Articles of apparel providing enhanced body position feedback

Related Application Data This application is a partial continuation of US Patent Application No. 11 / 756,291 filed May 31, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Field of Invention The present invention relates to an apparel product that provides the wearer with enhanced body position sensing information. The structure for providing the wearer with enhanced body position information can be a separate element engaged with the apparel product or is integrally formed as part of the fabric of the apparel structure. You can also.

Background Many athletic activities require participants to perform the same or similar activities over and over again, both during practice and during competitive events. For example, a golfer repeatedly swings a golf club during a round or practice session, and a baseball, softball or cricket player repeatedly swings a bat or throws a ball during a game or practice session for yoga. Avid people, gymnasts and dancers repeatedly perform similar steps, movements or routines, basketball players repeatedly hit free throws and other types of shots, and football players repeatedly run, throw, kick, block. Yachts, kayaks, canoeers, crew team members or other "boat" athletes repeatedly perform rowing or other movements, and runners repeatedly cycle their arms and legs. For example, move the ball.

Correct body positioning and / or movement in various parts of athletic performance can assist athletes in a variety of ways. For example, correct body positioning and / or posture during activity allows athletes to apply or exert force in a better direction to more effectively and / or to another object, injuries due to poor positioning or landing. Can help avoid muscle pain, perform aesthetically pleasing or solid routines, and more. Trainers and coaches have a great deal of time to help athletes develop proper body positioning and working in their "form" to improve athletic performance and establish repeatable and reliable movements. Spend.

Training under the supervision of a coach or trainer can significantly improve the athlete's form or body positioning, which in turn can result in improved athletic performance. However, for most people, there is not always a coach or trainer, and during practice or performance, many areas of the athlete's body are not visible to the athlete himself, so for athletes often body positioning and form. There is no good way to check for yourself. Humans cannot easily "feel" the position of various parts of their body in normal posture or position and / or during general movements (eg, a person is generally stance or specific). You cannot "feel" your hip or arch position during your movements). Therefore, over time, athletes are more likely to develop poor posture or body positioning and / or develop other habits in a way that adversely affects their performance.

Hereinafter, aspects of the present invention will be outlined in order to provide a basic understanding of the present invention and its various exemplary features. This overview is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but merely provides an overview and context for the detailed description that follows.

Aspects of the present invention relate to clothing structures having a body position feedback system and a body position feedback system incorporated therein. The body position feedback system provides one or more layers of material with a compressive force application capacity (or elongation resistance) greater than the compressive force application capacity (or elongation resistance) of the material elements that make up most of the clothing structure. Can include. The body position feedback system does not function to "tie" or change the position of the wearer's body. Rather, by applying compressive forces at distant locations on the body, the wearer gains greater tactile sensation (eg, amplified sensory information) in the body position feedback system, and thus greater awareness of body position. Have. In other words, tightly spaced compressed and uncompressed areas (but not too small and not too close) are the wearer's "sense" and awareness of clothing on the body and thus of body position. To enhance.

In some exemplary structures of the invention, the body position feedback system that engages the apparel product is (a) a first material layer with a first compressive force application capability, said first material. The layer comprises a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area, with a continuous first opening extending along the multiple independent legs and within the base area, first. It has a second compressive force application capacity lower than that of the first material layer, as well as (b) the first compressive force application capacity, engages with the first material, and at least partially opens the first opening. It can include a second layer of material that covers (and in some cases completely covers the first opening). In some cases, if desired, the feedback system can further include a third material layer, with the first surface of the third material layer being at least one of the first material layer or the second material layer. Engagement, the second material layer is sandwiched between the first material layer and the third material layer. The second surface of the third material layer (located on the opposite side of the first surface) can contain material for engaging the third material layer with the garment structure.

Other exemplary body position feedback systems of the present invention include various materials, various stitches, various knitting structures that are integrated into the materials that make up the garment structure, for example during a knitting, weaving or sewing process. Alternatively, it can take the form of various woven structures. As some more specific examples, different regions or material layers that provide higher compressive force application capacity, for example, put different materials (materials with different elasticity) in selected positions in clothing structures. By incorporating, it can also be provided integrally, such as by providing different material thicknesses and / or texturings by using different stitching, knitting or weaving patterns.

The body position feedback system can be incorporated in place in the clothing structure to increase the wearer's awareness of the positioning of that part of the body. As some more specific examples, material layers containing higher compressive force application capacity (or higher elongation resistance) are around the abdominal region, around the waist region, around the back region or across the back region, shoulder region. Can be placed near the chest area, near the knee joint, near the elbow joint, near the ankle, etc.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing an apparel product comprising a body position feedback system and / or one or more body position feedback systems. For example, a body position feedback system containing one or more layers of material can be configured and then attached to the garment structure, for example by suturing or sewing, by adhesive or cement, by mechanical connectors and the like. As another example, as described above, the body position feedback system can also be integrated into the garment structure, for example during sewing, suturing, weaving or knitting of the garment structure.

[Claim 1001]

A clothing structure comprising one or more cloth elements and structured and arranged to provide at least adhesion to the abdominal trunk portion, for covering at least the abdominal trunk portion of the human body. And, the clothing structure includes at least a first region in the abdominal trunk portion having a compressive force application capacity higher than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth element constituting the maximum ratio of the clothing structure. An apparel product comprising a first abdominal trunk position feedback system that engages with the clothing structure at the abdominal trunk portion extending from the front central portion to at least the back central portion of the clothing structure.

[Claim 1002]

The apparel product of claim 1001, wherein the first abdominal trunk position feedback system comprises a plurality of separated longitudinal strips extending from a common base located in the central portion of the back of the clothing structure.

[Claim 1003]

An apparel product that further includes a second abdominal trunk position feedback system that engages the clothing structure at the abdominal trunk portion, the second abdominal trunk position feedback system providing the maximum proportion of the clothing structure. The abdominal trunk portion contains at least a second region having a compressive force application capacity higher than that of the constituent cloth elements, and the first abdominal trunk position feedback system is the front central portion of the clothing structure. The second abdominal trunk position feedback system extends from the front central portion of the garment structure to the back central portion of the garment structure. The apparel product according to claim 1001.

[Claim 1004]

The first abdominal trunk position feedback system contains a plurality of separated longitudinal debris extending from the first common base located in the back central portion of the garment structure and the second abdomen. The apparel product of claim 1003, wherein the trunk position feedback system comprises a plurality of separated longitudinal strips extending from a second common base located in the central portion of the back of the garment structure. ..

[Claim 1005]

The apparel product according to claim 1004, wherein the first abdominal trunk position feedback system is separated from the second abdominal trunk position feedback system.

[Claim 1006]

The apparel product according to claim 1003, wherein the first abdominal trunk position feedback system is separated from the second abdominal trunk position feedback system.

[Claim 1007]

A first abdominal trunk position feedback system is located at the front central portion of the garment structure and at the front central portion of the garment structure and is separated from the first end. The apparel product according to claim 1001, comprising an end and an intermediate portion extending around a central portion of the back surface of the garment structure and connecting the first end and the second end.

[Claim 1008]

An apparel product that further includes a second abdominal trunk position feedback system that engages the garment structure at the abdominal trunk portion, the second abdominal trunk position feedback system providing the maximum proportion of the garment structure. A first end located in the anterior central portion of the garment structure, including at least a second region in the abdominal trunk portion having a compressive force application capacity higher than that of the constituent cloth elements, and the said. A second end located in the central portion of the front surface of the garment structure and separated from the first end, and the first end and the second end extending around the central portion of the back surface of the garment structure. The apparel product according to claim 1007, which includes an intermediate part that connects the parts.

[Claim 1009]

The apparel product according to claim 1008, wherein the first abdominal trunk position feedback system is separated from the second abdominal trunk position feedback system.

[Claim 1010]

Further includes a second abdominal trunk position feedback system engaged with the clothing structure at the abdominal trunk portion and a third abdominal trunk position feedback system engaged with the clothing structure at the abdominal trunk portion. In the apparel product, the second abdominal trunk position feedback system has a second area of abdomen that has a higher compressive force application capacity than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth elements that make up the largest proportion of clothing structures. A first end that is at least contained in the trunk portion and is located in the front central portion of the clothing structure, and a second end that is located in the front central portion of the clothing structure and is separated from the first end. And an intermediate portion extending around the central portion of the back surface of the garment structure and connecting the first end and the second end. The third abdominal trunk position feedback system provides a third region in the abdominal trunk portion that has a higher compressive force application capacity than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the garment structure. A first end including at least in the central portion of the front surface of the garment structure and a second end located in the central portion of the front surface of the garment structure and separated from the first end, and the garment. The apparel product of claim 1007, comprising a first end and an intermediate portion connecting the second end extending around a central portion of the back surface of the structure.

[Claim 1011]

The first abdominal trunk position feedback system is separated from the second and third abdominal trunk position feedback systems, and the second abdominal trunk position feedback system is the third abdominal trunk position feedback system. The apparel product according to claim 1010, which is separated from.

[Claim 1012]

A first abdominal trunk position feedback system extends from the central base area, the first leg extending from the central base area to the anterior central portion of the garment structure, and from the central base area to the back of the garment structure. The first, second and third legs include a second leg extending to the central portion and a third leg extending from the central base area to the back central portion of the garment structure. The apparel product according to claim 1001, wherein the parts are separated from each other.

[Claim 1013]

An apparel product that further includes a second abdominal trunk position feedback system engaged with a clothing structure at the abdominal trunk portion, the first abdominal trunk position feedback system is the central base area and the central base area. A first leg extending from the central portion of the front surface of the garment structure, a second leg extending from the central base area to the central portion of the back surface of the garment structure, and the garment extending from the central base area to the central portion of the back surface of the garment structure. The first, second and third legs are separated from each other and the second abdominal trunk position feedback system includes a third leg extending to the central portion of the back surface of the structure. Contains at least a second region in the abdominal trunk portion having a compressive force application capacity higher than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth elements constituting the maximum proportion of the clothing structure, and the central base area and the said. A first leg extending from the central base area to the anterior central portion of the garment structure, and a second leg extending from the central base area to the back central portion of the garment structure. 1001. The first, second and third legs are separated from each other, including a third leg extending from the central base area to the central portion of the back surface of the garment structure. Apparel products.

[Claim 1014]

The apparel product of claim 1013, wherein the first and second abdominal trunk position feedback systems are separated from each other.

[Claim 1015]

10.14. The first abdominal trunk position feedback system is located on the first side surface of the clothing structure, and the second abdominal trunk position feedback system is located on the second side surface of the clothing structure. Apparel products.

[Claim 1016]

The apparel product of claim 1013, wherein the first and second abdominal trunk position feedback systems overlap at least partially with each other.

[Claim 1017]

The apparel product of claim 1013, wherein the first and second abdominal trunk position feedback systems are located on a common side of the garment structure.

[Claim 1018]

A first material layer having a first compressive force application capability, wherein the first material layer is made of a textile or polymer material and extends from the base area and a plurality of independent layers. Engage with the first material layer, including the legs, with a continuous first opening extending along the plurality of independent legs and throughout the base area, and engaging with the first material layer. With a second material layer that covers the first opening at least partially, is made of a cloth or polymer material, and has a second compressive force application capacity lower than the first compressive force application capacity. Body position feedback system that engages with apparel products, including.

[Claim 1019]

The body position feedback system according to claim 1018, wherein the second material layer completely covers the first opening.

[Claim 1020]

The body position feedback system according to claim 1018, wherein a plurality of independent legs extend in a substantially parallel direction away from the base area.

[Claim 1021]

The body position feedback system according to claim 1018, wherein a plurality of independent legs extend in various directions away from the base area.

[Claim 1022]

10.18. Claim 1018, wherein the base area comprises an elongated longitudinal direction and a plurality of independent legs include three to six legs extending away from the base area and away from the elongated longitudinal direction. Body position feedback system.

[Claim 1023]

10.18. The body position of claim 1018, wherein the plurality of independent legs comprises three legs extending away from the base area, and the free ends of the plurality of independent legs are arranged as triangular points. Feedback system.

[Claim 1024]

The body of claim 1018, wherein the plurality of independent legs include three legs extending away from the base area, the free ends of the plurality of independent legs being arranged as equilateral triangular points. Position feedback system.

[Claim 1025]

A body position feedback system further comprising a third material layer, wherein the first surface of the third material layer engages at least one of the first material layer or the second material layer. 1018. The body position feedback system according to claim 1018, wherein the material layer is sandwiched between the first material layer and the third material layer.

[Claim 1026]

The body position feedback according to claim 1025, wherein the second surface of the third material layer, opposite to the first surface, comprises a material for engaging the third material layer with the clothing structure. system.

[Claim 1027]

The body position feedback system according to claim 1025, wherein the third material layer is made of a textile or polymer material.

[Claim 1028]

The third material layer comprises a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area, and the plurality of independent legs of the first layer are the plurality of independent legs of the third layer. The body position feedback system according to claim 1025, which overlaps the legs.

[Claim 1029]

A clothing structure for covering at least a portion of a person's fuselage, which comprises one or more fabric elements and is structured and arranged to provide adhesion to at least a portion of the fuselage, (a. ) A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the garment structure, wherein the first material layer is textile or It is made of a polymer material and contains a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area, and a continuous first opening along the multiple independent legs and in the base area. Extending, first material layer, and (b) engaging with the first material layer, covering the first opening at least partially, made of cloth or polymer material, and said first. An apparel product comprising a second material layer, including a first body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure, having a second compressive force application capacity lower than one compressive force application capacity.

[Claim 1030]

The base area of the first material layer extends along the back central portion of the garment structure, and the plurality of legs extend to the first side surface of the garment structure to the anterior abdominal portion of the garment structure. The deferred apparel product of claim 1029.

[Claim 1031]

An apparel product that further comprises a second body position feedback system engaged with the clothing structure, the second body position feedback system (a) compressing the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the force application capacity, the first material layer of the second body position feedback system being made of textile or polymer material. And a continuous first opening along and in the base area of the second body position feedback system, including the base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. The first material layer, as well as the part extending (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The base area of the first material layer of the second body position feedback system contains a second material layer having a lower second compressive force application capacity along the back central portion of the garment structure. Extending, the plurality of legs of the second body position feedback system extend to the second side of the garment structure and extend to the anterior abdominal portion of the garment structure, and the second body The apparel product of claim 1030, wherein the position feedback system is separated from the primary body position feedback system.

[Claim 1032]

The base area of the first material layer is located on the first side or back portion of the garment structure, and one of the multiple independent legs extends to the anterior abdominal portion of the garment structure. An existing apparel product according to claim 1029.

[Claim 1033]

An apparel product that further comprises a second body position feedback system engaged with the clothing structure, the second body position feedback system (a) compressing the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the force application capacity, the first material layer of the second body position feedback system being made of textile or polymer material. And a continuous first opening along and in the base area of the second body position feedback system, including the base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. The first material layer, as well as the part extending (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The base area of the first material layer of the second body position feedback system contains a second material layer having a lower second compressive force application capacity and is the second side or back of the garment structure. Located in a portion, one of the plurality of independent legs extends to the anterior abdominal portion of the clothing structure, and the second body position feedback system provides first body position feedback. The apparel product according to claim 1032, which is separate from the system.

[Claim 1034]

The apparel product of claim 1029, wherein the base area is located in the first anterior chest area of the garment structure.

[Claim 1035]

An apparel product that further comprises a second body position feedback system engaged with the clothing structure, the second body position feedback system (a) compressing the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the force application capacity, the first material layer of the second body position feedback system being made of textile or polymer material. And a continuous first opening along and in the base area of the second body position feedback system, including the base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. The first material layer, as well as the part extending (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The base area of the first material layer of the second body position feedback system contains a second material layer having a lower second compressive force application capacity and is the second anterior chest area of the clothing structure. The apparel product according to claim 1034, which is located in, and the second body position feedback system is separated from the first body position feedback system.

[Claim 1036]

The apparel product of claim 1029, wherein the base area is located in the first back shoulder area of the garment structure.

[Claim 1037]

An apparel product that further comprises a second body position feedback system engaged with the clothing structure, the second body position feedback system (a) compressing the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the force application capacity, the first material layer of the second body position feedback system being made of textile or polymer material. And a continuous first opening along and in the base area of the second body position feedback system, including the base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. The first material layer, as well as the part extending (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The base area of the first material layer of the second body position feedback system contains a second material layer having a lower second compressive force application capacity and is the second back shoulder area of the garment structure. The apparel product according to claim 1036, which is located in, and the second body position feedback system is separated from the first body position feedback system.

[Claim 1038]

A second body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure, a third body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure, and a fourth body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure. Further including apparel products, the base area is located in the first anterior chest area of the garment structure and the second body position feedback system constitutes (a) the maximum proportion of the garment structure. A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric element, wherein the first material layer of the second body position feedback system is a textile or polymer material. Consistent with the base area and multiple independent legs extending from the base area, along and throughout the multiple independent legs of the second body position feedback system. The first material layer, with the extension of the first opening, as well (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The base area of the first material layer of the second body position feedback system contains a second material layer having a lower second compressive force application capacity and is the second anterior chest area of the clothing structure. The second body position feedback system is separated from the first body position feedback system; The third body position feedback system is (a) a first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. The first material layer of the third body position feedback system is made of textile or polymer material and comprises a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. The first material layer, and (b) the third body position, with a continuous first opening extending along the multiple independent legs and in the base area of the three body position feedback system. A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the third body position feedback system, the third body. The second material layer of the position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and has a second compressive force application capability that is lower than the first compressive force application capacity of the third body position feedback system. Includes a second material layer, The base area of the first material layer of the third body position feedback system is located in the first back shoulder area of the garment structure; The fourth body position feedback system is (a) a first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. The first material layer of the fourth body position feedback system is made of textile or polymer material and comprises a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. A first material layer, with a continuous first opening extending along the multiple independent legs of the four body position feedback system and within the base area, and (b) the fourth body position. A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the fourth body position feedback system, the fourth body. The second material layer of the position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and has a second compressive force application capability that is lower than the first compressive force application capacity of the fourth body position feedback system. Includes a second material layer, The base area of the first material layer of the fourth body position feedback system is located in the second back shoulder area of the clothing structure, and the fourth body position feedback system is the third body. The apparel product of claim 1029, which is separate from the position feedback system.

[Claim 1039]

An apparel product further comprising a second body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure, wherein the base area of the first material layer is located on the first side or back portion of the garment structure. One of the independent legs of the clothing structure extends to the anterior abdominal portion of the clothing structure and the second body position feedback system constitutes (a) the maximum proportion of the clothing structure. A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth element to be applied, wherein the first material layer of the second body position feedback system is a textile or polymer material. Consecutive along and throughout the base area of the second body position feedback system, including a base area and multiple independent legs extending from the base area. The first material layer, as well as the first material layer, where the first opening extends. (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The base area of the first material layer of the second body position feedback system comprises a second material layer having a low second compressive force application capacity is the first aspect of the garment structure or Located on the back portion, one of the plurality of independent legs extends to the anterior abdominal portion of the garment structure, and the first and second body position feedback systems are at least. The apparel product of claim 1029, which partially overlaps each other.

[Claim 1040]

A second body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure, a third body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure, and a fourth body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure. The apparel product further comprises, wherein the base area of the first material layer is located on the first side surface or back portion of the garment structure, and one of the plurality of independent legs is the garment. Extending to the anterior abdomen of the structure, the second body position feedback system is (a) a first compressive force greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the garment structure. A first material layer of applicability, the first material layer of the second body position feedback system, is made of textile or polymer material and extends from the base area and the base area. A first material layer comprising a plurality of independent legs, with a continuous first opening extending along the multiple independent legs of the second body position feedback system and throughout the base area. , And (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The base area of the first material layer of the second body position feedback system comprises a second material layer having a low second compressive force application capacity is the first side or back of the garment structure. Located in a portion, one of the plurality of independent legs extends to the anterior abdominal portion of the garment structure, and the first and second body position feedback systems are at least partially. Overlap each other; The third body position feedback system is (a) a first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. The first material layer of the third body position feedback system is made of textile or polymer material and comprises a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. The first material layer, and (b) the third body position, with a continuous first opening extending along the multiple independent legs and in the base area of the three body position feedback system. A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the third body position feedback system, the third body. The second material layer of the position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and has a second compressive force application capability that is lower than the first compressive force application capacity of the third body position feedback system. Includes a second material layer, The base area of the first material layer of the third body position feedback system is located on the second side or back portion of the garment structure, with one of the plurality of independent legs. Extends and extends to the anterior abdominal portion of the clothing structure; The fourth body position feedback system is (a) a first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. The first material layer of the fourth body position feedback system is made of textile or polymer material and comprises a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area. A first material layer, with a continuous first opening extending along the multiple independent legs of the four body position feedback system and within the base area, and (b) the fourth body position. A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the fourth body position feedback system, the fourth body. The second material layer of the position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and has a second compressive force application capability that is lower than the first compressive force application capacity of the fourth body position feedback system. Includes a second material layer, The base area of the first material layer of the fourth body position feedback system is located on the second side or back portion of the garment structure, with one of the plurality of independent legs. The apparel product of claim 1029, wherein the clothing structure extends to the anterior abdominal portion and the third and fourth body position feedback systems overlap at least partially with each other.

[Claim 1041]

The apparel product of claim 1040, wherein the first and second body position feedback systems are separated from the third and fourth body position feedback systems.

[Claim 1042]

An apparel product that further comprises a second body position feedback system engaged with the garment structure, wherein the second body position feedback system is (a) a fabric element that constitutes the maximum proportion of the garment structure. A first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity, the first material layer of the second body position feedback system being made of textile or polymer material. And the base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area, the first continuous along the multiple independent legs of the second body position feedback system and throughout the base area. The first material layer, as well as the extension of the opening (b) A second material layer that engages with the first material layer of the second body position feedback system and at least partially covers the first opening of the second body position feedback system. The second material layer of the second body position feedback system is made of cloth or polymer material and is more than the first compressive force application capacity of the second body position feedback system. The apparel product of claim 1029, comprising a second material layer, having a lower second compressive force application capacity.

[Claim 1043]

A garment structure for covering at least a portion of a person's body and the garment comprising one or more fabric elements and structured and arranged to provide adhesion to at least a portion of the body. A first body position feedback system engaged with a structure, wherein the first body position feedback system is greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the maximum proportion of the clothing structure. Contains a first layer of material that has the ability to apply compressive force, the first material layer is made of textile or polymer material, and a second back shoulder area across the back from the first back shoulder area. Apparel products, including a first body position feedback system, including a matrix with open cells that extend to.

[Claim 1044]

A garment structure for covering at least a portion of a person's body and the garment comprising one or more fabric elements and structured and arranged to provide adhesion to at least a portion of the body. A first body position feedback system engaged with a structure, wherein the first body position feedback system is greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the maximum proportion of the garment structure. A matrix comprising a first material layer capable of applying compressive force, the first material layer being made of textile or polymer material and having an open cell extending along the first shoulder area. Including the first body position feedback system and including apparel products.

[Claim 1045]

An apparel product that further comprises a second body position feedback system that is engaged and separated from the first body position feedback system, wherein the second body position feedback system is the garment structure. Contains a first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the fabric elements, the first material layer being made of textile or polymer material. The apparel product of claim 1044, comprising a first material layer comprising a matrix having an open cell extending along a second above-shoulder area.

[Claim 1046]

A garment structure for covering at least a portion of a person's body and the garment, comprising one or more cloth elements and structured and arranged to provide adhesion to at least a portion of the body. The garment structure that has a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the structure and includes a first material layer made of textile or polymer material. An apparel product that includes a first body position feedback system engaged with, a first elongated material strip in which the first material layer extends from the first supra-shoulder area to the first arm area. And an apparel product comprising the first elongated material strip and a second elongated material strip extending laterally across the first shoulder area.

[Claim 1047]

An apparel product that further comprises a second body position feedback system that engages with and separates from the first body position feedback system, wherein the second body position feedback system is the garment structure. The second material layer contains a first material layer that has a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion and is made of textile or polymer material. A first elongated material strip extending from the second supra-shoulder area to the second arm area and laterally extending across the first elongated material strip and the second shoulder area of the second material layer. The apparel product of claim 1046, comprising a second strip of material present.

[Claim 1048]

The first elongated strip of the first body position feedback system is continuous, the first elongated strip of the second body position feedback system is continuous, and the first of the first body position feedback system. The apparel product according to claim 1047, wherein the second elongated strip is discontinuous and the second elongated strip of the second body position feedback system is discontinuous.

[Claim 1049]

The apparel product of claim 1047, wherein the first strip of the first body position feedback system is continuous and the second strip of the first body position feedback system is discontinuous.

The present invention will be described by way of example in the accompanying drawings, but is not limited thereto. All figures show elements with the same or similar reference numbers.

<figref num="1">Shows athletes swinging golf and various zones of the body where positioning and / or movement can be important during this activity.</figref><figref num="2">Figures 2A and 2B show exemplary apparel products with an abdominal trunk position feedback system incorporated.</figref><figref num="3A">A detailed view of the abdominal trunk position feedback system shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B is shown.</figref><figref num="3B">A detailed view of the abdominal trunk position feedback system shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B is shown.</figref><figref num="3C">A detailed view of the abdominal trunk position feedback system shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B is shown.</figref><figref num="4A">Illustrative steps involved in manufacturing the body position feedback system of some examples of the present invention are shown.</figref><figref num="4B">Illustrative steps involved in manufacturing the body position feedback system of some examples of the present invention are shown.</figref><figref num="4C">Illustrative steps involved in manufacturing the body position feedback system of some examples of the present invention are shown.</figref><figref num="4D">Illustrative steps involved in manufacturing the body position feedback system of some examples of the present invention are shown.</figref><figref num="4E">Illustrative steps involved in manufacturing the body position feedback system of some examples of the present invention are shown.</figref><figref num="4F">Illustrative steps involved in manufacturing the body position feedback system of some examples of the present invention are shown.</figref><figref num="5">A detailed view of various features that can be included in the body position feedback system of some examples of the present invention is shown.</figref><figref num="6">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="7A">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="7B">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="7C">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="7D">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="8">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="9">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="10">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref><figref num="11">A further exemplary body position feedback system and its application to clothing structures are shown.</figref>

The reader should note that the various parts shown in these drawings are not necessarily drawn in proportion to their actual size.

Detailed Description The following detailed description and accompanying drawings disclose the features of the body position feedback system, apparel product, and manufacturing method of the system and product of the examples of the present invention.

I. Overview of Body Position Feedback Systems and Methods of the Invention As described above, a person facilitates the position of various parts of his body in normal posture or position and / or during general movement or activity. Can't "feel". For example, the back side of a person, especially the lower back, has a relatively thin "tactile" nerve population. However, the core of the human body, its positioning and its movements (including the back side) are very important for many athletic activities. For example, the trunk is the center of rotation and power generation in a golf swing. What's more, being able to repeatedly position and position the body correctly at the beginning and process of the swing develops a consistent and repeatable swing (and thereby improves your golf game). Is extremely important for this.

FIG. 1 shows a golfer 100 during a swing. Body positioning at the beginning of the swing and during the course of the swing (eg, posture at the address position) can be very important to the outcome achieved. Figure 1 shows various zones or areas of the human body that can be important to the outcome of achieving that position, at least at some point during the swing. For golf swings, these important zones include hands 102, feet and ankles 104, calves 106, knees 108, arms 110, shoulders 112, sacral (waist) and trunk 114 and buttocks 116. Helping athletes properly position one or more of these zones at various times during a golf swing (eg, address, posture at other times during the swing process, etc.) allows athletes to repeat their body in the correct position during the swing process. It can greatly assist in arranging and properly positioning the body. Although illustrated in connection with a golf swing, aspects of the invention can be extended to a wide variety of other athletic activities, such as those described above.

Aspects of the invention allow the wearer to better position various selected parts of the body, for example by enhanced stimulation of nerve, joint mechanical and / or deep tissue receptors in selected parts of the body. Regarding clothing that helps to be aware. The garment can be designed to adhere to (and in some cases at least partially wrap) one or more of the various areas or zones described above in connection with FIG. Furthermore, such clothing is adjacent to the enhanced feedback area of the clothing, for example, along or around various parts of the body, applying compressive forces (and resisting stretching). Body position feedback enhancement structures or regions can be included that enhance somatosensory feedback regarding the positions of various parts of the body and enhance the user's "consciousness" regarding the positions of those various parts of the body. Such improved "consciousness" can help athletes better position themselves, develop "muscle memory" and maintain better positioning for longer periods of time.

Advantageously, according to at least some examples of the present invention, the body position feedback structure or region includes a juxtaposed region where compressive forces are applied and a region where compressive forces are not applied. Differences in compressive forces applied to adjacent areas tend to enhance the wearer's sensation and awareness of body position at those positions. Various structures and methods that cause this difference in compressive force applied to adjacent positions will be described below. Clothing does not have to support or affect the movement or positioning of an area of the body (eg, it does not have to act as a fixed support), but rather simply increases sensory awareness of the positioning of that area of the body. be able to.

As mentioned above, aspects of the invention include apparel products such as upper and / or lower body garments (eg shirts, blouses, tank tops, leotards, leggings, shape-fitting garments, pants, shorts, skirts, underwear, etc. ), Socks or other garments that at least partially cover a person's legs or legs, gloves or other garments that at least partially cover or contain at least a part of a person's hand or arm, or Regarding a body position feedback system that can be integrated into them. Contains at least part of the desired part of the body, or special clothing worn on or against it, such as a sleeve or wrap for inserting legs or arms, or the area shown in Figure 1. Clothing or wraps to cover or cover may be provided.

A. Feedback system of the example of the present invention A garment structure having a body position feedback system and a separately engaged body position feedback system will be described in more detail. In some exemplary structures of the invention, the body position feedback system that engages the apparel product is (a) a first material layer with a first compressive force application capability, said first material. The layer is made of textile or polymer material and contains a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area, the first continuous along the multiple independent legs and within the base area. It is made of a first layer of material, as well as (b) a cloth or polymer material, with an extended opening, and has a second compressive force application capacity that is lower than the first compressive force application capacity. A second material layer that engages with the first material layer and covers the first opening at least partially (in some cases, completely covers the first opening) can be included. In some cases, if desired, the feedback system can further include a third material layer, with the first surface of the third material layer being at least one of the first material layer or the second material layer. Engagement, the second material layer is sandwiched between the first material layer and the third material layer. The second surface of the third material layer (located on the opposite side of the first surface) can contain a material for engaging the third material layer with the garment structure. The third material layer (and the second material layer) can also be shaped to match the first material layer, optionally to provide a tackle twill type appearance.

The legs of the first material layer (and possibly the second and / or third material layer) can extend in substantially parallel or various directions away from the base area. In some exemplary structures of the invention, the base area comprises an elongated longitudinal direction, with a plurality of independent legs extending away from the base area and away from the elongated major axis direction. Includes one leg. In other exemplary structures of the invention, the plurality of independent legs of the various material layers comprises three (or more) legs extending away from the base area and the plurality of independent legs. The free end of is arranged as a point of a triangle (eg an equilateral triangle). Other arrangements of the base area and various legs are possible without departing from the present invention.

In other body position feedback systems of the invention, the system can constitute one or more material layers, the fabric at which at least one material layer constitutes the maximum proportion of the clothing structure to which the system is attached. It has a first compressive force application capability that is greater than the compressive force application capability of the element. The first material layer can be made of textile or polymeric material and can take a variety of forms. For example, the first material layer can constitute a matrix structure, two or more intersecting elongated material strips (continuous or discontinuous strips), and the like. Other structures and arrangements of the material layer are possible without departing from the present invention.

In some cases, if desired, at least some parts of the body position feedback system of the examples of the present invention will be integrated into the materials that make up the garment structure, for example during the knitting, weaving or sewing process. It can take the form of materials, sutures, knitting or woven structures. In some more specific examples, different regions or material layers that provide higher compressive force application capacity, for example, different materials (materials with different elasticity) at selected positions in the garment structure. By incorporating, it can also be provided integrally, such as by providing different material thicknesses and / or texturings by using different stitching, knitting or weaving patterns.

B. Apparel product structure of the example of the present invention A further aspect of the invention relates to an apparel product comprising one or more of the body position feedback systems of the examples of the invention. Such apparel products may, for example, (a) include one or more cloth elements and provide adhesion to at least part of the torso (eg, abdominal area, shoulder area, back area, chest area, etc.). A garment structure for covering at least a part of a person's torso (eg, abdominal area, shoulder area, back area, thoracic area, etc.), which is structured and arranged, and (b) a number engaged with the garment structure. At least one body position feedback system can be included. The first body position feedback system is (i) a first material layer having a first compressive force application capacity greater than the compressive force application capacity of the cloth elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure. The first material layer is made of cloth or polymer material and contains a base area and a plurality of independent legs extending from the base area, continuous along the multiple independent legs and throughout the base area. It is made of a first material layer and (ii) cloth or polymer material with an extended first opening, and has a second compressive force application capacity lower than the first compressive force application capacity. It can include a second material layer that engages with the first material layer and at least partially covers the first opening. Individual garment structures may include, for example, more than one body position feedback system in which they are arranged apart and / or overlapped.

Different regions or material layers that provide higher compressive force application can be selected in any desired manner, eg, in the various ways described above (eg, different materials (materials with different elasticity)) in clothing structures. By incorporating in the designated position, by using different stitching, knitting or weaving patterns, by providing different material thicknesses and / or texturings, etc.), as part of the garment structure It can also be provided. If multiple regions of higher compressive force application capacity are provided in one garment structure, different regions can be constructed in the same or different manner without departing from the present invention.

Various examples of material layer arrangements and structures that provide high compressive properties are provided below in the detailed description of the drawings.

C. Illustrative Methods of the Invention A further aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing an apparel product comprising a body position feedback system and / or one or more body position feedback systems. For example, a body position feedback system containing one or more layers of material can be configured and then attached to the garment structure, for example by suturing or sewing, by adhesive or cement, by mechanical connectors and the like. As another example, as described above, the body position feedback system can be integrated into the garment structure, for example, during sewing, suturing, weaving or knitting of the garment structure. Other method steps used in conventional garment manufacturing can be incorporated into the method without departing from the present invention.

Having provided an overview of the various examples and aspects of the invention previously provided, a more detailed description of various specific examples of the body position feedback system, clothing structure and method of the invention is provided below.

II. Detailed Description of Exemplary Body Position Feedback Systems, Apparel Products and Methods of the Invention The following description and accompanying drawings describe the various exemplary body position feedback systems, apparel products and methods of manufacturing the invention. explain. If the same reference number is found in more than one drawing, that reference number is used consistently herein and in the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts.

2A and 2B show the front and back of the garment structure 200, including the two exemplary body position feedback systems 202a and 202b of the present invention, respectively. In this exemplary structure 200, the body position feedback systems 202a and 202b are designed to provide the wearer with information regarding the positioning of the abdominal trunk, body side, hip and / or sacral area of the body, the clothing structure 200. It is placed inside.

Without departing from the present invention, the garment structure 200 can be made of one or more fabric elements, eg, in conventional manner, in conventional materials and / or in conventional construction (eg, sewn or another desired It can be made (using any desired number of individual cloth elements or pieces 220 that are engaged in a manner). In some examples, the garment structure 200 is at least partially an elastomeric material, such as spandex material, or a body or at least a body part on which the body position feedback systems 202a and 202b are located (this illustrated exemplary structure). In 200, it can be made of other materials that provide adhesion to the abdominal trunk, body side, hips and / or sacral area). As one more specific example, at least a portion of the base fabric 220 of the garment structure 200 is a type of DRI-FIT® fabric material commercially available from NIKE, Inc. (Beaverton, Oregon). be able to. If desired, all or some parts of the base fabric 220 can also be made of mesh material or other breathable material to provide a cool and comfortable fit.

The body position feedback systems 202a and 202b in this exemplary structure 200 include several vertically offset legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 extending from the base area 204 located in the back central area. .. The legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 extend from the back central area of the garment structure 200 to the body side of the garment and extend to the front central area. Body position feedback systems 202a and 202b, including at least some of the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214, are materials 220 or structures and / or feedback systems 202a or 202b that make up the largest proportion of clothing structure 200. Has a high "modulus" (eg, elongation resistance, compressive force application, etc.) compared to the elastic modulus associated with the material 220 or structure covered by (eg, elongation resistance, compressive force application, etc.).

Without departing from the present invention, the body position feedback systems 202a and 202b can take a wide variety of sizes and shapes, but as shown in the exemplary structures 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the body position feedback systems 202a and 202b At least some parts of 202b have a directionally continuous structure that extends (or wraps around) around a sufficient part of the body for which enhanced position sensing is desired. For example, FIGS. 2A and 2B show that the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 extend from the back central area of the garment structure 200 to the body side of the garment and extend to the front central area. Legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or 214 are arranged to provide feedback on specific target body parts, such as one or more vertebrae or abdomen, lumbar or trunk area of the body. Can be set up. During the desired activity (eg during a golf ball address position, during a golf swing, when preparing to throw the ball, etc.), the abdomen and / or hips (or other parts of the body) are body position feedback systems 202a and 202b. Stretches or moves against the relatively high elongation resistance or compressive forces associated with. Due to the higher stretch resistance, the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 of the body position feedback systems 202a and 202b cause some level of compression or resistance to stretch or movement (substantially the desired movement). (Without hindering, altering, or affecting), it helps to better stimulate the deep tissue localized nerves or sensory receptors in the wearer's abdomen and lower back. This stimulus provides sensory feedback to the wearer and makes the wearer more aware of the positioning of the target portion of the body.

3A-3C show further details of the body position feedback system 202a of this example of the present invention. FIG. 3A shows a first material layer 300 that can provide all or most of the high "modulus" (eg, elongation resistance, compressive force application capacity, etc.) in the system 202a. As shown in FIG. 3A, this first material layer 300 extends in parallel (or substantially parallel, eg ± 10 °) directions from the common base area 304 and the common base area 304. Includes one leg 306, 308, 310, 312 and 314. The free ends 306a, 308a, 310a, 312a and 314a of the legs 306, 308, 310, 312 and 314 have the most width dimension W of their longitudinal length.₁Width dimension W slightly enlarged compared to₂have. Although shown as a common size in this exemplary structure 300, the various legs, their free ends, etc. can take on a wide variety of sizes, shapes, positions, etc., without departing from the present invention. It can vary in size, shape and relative position within a given material layer structure 300.

The first material layer 300 includes one or more openings 302 defined therein. Without departing from the present invention, the opening 302 can have a wide variety of configurations, such as continuous, discontinuous, repeating patterns, irregular patterns and the like. In this illustrated example, the first material layer 300 extends through the base area 304 along most of the lengths of the legs 306, 308, 310, 312 and 314, defined therein. It has one continuous opening 302 made. The opening 302, if any, is shown to terminate at the beginning of the enlarged free ends 306a, 308a, 310a, 312a and 314a in this exemplary structure, without departing from the present invention. It can extend to any desired amount of base area 304 and / or leg elements 306, 308, 310, 312 and 314. Although not required in all body position feedback systems, the opening 302 provides somewhat greater flexibility to the first material layer 300 (to reduce or eliminate "folding" when bent). Helps reduce heat retention of clothing structures in the area surrounding the first material layer 300.

Any desired type of material can be used in the first material layer 300 without departing from the present invention. In this illustrated example, the material layer 300 is compared to the elastic modulus of the fabric elements that make up other parts of the garment structure (eg, spandex, cotton, polyester or other cloth that makes up the garment structure 200). Being a material with a high modulus of elasticity (eg, more resistant to tensile stretch and / or providing higher compressive force) compared to the stretch resistance or compressive force application capacity of element 220. Can be done. As some more specific examples, the material layer 300 can be a material commonly used in tackle twill production, canvas type material, polyester type material, thermoplastic polyurethane adhesive and the like. In some structures, the material layer 300 may later join the material layer 300 to another material during the body position feedback system construction process (eg, by laminating process, heat and / or pressure application, adhesive, etc.). It is made of or contains a suitable material to enable.

If desired, the opening 302 in the first material layer 300 may be covered. FIG. 3B shows an example of a second material layer 320 that can be applied over the opening 302 to provide a body position feedback system 202a (shown in FIG. 3C). If desired, the second material layer 320 can have approximately the same size and shape as the first material layer member 300, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, but if desired, the second material layer. The 320 may be of a slightly different size (eg, somewhat smaller) and / or a somewhat different shape (eg, have no enlarged edges, shorter, etc.).

Without departing from the present invention, the second material layer 320 can be made of any desired material, including any type of material conventionally used in the manufacture of clothing and apparel. In at least some examples of the present invention, the second material layer 320 is made of a flexible material such as cotton, polyester, etc., and in some cases at least of the other cloth elements 220 of the garment structure 200. Made of the same material contained in one. In some exemplary structures, the second material layer 320 has higher elongation resistance or higher compressive force application capacity than the cloth elements that make up the largest proportion of clothing structure 200, and / or the first material layer. In this illustrated exemplary structure, the second material layer 320 is the same as the first material layer 300, although it can be made of materials with higher elongation resistance or higher compressive force application capacity than 300. Or has a lower elongation resistance. As some more specific examples, the second material layer 320 is a mesh material, such as a high performance sweat control material (eg, polyester microfiber, polyester microfiber / cotton blend, polyester microfiber / cotton / spandex blend, etc. A thin, lightweight cloth made of, or containing, polyester / spandex blends), such as "Sphere Dry" as found in various products marketed by NIKE, Inc. (Beaverton, Oregon). It can be made of polyester knit material and / or Dri-FIT® polyester material (this same material or similar material can also be used as the other fabric element 220 in the entire clothing structure 200).

As shown in FIG. 3C, the maximum continuous dimension (length dimension "L") of the high compressive force application area 202a.₁) Corresponds to the positions of the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 that extend across the center of the back to the center of the front. Each leg 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 comprises a separate free end region (206a, 208a, 210a, 212a and 214a) and the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 are this exemplary structure. At 202a, they are connected to each other by a common base region 204. Similar to the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214, the common base area 204 has higher elongation resistance (or compression) than the fabric elements and / or the material it covers, which make up the largest proportion of the garment structure 200. It can be made of a material that has the ability to apply force). The base area 204 can be placed in the back central region of the garment structure 200, optionally offset to one side of the central spinal region of the garment 200. Although not required for all body position feedback systems of the invention, the base area 204 holds the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 together, which positions the feedback system 202a on the garment 200. And can support the production of the entire clothing 200.

As mentioned above, in this illustrated exemplary structure 202a, at least one of the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or 214 extends around the desired part of the body (in this example). From one free end 206a, 208a, 210a, 212a and / or 214a of the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or 214 long enough to extend from the dorsal central area to the anterior central area Dimension "L" to the opposite end of base area 204₁-See Figure 3C). In this way, the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or 214 apply a force (or compressive force) that resists stretching or movement to that part of the body. This total length dimension "L₁Can vary, for example, depending on the size of the garment and / or the part of the body that is housed (eg, dimensions of at least 10 cm, at least 15 cm, at least 25 cm, at least 30 cm or more). Moreover, in at least some exemplary structures 202a, this length dimension L₁Is the full width dimension "W" in the central area of the corresponding legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or 214.₁, And / or the full width dimensions of the free end portions 206a, 208a, 210a, 212a and / or 214a of the legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or 214 "W".₂Is substantially larger than. In at least some exemplary structures of the invention, L₁: W₁And / or L₁: W₂The ratio can be at least 4, and in some structures it can be at least 7, at least 10, at least 12 or more. Similarly, the actual leg length dimension L excluding the common base area 204₂Is 0.5L₁~ 0.99L₁Range or 0.75L₁~ 0.95L₁Or 0.85L₁~ 0.95L₁Can be within the range of.

FIG. 3C further shows that the higher compressive force applied legs 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 are separated from each other. This separation provides several adjacent areas where compressive forces are applied differently (eg, areas where compressive forces are applied are adjacent to areas where compressive forces are not applied). This "difference" (or difference in stretch resistance) of the applied force can further enhance the wearer's "sense" and awareness of the body position. Any desired separation distance or amount can be used without departing from the present invention. As some more specific examples, the separation distance "S" along most of the leg length₁(Excluding free end portions 206a, 208a, 210a, 212a and / or 214a) is 0.25W₁~ 2W₁Can be within the range of 0.5W in some structures₁~ 1.5W₁Or even 0.75W₁~ 1.25W₁Can be within the range of. The free ends 206a, 208a, 210a, 212a and / or 214a are separated distances "S" if desired.₂Can be maintained. As some more specific examples, if you wish, S₂Is 0 ~ 1.5W₁Can be in the range of 0 to 1 W in some examples₁Or even more 0 ~ 0.5W₁Can be.

As mentioned above, the body position feedback system of the present invention can also be attached separately to the garment structure (eg, by overlaying on one or more fabric elements of a conventional apparel product structure). Alternatively, it can be integrally formed as a part of a clothing structure. Without departing from the present invention, any of these types of body position feedback systems can take a wide variety of forms and / or structures. An example of a suitable body position feedback system (eg, systems 202a and 202b in FIGS. 2A and 2B) and their structure and incorporation into an apparel product structure will be described in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 4A-4F.

The body position feedback system of this example of the present invention can be configured, for example, by the methods shown in FIGS. 4A-4F. This exemplary body position feedback system is a multi-layer structure that can be applied separately to existing clothing structures (eg shirts, tank tops, underwear, leotards, etc.). FIG. 4A shows the manufacture of first layer 300 of the exemplary body position feedback system structure 202a of FIGS. 2A and 2B. As shown, in this step one or more first layer members 300 are cut out from a blank or piece of larger material 316. Any desired type of cutting process can be utilized without departing from the present invention, including, for example, punching, laser cutting, hand cutting and the like. Also, the desired type of material 316 can be used without departing from the present invention. In this illustrated example, material 316 is compared to the elastic modulus of the fabric elements that make up other parts of the garment structure (eg, spandex, cotton, polyester or other cloth elements that make up the garment structure 200). A material that has a high modulus of elasticity (eg, is more resistant to tensile stretch and / or provides higher compressive force) compared to 220 stretch resistance or compressive force application capacity. it can. As some more specific examples, the material 316 can be a material commonly used in tackle twill production, canvas type material, polyester type material, thermoplastic polyurethane adhesive and the like. In some structures, the material layer 316 later joins the first material layer 300 to another material during the body position feedback system construction process (eg, laminating process, heat and / or pressure application, adhesive). It is made of or contains a suitable material to make it possible. Additional or alternative, if desired, without departing from the present invention, the higher compressive force application material layer 300 is made of a large number of joined pieces.

This illustrated exemplary structure 300 is provided by a common base member 304 (eg, in this example, extending along the back central area of the clothing structure), as in the structures shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Includes multiple extension regions 306, 308, 310, 312 and 314 of connected high elongation resistors. Each of the individual extension regions of this exemplary structure 300, 306, 308, 310, 312 and 314, comprises an opening 302 cut out therein. If desired, the opening 302 can extend along a common base member 304, as shown in FIG. 4A. In FIG. 4A, the opening 302 is shown as one continuous opening 302, but if desired, the higher compressive force applied material layer 300, without departing from the present invention, has a large number of separate openings. Can include parts (eg, as separate openings extending along each leg 306, 308, 310, 312 and 314).

Figure 4B shows another step in this exemplary process for manufacturing a body position feedback system. This step is a material 322 clipping step as described above in connection with FIG. 4A, in which case the material 322 forms a second layer across the body position feedback system structure 202a. Without departing from the present invention, any desired type of cutting process, including those previously described in connection with FIG. 4A, can be used in this step. Generally, the material 322 is cut into one or more second layer members 320 having about the same size and shape as the first layer member 300, but if desired, the members 320 are somewhat different in size (eg, for example). Somewhat smaller) and / or may have a somewhat different shape.

Without departing from the present invention, the second material layer 320 can be made of any desired material 322, including any type of material conventionally used in the manufacture of clothing and apparel. In at least some examples of the invention, the second material layer 320 is made of a flexible material such as cotton, polyester, etc., and in some cases at least one of the other fabric elements 220 of the garment structure 200. Made from the same material contained in one. In some exemplary structures, the second material layer 320 has higher elongation resistance than the fabric elements that make up the largest proportion of the clothing structure 200 and / or higher elongation resistance than the first material layer 300. Although it can be made of material, in this illustrated exemplary structure, the second material layer 320 has the same or lower elongation resistance as the first material layer 300. As some more specific examples, the second material layer 320 is a mesh material, such as a high performance sweat control material (eg, polyester microfiber, polyester microfiber / cotton blend, polyester microfiber / cotton / spandex blend, etc. Thin and lightweight fabrics made of or containing polyester / spandex blends, high compression meshes, etc.), such as those found in various products commercially available from NIKE, Inc. (Beaverton, Oregon). Can be made of "Sphere Dry" polyester knit material and / or Dri-FIT® polyester material (this same or similar material may be used as the other fabric element 220 in the entire clothing structure 200. You can also).

Once the material layers 300 and 320 have been cut out from the semi-processed products 316 and 322, respectively, they can be joined together, thereby constructing the body position feedback base member 324, as shown in FIG. 4C. Any desired method of joining these layers 300 and 320 can be used without departing from the present invention, including, for example, sewing or suturing, adhesives or cements, one or more such as laminating processes. .. As some more specific examples, layers 300 and 320 can be joined together in the manner used in conventional tackle twill construction and manufacturing. These can also be joined using heat press techniques such as those conventionally known and used in the art.

FIG. 4C shows that the material of the second layer 320 extends over and covers the opening 302 in the first material layer 300. When a flexible, lightweight and / or low compressive force applied material (compared to material layer 300) and / or mesh material is used as the second material layer 320, the type constructed by the methods of FIGS. 4A-4F. Certain benefits can be provided throughout the clothing structure, including the multi-layer body position feedback system. For example, a lightweight mesh or other material for the second material layer 320 can help prevent or reduce the excessive heat storage that can occur due to the presence of the first material layer 300 ( For example, if the first material layer 300 is not very breathable). Additional or alternative, if desired, the use of lightweight and / or flexible material for material layer 320 allows the entire body position feedback base member 324 to move better with the wearer's body, and / or It can assist in bending (at least in directions other than the substantially longitudinal or longitudinal dimensions of the high elongation resistant material region), thereby helping to avoid unpleasant folds, bends, etc.

4B and 4C show one second material layer 320 that engages the first material layer 300 and completely covers all openings 302. This is not a requirement. On the contrary, if desired, a plurality of second material layers 320 can be provided and attached separately to the first material layer 300. For example, each second material layer piece 320 can cover only one or less than all of the openings 302, and a large number of second material layers 320 can cover one opening 302. And so on. When a plurality of second material layers 320 are present, they can overlap, partially overlap, and / or remain separated from each other without departing from the present invention. As yet another example, layer 320 can simply be omitted from the structure if desired.

FIG. 4D shows the manufacture of another material layer 330 that can be incorporated into the body position feedback system of at least some examples of the present invention. This layer 330, the base layer, can be cut out from the semi-processed product 332 to approximately the same size and shape (possibly slightly larger) as the first material layer 300, using the same or similar technique as above. it can. Without departing from the present invention, the base layer 330 can be made of any desired material 332, including materials that have a higher compressive force application capacity than the base clothing material to which it is attached. Moreover, if desired, the base layer 330 may include an opening defined therein or may be made of mesh material to increase the breathability of the entire body position feedback system. Various exemplary features of this base layer 330 will be described in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 4E and 4F.

The base layer 330 does not have to have the same shape as the other layers 300. For example, if desired, base layer 330 may simply be a relatively large block of material (discussed below) that allows other layers to be easily applied without the need to align the various parts exactly. Good. It is also possible to use a multi-part structure for the base layer 330 (a large number of base layer parts engaging one layer 300) without departing from the present invention.

In the next step of this illustrated exemplary approach, one or more base layers 330 are associated with one or more fabric elements of the garment structure, such as FIGS. 2A and 2B, as shown in FIG. 4E. It applies to the cloth element 220 of the clothing structure 200 described above. Any method of applying the base layer 330 to the fabric element 220 can be used without departing from the present invention. For example, if desired, one surface of the base layer 330 allows the base layer 330 to be applied to the fabric element 220 using heat, pressure and / or other adhesive curing and / or laminating techniques. Can contain (or are processed to contain) an adhesive or other material for. As another example, the base layer 330 can be sewn or sewn to engage the fabric element 220, such as by a mechanical connector (eg, a hook loop fastener). The combination garment structure 200 to which the base layer 330 is applied is indicated by reference number 340 in FIG. 4E.

Next, as shown in FIG. 4F, the body position feedback base 324 is engaged with the clothing base structure 340 on the base layer 330 to complete the clothing structure (eg, the clothing structure shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). (Something like 200). Any desired method of engaging the body position feedback base 324 with the base layer 330 on the clothing base structure 340 can be used without departing from the present invention. For example, if desired, the exposed surface of the base layer 330 allows the body position feedback base 324 to be applied to the base layer 330 using heat, pressure and / or other adhesive curing and / or laminating techniques. Can contain (or are processed to contain) an adhesive or other material for use. As another example, the body position feedback base 324 can be sewn or sewn to engage the base layer 330, such as by a mechanical connector (eg, a hook loop fastener). In one exemplary structure, the base layer 330 and the first material layer 300 (included in the base 324) are materials that allow them to be engaged using, for example, heat, pressure and / or laminating processes. Made of and / or contains materials. The base layer 330 and the first material layer 300 can also be made of a type of thermoplastic polymer material commercially available from Bemis Associates, Inc. (Shirley, Massachusetts, United States), and the adhesion of these Bemis materials. It can be retained according to gender. Also, thermoplastic polyurethane adhesives, gorilla grip materials and / or materials commercially available from Framis Italia SpA (Gaggiano, Italy) can be used for such multi-layered laminated structures.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various methods described above can be significantly modified without departing from the present invention. For example, various independent steps are described in connection with FIGS. 4A-4F, but without departing from the present invention, these steps are performed simultaneously, including reordering, combining, and additional features. It can be performed by one or more independent parties. For example, if desired, a multi-layer body position feedback system is constructed completely independent of the garment structure and then after the construction is complete (eg, including all layers) into the garment structure as a single element. Can be applied (eg, by sewing, in one laminating, heating and / or pressing step). As another example, if desired, the garment can be used as the initial base material to build the entire feedback system structure (eg, first apply the base layer 330 to the garment and the second layer 320 to the base layer. Apply to 330, then apply first layer 300 over the second layer). As yet another example, if desired, one or more layers (eg, base layer 330, second material layer 312, etc.) can be omitted without departing from the present invention. If desired, only one layer (eg, layer 330 and / or layer 300) can form the entire body position feedback structure. In addition, other modifications are possible.

This can have an advantageous tactile effect if the entire body position feedback system is less breathable than the other fabric elements of the garment structure, including the fabric elements adjacent to the feedback system. The reduced breathability of the higher compressive areas can cause some local sweating in these areas. Differences caused by the presence of sweat in areas of higher sweating can further enhance the differential sensation and thus the wearer's sensation and awareness of these parts of their body.

FIG. 5 shows cross-sectional views of various examples of the multi-layer type attachable body position feedback system of the present invention described above in connection with, for example, FIGS. 2A-4F. The top sectional view of FIG. 5 shows the body position where the first material layer 300 and the base layer 330 are substantially the same size and shape and the second material layer 320 is sandwiched between these layers. The feedback system 202a is shown. As shown in the upper part of FIG. 5, the second material layer 320 is somewhat smaller than the other layers, which exposes the outer edges of the first material layer 300 and the base layer 330 and joins them together. (For example, by glue or cement, by laminating technology, by suturing or sewing, etc.). On the other hand, the lower sectional view of FIG. 5 shows the base layer 330, which is somewhat larger than the first material layer 300 (and extends beyond the edge of the first material layer 300). The first material layer 300 is somewhat larger than the second material layer 320 (and the second material layer 320 is sandwiched between the first material layer 300 and the base layer 330). Again, without departing from the present invention, any desired method of joining the various layers can be used, including the method described above in relation to the upper cross-sectional portion of FIG. If desired, this structure can be used to manufacture a body position feedback system 202a with a tackle twill type appearance in the final structure.

FIG. 5 shows another optional feature that can be included in the clothing structure and / or body position feedback system of at least some examples of the present invention. As shown in the cross section below FIG. 5, one or more layers of the body position feedback system 202a can include "texturing" features or elements. In FIG. 5, texturing is indicated by a raised area 350 extending from the bottom of the base layer 330. This type of texturing can further enhance the "sensation" of the wearer of the body position feedback system 202a, better stimulate nerve and deep tissue receptors, and so on. The raised area 350 can be provided on any desired surface or layer (and / or part thereof) of the body position feedback system 202a and can be of the desired size or shape (eg, include them). Raised at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, at least 5 mm or even at least 8 mm relative to the base plane level of the layer (eg layer 330 in Figure 5). The raised area 350 can be integrally formed (eg molded or embossed in it) as part of the layered structure 330 or applied to it as a separate element (eg printed on it). It can also be (such as a silicone dot element applied to it, a mechanical fastener element or a portion thereof (eg a male snap element)). Texturing 350 can be applied uniformly and evenly throughout a layer of material, but is specific, including being present in multiple discontinuous positions in one or more parts of the material layer to which it is applied. You can also concentrate on the position of.

Without departing from the invention, aspects of the invention can be used with any desired clothing type or style. Various examples of including the body position feedback system in clothing structures are shown in relation to Figures 6A-11C. These figures will be described in more detail below.

FIG. 6A shows a clothing structure 600 including a lower trunk position feedback system 602. The lower trunk position feedback systems in Figures 2A and 2B extend along the sides of the back central portion of the clothing structure, two feedback systems 202a and 202b, one on each side of the wearer's body. Included (along with the connected base member 204). The free arms of these feedback systems 202a and 202b extended from the respective base member 204 of the garment structure to the sides of the garment and extended to the central portion of the anterior surface. In FIGS. 6A and 6B, the feedback system 602 has a number of separate bands 602a-602e extending almost completely around the garment structure 600 from one front central side surface to the other front central side surface of the garment structure 600. Including. If desired, a gap G may remain between the free ends 604 and the free ends 604 of each band 602a-602e, as shown in FIG. 6A.

Any desired gap distance G, including gaps within the range of 1 cm to 40 cm, in some cases 2 cm to 20 cm or even 5 cm to 15 cm, can be maintained without departing from the present invention. Band 602a ~ 602e is, other For example, the width W that noted above with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C₁And W₂And separation distance S₁And S₂Can have any desired width W, including, and can be separated from each other by any desired separation distance S. The bands 602a-602e can also have any desired overall length L, eg, 15 cm-120 cm, in some cases 25 cm-100 cm or even 30 cm-75 cm, depending on the clothing size and desired circumference range. it can. The gap G, leg width W, separation distance S and leg length L may be constant or variable within the various feedback devices 602 provided for the individual garment structure 600.

If desired, the bands 602a-602e can extend around the garment structure 600, always maintaining at least some separation between the individual bands 602a-602e. Alternatively, if desired, at least some of the bands 602a-602e may intersect and / or overlap each other without departing from the present invention. Also, if desired, the band can extend the clothing structure 600 with only about half the winding (eg, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, but of the base portion 204 connecting the individual legs. In no arrangement). Bands 602a-602e can be made of any desired material, including the various materials described above with respect to the multilayer structure of FIGS. 4A-4F, and if desired, bands 602a-602e are the same as above. It can also be engaged in a manner with the material of the clothing structure 600.

Figures 7A-7D show its inclusion in another body position feedback device 700 and clothing structure 750. In this exemplary structure, the feedback device 700 has a multi-legged structure 704 extending from the base area 702 (eg, three legs 704 in this illustrated example). If desired, the internal area of the leg 704 and the base area 702 can include one or more openings 706 defined therein. The feedback device 700 can be made of any desired material and structure that has elongation resistance and / or compressive force application capability, but if desired, at least some of the feedback devices 700 can be found, for example, in FIGS. 4A-4F. It can have a multi-layered structure as described above in relation (eg, the opening 706 may be covered with a mesh or other material if desired). The feedback device 700 can also be engaged with the material of the garment structure 750 in the same manner as described above, if desired. FIG. 7A shows various legs 704 of substantially the same length and appearance, but if desired, the legs 704 may be of different lengths and may have different structures (eg,). , The leg 704 extending in a substantially horizontal circumferential direction may be somewhat longer than one or more of the other legs 704).

7B-7D show an exemplary arrangement of multiple feedback devices 700 on the garment structure 750. As illustrated, in this exemplary structure, the two legs of the various feedback devices 700 overlap each other along the central dorsal side of the garment structure 750, thereby substantially along each side of the central spine. Provides a continuous base area 752. A plurality of individual legs 704 extend substantially horizontally from this base area 752, surrounding a substantially horizontal perimeter of the garment structure 750. The overlapping base areas 752 provide great compressive force application and stretch resistance, while keeping the legs 704 and their free ends separated from each other to provide good tactile differences and body position feedback sensory information.

Without departing from the present invention, for example, the gap and width (width W) described above in relation to FIGS. 2A to 4F.₁And W₂Including), separation distance (separation distance S)₁And S₂(Including) and leg length L (leg length L)₁And L₂Any desired gap distance G, width W, separation distance S and leg length L can be provided, including). The gap distance G, leg width W, separation distance S and leg length L may be constant or variable within the various feedback devices 700 provided for the individual garment structure 750.

The feedback device 700 can be made of any desired material, including the various materials described above with respect to the multilayer structure of FIGS. 4A-4F. Further, without departing from the present invention, any method of engaging the feedback device 700 with the clothing structure 750 can be used, but if desired, the feedback device 700 can be used in the same manner as described above. It can also be engaged with 7500 materials.

The feedback device 700 of FIGS. 7A-7D is not limited to use in the lower trunk (waist and / or abdomen) region. On the contrary, as shown in Figures 8A and 8B, this same general feedback device structure 700 is used to provide clothing 800 that provides enhanced feedback on the position of the wearer's back, shoulders and chest. You can also do it. Various configurations are possible without departing from the present invention, but in this illustrated example, on the garment 800, four feedback devices 700, two on each shoulder, one on the front, one. One is attached to the back. The feedback device 700 has multiple legs (eg, three legs) and has the same general size and shape (but the feedback device 700 in a given clothing structure 800 has the same general size and / or It does not have to have a shape). In the illustrated clothing 800, each of the two back feedback devices 700 has a leg 704 extending substantially horizontally towards the back center region, and each of the two front feedback devices 700 has a central chest. It has legs 704 that extend substantially horizontally towards the area. The other leg 704 of the device 700 generally extends vertically towards the top of the shoulder and towards the armpit area of the garment structure 800. The garment structure 800 provides excellent feedback on the position of the wearer's arms and shoulders during the course of activity.

The body position feedback device of Figure 7A is not limited to use in the waist, abdomen and / or shoulder areas. On the contrary, if desired, similar structures should be placed on clothing products near other parts of the body, such as ankles, calves, knees, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms, elbows, wrists, necks, etc. You can also do it.

FIG. 9 shows another body position feedback device 902 on the garment structure 900. The feedback device 902 is located in the back and shoulder areas and extends continuously across the back from one shoulder area to the other shoulder area. In this exemplary structure 900, the feedback device 902 is in the form of a matrix in which a plurality of bands 904 extend substantially obliquely over the structure 902. Bands 904, which can be made of materials with compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance, intersect each other to create a matrix type structure. The area between the bands 904 creates the tactile "difference" described above, helping the wearer to better "feel" the shoulder and back positioning.

Any desired spacing between bands 904 can be maintained without departing from the invention, but according to at least some examples of the invention, nearly parallel bands 904 are at least 2 cm, some examples. Can be separated by a distance within the range of 2 cm to 16 cm or further within the range of 4 cm to 10 cm.

Without departing from the present invention, the band 904 within a given clothing structure 900 can have the same or different compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance. As a few examples, the compressive force application capacity can vary in the area of the feedback device structure 902, and the band 904 extending in one direction is different from the band 904 extending in the other direction. It can also have compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance.

Without departing from the present invention, the feedback device 902 includes a single-layer structure (eg, one urethane film laminate provided directly at a desired position in the clothing structure) or a multi-layer structure (eg, as described above). It can have any desired structure. Also, without departing from the present invention, the feedback device 902 can be engaged with the underwear material in any desired manner, including the various methods described above.

FIG. 10 shows another body position feedback device arrangement for the shoulder area of clothing structure 1000. This feedback device arrangement comprises two parts, one portion 1002a provided on one shoulder and another portion 1002b provided on the other shoulder. If desired, these two parts 1002a and 1002b can be maintained separately or joined together at the back (eg, in an arrangement such as that shown in Figure 9). Again, in this exemplary structure, the feedback devices 1002a and 1002b are in the form of a matrix in which multiple bands 1004 extend substantially diagonally over the structures 1002a and 1002b. Bands 1004, which can be made of materials with compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance, intersect each other to create a matrix type structure. The area between the bands 1004 creates the above-mentioned tactile "difference" and helps the wearer to better "feel" the shoulder and back positioning.

Any desired spacing between bands 1004 can be maintained without departing from the present invention, but according to at least some examples of the invention, nearly parallel bands 1004 are at least 2 cm, some examples. Can be separated by a distance within the range of 2 cm to 16 cm or further within the range of 4 cm to 10 cm.

Without departing from the present invention, bands 1004 within a given clothing structure 1000 can have the same or different compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance. As a few examples, the compressive force application capacity can vary over the entire area of the feedback device structures 1002a and 1002b, with band 1004 extending in one direction and band 1004 extending in the other direction. It can also have different compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance.

Without departing from the present invention, the feedback devices 1002a and 1002b can have any desired structure, including a single layer structure or a multi-layer structure as described above. Without departing from the present invention, the feedback devices 1002a and 1002b may be the same or different if they are separate devices. Also, without departing from the present invention, the feedback devices 1002a and 1002b can be engaged with the underwear material in any desired manner, including the various methods described above.

Bands 904 and 1004 can be individually formed within one matrix structure 902 and 1002 and separated from each other (eg, joined to a common peripheral member), but each is another structure. Is possible. For example, if desired, the entire apparatus 902 and 1002 can be formed as a single piece without departing from the present invention.

11A-11C show a further example of the body position feedback system 1102 that can be included in the clothing structure 1100 according to the present invention. The feedback system 1102 in these examples is generally cruciform (eg, four legs 1106 extending from the central base area 1104). As shown in FIG. 11A, these body position feedback systems 1102 are located in the shoulder area of the clothing structure 1100, with two legs 1106 extending from the above-shoulder area to the sleeves and two legs 1106. It extends laterally at the base area 1104, crossing the first two legs 1106. Any desired leg structure 1106 is possible, but in the illustrated example, two of the legs 1106 (legs extending from the shoulder to the sleeve) are continuous and two of the legs 1106 It is discontinuous. Any central base area 1104 structure is possible, but in these exemplary structures 1102, the central base area 1104 constitutes a discontinuity between the individual legs 1106. The main difference between the feedback system in Figure 11B and the feedback system in Figure 11C is with respect to the tapered side wall of the leg 1106.

The leg 1106 can be made of a material that has compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance. The area between the legs 1106, the open central base area 1104 and the discontinuities (if any) of the legs 1106 cause the tactile "difference" described above, allowing the wearer to better position the shoulders and arms. Helps to make it possible to "feel". Without departing from the present invention, the legs 1106 within a given clothing structure 1100 can have the same or different compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance. As a few examples, the compressive force application capacity can be different for the two shoulders, and the vertical leg 1106 has a different compressive force application capacity or stress resistance than the horizontal leg 1106. You can also.

Without departing from the present invention, the feedback device 1102 can have any desired structure including a single layer structure or a multi-layer structure as described above. Also, without departing from the present invention, the feedback device 1102 can be engaged with the underwear material in any desired manner, including the various methods described above.

10 and 11A show another feature that can be provided in a garment structure according to at least some examples of the present invention. As shown in these figures, the feedback devices 1002a, 1002b and 1102 can have a color that contrasts with the parts of the clothing structure 1000 and 1100 to which they are attached. This feature can help the wearer to better view the feedback devices 1002a, 1002b and 1102, which can help the wearer repeatedly return to the same posture or body positioning or visual cues or It can provide visual information. For example, in addition to the tactile aspect of body positioning due to compressive force application or stretch resistance, color contrast allows the wearer to better view body position features such as torso rotation, shoulder rolls, etc. Can help you.

The compression force application area or elongation resistance area described above in relation to FIGS. 2A-11C is a type that can be formed separately from the existing clothing structure and / or attached separately to the existing clothing structure. Is. This is not a requirement. Other exemplary body position feedback systems of the invention are, for example, various materials that are integrated into the materials that make up the garment structure during the knitting, weaving or sewing process used in forming the garment. Can take the form of different suture arrangements, different knitting structures and / or different weaving structures. In some more specific examples, different regions or material layers that provide higher compressive force application capacity or elongation resistance are selected, for example, from different materials (materials with different elasticity) in clothing structures. It can also be provided integrally, such as by providing different material thicknesses and / or texturings by incorporating in place, using different stitching, knitting or weaving patterns.

III. Conclusion The present invention has been described above with reference to various exemplary structures, features, elements and structures, features, and combinations of elements in the accompanying drawings. However, an object achieved by the present disclosure is not to limit the scope of the invention, but to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous modifications and modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. For example, the various features and concepts described above in connection with FIGS. 1-11C may be used individually and / or in any combination or subcombination without departing from the present invention.

Further, aspects of the invention are used with other clothing structures and clothing structures designed to provide feedback information about various target areas of the body (eg, any of the zones shown in FIG. 1). Can also be extended to. As some more specific examples, the aspects of the invention include the hands, feet, ankles, calves, knees, arms, elbows, shoulders, abdomen, sacral bones or back, trunk, buttocks, neck, etc. It can also be extended to use with tailored garment structures specifically designed to provide the wearer with position feedback information regarding at least a portion of the positioning. Any type of clothing structure that adheres to one or more of these parts of the body, wraps them, and / or houses them at least partially can be provided according to the examples of the invention. Also, clothing structures incorporating aspects of the invention are optional in which correct body posture, movement and / or positioning can affect performance, and / or development of "muscle memory" can improve performance. Can be developed for use in a wide variety of sports, athletic performances and / or other activities, including activities of. Examples of such sports and / or activities are golf, baseball, softball, cricket, basketball, football, hockey, skiing, snowboarding, boating, yachting, weight lifting, sprinting, running, jogging, walking, gymnastics, cycling. , Skateboarding, soccer, swimming, diving, tennis, yoga, dance, volleyball, bobsley, rouge, lacrosse, etc., but not limited to these.