Postural Support Bra Using Tactile Feedback

Description

BACKGROUND

Modern life has increased the prevalence of poor posture, including rounded shoulders and forward head, leading to a whole host of structural and health maladies, including shoulder, neck, and spine pain, inflammation and other related maladies. Poor posture and mechanics not only harm the body but also tarnish the brain's awareness of where the body is in space; hence, we don't even have the cues to reset. Women wear bras to give support to their breasts, but none offer feedback for an upright posture.

Standard bras are designed to offer support to the breasts, but do not influence posture and/or the alignment of the shoulders. Postural bras generally only offer extra material in the back of the bra and/or zipped closure in front in an attempt to increase support for the wearer, but such bras fail to address the inherent diagonal pull on the shoulder, a force which collapses the shoulder forward and in. The systems employed by postural bras only address the line of energy that lifts the breasts up and the shoulders back. The increased pressure of material on the back is not enough to improve postural awareness and decrease back pain; it is a reductionist answer that does not fully account for the multiple forces to which an upright posture is subjected. As such, the solutions offered by postural bras amount to a mere “squeeze” effect without any lasting neural reeducation for upright alignment.

The present invention generally comprises a support bra that accounts for the multiple planes of force needed to provide appropriate and sustainable support for the breasts and feedback for more optimal posture. Through the use of multiple force vectors in the form of elastic straps at different angles and varied tensions of pull, the invention creates mechanical alignment with energetic feedback on the chest and shoulders to bring the wearer into a more upright posture. As such, through physical therapy kinesthetic methods, the reinforced mechanics of the invention elicit greater awareness of upright and aligned posture that goes beyond mere mechanical support.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Brief Description of the Drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective front view 100 of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is perspective back view 200 of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective front view 300 of an embodiment of the invention in use (bra being worn by individual).

FIG. 4 is a perspective back view 400 of an embodiment of the invention in use (bra being worn by individual).

FIG. 5 is a perspective front view 500 of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is perspective back view 600 of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective front view 700 of an embodiment of the invention in use (bra being worn by individual).

FIG. 8 is a perspective back view 800 of an embodiment of the invention in use (bra being worn by individual).

FIGURE REFERENCES

Physical embodiments of the invention comprise various elements, features, portions, and assemblies, singly or in combination, and are depicted in full in FIGS. 1-8. The following is a listing of the reference numbers and the associated elements and features of the devices as shown in the attached illustrations:

The within description and illustrations of various embodiments of the invention are neither intended nor should be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. While particular embodiments of the invention are illustrated and described, singly and in combination, it will be apparent that various modifications and combinations of the invention detailed in the text and drawings can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, references to materials of construction, methods of construction, specific dimensions, shapes, utilities or applications are also not intended to be limiting in any manner and other materials and dimensions could be substituted and remain within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited in any fashion. Rather, particular, detailed, and exemplary embodiments are presented.

The images in the drawings are simplified for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily depicted to scale, although effort has been made to do so. To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals are used, where possible, to designate substantially identical elements that are common to the figures, except that suffixes may be added, when appropriate, to differentiate such elements.

Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular illustrative and exemplary physical embodiments thereof, as well as a methodology thereof, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. Therefore, numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It has been contemplated that features or steps of one embodiment may be incorporated in other embodiments of the invention without further recitation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A more detailed description of the invention now follows. Reference is made to the drawings comprising FIGS. 1-8, and where possible, reference numbers incorporated therein are described herein. It is expressly noted that since each side of the external human body is essentially anatomically symmetrical (for purposes of the invention), the various elements, features and portions of embodiments of the invention depicted and described herein are not limited to the specific side of the body in which they are depicted and all terms defined and used herein are interchangeable for use with the other side of the body. For example, as used herein, the first outer strap 10 is described with respect to a user's left side and traverses over the user's left shoulder. This is for demonstration purposes only of an embodiment and a first outer strap 10 may be directed for use with respect to a user's right side and traverse over the user's right shoulder. No term is limited to a specific side of the body.

Embodiments comprise a support bra that takes into account the multiple planes of force needed to provide appropriate and sustainable support for the breasts and feedback for more optimal posture. Through the use of multiple force vectors in the form of elastic straps at different angles and varied tensions of pull, embodiments create mechanical alignment with energetic feedback on the chest and shoulders to bring the wearer into a more upright posture.

Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1-8, embodiments generally comprise a body band 2 with a first bra cup 40 and a second bra cup 42 attached to a front portion or side 2A of body band 2 and one set of two inner straps, first inner strap 20 and second inner strap 22, and one set of two outer straps, first outer strap 10 and second outer strap 12. Bra cups 40, 42 are attached to body band 2 by any number of means commonly known by and used in the industry, particularly for undergarments and brassieres, such as sewing, fabric embedment, hemming, fabric adhesives, glues, bonding, and the like, all of which would be readily appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art. As used herein, the means of attachment of various elements, features and portions of the embodiments are not limited and are specifically meant to include any such attachment means as used in the garment, clothing and undergarment industry.

With respect to FIGS. 1-4, first inner strap 20 is comprised of a first end 20A, attached to second bra cup 42 and second end 20B attached to a back side or portion 2B of body band 2. Second inner strap 22 is also comprised of a first end 22A attached to first bra cup 40 and a second end 22B attached to the back side 2B of body band 2. First outer strap 10 is comprised of a first end 10A attached to an upper portion or outer, lateral edge of first bra cup 40 and a second end 10B attached to the back side 2B of body band 2. Second outer strap 12 is also comprised of a first end 12A attached to an upper portion or outer, lateral edge of second bra cup 42 and a second end 12B attached to the back side 2B of body band 2.

With respect to FIGS. 1-4, first end 20A of inner strap 20 attaches to a lower portion of second bra cup 42 towards or adjacent to a mid-portion 48 between second bra cup 42 and first bra cup 40. First end 22A of inner strap 22 attaches to a lower portion of first bra cup 40 also towards or adjacent to a mid-portion 48 between second bra cup 42 and first bra cup 40. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, inner straps 20, 22 intersect or crisscross each other 26 near each strap's first end and immediately above the point of attachment to the bra cups. At intersection 26, inner straps 20, 22 may be attached to each other, such as, by stitching, embedding or any other means commonly used to attach fabrics together, or may simply overlap each other in no particular order of inner/outer arrangement.

First ends 20A, 22A of inner straps 20, 22 attach to the bra cups by various means known within the industry, such as by sewing, gluing, or other well-known methods of attachment. Similarly, first ends 10A, 12A of outer straps 10, 12 attach to the bra cups by means well known in the art, such as by sewing, gluing, or other well-known methods of attachment.

Inner straps 20, 22 and outer straps 10, 12 are meant to hold the bra in place over a user's shoulders. This is indicated in FIGS. 1-4 by an upper portion 30 for outer strap 10 and inner strap 20, where, as depicted, both straps traverse over the wearer's left shoulder, and by an upper portion 32 for outer strap 12 and inner strap 22, where, as depicted, both straps traverse over the wearer's right shoulder. At upper portions 30, 32 inner straps 20, 22 and outer straps 10, 12 are nearly adjacent with other and may be in contact.

FIGS. 1, 3 refer to front views 100, 300, respectively, of embodiments. In FIGS. 1, 3, embodiments may further comprise a bra cup support element 46 between first bra cup 40 and bra cup 42 to provide further support to the bra cups and inner straps 20, 22 and their respective first ends 20A, 22A at the point of attachment to the mid portion 48 area between the bra cups. The bra cup support element 46 may be comprised of any fabric or material generally known for making bras, as further discussed below. Inner straps 20, 22, including some or all of intersection area 26, may be attached to or incorporated within bra cup support element 46 for added support. Attachment may be by any means generally known in the art, such as sewing, synthetic fabrication, gluing, etc.

Referring to the back side of various embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 2, 4, first outer strap 10 and first inner strap 20 comprise an upper portion 30 that represents where each strap traverses a user's left shoulder. Second end 10B of first outer strap 10 attaches to an upper portion of back side 2B of body band 2 towards a lateral or outer portion of said back side, in this case, the lateral or outer portion of the back side to the left of a user's spine. Second end 20B of first inner strap 20 attaches to an upper portion of the back side 2B of body band 2 towards a medial or inner portion of said back side, but, in this case, as depicted, immediately adjacent to and to the right of the vertical center line of the user's back, i.e., to the right of the user's spine.

Continuing with the back side as depicted in FIGS. 2 and 4, second outer strap 12 and second inner strap 22 comprise an upper portion 32 that represents where each strap traverses a user's right shoulder. Second end 12B of second outer strap 12 attaches to an upper portion of back side 2B of body band 2 towards a lateral or outer portion of said back side, the lateral or outer portion of the back side to the right of the user's spine. Second end 22B of second inner strap 22 attaches to an upper portion of back side 2B of body band 2 towards a medial or inner portion of said back side, but, in this case, as depicted, immediately adjacent to and to the left of the vertical center line of the user's back, i.e., to the left of the user's spine.

Second ends 10B, 12B of outer straps 10, 12 attach to the back side 2B of body band 2 by means commonly known and used in the art, such as sewing, synthetic fabrication, gluing, etc. Additionally, second ends 20B, 22B of the inner straps 20, 22 attach to the back side 2B of body band 2 by means commonly known and used in the art, such as sewing, synthetic fabrication, gluing, etc.

Inner straps 20, 22 intersect and crisscross each other at 28 near their respective terminal second ends 20B, 22B prior to attachment to an upper portion of the back side 2B of body band 2. At the area of intersection 28, inner straps 20, 22 may attach to each other for support, said means of attachment commonly known to and used by those skilled in the art, such as sewing, fabric integration, synthetic fabrication, etc., or inner straps 20, 22 may not be attached and simply overlap each other, in no particular order (inner/outer arrangement).

Continuing with FIGS. 2 and 4, near upper end 30 where first outer strap 10 and first inner strap 20 traverse the left shoulder, a first removable and adjustable stabilizing strap or element 50 is detachably attached to said straps 10 and 20 to stabilize and provide support to the straps and to hold said straps in proper position for the performance of their supportive functions as discussed below. First stabilizing strap 50 may be positioned on the upper portion of the left side of the back, immediately beneath the left shoulder where first straps 10 and 20 traverse the shoulder at 30. First stabilizing strap 50 may be adjustable; by lengthening the strap, it may be moved to a lower portion on the back between the two first straps 10 and 20 to allow customization by the user for optimal support and function. First outer strap 10 may further comprise a first adjustment element 60 for shortening or lengthening outer strap 10 to accommodate a user's body shape and size to allow for a comfortable fit and to achieve optimal support and function. First adjustment element 60 may be comprised of any such commonly known means for adjusting the length of straps, in general, and bra straps (or other apparel-based straps), in particular. First adjustment element 60 is not limited to any particular type or form of adjustment means.

Continuing with FIGS. 2 and 4, near upper end 32 where second outer strap 12 and second inner strap 22 traverse the right shoulder, a second removable and adjustable stabilizing strap 52 is detachably attached to said second straps 12, 22 for providing support to said straps and to hold the straps in proper position for the performance of their supportive functions as discussed below. Second stabilizing strap 52 may be positioned on the upper portion of the right side of the back, immediately beneath a user's right shoulder where second straps 12 and 22 traverse the shoulder at 32. Second stabilizing strap 52 may be adjustable; by lengthening the strap, it may be moved to a lower portion on the back between two second straps 12, 22 to allow customization by the user for optimal support and function. Second outer strap 12 may further comprise a second adjustment element 62 for shortening or lengthening the second outer strap 12 to accommodate a user's body shape and size to allow for a comfortable fit of the invention and to achieve optimal support and function. Second adjustment element 62 may be comprised of any such commonly known means for adjusting the length of straps, in general, and bra straps (or other apparel-based straps), in particular. Second adjustment element 62 is not limited to any particular type or form of adjustment means.

First adjustment element 60 and second adjustment element 62 may allow for detachable attachment of first outer strap 10 and second outer strap 12 on each side of adjustment elements 60 and 62. Such detachable attachment may be accomplished by any number of attachment means commonly known and used in the art, such as, but not limited to, snaps, buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.

In embodiments, body band 2 is comprised of a first end 4 and a second end 6 for detachable attachment around the user's torso. First end 4 and second end 6 may be detachably attached by any number of attachment means commonly known and used in the art, such as, but not limited to, snaps, buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, etc. Detachable attachment of first end 4 and second end 6 of body band 2 allows for easy placement or removal of the article by a user.

The width of body band 2 may be uniform throughout its length around the torso or may vary from front 2A to back 2B, or side to side, or any combination thereof. The width of body band 2 may be from about 5 mm to about 300 mm; more optimally from about 10 mm to about 200 mm; even more optimally from about 20 mm to about 100 mm and even more optimally from about 40 mm to 60 mm. Various widths may be more suitable for various users and the invention is not limited to any particular width.

The length of body band 2 may be adjustable by way of detachable attachment of its first end 4 and second end 4, such as by way of a hook-and-loop (i.e., Velcro®) means of attachment that would provide for shorter adjustments in length. Alternatively, buckles, snaps or adjustable hooks may provide for detachable attachment and adjustment (lengthening or shortening) body band 2. Alternatively, the length of body band 2 may be fabricated (manufactured) in any number of lengths depending on the user's chest measurement, bra cup size and other factors commonly known to and used by those in the industry.

Body band 2 is generally comprised of an elastic material suitable for such uses, including, but not limited to, natural or synthetic fabrics or compositions (or any combination thereof), comprising a rubber or spandex core that are wrapped in a fiber such as polyester, nylon or cotton and then woven, knitted or braided to create the elastic, or any such other elastic fabric bands commonly known by and used for such purposes. Ideally, the elasticity of body band 2 is of about 100-140% elastic modulus; more optimally of about 110-130% elastic modulus; even more optimally of about 115-125% elastic modulus; and even more optimally of about 120% elastic modulus.

The widths of outer straps 10, 12 may be uniform throughout their lengths from their first ends 10A, 12A to their respective second ends 10B, 12B. Alternatively, the widths of outer straps 10, 12 may vary from their first ends 10A, 12A to their respective second ends 10B, 12B. Generally, the respective widths of outer straps 10, 12 may be from about 4 mm to about 30 mm; more optimally from about 6 mm to about 20 mm; even more optimally from about 8 mm to about 15 mm and even more optimally of about 10 mm. Various widths may be more suitable for various users and the invention is not limited to any particular width.

Outer straps 10, 12 may be generally comprised of any elastic material suitable for such uses, including, but not limited to, natural or synthetic fabrics or compositions (or any combination thereof), comprising a rubber or spandex core that are wrapped in a fiber such as polyester, nylon or cotton and then woven, knitted or braided to create the elastic, or any such other elastic fabric bands commonly known by and used for such purposes. Ideally, the elasticity of outer straps 10, 12 are of about 100-140% elastic modulus; more optimally of about 110-130% elastic modulus; even more optimally of about 115-125% elastic modulus; and even more optimally of about 120% elastic modulus.

The widths of inner straps 20, 22 may be uniform throughout their lengths from their first ends 20A, 22A to their respective second ends 20B, 22B. Alternatively, the widths of inner straps 20, 22 may vary from their first ends 20A, 22A to their second ends 20B, 22B. Generally, the respective widths of inner straps 20, 22 may be from about 5 mm to about 60 mm; more optimally from about 15 mm to about 50 mm; even more optimally from about 20 mm to about 40 mm and even more optimally of about 30 mm. Various widths may be more suitable for various users and the invention is not limited to any particular width.

Inner straps 20, 22 are generally comprised of an elastic material suitable for such uses, including, but not limited to, natural or synthetic fabrics or compositions (or any combination thereof), comprising a rubber or spandex core that are wrapped in a fiber such as polyester, nylon or cotton and then woven, knitted or braided to create the elastic, or any such other elastic fabric bands commonly known by and used for such purposes. Ideally, the elasticity of inner straps 20, 22 are of about 100-140% elastic modulus; more optimally of about 110-130% elastic modulus; even more optimally of about 115-125% elastic modulus; and even more optimally of about 120% elastic modulus.

Alternatively, in embodiments, the straps comprising same, in whole or in part, may not have elastic properties other than that as provided by the native fabric or material, natural or synthetic.

As depicted in the drawings and the various embodiments described, outer straps 10, 12 connect to upper portion of each bra cup and/or to the outer (lateral) edge of each bra cup and continue vertically to traverse the shoulders at 30 and 32, respectively. After traversing the shoulders approximately at the acromion process of the scapulae at 30 and 32, respectively, outer straps 10, 12 attach to or connect with inner straps 20, 22 via stabilizing snaps 50, 52, respectively, thereby creating a buttress support for each first and second strap system (over each shoulder), before outer straps 10, 12 continue in substantially vertical fashion downward toward the back side 2B of body band 2, where each strap connects thereto at its second end 10B, 12B. The force vector created by each inner-outer strap system, singly and in combination with each other, in accordance herewith lifts the chest straight up, serving as adjunct support for the larger structures of support. This larger force is created from each of inner straps 20, 22 with their 120% elastic modulus that originate on the front at each strap's first end 20A, 22A where said inner straps 20, 22 attach to the bra cups on each side of the mid portion 48 thereof. Each inner strap 20, 22 crosses the centerline of the front chest at 26, and continues towards the opposite shoulder (in embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1-4 and described herein, first inner strap 20 attaches at 20A to the right of the user's centerline, crosses second inner strap 22 at intersection 26 and traverses the user's left shoulder; conversely, second inner strap 22 attaches at 22A to the left of the user's centerline, crosses first inner strap 20 at intersection 26 and traverses the user's right shoulder). After traversing the shoulders, each inner strap 20, 22 connects to its corresponding outer strap (first inner strap 20 connects with first outer strap 10; second inner strap 22 connects with second outer strap 12) via first stabilizing snap 50 (first inner-outer strap system) and second stabilizing snap 52 (second inner-outer strap system), continuing across the back and again intersecting or crisscrossing each other at 28 before connecting at their respective second ends 20B, 22B to body band 2 after crossing the centerline of the back. This force vector is essential for lifting the breast tissue up for support and pulling the sternum upward for the desired postural alignment. With these diagonal lines of force, together with the straight pull of the respectively narrower outer straps 10, 12, the resultant energetic force on the chest is upward and the pull on the shoulders is upward and back.

Like the structures that support a bridge or the support provided by flying buttresses, such as those at the Notre Dame cathedral, the vectors of support provided by embodiments address the various angles of downward pull on the body and solve the issues of both support for the breasts and structural feedback for the posture.

Alternative embodiments are presented in FIGS. 5-8, wherein modified support forces work to produce the desired outcome of tactile feedback directed towards improved posture and reduce back and shoulder fatigue.

With respect to the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5-8, first inner strap 20 is comprised of a first end 20A, attached to the front side 2A of body band 2 beneath second bra cup 42 and a second end 20B, attached to a back side or portion 2B of the body band 2. Second inner strap 22 is also comprised of a first end 22A, attached to the front side 2A of body band 2 beneath the first bra cup 40 and a second end 22B, attached to a back side or portion 2B of the body band 2. Optionally, in embodiments, first inner strap 20 and second inner strap 22 may be further attached to the medial edges of bra cups 42 and 40 respectively, adjacent to center portion 48, as depicted in FIGS. 5 and 7.

Continuing with FIGS. 5-8, first outer strap 10 is comprised of a first end 10A, attached to an upper portion or outer edge (lateral) of first bra cup 40, and a second end 10B, attached to an upper portion of first inner strap 20 before strap 20 traverses the shoulder 30. Second outer strap 12 is also comprised of a first end 12A, attached to an upper portion or outer edge (lateral) of second bra cup 42, and a second end 12B, attached to an upper portion of second inner strap 22 before strap 22 traverses the shoulder 32.

With respect to FIGS. 5-8, in embodiments, first end 20A of inner strap 20 attaches to a lower portion of second bra cup 42 and body band 2 towards or adjacent to a mid-portion 48 between second bra cup 42 and first bra cup 40. First end 22A of inner strap 22 attaches to a lower portion of first bra cup 40 and body band 2 also towards or adjacent to a mid-portion 48 between second bra cup 42 and first bra cup 40. Referring to FIGS. 5 and 7, inner strap 20 and inner strap 22 intersect or crisscross each other 26 above mid-portion 48 generally over a user's sternum. At intersection 26, inner strap 20 and inner strap 22 may be attached to each other, such as, by stitching, embedding or any other means commonly used to attach fabrics together, or may simply overlap each other in no particular order of inner/outer arrangement.

First ends 20A and 22A of inner straps 20 and 22 attach to bra cups 40, 42 and/or body band 2 by means well known in the art, such as by sewing, gluing, or other well-known methods of attachment. Similarly, first ends 10A and 12A of outer straps 10 and 12 attach to the bra cups by means well known in the art, such as by sewing, gluing, or other well-known methods of attachment.

Continuing with FIGS. 5-8, inner straps 20 and 22 and outer straps 10 and 12 are meant to hold the bra in place over the shoulder of the individual. This is indicated in the drawings by an upper portion 30 for inner strap 20, where, as depicted, strap 20 traverses a user's left shoulder, and by an upper portion 32 for inner strap 22, where, as depicted, strap 22 traverses a user's right shoulder.

Referring to front views 500 and 700 of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5 and 7 an embodiment of the invention may further comprise a bra cup support element 46 (not shown) as that depicted in FIGS. 1 and 3 between first bra cup 40 and bra cup 42 to provide further support to the bra cups and inner straps 20 and 22, and their respective first ends 20A and 22A, at the point of attachment to the mid portion 48 area between the bra cups. The bra cup support element 46 (not shown) may be comprised of any fabric or material generally known for making bras, as further discussed below. Inner straps 20 and 22, including some or all of intersection area 26, may be attached to or incorporated within bra cup support element 46 for added support. Attachment may be by any means generally known in the art, such as sewing, synthetic fabrication, gluing, etc.

Referring to back views 600 and 800 of embodiments as depicted in FIGS. 6 and 8, first inner strap 20 comprises an upper portion 30 that represents where strap 20 traverses a user's left shoulder. Second end 20B of first inner strap 20 attaches to an upper portion of the back side 2B of body band 2 to the left of the vertical center line of the user's back, i.e., to the left of the user's spine. Second inner strap 22 comprises an upper portion 32 that represents where strap 22 traverses a user's right shoulder. Second end 22B of second inner strap 22 attaches to an upper portion of the back side 2B of body band 2 to the right the vertical center line of the user's back, i.e., to the right of the user's spine. Unlike the embodiments of FIGS. 2 and 4, inner straps 20, 22 do not crisscross on the back side. In addition, unlike embodiments of FIGS. 2 and 4, outer straps 10, 12 do not traverse the shoulders and connect to back side 2B of body band 2; rather, each second end 10B, 12B of outer straps 10, 12 attach to an upper portion of inner straps 20, 22 respectively, as described above and depicted in FIGS. 5, 7.

Continuing with the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 6 and 8, inner straps 10, 12 may be further comprised of adjustment elements 70, 72 for adjusting the lengths of each strap independently to offer maximum fit and comfort for a user. Adjustment elements 70, 72 may be used for shortening or lengthening inner straps 10, 12 to accommodate a user's body shape and size to allow for a comfortable fit of embodiments and to achieve optimal support and function. Adjustment elements 70, 72 may be comprised of any such commonly known means for adjusting the length of straps, in general, and bra straps (or other apparel-based straps), in particular. Adjustment elements 70, 72 are not limited to any particular type or form of adjustment means. Inner straps 10, 12 may be further comprised of elastic ring elements 70A, 72A to provide further stretch and elasticity to inner straps 10, 20. The attached ends of inner straps 10, 12 to ring elements 70A, 72A may be by way of overlap and stich (sewn) of the ring elements 70A, 72A or by any number of means commonly used in the garment, clothing and undergarment industry. Ring elements 70A, 72A may be made from any durable elastic material used for such purposes, including, but not limited to, rubber, isoprene, neoprene, silicone rubber, urethane rubbers, chloroprene rubber, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA rubber), or any other such suitable material. Ring elements 70A, 72A may also comprise an outer covering of nylon, plastic or other such materials to add durability. In embodiments, inner straps 20, 22 may each comprise more than one such elastic ring element.

While adjustment elements 70, 72 of inner straps 20, 22 are depicted in FIGS. 6 and 8 on the back side of the illustrated embodiment near the second ends 20B, 22B of the straps, adjustment elements 70, 72 may be placed at any location along the length of straps 20, 22 between the straps' first ends 20A, 22A and second ends 20B, 22B. In addition, embodiments may comprise more than one adjustment element 70, 72 on inner straps 20, 22. Also, in yet other embodiments, outer straps 10, 12 may each comprise one or more adjustment elements in order to customize the bra to that shape and body type of a user for maximum support and comfort. Adjustment elements 70, 72 may also allow for detachable attachment of inner straps 10, 22 between the straps' first ends 20A, 22A and second ends 20B, 22B, or allow removal of the straps from the bra body band 2 and/or cups 40, 42 to allow for easy removal by a user. Adjustment elements 70, 72, when configured to outer straps 10, 12 may allow for detachable attachment of outer straps 10, 12 from inner straps 20, 22. Such detachable attachment may be accomplished by any number of attachment means commonly known and used in the art, such as, but not limited to, snaps, buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc. While such configurations are not depicted in the drawings, it is understood that embodiments of the invention are intended to comprise such alternatives.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8, body band 2 may be comprised of a first end 4 and a second end 6 for detachable attachment around the user's torso as previously described. Or, as depicted in FIGS. 5-8, body band 2 may be unitary element without separate ends for detachable attachment to each other. In such cases, the bra would be worn by pulling it over a user's head and adjusted for maximum comfort and posture support.

Continuing with the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8, the width of body band 2 may be uniform throughout its length around the torso or may vary from front 2A to back 2B, or side to side, or any combination thereof. The width of body band 2 may be from about 5 mm to about 300 mm; more optimally from about 10 mm to about 200 mm; even more optimally from about 20 mm to about 100 mm and even more optimally from about 40 mm to 60 mm. Various widths may be more suitable for various users and the invention is not limited to any particular width.

Continuing with the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8, the length of body band 2 may be adjustable by way of detachable attachment of a first end 4 and second end 4 (not depicted in the drawings; refer to the feature as depicted in FIG. 2, 4), such as by way of a hook-and-loop (i.e., Velcro®) means of attachment that would provide for shorter adjustments in length. Alternatively, buckles, snaps or adjustable hooks may provide for detachable attachment and adjustment (lengthening or shortening) body band 2. Alternatively, the length of body band 2 may be fabricated (manufactured) in any number of lengths depending on the user's chest measurement, bra cup size and other factors commonly known to and used by those in the industry.

Body band 2 is generally comprised of an elastic material suitable for such uses, including, but not limited to, natural or synthetic fabrics or compositions (or any combination thereof), comprising a rubber or spandex core that are wrapped in a fiber such as polyester, nylon or cotton and then woven, knitted or braided to create the elastic, or any such other elastic fabric bands commonly known by and used for such purposes. Ideally, the elasticity of body band 2 is of about 100-140% elastic modulus; more optimally of about 110-130% elastic modulus; even more optimally of about 115-125% elastic modulus; and even more optimally of about 120% elastic modulus.

Continuing with the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8, the widths of outer straps 10, 12 may be uniform throughout their lengths from first ends 10A, 12A to their second ends, 10B, 12B. Alternatively, the widths of the outer straps 10, 12 may vary from first ends 10A, 12A to their second ends, 10B, 12B. Generally, the widths of outer straps 10, 12 may be from about 4 mm to about 30 mm; more optimally from about 6 mm to about 20 mm; even more optimally from about 8 mm to about 15 mm and even more optimally of about 10 mm. Various widths may be more suitable for various users and embodiments are not limited to any particular width.

Continuing with the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8, outer straps 10, 12 are generally comprised of elastic materials suitable for such uses, including, but not limited to, natural or synthetic fabrics or compositions (or any combination thereof), comprising a rubber or spandex core that are wrapped in a fiber such as polyester, nylon or cotton and then woven, knitted or braided to create the elastic, or any such other elastic fabric bands commonly known by and used for such purposes. Ideally, the elasticity of outer straps 10, 12 are of about 100-140% elastic modulus; more optimally of about 110-130% elastic modulus; even more optimally of about 115-125% elastic modulus; and even more optimally of about 120% elastic modulus.

Continuing with the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8, the widths of inner straps 20, 22 may be uniform throughout their lengths from first ends 20A, 22A to second ends 20B, 22B. Alternatively, the widths of inner straps 20, 22 may vary from first ends 20A, 22A to second ends 20B, 22B. Generally, the widths inner straps 20, 22 may be from about 5 mm to about 60 mm; more optimally from about 15 mm to about 50 mm; even more optimally from about 20 mm to about 40 mm and even more optimally of about 30 mm. Various widths may be more suitable for various users and the invention is not limited to any particular width.

Continuing with the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8, inner straps 20, 22 may be generally comprised of an elastic material suitable for such uses, including, but not limited to, natural or synthetic fabrics or compositions (or any combination thereof), comprising a rubber or spandex core that are wrapped in a fiber such as polyester, nylon or cotton and then woven, knitted or braided to create the elastic, or any such other elastic fabric bands commonly known by and used for such purposes. Ideally, the elasticity of inner straps 20, 22 is of about 100-140% elastic modulus; more optimally of about 110-130% elastic modulus; even more optimally of about 115-125% elastic modulus; and even more optimally of about 120% elastic modulus.

Alternatively, in embodiments, the straps comprising same, in whole or in part, may not have elastic properties other than that as provided by the native fabric or material, natural or synthetic.

Continuing with the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5-8, first ends 10A, 12A of outer straps 10, 12 connect to upper portion of each bra cup (or to an outer edge of each bra cup towards the lateral edge of the cup on each side of the chest in embodiments not depicted), and at their respective second ends 10B, 12B, attach to an upper portion of inner straps 20, 22 prior to said inner straps traversing each shoulder approximately at the acromion process of the scapulae at 30, 32. After inner straps 20, 22 traverse the shoulder approximately at the acromion process of the scapulae at 30 and 32, respectively, inner straps 20 and 22 continue down the user's back in a substantially vertical fashion and attach to body band 2 at their second ends, 20B, 22B. The configuration of the straps in the depicted embodiments in conjunction with body band 2 creates a posture and support buttress for the bra cups. The force vector created by the strap and band configuration in accordance herewith lifts the chest straight up. The supportive force vector is created from inner straps 20, 22 with their 120% elastic modulus that originates on the front on each side where the first ends 20A, 22A attach to bra cups on each side of the mid portion 48 thereof. Each inner strap 20, 22 crosses the centerline of the front chest at 26 and continues towards the opposite shoulder (in the embodiments of FIGS. 5-8 and described herein, first inner strap 20 attaches at first end 20A to the right of the user's centerline, crosses second inner strap 22 at intersection 26 and traverses the user's left shoulder; conversely, second inner strap 22 attaches at first end 22A to the left of the user's centerline, crosses first inner strap 20 at intersection 26 and traverses the user's right shoulder). After traversing the shoulder, each inner strap continues down the back in a substantially vertical fashion, connecting with an upper portion of the back side 2B of body band 2. This force vector is essential for lifting the breast tissue up for support and pulling the sternum upward for the desired postural alignment. With these diagonal and vertical lines of force, together with the straight pull of the respectively narrower first and second outer straps 10, 12 over the chest cavity, the resultant energetic force on the chest is upward and the pull on the shoulders is upward and back. Like the structures that support a bridge or the support provided by flying buttresses, such as those at the Notre Dame cathedral, the vectors of support provided by embodiments address the various angles of downward pull on the body and solve the issues of both support for the breasts and structural feedback for the posture.

With respect to all embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1-8 and described herein, prior art postural bras only address the line of energy that lifts the breasts up and the shoulders back. This increases pressure on a user's back, thereby causing pain, inflammation and poor posture. The increased pressure of material on the back is not enough to improve postural awareness and decrease back pain; it is a reductionist answer that does not fully account for the multiple forces to which an upright posture is subjected. The solution offered by prior art “postural” bras is to simply provide a “squeeze” effect without any lasting neural reeducation for upright alignment. The embodiments described herein overcome this problem for the reasons stated.

Embodiments described herein provide tactile feedback to users to increase awareness and improve posture. Daily use of embodiments of the bra provide needed pressure cues to a user to adjust her posture throughout the day. When a user places the bra on for use, she will feel an initial push and pull of the elastic straps to help align her posture. During the day as her posture starts to sag, the elastics will pull on those areas that are sagging and provide needed tactile feedback and awareness to straighten her posture.

This disclosure of the various embodiments of the invention, with accompanying drawings, is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The images in the drawings are simplified for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily depicted to scale. To facilitate understanding, identical reference terms are used, where possible, to designate substantially identical elements that are common to the figures, except that suffixes may be added, when appropriate, to differentiate such elements.

Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular illustrative embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. Therefore, numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It has been contemplated that features or steps of one embodiment may be incorporated in other embodiments of the invention without further recitation.