DE102024109816A1 - Bra and corresponding counterpart - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a self-adhesive bra with at least one cup, which has a recess in the area of the nipples, and at least one counterpart, which closes the recess and does not project beyond the outer edges of the cup, wherein at least one complementary connection is arranged on the counterpart and the cup, by means of which both can be detachably connected to one another, wherein the counterpart in the area of the recess
(a) comprises liquid-absorbing material;
b) comprises a recess for a silver cap;
(c) comprises liquid-repellent textile material; or
d) a hollow body is arranged.

Description

Brief description of the invention

The present invention relates to supportive underwear, in particular a bra with a nursing function and/or regeneration function.

Brassieres or bras are known in the art and have numerous shapes and designs. Brassieres generally consist of two small cups, which can be made of textile material, for example. The cups are held on the body by back pieces that surround the upper body of the person. Furthermore, some designs of the brassieres also include straps that extend from the top of the cups over the shoulders of the person and are attached to the back pieces on the person's back. The cups and/or back pieces can also be detachable from one another using suitable holders, so that the bra can be easily removed. Other known designs include, for example, underwires that are arranged below the breast in the cup and are intended to support the breast, as well as cups made of adhesive material that are attached to the breast, such as the DE 199 36 395.1 A1 can be seen.

The disadvantage of conventional bras is that they are only partially suitable for breastfeeding. They usually have removable fabric layers in the cup area.

In the DE 199 13 478 C1 and the EP 544 045 A1 Breast pads are described which consist of absorbent layers and are intended to absorb leaking fluid.

The disadvantage of nursing pads is that they must be removed for breastfeeding. Furthermore, they are generally only suitable for one-time use, unless they are made of textile, which often pill and/or stick to the nipple after the fluid has dried.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an undergarment which enables breastfeeding without having to remove the entire bra or nursing pad and which also enables variable use of the undergarment, for example for nipple regeneration.

1. a) flüssigkeitsabsorbierendes Material umfasst;
2. b) eine Mulde für ein Silberhütchen umfasst;
3. c) flüssigkeitsabweisendes textiles Material umfasst; oder
4. d) ein Hohlraumkörper angeordnet ist.

The present invention relates to a self-adhesive bra with at least one cup, which has a recess in the area of the nipples, and at least one counterpart, which closes the recess and does not project beyond the outer edges of the cup, wherein at least one complementary connection is arranged on the counterpart and the cup, by means of which both can be detachably connected to one another, wherein the counterpart in the area of the recess

1. (a) comprises liquid-absorbing material;
2. b) comprises a recess for a silver cap;
3. (c) comprises liquid-repellent textile material; or
4. d) a hollow body is arranged.

In a preferred embodiment, the bra has two cups, which are designed such that one cup can be arranged on the left breast and one on the right breast. In one aspect, the cups are made of silicone, preferably medical-grade silicone. However, at least one textile can also be additionally arranged on top of the cups, wherein the textile is preferably cotton, velvet, silk, synthetic fiber, leather, felt, linen and/or satin. In one aspect, the two cups can be connected to one another by a fastening element on the central web. The fastening element can preferably be at least one snap fastener, hook fastener, clip, Velcro system, zipper, hook/eye fastener and/or lacing, wherein the fastening element preferably comprises a hook/eye fastener, lacing connection and/or clip fastener.

In one aspect, the recess has a diameter of 45 mm to 80 mm, preferably 55 mm to 70 mm, particularly preferably 60 mm to 65 mm. The counterpart is preferably designed such that it conceals the recess in any cup size.

In one embodiment, the at least one connection connecting the counterpart to the cup comprises a snap fastener, a hook fastener, a clip, a hook-and-loop system, a zipper, a hook-and-eye fastener, and/or a lace-up fastening. Particularly preferably, the counterpart is attached to the cup above the recess with a connection in the form of a hook-and-eye fastener and/or a clip, and in the lower region with a connection using snap fasteners or a hook-and-loop fastener.

1. a) eine mindestens erste Schicht, welche in Kontakt mit der Brustwarze steht Polyester, Polyhexamethylenadipinsäureamid, Elastan, Baumwolle und/oder Seide;
2. b) eine mindestens zweite Schicht Baumwolle und/oder Leinen; und
3. c) mindestens eine äußere Schicht aus Polyurethanlaminat (PUL), Polyester, und/oder Baumwolle;

umfasst.The liquid-absorbing material of the counterpart may preferably be Cotton, lyocell, fleece and/or a membrane system with multiple layers. Particularly preferably, the liquid-absorbing material comprises a membrane system with multiple layers, wherein preferably

1. (a) at least a first layer in contact with the nipple made of polyester, polyhexamethylene adipamide, elastane, cotton and/or silk;
2. b) at least a second layer of cotton and/or linen; and
3. c) at least one outer layer made of polyurethane laminate (PUL), polyester, and/or cotton;

includes.

At least one material of the counterpart may further comprise silver chloride.

In one aspect of the invention, the recess of the counterpart has a complementary curve to the silver cap, allowing it to be placed therein. Furthermore, the counterpart can have a pocket and/or a receiving edge for securing the silver cap.

In a further embodiment, the liquid-repellent material of the counterpart comprises coated or uncoated polyester, coated cotton, nylon and/or elastane.

In one aspect of the invention, the hollow body of the counterpart may be formed from thick fabric and/or a hard plastic shell.

Furthermore, the present invention also relates to the corresponding counterpart.

This object is achieved according to the invention by claims 1 and 13. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the remaining claims and the description.

Description of the drawings

• 1 Schematic representation of a preferred embodiment of a bra with two cups and a front closure as well as snap fasteners at the bottom and a hook/eye closure at the top.
• 2 Schematic representation of a preferred embodiment of two counterparts with snap fasteners at the bottom and a hook/eye closure in the upper area, which are compatible with the counterparts of the cups in 1 are.
• 3 Schematic representation of a preferred embodiment of a basket with an edge area for a silver cap.

Detailed description of the invention

The present invention relates to a self-adhesive bra (1) with at least one cup (2) which has a recess (3) in the area of the nipples or the nipple and areola, and at least one counterpart (7) which closes the respective opening.

In the following, the articles “a” and all derivatives thereof, as used herein, should generally be understood as “one or more”, unless otherwise stated or clear from the context as the singular form.

When the terms “includes,” “has,” “possesses,” and the like are used in the description or claims, these terms should be understood in the same way as the term “comprising” or “having,” i.e., not exhaustive, unless explicitly stated.

In the following, the terms "bra" and "bra" are used interchangeably and refer to underwear, in particular a piece of undergarment that is worn in the breast area and preferably covers at least one breast by means of at least one cup (2). Although the bra (1) is described below for women with two breasts for the sake of simplicity, it can also be used for other people and/or women with only one breast, whereby the number and/or size of the cups (2) can vary. In a preferred embodiment, however, the bra (1) has two cups (2), the so-called cups, which are arranged on the breasts. The cups (2) are preferably made of silicone, particularly preferably medical-grade silicone, whereby the cups (2) are self-adhesive to the breast. In a further embodiment, it can be provided that at least one textile, such as cotton, velvet, silk, synthetic fiber, leather, felt, linen and/or satin, is arranged on the upper side of the cups (2). The cups (2) are designed in such a way that one cup (2) can be applied to the right and one to the left breast, as shown in 1 shown.

The at least one cup (2) of the bra (1) is designed according to the invention in such a way that it has a recess (3) through which the nipple fits, as the 1 can be seen. The recess (3) is particularly preferably dimensioned such that, in addition to the nipple, the areola is also excluded. The term “recess” here refers to an opening or a cutout within the cup (2). The recess (3) here has a diameter of 45 mm to 80 mm, preferably 55 mm to 70 mm, particularly preferably 60 mm to 65 mm. Complementary to the recess (3), a counterpart (7) is arranged on the cup (2) which closes the recess (3). The cup (2) has at least one connection (4) for attaching the counterpart (7). Possible connections include, but are not limited to, the following list: snap fasteners, hook fasteners, clips, Velcro systems, zippers, hook/eye fasteners and/or laces. The counterpart (7) thus fits flush with the basket (2), so that it is form-fitting and does not protrude. The flush mounting of the counterpart (7) means in particular that the counterpart (7) does not protrude beyond the outer edges (5) of the basket (2), as is the case, for example, in 1 and preferably further that it adapts to the shape of the cups (2), ie the rising curve of the breast, without protruding.

Unlike conventional nursing bras, in which the cutout (3) exposes almost the entire breast, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, only the area of the nipple and preferably the areola is exposed. According to the invention, the cups (2) are designed such that the cutout (3) and the corresponding counterpart (7) are identical in size in every cup size, so that the counterparts (7) can be flexibly selected and combined with any cup (2).

The counterpart (7) is preferably detachably connected to the basket (2). For this purpose, the counterpart (7) and the respective basket (2) have at least one soluble connection (4), as for example in 2 shown. Possible connections (4) include, but are not limited to, the following list: snap fasteners, hook fasteners, clips, Velcro systems, zippers, hook/eye fasteners and/or laces. In a preferred embodiment, the counterpart (7) is fastened above the recess (3), i.e. above the nipple, with a connection (4a) in the form of a hook/eye fastener and/or a clip. In the lower area, i.e. below the nipple, the counterpart (7) is preferably fastened by means of a connection (4b) with snap fasteners or a Velcro connection, so that an individual decision can be made as to whether the counterpart (7) is to be removed completely or whether a partial attachment should still be provided, such as the 1 and 2 The counterpart (7) is preferably washable, making it reusable and sustainable. Alternatively, the counterpart (7) can be attached to the cup (2) with a seam at one edge.

The counterpart (7), which is attached to the basket (2) and covers at least the opening, can fulfil different functions.

In one embodiment, the counterpart (7) has the function of absorbing breast milk and thus acting as a nursing pad. The counterpart (7) comprises fluid-absorbing materials. The counterpart (7) can be made entirely of these materials or comprise them in parts, such as in the area of the recess (3), i.e., the nipple area. The fluid-absorbing material can be, for example, cotton, lyocell, and/or fleece. Membrane systems comprising several layers of different natural and synthetic materials are preferably used, with a first layer, which is in direct contact with the nipple, absorbing the fluid and transporting it further into a second, absorbent layer, so that the breast remains dry. One or more additional layers ensure that the fluid does not leak out and/or ensure a pleasant appearance. The first layer can be, for example, chemical fibers, such as polyester, polyhexamethylene adipamide, or elastane, and/or natural fibers, such as cotton and/or silk. The second absorbent layer may, for example, comprise cotton and/or linen. One of the outer layers may preferably be a liquid-impermeable layer, which may, for example, consist of a composite material such as polyurethane laminate (PUL) or a synthetic fiber such as polyester, and/or a blend of a synthetic material such as PUL with a natural material such as cotton. Furthermore, one or more layers may comprise silver chloride to inhibit bacteria and odors.

In a further aspect, the counterpart (7) is designed such that it has a depression on the nipple side. A silver cap can be inserted into this depression, which serves to prevent and treat fissures and/or inflammation of the nipples. The depression of the counterpart (7) has a complementary curve to the silver cap, i.e., a shape almost adapted to the nipple. The depression within the counterpart (7) reduces the pressure on the nipple and areola. and space is created for the silver cap. In a preferred aspect, the counterpart (7) further comprises a pocket and/or an edge region into which the silver cap can be inserted to secure the silver cap against slipping. The pocket or the edge into which the silver cap can be inserted preferably lies around the recess (3). In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the pocket opening is 5% to 40%, preferably 10% to 20% larger than the diameter of the recess (3). The silver cap is preferably arranged so that it can be removed and cleaned at any time.

In a further embodiment, the counterpart (7), particularly in the area of the nipple and/or areola, comprises liquid-repellent textile material. The purpose of the material is to allow ointments, creams and/or similar products to be applied to the nipple and/or areola and to remain there for as long as possible. Due to the fact that the components are not absorbed into the textile material, the care and regeneration of the nipple and/or areola is promoted. The liquid-repellent or liquid-tight material can be, for example, coated or uncoated polyester, coated cotton, nylon and/or elastane.

In a further embodiment, it can be provided that at least one layer within the counterpart (7) has a warming and/or cooling effect. This can prevent swelling and milk congestion or relieve pain through a cooling effect; alternatively, the heat can stimulate milk flow. The cooling and/or heating element preferably has the shape of the counterpart. The cooling element can be introduced as a separate insert in the counterpart (7), as the counterpart (7) itself, as a layer within the liquid-absorbing material, or as a layer of the liquid-repellent material of the counterpart (7), as described above.

In an alternative embodiment, a counterpart (7) is provided that can partially protrude beyond the cups (2) and is therefore not completely complementary. The reason for this is that the counterpart (7) comprises a hollow body that extends in particular over the nipple and/or the areola. The hollow body is made of thick fabric and/or a hard plastic shell and serves to protect the area. In particular, the design is intended to prevent the nipple from coming into contact with clothing or the bra (1) itself. The counterpart (7) preferably has an outwardly directed curvature that is convex towards the outside and concave towards the inside.

Due to the fact that the two breasts, especially those of a woman during breastfeeding, may require different care at different times, the present invention is designed so that a different counterpart (7) can be used for each breast and/or the counterpart (7) can be changed as needed. Of course, the same counterparts (7) can also be used for both breasts. Consequently, the invention also relates to the counterpart (7) itself, which was previously described in combination with the cup (2) as a bra (1). The user is free to choose a suitable counterpart (7) for the cup (2).

In one aspect of the invention, the two cups (2) are connected to each other to cover the two breasts of the woman. For this purpose, a fastening element (6) is provided on the central web between the cups (2) in the front area, such as the 1 can be seen. The fastening element (6), also called the front closure, can be, but is not limited to, snap fasteners, hook fasteners, clips, Velcro systems, a zipper, hook/eye closure and/or laces, with hook/eye closures and clip closures being preferred. Due to the front closure on the center panel of the bra (1), the breasts are lifted and the cleavage is emphasized, creating a so-called push-up effect. Some women have different sized breasts; this effect occurs particularly when breastfeeding, so different cup sizes can be used with the bra (1) in question. To ensure that this works smoothly, the connecting elements (4) arranged on each cup (2) of each size are equipped with the same connecting system, i.e., for example, all cup sizes have a hook/eye closure as the connecting element (4). This ensures that two different bra cup sizes can be combined with each other.

Further literature on known materials, methods and applications that can be used in accordance with the present invention will be known to those skilled in the art of the apparel industry.

List of reference symbols

1

bra

2

Cup

3

recess

4

Connection

5

outer edge

6

Fastening element

7

counterpart

8

peripheral area

QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 199 36 395.1 A1 [0002]
• DE 199 13 478 C1 [0004]
• EP 544 045 A1 [0004]

Claims (15)

A self-adhesive bra (1) comprising at least one cup (2) having a recess (3) in the area of the nipple, and at least one counterpart (7) closing the recess (3) and not extending beyond the outer edges (5) of the cup. At least one complementary connection (4) is arranged on the counterpart (7) and the cup (2), by which the two can be detachably connected to one another. The counterpart (7) comprises, in the area of the recess (3), a) at least one liquid-absorbing material; b) a recess for a silver cap; c) at least one liquid-repellent material; or d) a hollow body. Bra after Claim 1 , wherein the at least one basket is made of silicone, preferably medical silicone, and wherein at least one textile is preferably arranged on the upper side of the basket (2). Bra after Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the recess (3) has a diameter of 45 mm to 80 mm, preferably 55 mm to 70 mm, particularly preferably 60 mm to 65 mm. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 3 , whereby the counterpart (7) covers the recess (3) in each cup size. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 4 , wherein the at least one connection (4) is a snap fastener, hook fastener, clip, Velcro system, zipper, hook/eye fastener and/or laces, wherein preferably the counterpart (7) is fastened above the recess (3) with a connection (4a) in the form of a hook/eye fastener and/or a clip, and in the lower region by means of a connection (4b) with snap fasteners or a Velcro connection. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 5 , wherein the liquid-absorbing material of the counterpart (7) comprises cotton, lyocell, nonwoven and/or a membrane system with several layers, wherein the liquid-absorbing material is preferably a membrane system with several layers, wherein particularly preferably i) at least one first layer which is in contact with the nipple comprises polyester, polyhexamethylene adipamide, elastane, cotton and/or silk; ii) at least one second layer comprises cotton and/or linen; and iii) at least one outer layer made of polyurethane laminate (PUL), polyester and/or cotton. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 5 , wherein the recess of the counterpart (7) has a complementary curve to the silver cap. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 5 and 7 , wherein the counterpart (7) for fastening the silver cap has a pocket and/or an edge region (8) into which the silver cap can be inserted. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 5 , where the liquid-repellent material is coated or uncoated polyester, coated cotton, nylon and/or elastane. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 5 , wherein the hollow body is formed from thick fabric and/or a hard plastic shell. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 6 and 9 , wherein at least one layer within the counterpart (7) has a warming and/or cooling effect and preferably an element for cooling and/or heating is arranged as a separate insert in the counterpart (7), as the counterpart (7) itself, as a layer within the liquid-absorbing material or a layer of the liquid-repellent material of the counterpart (7). Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 11 , wherein at least one material of the counterpart comprises silver chloride. Bra after one of the Claims 1 until 12 , wherein the bra a) has two cups, which are designed such that one cup can be arranged on the left breast and one on the right breast; b) comprises two cups (2), wherein a fastening element (6) is arranged on the central web, which can connect the cups (2) to one another, wherein the fastening element (6) preferably comprises at least one snap fastener, a hook fastener, a clip, a Velcro system, a zipper, a hook/eye fastener and/or a lace fastening. Counterpiece for a bra (1) with at least one complementary connection (4) is arranged, by means of which the counterpart is arranged on a cup (2) of the bra (1) net, wherein the counterpart (7) in the region of the nipple or the nipple and the areola e) comprises at least one liquid-absorbing material; f) comprises a recess for a silver cap; g) comprises at least one liquid-repellent material; or h) a hollow body is arranged. Counterpart to Claim 14 , wherein a) the liquid-absorbing material of the counterpart (7) comprises cotton, lyocell, fleece and/or a membrane system with several layers; b) the recess of the counterpart (7) has a complementary curve to the silver cap and preferably a pocket and/or an edge region (8) into which the silver cap can be inserted is included in the counterpart (7) for fastening the silver cap; c) the liquid-repellent material comprises coated or uncoated polyester, coated cotton, nylon and/or elastane; or d) the hollow body is formed from thick fabric and/or a hard plastic shell.