposed next closest to the body of the wearer. In some embodiments, the multilayer pad 300 may also include an outer pad layer 330 that may either be a different pad layer that performs additional functions, such as foam layer to increase insulation or increase the chest or breast size or may be the outer surface of the undergarment. The composition, properties, and functions of each of the exemplary pad layers 310, 320, 330 will now be described. The moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may include any liquid-absorbing material known in the art (e.g., cotton, a cotton blend, foam, SPANDEX knit, a synthetic material, absorbent polymeric foam a nanotechnology-based or -produced material, or any other moisture-absorbent material) and may have a weight of 180-300 g/m2. In other embodiments, the weight the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may be less than 180 g/m2 or more than 300 g/m2. The moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may have various shapes and/or sizes depending upon the needs of the wearer. For example, in some embodiments, the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may be shaped to just cover the nipples. In other embodiments, the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may be shaped to cover only the cradle. In other embodiments, the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may extend beyond the nipple and cover all of the chest or breast region covered by the undergarment. In other embodiments, the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may be shaped to curve according to the user's skin when the user bends, sits, stands, etc., so that it always engulfs the area around the nipples, chest or breast, or any other part of the body to catch any sweat or leaking of milk or colostrum. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may have additional thickness or layers in different areas of the undergarment so as to provide extra absorption capabilities for wearers when they sleep or recline. For example, in some embodiments, the area on the sides of the chest or breasts under the arm may have extra layers of moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 so that if the wearer sweats and/or leaks while sleeping, the extra layers can provide additional absorption. Similar additional layers or increased thickness of the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 in different areas of the undergarment may be provided as per the needs of the wearer. In some embodiments, the multi-layer pad may also be attached to the undergarment such that it is useable under the armpits of the user and any other areas, such as the groin, lower back, etc., from where the wearer suspects there to be secretion of body fluids. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 attached to the cradle may also be attached to a flap on the cradle that may the placed under the armpit. Such a design offers effective fluid absorption to various areas of the body while economically saving the fabric material and reducing the effort required from the wearer. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 may extend throughout the undergarments and provide additional regions for liquid absorption, thereby providing the wearer the most absorption capability and preventing liquid leakage. Though the preceding discussion was made with reference to the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310, the other pad layers, such as the moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 and the outer fabric body layer 330, may have the same or similar sizes and shapes that supplement the sizes and shapes of the moisture-absorbing pad layer 310 in order to provide complementing benefits.

The moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 may include any wholly or partially moisture-blocking material known in the art such as a waterproof polyurethane stabilizer. In some embodiments, the moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 includes a moisture-impermeable polymer layer 322 (e.g., breathable urethane or wax) on the top surface, i.e., the surface facing away from the wearer (and/or in contact with the outer surface of the undergarment 330) to create a leak-proof barrier against leakage of the liquid flow. In other embodiments, the moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 may further include a layer, material, or coating (such as a soft fabric layer) between the moisture-impermeable polymer layer 322 and the wearer. Because the moisture- impermeable polymer layer 322 is positioned on the outer surface of the moisture- impermeable pad layer 320 (with respect to the wearer), any discomfort due to the polymer, plastic, wax cotton, or other such moisture-impermeable material pressing against the wearer's skin is thus minimized or eliminated. Additionally, the moisture- impermeable pad layer 320 may be shaped based on the shape of the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310. In some embodiments, moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 is disposed only or substantially only in the nipple area and/or areas of the body where the user is particularly susceptible to leaking and/or sweating to allow other areas of the fabric body of the undergarment not covered by the moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 to "breathe" (i.e. to allow moisture to pass freely), to thereby enhance the comfort of the wearer. In some embodiments, the moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 may be larger than the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 to avoid bleeding of the leaked liquid from any point on the border of the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 onto the undergarment's outer surface and subsequently onto the shirt or may be smaller than the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310 to provide leakage protection only in the areas that are most likely to leak.

In some embodiments, outer pad layer 330 of the multilayer pad 300 may be a nylon/spandex knit that resembles and/or complements the outer surface of the undergarment in shape, size, color, texture, etc. In some embodiments where the multilayer pad 300 is part of the undergarment, the outer pad layer 330 may be the outer surface of the undergarment. Because the outer pad layer 330 may be made of thick fabric that may have a suitable weight, for example, ranging 100-500 g/m2, it may cover the patterns of the inner pad layers (i.e., the moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 and the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310) such that the shapes of the inner pad layers 310 and 320 are not visible through the undergarment. In some embodiments, the multilayer pad 300 may also include an inner pad layer that is the inner surface of the undergarment. In other embodiments, the inner surface of the undergarment may be the same as the moisture-absorbent pad layer 310. In other embodiments, the inner surface of the undergarment may be made of any other material and then the inner surface of the undergarment may be stitched to the pad layers 310 and 320. Subsequently, the inner surface of the undergarment may be stitched to the outer surface of the surface of undergarment. The stitching may be performed in a manner that may make the stitching visible from the outer surface of the undergarment or not visible from the outer surface of the undergarment. In other embodiments, the pad layers 310, 320, and 330 may not be stitched together before stitching the inner and outer surfaces of the undergarment with the multilayer pad 300 within it. In some embodiments, the pad layers may be attached to each other to secure them as a unitary piece with some other form of attachment such as Velcro, adhesives, etc. or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, seams that hold together the multiple layers of the multilayer pad 300 and/or the inner and outer surface of the undergarment are tightly stitched such that the surface area available for the absorbed leakage to bleed is reduced. The overall thickness of the multilayer pad 300 can be controlled according to the needs of the user. Additionally, the multilayer pad and undergarment may be made of conventional knitted fabric materials, such as a blend of NYLON, LYCRA, SPANDEX, silk, cotton, etc., and therefore may be manufactured using conventional manufacturing approaches for fabrics.

FIG. 4 illustrates another multi-layer pad 400, according to some embodiments of the present invention. The multi-layer layer pad 400 may include at least three layers. In some embodiments, the multilayer pad 400, like the multilayer pad 300 described in FIG. 3, may also include a moisture-absorbent pad layer 410 disposed closest to the body of the wearer and a moisture-impermeable pad layer 430. The moisture-absorbent pad layer 410 and the moisture impermeable pad layer 430 may have similar characteristics in shape, design, texture, materials, etc. as described for moisture- absorbent pad layer 310 and the moisture-impermeable pad layer 320 in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the multilayer pad 400 may also include a moisture-wicking pad layer 420 that may be located between the moisture-absorbent pad layer 410 and moisture- impermeable pad layer 430 and may be made of a moisture-wicking material that transfers (and/ or facilitates the transfer) of moisture or liquid from its inner surface (not shown) (i.e., the surface facing the wearer) to its outer surface 424 (i.e., the surface facing away the wearer and facing and/or in contact with the moisture-absorbent pad layer 410). In some embodiments, the inner surface of the undergarment may be the moisture-absorbing pad layer 410. That is, the moisture-absorbing pad layer 410 is part of the undergarment, which itself exhibits moisture-absorbing properties throughout the undergarment and/or just in select areas. The multilayer pad 400 may have features similar to the multilayer pad 300 described in FIG. 3 and may be attached to the undergarment in a manner similar to the multilayer pad 300, as described in FIG. 3 The moisture-wicking pad layer 420 may include any moisture-wicking material known in the art, such as cotton batting. The material may be naturally moisture-wicking and/or be treated to become moisture-wicking. In one embodiment, moisture-wicking pad layer 420 includes at least 51 % cotton. One or both inner (not shown) and outer surfaces 424 of the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 may be treated with a hydrophilic composition or material (e.g., polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylamide, poly acrylic acid, polyvinyl pyrrolidine, hydrophilic silicones, or hydro-philic polyurethanes) and/or a hydrophobic composition or material ( e.g., silicones, polyfluoroalkyl acrylates, polyacrylates, polyurethanes, or waxes) to create a net hydrophilic gradient over the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 (i.e., the inner surface may be less hydrophilic (i.e., more hydrophobic) whereas the outer surface 424 may be more hydrophilic). For example, the inner surface may be treated with a hydrophobic material and/or the outer surface 424 may be treated with a hydrophilic material. As a result, a combination of a "pushing" force generated by any hydrophobic properties of the inner surface (and/or portions of the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 near the inner surface) and a "pulling" force generated by any hydrophilic properties of the outer surface 424 (and/or portions of the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 near the outer surface 424) may wick any moisture or liquid through the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 and also through the moisture-absorbing layer 410 and away from the wearer (i.e., from the inner surface to the outer surface 424). The hydrophilic and hydrophobic compositions may be applied to the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 using any conventional methods; see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,842,625, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. In one embodiment, the rate of wicking through the moisture-wicking pad layer 20.4 may be controlled to be faster or slower. The rate may be set at a maximum rate of absorption of the moisture-absorbent pad layer 410 to thereby ensure that all, or a significant percentage of, the moisture absorbed through the moisture-absorbing pad layer 410 is absorbed by the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 and does not, for example, leak beyond the confines of the undergarment. The rate of wicking may be controlled by the density, thickness, or composition of the moisture- wicking pad layer 420 and/or by the amount and type of hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic material applied to said layer. In another embodiment, the rate of wicking may be set such that the inner surface of the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 and the moisture- absorbing pad layer 410 feels "dry" or mostly dry to the wearer while the outer surface of the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 feels wet. Additionally, the moisture-wicking pad layer 420 and the moisture-absorbing pad layer 410 may include an antimicrobial layer by applying an antimicrobial solution, such as a silver nitrate solution, to the inner surface thereof to provide an antimicrobial barrier, thereby reducing infections caused by microorganisms. The antimicrobial layer may be disposed at the inner surface of the moisture-absorbing pad layer 410 and/or the moisture-wicking pad payer 420 and/or be distributed throughout the moisture-absorbing pad layer 410 and/or the moisture- wicking pad layer 420. The hydrophilic composition, hydrophobic composition, and/or antimicrobial solution may be applied to the entire innermost layer or a part thereof (such as the portion that has an absorption layer as further described below).

FIGs. 5 and 6 illustrate four layers of multilayer pads 500 and 600, according to some embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the four layers of the multilayer pads 500 and 600 are similar to the pad layers of multilayer pads 300 and 400, described above and illustrated in FIGs. 3 and 4. In some embodiments, the four layers of the multilayer pads 500 and 600 may have alternative embodiments that are similar to the various embodiments described above for the pad layers of the multilayer pads 300 and 400 illustrated in FIGs. 3 and 4.

The undergarment of the current invention need not be comprised only of the layers as described above; other layers may be additionally or alternatively incorporated in between or outside the aforementioned multilayer pad structure for providing additional absorption support, decoration, or any other functionality. In addition, the ordering of the layers in the above described four-layer structure may be interchanged to the extent that the key functionalities, including moisture wicking, leak, stain resistance, and antimicrobial support, are retained and further supported by such an ordering.

Additionally, in various alternative embodiments the materials described in specific embodiments herein may be substituted by materials that would be recognizable as compatible by those skilled in the art. Further, the chemicals, compounds, stains, dyes, and other treatments or elements of the garment, its design, or the process by which it is created may be substituted with other known materials recognized by those skilled in art, including but not limited to hydrophilic elements, hydrophobic elements, sealants, foams, and others. The various components or subparts of an embodiment of the embodiment itself may be substituted and used with other subparts of other embodiments and various combinations thereof provided the claimed functionalities or general purpose of the design is preserved.

CLAIMS

1. An undergarment comprising:

a fabric body comprising at least one bra cup that accommodates a wearer's breasts and a means to attach the bra cup to an upper body of the wearer;

wherein the bra cup further comprises a multilayer pad secured inside an inner surface and an outer surface of the bra cup; and

wherein the multilayer pad further comprises at least a moisture-absorbing pad layer and at least a moisture-impermeable pad layer located on top of the moisture absorbing pad layer.

2. The undergarment of claim 1, wherein the multilayer pad further comprises at least a moisture- wicking pad layer.

3. The undergarment of claim 2, wherein the moisture-wicking pad layer further comprises at least an anti-microbial layer over its inner layer.

4. The undergarment of claim 1, wherein the moisture-absorbing pad layer further comprises at least an anti-microbial layer over its inner layer. 5. The undergarment of claim 1, wherein the multilayer pad extends through the bra cup covering at least a portion of a nipple of the wearer's breasts.

6. The undergarment of claim 1, wherein the undergarment further comprises a cradle and wings.

7. The undergarment of claim 6, wherein the multilayer pad extends throughout the cradle, wings, and at least one bra cup.

8. The undergarment of claim 6, wherein the multilayer pad only extends through a portion of the cradle, wings, and at least one bra cup.

9. The undergarment of claim 2, wherein the multilayer pad extends through at least a portion of the cradle, wings, at least one bra cup.

10. The undergarment of claim 2, wherein the moisture-absorbing pad layer and the moisture-impermeable pad layer extend through at least a portion of the cradle and wings.

11. The undergarment of claim 10, wherein the moisture-absorbing pad layer, moisture-impermeable pad layer, and the moisture- wicking pad layer extends through at least a portion of at least one bra cup.

12. The undergarment of claim 2, wherein the moisture-absorbing pad layer is below the moisture-wicking pad layer.

13. The undergarment of claim 2, wherein the moisture-wicking pad layer is below the moisture-absorbing pad layer.

14. The undergarment of claim 1, wherein at least one bra cup further comprises an opening for receiving a multilayer pad, a moisture-absorbing pad layer, a moisture- wicking pad layer, or a moisture-impermeable pad layer.

15. The undergarment of claim 2, wherein the multilayer pad is removable as a unitary insert.

16. The undergarment of claim 12, wherein at least one surface of the moisture- wicking pad layer is treated with at least one of a hydrophilic composition or a hydrophobic composition to create a net hydrophilic gradient over the moisture- wicking pad layer.

17. The undergarment of claim 1, wherein the fabric body comprises an elastic material.

18. The undergarment of claim 1, wherein the moisture-impermeable pad layer comprises breathable urethane or wax. 19. The undergarment of claim 2, wherein the multilayer pad is stitched to at least one of the inner or the outer surface of the bra cup.

20. A method of manufacturing an undergarment, the method comprising:

manufacturing a multilayer pad comprising a moisture-impermeable pad layer, a moisture-absorbent layer, and a moisture- wicking layer;

stitching the multilayer pad to at least an interior or exterior surface of a fabric body to form the undergarment; and

stitching the interior and exterior surfaces of the undergarment together to secure the multilayer pad in at least one portion of the undergarment.

ABSTRACT

A fabric body comprising at least one bra cup that accommodates a wearer's breasts and a means to attach it to the wearer's upper body is provided. The bra cup may include a multilayer pad secured inside an inner surface and outer surface of the bra cup, wherein the multilayer pad may further include at least a moisture-absorbing pad layer and at least moisture-impermeable pad layer located on top of the moisture- absorbing pad layer.

5 END OF APPENDIX A