Cross-Reference to Related Application:

[00001] The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/078,972 filed on September 16, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[00002] The present application generally relates to an elastic band constructed into a garment with more than two sections of individual moduli. The sum of all sections will ensure perfect fit, support and comfort to a wearer while standing still and during rigorous motion over an extended period of time.

BACKGROUND

[00003] Often elastic bands fit tight on a wearer to ensure a garment stays close to a wearer’s body and to create support of the body part in which the zonal elastic band is positioned. Elastic bands have even amounts of moduli around the circumference of a wearer’s body part, such as chest, waist, legs, or arms. The even amounts of moduli in the zonal elastic band create the same amount of support around the circumference of the wearer’s body part in which the zonal elastic band is placed.

[00004] Elastic bands are assembled with garments to provide support to certain body parts, comfort to the wearer, and better performance for the wearer. For example, elastic bands are assembled with bras, sports bra, headbands, hats, gloves, and lower body garments such as shorts, pants, skirts, underwear or undergarments, socks, leggings, tights, to name a few types of garments.

[00005] For a sports bra, the zonal elastic bands typically have a high amount of moduli to create a tight fit around the chest of a female to provide support to the wearer’s breasts, supportive tissue, and chest muscles. High amounts of moduli increase the resistance of the moduli and make stretching of the zonal elastic band attached to the garment more difficult. A high moduli in the zonal elastic band increases the compressive pressure and support that the zonal elastic band provides to the garment and the wearer, however a high amount of moduli in the zonal elastic band makes donning and doffing or removal of the garment more difficult since the zonal elastic band with a high amount of moduli is tight and difficult to stretch. A lower amount of moduli in the zonal elastic band decreases the pressure and the support that the zonal elastic band provides to the garment and the wearer’s body part.

[00006] The sports bra with elastic band having a high amount of moduli is worn during exercise wherein the female will often perspire while moving and exercising such that the perspiration is trapped in the elastic of the sports bra. After an exercise session, the wet, tight elastic band makes removal of the sports bra difficult, uncomfortable, and cumbersome for the wearer. The constant moduli of the zonal elastic band of the sports bra provides an even amount of pressure around the circumference of the wearer’s chest. This constant and even pressure around a wearer’s chest, sides, and back, is not comfortable for the wearer as different regions or areas of the wearer’s body expand and contract while other areas do not or do so a lesser amount when the wearer breathes or moves during exercise. For example, the wearer’s chest expands and contracts when the wearer breathes and exhales, while the sides of the wearer do not move or move very little. The constant moduli of the zonal elastic band in the sports bra makes breathing more difficult for the wearer, and the difficulty in breathing is further emphasized during exercise.

[00007] Therefore, further contributions in this area of technology are needed to improve the functionality, performance, and comfort of garments that include elastic bands. Therefore, there remains a significant need for the apparatuses, methods, and systems disclosed herein.

SUMMARY

[00008] The elastic band is herein referred to as a zonal elastic band since the elastic band includes two or more individual zones of moduli wherein the individual zones of moduli may be different or the individual zones of moduli can vary such as between high, medium, and/or low moduli. The present disclosure describes adding sections of different moduli to a continuous elastic band or zonal elastic band is attached to a garment wherein the zonal elastic band fits snug around a wearer’s body but also prevent areas of increased pressure or discomfort while standing still or during rigorous motion. The zonal elastic band includes individual zones of moduli wherein one or more of the zones of lower moduli provide areas of relief and less restricted or unrestricted movement while other zones of higher moduli provide additional support to the wearer. The zonal elastic band having individual sections of moduli over an entirety or full length of the zonal elastic band, creates a supportive and comfortable band for the wearer. The zonal elastic band having individual sections of moduli over an entirety or full length of the zonal elastic band allows for easier donning and doffing. Moreover, there is no set width or length to the zonal elastic band.

[00009] The present disclosure describes the zonal elastic band having a plurality of individual or specific zones of varying moduli for better longitudinal and transverse elasticity, better overall fit, and better performance. The zonal elastic band includes a multi-moduli elastic that concentrates the compression of the elastic into specific zones to thereby improve the comfort for the wearer. The multi-moduli elastic includes a higher modulus in areas of the body that require higher compression and support, and a lower modulus in areas of the body that require lower compression and support. The multi-moduli elastic provides detailed zonal calibration on a wearer’s body, especially on an athlete’s body. This benefit allows for a garment with the zonal elastic band having a higher modulus to fit tighter on the area of the body where the wearer can support strength and elasticity easier and the zonal elastic band has a lower modulus where the wearer needs a sense of relief or decreased amount of support for that body area. One example of an area that needs additional support is a female’s chest that includes breast tissue and chest muscles that benefit from higher moduli of the zonal elastic band due to heavy movement of the female’s rib cage due to high intensity cardio movement, running, jogging, or other high intensity activities. [00010] The highest moduli of the zonal elastic band can be arranged in a first zone to correspond to specific focus or target area on the associated garment that benefits from the highest amount of support. A high or middle moduli of the zonal elastic band, wherein the high or middle moduli is less than the highest moduli, can be arranged in a second zone to correspond to a target area on the associated garment that benefits from a lesser amount of moduli that the first zone. A low moduli of the zonal elastic band can be arranged in a third zone to correspond to a target area on the associated garment that benefits from a least amount or low amount of moduli as compared to the second and third zones.

[00011] For example, the garment being a sports bra includes a first zone of the zonal elastic band having the highest moduli that may be positioned in a corresponding location of the garment and the wearer’s body that requires the highest amount of support which is typically the wearer’s chest. A second zone of the zonal elastic band having a high or medium moduli, but less than the moduli of the first zone, may be positioned in a corresponding location of the garment and the wearer’s body that requires a lesser amount of support as compared to the first zone. In this example, the wearer’s back requires the next highest amount of support as compared to the wearer’s chest so the second zone in the zonal elastic band is positioned across the wearer’s back. A third zone of the zonal elastic band having a medium or low moduli is positioned in a corresponding location of the garment and the wearer’s body that requires the least amount of support compared to the first and second zones. In this example, the wearer’s sides require the least amount of support as compared to the wearer’s chest and back.

[00012] One method of manufacturing the zonal elastic band having a plurality of individual zones of moduli includes weaving the zonal elastic band on a jacquard loom to create the variance in moduli for each of the individual zones. Other looms or similar devices may be used to weave the zonal elastic band. The variance in moduli is created by the tightness of the weave of the elastic yarn or threads, and the amount of elasticity within individual threads fed to the loom in different time intervals in weft direction of weaving a single continuous elastic band. [00013] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter that form the subject of the claims of this application. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other embodiments for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent embodiments do not depart from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00014] The concepts described herein are illustrative by way of example and not by way of limitation in the accompanying figures. For simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Where considered appropriate, references labels have been repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

[00015] Fig. l is a front view of a first garment assembled with a zonal elastic band of the present disclosure;

[00016] Fig. 2 is a rear view of the first garment with the zonal elastic band of the Fig. 1 embodiment;

[00017] Fig. 3 is a front view of a second garment assembled with a zonal elastic band of the present disclosure;

[00018] Fig. 4 is a rear view of the second garment with the zonal elastic band of the Fig. 3 embodiment;

[00019] Fig. 5 is a front view of a third garment assembled with a zonal elastic band of the present disclosure;

[00020] Fig. 6 is a rear view of the third garment with the zonal elastic band of the Fig. 5 embodiment;

[00021] Fig. 7 is an elastic schematic representation of three zones of moduli of the present disclosure; and

[00022] Fig. 8 is an elastic schematic representation of four zones of moduli of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[00023] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, any alterations and further modifications in the illustrated embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates are contemplated herein.

[00024] In one form, the present application provides a zonal elastic band constructed into a garment and designed to ensure improved fit and comfort to a wearer. The zonal elastic band comprises a plurality of strips of elastic having more than two sections of individual moduli that are woven into one zonal elastic band. In one form, the zonal elastic band is fabricated on a jacquard weaving loom in repeating intervals. Other types of looms or weaving devices can be used to fabricate the zonal elastic band. The variance of moduli is determined by the tightness of weave in combination with the elasticity of individual threads placed and fed to the loom in designated time intervals on weft or fill orientation of the loom. These sections or plurality of strips of elastic form an alternating pattern of different modulus. The moduli are determined by area of wear and necessary pressure on human body and insuring balance between support and comfort as further determined by the placement of the zonal elastic band on the garment.

[00025] The present application discloses various aspects of garment construction using elastic bands or zonal elastic bands to construct garments such as bras, tights, or underwear. These garments have zonal elastic bands to ensure great fit for the wearer and allow for the garment to move smoothly with the wearer while standing still and being in motion. The present application discloses that the zonal elastic band is constructed in a strip of elastic that varies in moduli which beneficially provides the wearer with the right amount of wanted support without feeling restricted when the zonal elastic band is assembled with the garment.

[00026] The following examples and drawings are intended to illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the disclosure or scope of the claims in any manner.

[00027] Turning now to Figures 1-2, a first exemplary garment 20 being a sports bra is illustrated. The first garment 20 includes an attachment region 22 that is configured to receive a zonal elastic band 24. The zonal elastic band 24 can be attached in any manner to the attachment region 22 of the first garment 20. In one form, the zonal elastic band 24 is stitched or sewn on the attachment region 22 of the first garment 20. Although the zonal elastic band 24 is illustrated as assembled with the first garment 20, it is contemplated in another embodiment that a zonal elastic band 26 could alternatively be assembled with the first garment 20.

[00028] Turning now to Figures 3-4, a second exemplary garment 30 being a pair of shorts is illustrated. The second garment 30 includes an attachment region 32 that is configured to receive the zonal elastic band 24. The zonal elastic band 24 can be attached in any manner to the attachment region 32 of the second garment 30. In one form, the zonal elastic band 24 is stitched or sewn on the attachment region 32 of the second garment 30. Although the zonal elastic band 24 is illustrated as assembled with the second garment 30, it is contemplated in another embodiment that the zonal elastic band 26 could alternatively be assembled with the second garment 30.

[00029] Turning now to Figures 5-6, a third exemplary garment 40 being an undergarment or underwear is illustrated. The third garment 40 includes an attachment region 42 that is configured to receive the zonal elastic band 24. The zonal elastic band 24 can be attached in any manner to the attachment region 42 of the third garment 40. In one form, the zonal elastic band 24 is stitched or sewn on the attachment region 42 of the third garment 40. Although the zonal elastic band 24 is illustrated as assembled with the third garment 40, it is contemplated in another embodiment that the zonal elastic band 26 could alternatively be assembled with the third garment 40.

[00030] Turning now to Figure 7, one embodiment of the zonal elastic band 24 is assembled with the first, second, and third garments 20, 30, and 40, in Figures 1-6. The zonal elastic band 24 can be incorporated into any standard elastics used in garments that can be used including, but not limited to, chest elastic on bras, waist elastics on tights, shorts, skirts, leggings, underwear, and elastics on socks. The zonal elastic band 24 can include a variety of a number of zones depending upon the garment and can include several types of moduli as illustrated.

[00031] The zonal elastic band 24 includes a plurality of elastic strips 50 having a first moduli zone 52, a second moduli zone 54, and a third moduli zone 56. The plurality of elastic strips 50 includes a transition zone 58 located between the first moduli zone 52 and the third moduli zone 56. In other embodiments, the transition zone 58 can also or alternatively be located between the second moduli zone 54 and the third moduli zone 56. Each of the first, second, and third moduli zones 52, 54, and 56 has a unique modulus such that at least two or more of the moduli zones 52, 54, and 56 provide differential support to any of the first, second, and third garments 20, 30, and 40, that are configured to be worn around a circumference of a wearer’s body part. In other forms, the plurality of elastic strips 50 may include less or more moduli zones, such as 2 or 4 or more zones, depending on designs and product performance needs of the garment.

[00032] The zonal elastic band 24 can in some embodiments include a break location 59 that can be located in any of the first, second, or third moduli zones 52, 54, or 56, or the transition zone 58. The break location 59 is a location on the zonal elastic band 24 wherein the zonal elastic band 24 can be cut. For example, during the manufacturing process of the zonal elastic band 24, the zonal elastic band 24 may be formed from a continuous structure that includes repeating the moduli zones 52, 54, and 56, and the transition zone 58. The break location 59 indicates a position on the zonal elastic band 24 that it can be cut and the two ends of the zonal elastic band 24 attached together to form a circumference or continuous band.

[00033] Each of the first, second, and third moduli zones 52, 54, and 56 has a different modulus. Depending on the body area, the wearer needs areas of stronger support and areas of relief to allow their lungs to expand, and muscles to flex and relax unrestricted. The sum of all first, second, and third moduli zones 52, 54, and 56, will give the wearer great overall support and comfort. Moreover, the sum of all first, second, and third moduli zones 52, 54, and 56, enables the wearer to don and doff the garment easily.

[00034] The first moduli zone 52 has a highest modulus of elasticity, the second moduli zone 54 has a high modulus of elasticity, and the third moduli zone 56 has a medium modulus of elasticity. In one embodiment, the highest modulus of elasticity is greater than 2.6, the high modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 2.1 to 2.6, and the medium modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 1.0 to 2. In another embodiment, the highest modulus of elasticity is greater than 2.0, the high modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 1 to 1.9, and the medium modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 0.5 to 0.9. In other embodiments, the ranges of moduli of elasticity for each of first, second, and third moduli zones 52, 54, and 56, may be different than the embodiments described. In the illustrated embodiment, the transition zone 58 includes a modulus of elasticity that is between and may vary between the two adjacent zones including the first moduli zone 52 and the third moduli zone 56. [00035] In the embodiment wherein the zonal elastic band 24 is assembled with the first exemplary garment 20 being a sports bra, the first moduli zone 52 has the highest modulus that is firm, but still has some elasticity. When the first garment 20 is donned, the first moduli zone 52 is positioned under the wearer’s breasts and against the wearer’s chest. In this same embodiment, the second moduli zone 54 has a high modulus and is positioned across the wearer’s back and the third moduli zone 56 has a medium modulus and is positioned across the wearer’s sides. While the wearer is exercising, the wearer’s breasts and supportive tissue and muscle in their chest requires the most support and this support is provided by the first moduli zone 52. The wearer’s back muscles require a lesser amount of support as compared to their chest tissue and muscles, so the second moduli zone 54 has less modulus as compared to the first moduli zone 52. The second moduli zone 54 is positioned across the wearer’s back. The wearer’s sides require the least amount of support as compared to their chest and back, so the third moduli zone 56 has the least amount of modulus as compared to the first and second moduli zones 52 and 54, respectively. The third moduli zone 56 is positioned on each of the wearer’s sides. [00036] In the embodiments wherein the zonal elastic band 24 is assembled with the second and third exemplary garments 30 and 40 being shorts and undergarment, respectively, the first moduli zone 52 has the highest modulus that is firm, but still has some elasticity. When the second and third exemplary garments 30 and 40 are donned, the first moduli zone 52 is positioned across the wearer’s abdominal area or front side. In this same embodiment, the second moduli zone 54 has a high modulus and is positioned across the wearer’s back and the third moduli zone 56 has a medium modulus and is positioned across the wearer’s sides. While the wearer is exercising, the wearer’s abdominal area or front side requires the most support and this support is provided by the first moduli zone 52. The wearer’s back muscles require a lesser amount of support as compared to their abdominal area or front side, so the second moduli zone 54 has less modulus as compared to the first moduli zone 52. The second moduli zone 54 is positioned across the wearer’s back. The wearer’s sides require the least amount of support as compared to their abdominal area or front side and back, so the third moduli zone 56 has the least amount of modulus as compared to the first and second moduli zones 52 and 54, respectively. The third moduli zone 56 is positioned on each of the wearer’s sides. [00037] Turning now to Figure 8, one embodiment of the zonal elastic band 26 is illustrated that can be assembled with the first, second, and third garments 20, 30, and 40, in Figures 1-6. The zonal elastic band 26 can be incorporated into any standard elastics used in garments that can be used including, but not limited to, chest elastic on bras, waist elastics on tights, shorts, skirts, leggings, underwear, and elastics on socks. The zonal elastic band 26 can include a variety of a number of zones depending upon the garment and can include several types of moduli as illustrated.

[00038] The zonal elastic band 26 includes a plurality of elastic strips 60 having a first moduli zone 62, a second moduli zone 64, a third moduli zone 66, and a fourth moduli zone 70. The plurality of elastic strips 60 includes one or more transition zones 68 located between the first moduli zone 62 and the third moduli zone 66. In other embodiments, the transition zone 68 can be located between the second moduli zone 64 and the fourth moduli zone 70. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth moduli zones 62, 64, 66, and 70 has a unique modulus such that at least two or more of the moduli zones 62, 64, 66, and 70 provide differential support to any of the first, second, and third garments 20, 30, and 40, that are configured to be worn around a circumference of a wearer’s body part. In other forms, the plurality of elastic strips 60 may include less or more moduli zones, such as 2 or 5 or more zones, depending on designs and product performance needs of the garment.

[00039] The zonal elastic band 26 can in some embodiments include a break location 69 that can be located in any of the first, second, third, or fourth moduli zones 62, 64, 66, or 70, or the transition zone 68. The break location 69 is a location on the zonal elastic band 26 wherein the zonal elastic band 26 can be cut. For example, during the manufacturing process of the zonal elastic band 26, the zonal elastic band 26 may be formed from a continuous structure that includes repeating the moduli zones 62, 64, 66, and 70, and the transition zone 68. The break location 69 indicates a position on the zonal elastic band 26 that it can be cut and the two ends of the zonal elastic band 26 attached together to form a circumference or continuous band.

[00040] Each of the first, second, third, and fourth moduli zones 62, 64, 66, and 70 has a different modulus. Depending on the body area, the wearer needs areas of stronger support and areas of relief to allow their lungs to expand, and muscles to flex and relax unrestricted. The sum of all first, second, third, and fourth moduli zones 62, 64, 66, and 70, will give the wearer great overall support and comfort. Moreover, the sum of all first, second, third, and fourth moduli zones 62, 64, 66, and 70, enables the wearer to don and doff the garment easily.

[00041] The first moduli zone 62 has a highest modulus of elasticity, the second moduli zone 64 has a high modulus of elasticity, the third moduli zone 66 has a medium modulus of elasticity, and the fourth moduli zone 70 has a low modulus of elasticity. In one embodiment, the highest modulus of elasticity includes a range above 2.6, the high modulus of elasticity includes a range between 2.1-2.6, the medium modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 1.0 to 2, and the low modulus of elasticity includes a range less than 1.0, such as 0.8 or less. In another embodiment, the highest modulus of elasticity is greater than 2.0, the high modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 1 to 1.9, the medium modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 0.5 to 0.9, and the low modulus of elasticity includes a range less than 0.5. In other embodiments, the ranges of moduli of elasticity for each of first, second, third, and fourth moduli zones 62, 64, 66, and 70 may be different than the embodiments described. In the illustrated embodiment, the transition zone 68 includes a modulus of elasticity that is between and may vary between the two adjacent zones including the first moduli zone 62 and the third moduli zone 66.

[00042] In the embodiment wherein the zonal elastic band 26 is assembled with the first exemplary garment 20 being a sports bra, the first moduli zone 62 has the highest modulus that is firm, but still has some elasticity. When the first garment 20 is donned, the first moduli zone 62 is positioned under the wearer’s breasts and against the wearer’s chest. In this same embodiment, the second moduli zone 64 has a high modulus and is positioned across the wearer’s back and the third moduli zone 66 has a medium modulus and is positioned between the first moduli zone 62 and the fourth moduli zone 70. The fourth moduli zone 70 is positioned across the wearer’s sides. While the wearer is exercising, the wearer’s breasts, supportive tissue, and muscle in their chest requires the most support and this support is provided by the first moduli zone 62. The wearer’s back muscles require a lesser amount of support as compared to their chest tissue and muscles, so the second moduli zone 64 has less modulus as compared to the first moduli zone 62. The wearer’s sides require the least amount of support as compared to their chest and back, so the fourth moduli zone 70 has the least amount of modulus as compared to the first, second, and third moduli zones 62, 64, and 66, respectively. [00043] In the embodiments wherein the zonal elastic band 26 is assembled with the second and third exemplary garments 30 and 40 being shorts and undergarment, respectively, the first moduli zone 62 has the highest modulus that is firm, but still has some elasticity. When the second and third exemplary garments 30 and 40 are donned, the first moduli zone 62 is positioned across the wearer’s abdominal area or front side. In this same embodiment, the second moduli zone 64 has a high modulus and is positioned across the wearer’s back and the third moduli zone 66 has a medium modulus and is positioned between the wearer’s abdominal area and the wearer’s sides. While the wearer is exercising, the wearer’s abdominal area or front side requires the most support and this support is provided by the first moduli zone 62. The wearer’s back muscles require a lesser amount of support as compared to their abdominal area or front side, so the second moduli zone 64 has less modulus as compared to the first moduli zone 62. The wearer’s sides require the least amount of support as compared to their abdominal area or front side and back, so the fourth moduli zone 70 has the least amount of modulus as compared to the first, second, and third moduli zones 62, 64, and 66, respectively.

[00044] The zonal elastic bands 24 and 26 have a unique garment construction involving controlling moduli of a circular elastic band (constructed flat and sewn or bonded together in one area to create a circle) in zones. The zonal elastic bands 24 and 26 form zones of elasticity (modulus) that vary and create balance between support and comfort for the wearer. The elastic that is used is a multi-modulus elastic for the zonal elastic bands 24 and 26. One purpose or benefit of the multi-modulus elastic is to concentrate the compression of the elastic into specific moduli zones in order to improve comfort of wearer by having higher or lower modulus in areas that require higher or lower compression, respectively, depending on the focus area.

[00045] A method of making the zonal elastic bands 26 and 26 will now be described. The zonal elastic bands 24 and 26 are woven on a jacquard weaving machine or other weaving or sewing machines. The variance in moduli is created by tightness of weave as well as amount of elasticity within individual threads fed to the machine in different time intervals in weft direction of weaving.

[00046] A method of making either of the zonal elastic bands 24 and 26 includes feeding a plurality of individual threads in different time intervals in a weft orientation on a weaving machine. In one form, the feeding the plurality of individual threads includes forming the transition zones 58 or 68 between two adjacent zones of the moduli zones (52, 54, 56, or 62, 64, 66, 70), wherein the transition zones 58 or 68 includes a modulus of elasticity that is between the two adjacent zones in which the transition zones 58 or 68 are located. Next, the method includes weaving the plurality of individual threads on the weaving machine to form a plurality of elastic strips 50 or 60 having at least two or more moduli zones (52, 54, 56, 58, or 62, 64, 66, 68, 70) that vary in moduli, wherein the variance in moduli is determined by a tightness of the plurality of elastic strips 50 or 60 and an amount of elasticity within the plurality of individual threads fed into the machine.

[00047] In one form, the plurality of elastic strips 50 or 60 are woven in one seamless strip. In this embodiment, the break location 59 or 69 indicates a location on the zonal elastic bands 24 or 26 wherein the zonal elastic bands 24 or 26 can be cut. The zonal elastic bands 24 or 26 are formed from a continuous structure that includes repeating the moduli zones (52, 54, 56, 58, or 62, 64, 66, 68, 70). The break location 59 or 69 indicates a position on the zonal elastic bands 24 or 26 for cutting the bands 26 or 26 wherein the two ends of the zonal elastic bands 24 or 26 are then attached together to form a circumference or continuous band. The plurality of elastic strips 50 or 60 are sewn or bonded together with one seam at the break location 59 or 69 to create a circumference such that the one seam is positioned in any of the moduli zones (52, 54, 56, 58, or 62, 64, 66, 68, 70). However, it is typically more comfortable for the wearer and more aesthetically pleasing to position the break location 59 and the corresponding seam in the second or third moduli zones 54 or 56 of the zonal elastic band 24. The break location 69 and the corresponding seam is typically placed in the fourth moduli zone 70 of the zonal elastic band 26. The plurality of elastic strips 50 or 60 are sewn or bonded together in a circular fashion. In some embodiments, a logo or design is sewn or applied to the second moduli zone 54 or 64.

[00048] In one embodiment, the zonal elastic bands 24 or 26 include two or more moduli zones (52, 54, 56, 58, or 62, 64, 66, 68, 70) that form a pattern of alternating modulus from highest to lowest culminating in the break points 59 or 69 at which the pattern can repeat one or more times depending upon the type of garment in which the zonal elastic band is to be attached. [00049] Thus, the above embodiments, features, and objectives are merely exemplary of the invention. Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description. As is evident from the figures and text presented above, a variety of aspects of the present disclosure are contemplated. [00050] Various aspects of the present application are contemplated. According to one aspect, a zonal elastic band constructed into a garment constructed to ensure improved fit for the wearer and allow for garment to move smoothly with the wearer while standing still or while being in motion, wherein the zonal elastic bands provide even and equal amounts of moduli around the circumference of the wearer's body part, wherein the zonal elastic band comprises one or more strips or sections of elastic of varying moduli.

[00051] In one embodiment, at least two or more zones as illustrated Figures 1-8, wherein each zone has a different modulus providing differential support to the wearer. In one refinement, wherein the zones provide areas of support and relief to allow unrestricted movement, support and comfort. In another refinement, the strips of elastic forming the zones of different moduli are sewn or bonded together in a circular fashion, wherein the zones with different moduli are all woven in one seamless strip and the entirety of the individual moduli are sewn or bonded together with one seam to create a circumference.

[00052] In another embodiment, the zonal elastic band constructed according to Figures 1- 8.

[00053] According to another aspect, a method of making the zonal elastic band, wherein the zonal elastic band is woven on a jacquard weaving machine, and wherein the variance in moduli is determined by the tightness of weave as well as amount of elasticity within individual threads fed to the machine in different time intervals in weft orientation of the woven fabric.

[00054] In another embodiment, the zonal elastic band is attached into the elastic of garments such as chest elastic on bras, waist elastics on tights, shorts, skirts, undergarments. [00055] In another embodiment, the zonal elastic band includes the one or more zones form a pattern of alternating modulus from highest to lowest culminating in a break point at which the pattern can repeat one or more times depending upon the garment.

[00056] According to yet another aspect, a zonal elastic band constructed into a garment, the zonal elastic band comprising: a plurality of elastic strips having at least two or more moduli zones, wherein each of the moduli zones has a unique modulus such that the at least two or more moduli zones provide differential support to the garment that is configured to be worn around a circumference of a wearer’s body part.

[00057] In any one of the embodiments, the at least two or more moduli zones include sections of elastic of varying moduli. [00058] In any one of the embodiments, the at least two or more moduli zones include a first zone having a highest modulus of elasticity, a second zone having a high modulus of elasticity, and a third zone having a medium modulus of elasticity. In one form, the highest modulus of elasticity is greater than 2.6, the high modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 2.1 to 2.6, and the medium modulus of elasticity is less than 2.0. In a further form, the plurality of moduli zones include a fourth zone having a lower modulus of elasticity as compared to the third zone.

[00059] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips are sewn or bonded together with one seam to create a circumference such that the one seam is positioned in either the second zone or the third zone.

[00060] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips include a transition zone between two adjacent zones of the first, the second, and the third zones, wherein the transition zone includes a modulus of elasticity that is between the two adjacent zones.

[00061] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips are all woven in one seamless strip.

[00062] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips are sewn or bonded together in a circular fashion.

[00063] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips are attached into the elastic of garments such as chest elastic on bras, waist elastics on any of tights, shorts, skirts, or undergarments.

[00064] In any one of the embodiments, the two or more moduli zones form a pattern of alternating modulus from highest to lowest culminating in a break point at which the pattern can repeat one or more times depending upon the type of garment in which the zonal elastic band is configured.

[00065] According to yet another aspect, a method of making a zonal elastic band, the method comprising: feeding a plurality of individual threads in different time intervals in a weft orientation on a weaving machine; and weaving the plurality of individual threads on the weaving machine to form a plurality of elastic strips having at least two or more moduli zones that vary in moduli, wherein the variance in moduli is determined by a tightness of the plurality of elastic strips and an amount of elasticity within the plurality of individual threads fed into the machine. [00066] In any one of the embodiments, the weaving machine includes a jacquard weaving machine.

[00067] In any one of the embodiments, the at least two or more moduli zones include a first zone having a high modulus of elasticity, a second zone having a medium modulus of elasticity, and a third zone having a low modulus of elasticity.

[00068] In any one of the embodiments, the feeding the plurality of individual threads includes forming a transition zone between two adjacent zones of the first, the second, and the third zones, wherein the transition zone includes a modulus of elasticity that is between the two adjacent zones.

[00069] In any one of the embodiments, further comprising: sewing or bonding the plurality of elastic strips together with one seam to create a circumference such that the one seam is positioned in either the second zone or the third zone.

[00070] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips are woven in one seamless strip.

[00071] According to yet another aspect, a zonal elastic band constructed into a garment, the zonal elastic band comprising: a plurality of elastic strips having a plurality of moduli zones, wherein the plurality of moduli zones include sections of elastic of varying moduli; and wherein the plurality of elastic strips are attached together with one seam to create a circumference such that the one seam is positioned in one of the plurality of moduli zones that has the lowest modulus.

[00072] In any one of the embodiments, wherein the plurality of moduli zones include a first zone having a highest modulus of elasticity, a second zone having a high modulus of elasticity, and a third zone having a medium modulus of elasticity. In one refinement, the highest modulus of elasticity is greater than 2.6, the high modulus of elasticity includes a range between about 2.1 to 2.6, and the medium modulus of elasticity is less than 2.0. In a further refinement, the plurality of moduli zones include a fourth zone having a lower modulus of elasticity as compared to the third zone.

[00073] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips include a transition zone between two adjacent zones of the first, the second, and the third zones, wherein the transition zone includes a modulus of elasticity that is between the two adjacent zones. [00074] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips are all woven in one seamless strip.

[00075] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of elastic strips are attached into the elastic of garments such as chest elastic on bras, waist elastics on any of tights, shorts, skirts, underwear, or undergarments.

[00076] In any one of the embodiments, the plurality of moduli zones form a pattern of alternating modulus from highest to lowest culminating in a break point at which the pattern can repeat one or more times depending upon the type of garment in which the zonal elastic band is configured.

[00077] In the above description, certain relative terms may be used such as “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “left,” “right,” “proximal,” “distal,” and the like.

These terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. But, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an “upper” surface can become a “lower” surface simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same object. [00078] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment. Similarly, the use of the term “implementation” means an implementation having a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, however, absent an express correlation to indicate otherwise, an implementation may be associated with one or more embodiments.

[00079] The described features, structures, advantages, and/or characteristics of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments and/or implementations. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to impart a thorough understanding of embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the subject matter of the present disclosure may be practiced without one or more of the specific features, details, components, materials, and/or methods of a particular embodiment or implementation. In some instances, the benefit of simplicity may provide operational and economic benefits and exclusion of certain elements described herein is contemplated as within the scope of the invention herein by the inventors to achieve such benefits. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments and/or implementations that may not be present in all embodiments or implementations. Further, in some instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The features and advantages of the subject matter of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the subject matter as set forth hereinafter.

[00080] The present subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.