MULTI-LAYER PROTECTIVE UNDERGARMENT

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63/641,690, filed May 2, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to protective garments and more particularly to lightweight, multi-layer protective undergarments suitable for discreet personal protection.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Protective clothing has long been utilized in various contexts ranging from military and law enforcement applications to personal self-defense. Traditionally, such garments have been designed to offer high levels of impact resistance or ballistic protection. These garments often rely on the incorporation of rigid or semi-rigid materials, including reinforced polymers, ceramics, or metallic components, to achieve the desired defensive attributes. While effective in terms of protection, such designs are frequently bulky, weighty, and conspicuous, which can be disadvantageous in scenarios where discretion or agility is paramount.

A significant drawback of current protective clothing, particularly in undergarment applications, lies in their visibility and recognizability. When such garments are detected-either through bulkiness or branding-they may inadvertently escalate confrontational situations by revealing the wearer's preparedness. In some cases, this can lead to adversaries targeting unprotected areas of the body, such as the head or groin, thereby nullifying the benefit of the garment and potentially increasing the danger faced by the wearer. Additionally, the psychological deterrent intended by such clothing can backfire, inviting more aggressive behavior from those perceiving the wearer as a formidable obstacle.

Furthermore, many existing protective garments impose significant restrictions on movement due to their construction and materials. For individuals in high-risk environments who must remain agile, flexible, or unobtrusive—such as undercover officers, private security personnel, or civilians seeking discreet protection—traditional options fall short. The compromise between protection and performance remains a longstanding challenge, particularly in clothing designed to be worn close to the body and under outer garments.

Therefore, the need exists for a protective undergarment that is discreet, lightweight, and unidentifiable by brand or specification, allowing wearers to move freely without drawing attention or signaling defensive capabilities to a potential aggressor.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed at protective undergarments, such as a shirt or underwear, designed to provide discreet, comfortable, and effective personal protection. The invention addresses the limitations of conventional protective clothing by offering a lightweight and flexible garment that does not compromise mobility, comfort, or the outward appearance of standard undergarments.

In a preferred embodiment, each protective undergarment comprises a four-layer construction. The outermost layer is a cotton fabric, selected for its durability and its ability to resemble the texture and visual appearance of ordinary clothing. Beneath the cotton is a twill layer that contributes to breathability and enhances the garment's comfort and wearable familiarity. The primary protective feature is provided by an aramid layer, such as Kevlar®, positioned beneath the twill layer to offer resistance against impact, cuts, or other forms of penetration. A second cotton layer lies innermost, against the skin, providing a soft, non-irritating surface suitable for extended wear.

The combination of these materials—cotton, twill, and aramid—are sewn and/or meshed together in a manner that ensures both flexibility and durability. This layered design enables the wearer to retain full freedom of movement, while the garments remain lightweight and inconspicuous under everyday clothing. In another embodiment, copper fibers may be integrated to offer additional benefits such as antimicrobial or conductive properties; however, such enhancements are considered with attention to potential overheating.

This invention solves problems with traditional protective garments, such as being bulky, easily identifiable, or restrictive, by delivering a discreet, comfortable alternative. The protective undergarments of the present invention allow the wearer to benefit from enhanced personal safety while maintaining the look and feel of standard clothing, making them particularly suitable for daily wear in unpredictable or high-risk environments.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a protective undergarment in the form of a shirt constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the protective undergarment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a partial exploded view of the layers that form the undergarment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front view of a protective undergarment in the form of underwear constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the protective undergarment of FIG. 4; and

FIG. 6 is a partial exploded view of the layers that form the undergarment of FIG. 4.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to indicate identical or corresponding elements throughout the several views, a protective undergarment in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown and generally designated by reference numeral 100 in FIGS. 1-3 and 200 in FIGS. 4-6.

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a protective undergarment in the form of a shirt (100), comprising a multi-layered construction that combines comfort, discretion, and protective functionality. As shown in FIG. 1, the shirt (100) includes a front panel, a rear panel, and sleeves, all formed to resemble a conventional base-layer garment. The shirt (100) is designed for form-fitting wear and provides full coverage across the torso and upper arms.

The shirt (100) comprises four layered components: an outer cotton layer (10), a twill layer (12), an aramid layer (such as Kevlar®) (14), and a second cotton layer (10), the latter being the innermost layer in contact with the skin. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3, the layers are sewn and/or meshed together to form an integrated structure that maintains both durability and flexibility. The outer cotton layer (10) gives the appearance of conventional clothing and may be dyed or textured to match the visual characteristics of everyday undergarments. The twill layer (12) lies beneath the first cotton layer to promote breathability and to soften the garment's outer texture. The aramid layer (14) functions as the primary protective barrier, minimizing cuts, punctures, and impacts. The second cotton layer (10), closest to the wearer's skin, enhances comfort and reduces irritation during prolonged use. The order and number of layers can be altered as a matter of application specific design choice.

The seam construction and edge finishing of the shirt (100) are designed to preserve the flexibility of the layers while preventing material bunching or separation. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, stitched seams extend along the periphery of the garment and at key junctions between the panels, such as the sleeve attachment points and side seams. These seams are reinforced to ensure the alignment and integrity of the multi-layer assembly during movement.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the protective undergarment shirt (100) includes a front slot (16) and a rear slot (18) integrated into the outer twill layer of the garment. These slots (or pockets) are constructed as narrow, reinforced openings positioned in the chest and upper back regions of the garment, respectively. In one embodiment, each slot is formed as a concealed access point, aligned with the protective layers beneath, and is configured to receive additional modular protective inserts or accessories. The purpose of these slots is to enhance the versatility of the garment by allowing the user to augment protection in targeted areas, such as the sternum or spine, without altering the structure of the base garment. The slots/pockets may also serve to facilitate airflow or accommodate sensor integration, communication modules, or personal storage, depending on the operational context. The inclusion of these slots supports the invention's objective of maintaining a discreet and functional protective undergarment while offering optional customization for varying levels of threat or mission-specific needs.

Turning to FIGS. 4-6, a second embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the protective undergarment takes the form of underwear (200). As depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, the underwear (200) includes a front panel, a rear panel, and an elastic waistband that maintains the garment in position on the body. Similar to the shirt embodiment, the underwear (200) also features a four-layer construction comprising an outer cotton layer (20), a twill layer (22), an aramid protective layer (24), and an inner cotton layer (20), as illustrated in FIG. 6. The number and order of layers can be altered as a matter of application specific design choice.

The protective underwear (200) is configured to conform to the lower torso and upper thigh regions, offering discreet protection without sacrificing mobility. The outer cotton layer (20) is selected and constructed to resemble common fabric styles used in traditional undergarments. The aramid layer (24) is shaped to provide coverage across the vulnerable frontal and lateral regions of the pelvic area, while still allowing airflow and flexibility. As with the shirt embodiment, the underwear is sewn with reinforced seams to maintain structural cohesion of the layered materials, as shown in the assembled view of FIGS. 4 and 5.

As seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, the protective undergarment in the form of underwear (200) includes a front slot (26), a side slot (28), and a rear slot (30), each formed in the outer cotton layer of the garment. These slots (or pockets) are positioned on the frontal pelvic region, lateral thigh area, and posterior region, respectively, and are constructed as discreet, reinforced openings that interface with the inner protective layers of the garment. The purpose of these slots/pockets is to provide modular access points for the insertion, removal, or replacement of additional protective elements, such as flexible pads, impact-resistant panels, or other inserts. This configuration allows the user to selectively augment protection based on individual needs, anticipated threats, or situational demands. For example, the front slot 26 may accommodate groin protection, the side slot 28 may allow coverage of the femoral artery region, and the rear slot 30 may support inserts to shield the lower spine or coccyx area. These features enhance the adaptability of the undergarment while preserving its discreet, form-fitting profile, thereby aligning with the invention's objective of providing covert, customizable protection in a lightweight and wearable format.

In alternative embodiments, various features and materials may be incorporated into the protective undergarment to enhance functionality, comfort, or concealability, while maintaining the core layered construction described herein.

For example, the aramid layer (14/24) may specifically comprise Kevlar®, a para-aramid synthetic fiber known for its high tensile strength-to-weight ratio, impact resistance, and thermal stability. The use of Kevlar® enhances the protective characteristics of the garment without significantly increasing bulk or restricting flexibility.

The outer cotton layer (10/20) may be constructed from a polyester-cotton blend, which offers a balance between durability and comfort, as well as resistance to wrinkling and shrinkage. This material selection enables the garment to closely resemble standard clothing in both texture and appearance, thereby improving discretion.

While FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a protective shirt (100), and FIGS. 4-6 depict protective underwear (200), the principles of construction may be applied to a variety of undergarment forms. For example, the protective features may be applied across different garment configurations depending on the desired coverage and application context.

In certain embodiments, one or more copper fibers may be incorporated into the structure of the protective undergarment. These fibers may be embedded into one or more of the layers-such as the twill layer(s), the cotton layer, or the aramid layer-depending on the intended function. In one embodiment, the copper fibers may be included in one or both of the cotton layers to promote antimicrobial benefits, thereby inhibiting the growth of bacteria and reducing odor during extended wear.

To address the concern of thermal comfort, the integration of copper fibers may be in the form of a pattern or limited configuration so as to avoid excessive heat retention. Strategic placement and minimal surface area coverage of conductive fibers may ensure that antimicrobial functionality is provided without compromising breathability or user comfort.

The outer cotton layer (10/20) may be dyed in one or more colors or patterns to enhance the visual conformity of the protective garment to conventional underclothing. This feature may further conceal the protective nature of the garment, allowing it to blend seamlessly under outer garments without detection.

The garment may be constructed as a form-fitting article that conforms to the wearer's body. The use of elasticized or stretchable materials in combination with the protective layering allows for a full range of motion, making the garment suitable for active use without restricting movement.

Each of the four layers—outer cotton layer, twill layer, aramid layer, and inner cotton layer—may be substantially coextensive, thereby providing uniform protection across the entire surface area of the garment. This configuration ensures consistent coverage and reduces vulnerability at seam lines or panel junctions.

Finally, the layers of the garment may be joined together by stitching along peripheral seams and at selected internal attachment points. This stitching may be implemented using flatlock or overlock seams to maintain alignment of the layers and to preserve flexibility and comfort. Reinforcement stitching may be added in high-stress areas to prevent delamination or separation during prolonged wear or vigorous movement.

These alternative embodiments may be used individually or in combination without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

The garments described herein may be manufactured in various sizes and colors to accommodate a wide range of users and to ensure discretion under different outer garments. While the embodiments illustrated are directed to a shirt and underwear, it should be understood that the multi-layered construction and protective features may be adapted to other garment types, such as leggings or full-body suits, without departing from the scope of the invention.

The described protective undergarments provide an advancement over the prior art by delivering a balance of covert protection, comfort, and wearability. The configuration of layers, materials, and assembly methods achieves a garment that is suitable for daily wear in environments where discreet personal protection is desired.

Unlike conventional protective garments that rely on visibly bulky or rigid materials such as hard plastics, metal plates, or tactical outerwear designs, the present invention achieves a novel combination of discreet appearance, wearer comfort, and protective capability through a carefully ordered, flexible, and sewn-together four-layer structure. The integration of a cotton outer layer—typically associated with conventional fabric aesthetics—with an inner arrangement of twill and aramid (such as Kevlar®) layers provides an inconspicuous yet functional garment. This specific configuration solves the long-standing problem of visible, uncomfortable, or restrictive protective gear. Furthermore, the incorporation of optional copper fibers for antimicrobial or conductive benefit, balanced against thermal comfort considerations, demonstrates an inventive approach to combining multiple wearer-centric properties into a single undergarment.

It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.