Abstract:
An imperceptible undergarment fabricated from a transparent material or a skin tone colored material. The clandestine material creates an illusion whereby the undergarment is not easily visible to onlookers. This discretionary look may be beneficial when a wearer is wearing low cut or minimal outer garments that do not fully cover the undergarment. Numerous straps, fasteners, and adjustment clasps provide myriad options for the wearer to adjust the imperceptible undergarment for a proper fit, and to further conceal the undergarment. The imperceptible undergarment may also be fabricated from a clear plastic or breathable fabric that is efficacious in dissipating heat and providing outlets for sweat in areas of high heat generation, such as the breast, the buttocks, and the groin area. A plurality of apertures, thin webbings, or pin holes strategically positioned throughout the imperceptible undergarment provides release points for the heat and sweat.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates generally to an imperceptible undergarment. More so, the present invention provides a transparent or skin tone colored brassiere that supports and dissipates heat from the breast area. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Undergarments are clothes worn underneath outer garments, often next to the skin. The undergarments keep outer garments from being soiled by bodily secretions and discharges, shape the body, and provide support for parts of it. Brassieres provide support to the breast, and often create a fashion statement. In cold weather, long underwear is sometimes worn to provide additional warmth. Some undergarments are intended for erotic effect. Special types of undergarments have religious significance. Some items of clothing are designed as underwear, while others, such as T-shirts and certain types of shorts, are appropriate both as undergarments and as outer clothing. If made of suitable material, some undergarments can serve as nightwear or swimsuits. Comfort is important with undergarments due to the intimate contact with the skin. 
         [0003]    Ideally, undergarments are considered private, and usually worn underneath outer garments. However, low cut, or minimal outer garments create opportunities for the under garment to be visible. Attempts to conceal undergarments include clips that confine brassiere shoulder straps close together, away from the shoulders. The clips also keep the shoulder straps from sliding off of the shoulders. Further attempts to conceal undergarments from view of the public include bikini shorts and thongs that cover the groin and the central area of the buttocks—but riot much else. In this manner, low cut shorts, miniskirts, or swimwear may fully conceal the miniscule undergarments. 
         [0004]    Even though the above cited undergarments address some of the needs of the market, an imperceptible undergarment that is comfortable to wear, yet still provides function and fashion is still desired. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    This invention is directed to an imperceptible undergarment that may be fabricated from a clear material or a skin tone colored material. The clandestine material, from which the undergarment is composed, creates an illusion whereby the undergarment is not easily visible to onlookers. This discretionary look may be beneficial when a wearer is wearing low cut or minimal outer garments that do not fully cover the undergarment. The imperceptible undergarment may also enhance the wearer&#39;s comfort by supporting the breasts. Numerous straps, fasteners, and adjustment clasps provide myriad options for the wearer to adjust the imperceptible undergarment for a proper fit. Strategic adjustment of the imperceptible undergarment may also be utilized to conceal the undergarment. The imperceptible undergarment is also efficacious for providing form to the breasts, attracting or minimizing attention to the breasts, and creating fashion. The imperceptible undergarment is also configured to dissipate heat and sweat from the affected body area. The imperceptible undergarment may be fabricated from a clear plastic or breathable fabric that is efficacious in dissipating heat and providing outlets for sweat in areas of high heat generation, such as the breast, the buttocks, and the groin area. A plurality of apertures, thin webbings, or pin holes strategically positioned throughout the imperceptible undergarment provides release points for the heat and sweat. This is especially beneficial if the material is a clear plastic, which may not have the breathability properties that other fabrics possess. In this manner, the imperceptible undergarment is generally difficult to perceive when properly worn underneath outer garments, fully adjustable, and breathable. 
         [0006]    A first aspect of the present invention provides an undergarment for providing support comprising:
       at least one support member, the at least one support member comprising at least one pad member;   a frame member, the frame member being configured to provide rigidity to the at least one support member;   a first back band having a first band proximal end connected to the at least one support member and having a first band free end;       
 
         [0010]    a second back band having a second band proximal end connected to the at least one support member and having a second band free end, wherein the first band free end detachably connects to the second band free end; and
       at least one shoulder strap.       
 
         [0012]    In a second aspect, the imperceptible undergarment may include, but is not limited to: brassieres, torso supporters, knickers, panties, bikini underwear, thongs, jock straps, boxers, men&#39;s breast supporters, and the like. 
         [0013]    In another aspect, the term “transparent” as used herein shall be construed to include a skin-toned color and complete transparency that when set against the body of the user, creates an impression of the undergarment being truly transparent. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, the term “transparent” shall be intended to mean the property of a material that allows incident light to pass through. 
         [0014]    In another aspect, the term transparent shall be construed to include colored undergarments which although being colored may still be substantially transparent. 
         [0015]    In another aspect, the substantially transparent material in an embodiment of the present invention may be selected from, but not limited to, a variety of transparent fabrics, microfiber, satin, lace, foam, mesh, rubber, plastics, polyester and nylon although other such materials are not excluded. 
         [0016]    In another aspect, the first back band and the second back band wrap around a torso, and are capable of being closed at the front or back of the woman&#39;s torso using the fasteners. 
         [0017]    In another aspect, the fasteners may be either a hook or an eyelet. The hook and eye clasp engage to secure both back bands band at the back portion of the torso or at the front portion of the torso. In this embodiment, the back bands comprise a front portion which fastens at the front of the torso and a back portion which fastens at the back portion of a woman&#39;s torso. However, it should be understood that the front and back portions of the band constitute only an embodiment of the present invention. In other embodiments, the back bands may constitute an undivided strap which may be closed either at the front or back of the torso using the hook and eye clasp. 
         [0018]    In another aspect, the hook and eyelet are two possible types of fasteners for fastening portions of the first back band and second back band together, either at the front or at the back or at both front and back of the torso. In this embodiment, the hook and eyelet comprises a transparent hook and an eyelet into which the hook fits to fasten the two portions of the band together. 
         [0019]    In another aspect, the first back band is provided with a hook while the second back band is provided with eyelets. Both back bands may then be fastened together either at the front, the back or both at the front and the back of the woman&#39;s torso by fastening the hook into the eyelet. 
         [0020]    In another aspect, the imperceptible undergarment may also comprise two support members. Ideally, the support members may be a pair of cups configured to support a pair of breasts. The cups may include pads to further enhance and provide support to the breasts. The pad also acts to provide grip between the cups and the breasts, thereby reducing slippage. The back bands also support the cups. In one embodiment, the pads are filled with a liquid such as gel, water, silicone, or a heat dissipating liquid. 
         [0021]    In another aspect, the imperceptible undergarment is composed of a breathable fabric. 
         [0022]    In another aspect, the imperceptible undergarment may include a plurality of apertures for dissipating heat and providing outlets for sweat in areas of high heat generation. 
         [0023]    In another aspect, a pair of shoulder straps may attach from one end to each back band, and from another end, to the cups. The shoulder straps provide support for both the cups and the back bands. The shoulder straps are detachable from a support member fastener, such as a clip. The shoulder straps may also be adjustable to compensate for different heights and breast sizes. An adjusting member such as a clip and lock may provide adjustment and locking capabilities. Ideally, the shoulder straps are fabricated from the same clandestine material as the rest of the imperceptible undergarment, such as a clear plastic. However in other embodiments, other transparent materials may be utilized. 
         [0024]    In yet another aspect, the support members may be provided with a frame member to provide rigidity. The frame may be composed of a clear plastic, consistent with the other components of the imperceptible undergarment. However in other embodiments, other transparent materials may be utilized. The frame member may be sized and dimensioned into an underwire form, and sewn into the lower portions of the support member. The underwire may be flexible and contour around each of the cups to create a form-fitting, secure effect. 
         [0025]    In yet another aspect of one possible embodiment, in operation, the wearer would position the imperceptible undergarment in front of the pair of breasts. The support members would be oriented to align with and contour the shape of the breasts. Ideally in this orientation, the first back band and the second back band extend past the back of the wearer. The wearer then passes the arms through the shoulder straps, letting the support members hang in front of the breasts. The wearer reaches back, or may acquire assistance, to join the first back band and the second back band. Hooks and eyelets engage to create a secure fit. The shoulder straps should still be loose at this point. The wearer should then make sure that the fit of the support members is not loose or constrained around the torso. The shoulder straps are then adjusted for height by pulling on the shoulder strap through the adjusting member, such as a clip. The wearer should then tighten the shoulder straps until they fit snugly on the shoulders. The shoulder straps may be wrapped around the shoulders and clasped at each back band and to the support members near the front of the torso. However, in other embodiments, the shoulder straps may be criss-crossed around the neck, may be wrapped around one shoulder only or may not be used at all. If the breasts are different sizes, individual adjustments may be made for each support member. It may be common to find that one strap may need to be tightened more tightly than the other. The shoulder strap adjustment compensates for wearers of different heights and breast sizes. The wearer should then look in a mirror to make sure that the imperceptible undergarment fits smoothly and the breasts are inside the support members. The shoulder straps should lie flat against the chest. If the shoulder straps continue to fall off the shoulders, the wearer should consider utilizing an imperceptible undergarment with wider straps that are set more closely or sewn at different angles. Finally, the wearer should check closely to verify that the imperceptible undergarment is not visible through low cut or minimal outer garments. 
         [0026]    Accordingly, an objective of the present invention is to provide an imperceptible undergarment that could be used in backless and/or low cut dresses or blouses. 
         [0027]    A further objective of the present invention is to create comfort for a wearer by including a plurality of perforations on the surface of the support members to dissipate heat and sweat. 
         [0028]    Another objective of the present invention is to provide an imperceptible, form fitting garment, whereby a viewer may not recognize that an undergarment is creating the enhanced effect. 
         [0029]    Yet another further objective of the present invention is a transparent frame member to provide rigidity to the support members and restrict slippage between the breasts and support members, and also to provide greater form to the breasts. 
         [0030]    Another objective of the present invention a flexible clear plastic frame member sewn into the support member that restricts discomfort due to pinching, and breakage of wire. 
         [0031]    Yet another objective of the present invention is the provision of transparent shoulder straps that could be worn in different styles. 
         [0032]    Another objective of the present invention is to provide an invisible brassiere that could be used under a backless and low cut dress inconspicuously. 
         [0033]    These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0034]    The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
           [0035]      FIG. 1  presents a detailed perspective frontal view of an imperceptible undergarment, detailing a first band free end and a second band free end attached, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0036]      FIG. 2  presents a detailed perspective rear view of the imperceptible undergarment, detailing the first band free end and the second band free end attached, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0037]      FIG. 3  presents a detailed perspective upper view of the imperceptible undergarment according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0038]      FIG. 4  presents a detailed perspective rear bottom view of the imperceptible undergarment according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0039]      FIG. 5  presents a detailed perspective right side view of the imperceptible undergarment, detailing a shoulder strap in an operable orientation, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0040]      FIG. 6  presents a detailed perspective left side view of the imperceptible undergarment, detailing the shoulder strap in an operable orientation, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       
    
    
       [0041]    Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views of the drawings. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0042]    The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in  FIG. 1 . Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. 
         [0043]    An imperceptible undergarment  1  is described in  FIGS. 1 through 6 . One novel feature of the imperceptible undergarment  1  is the ability to minimize visibility when worn underneath an outer garment. The imperceptible undergarment  1  is fabricated from a transparent material. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, recognize that the term “transparent” may include a skin-toned color and complete transparency that when set against the body of a wearer, creates an impression of the undergarment being truly transparent. Furthermore, “transparent” may include the property of a material that allows incident light to pass through. Further, the term transparent may encompass colored undergarments which although being colored may still be substantially transparent. In one typical embodiment, the imperceptible undergarment  1  may be fabricated from a clear plastic. In further embodiments, the substantially transparent material of the imperceptible undergarment  1  may be selected from, but not limited to, a variety of transparent fabrics, microfiber, satin, lace, foam, mesh, rubber, plastics, polyester, nylon, and the like. 
         [0044]    In one embodiment, referenced in  FIG. 1 , the imperceptible undergarment  1  is an undergarment comprising: At least one support member  2 . In one embodiment, the at least one support member  2  may be a pair of cups configured to support a pair of breasts. The cups may provide form-fitting support and fashionable aesthetics for the breasts. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that for imperial measurements (inches), cup sizes may be expressed as AA, A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, G, H, I, J and K. However, since different manufacturers utilize varying standards, numerous other sizing standards may be utilized in the industry. The at least one support member  2  may include at least one pad member  3  to further enhance and provide support to the breasts. The at least one pad member  3  may be sewn into the at least one support member  2 . However, other embodiments include a detachably joined at least one pad member  3  that utilizes, but is not limited to, a button, Velcro, a pin, and the like. Each pad member  3  also acts to provide grip between the cups and the breasts, thereby reducing slippage (See  FIG. 2 ). In one alternative embodiment, each pad member  3  may be filled with air, water, silicon, gel, or heat dissipating liquid. 
         [0045]    In one alternative embodiment referenced in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the imperceptible undergarment  1  comprises a plurality of apertures  8  for dissipating heat and providing outlets for sweat from areas, such as, but not limited to, the breasts, buttocks, and groin that generate heat. The plurality of apertures  8  may include, but are not limited to, holes, webbing, thinner material sections, and pin holes. The plurality of apertures  8  may be especially beneficial when a fabric, such as a clear plastic, is utilized because of reduced breathability. 
         [0046]    In one embodiment, the imperceptible undergarment  1  further comprises a frame member  4  for providing rigidity and form to the at least one support member  2  (See  FIG. 1 ). The frame member  4  may be configured as a wire that is sewn into the lower portion of the support member  2 . In one embodiment, the frame member  4  is fabricated from a clear plastic and is pliable. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the frame member  4  may provide the overall shape for the imperceptible undergarment  1 . The frame member  4  may also be shaped to conform to fashion standards. 
         [0047]    In one embodiment, the imperceptible undergarment  1  further comprises a first back band  5 , having a first band proximal end  5 A connected to the at least one support member  2  and a first band free end  5 B. A second back band  6 , extending from the opposite support member  2 , may also include a second band proximal end  6 A connected to the at least one support member  2  and a second band free end  6 B. Ideally, the first band free end  5 B detachably connects to the second band free end  6 B with at least one fastener  7 . In one embodiment, the at least one fastener  7  may include a plurality of hooks attached to the extreme ends of the first band free end  5 B, and a plurality of eyelets attached to the extreme ends of the second band free end  6 B. The first back band  5  and the second back band  6  may then be fastened together either at the front, the back or both at the front and the back of a torso by fastening the hooks into the eyelets. The hooks and the eyelets may engage to provide a secure fit around the torso. 
         [0048]    In one embodiment, the imperceptible undergarment  1  further comprises at least one shoulder strap  9 . The at least one shoulder strap  9  provides support for each support member  2  and each back band  5 ,  6 . The at least one shoulder strap  9  is detachable from the at least one support member  2  by means of a support member fastener  11 , such as a clip or button (See  FIGS. 5 and 6 ). The at least one shoulder strap  9  may also be adjustable to compensate for different heights and breast sizes. An adjusting member  10  such as a clip and lock may provide adjustment and locking capabilities for each shoulder strap  9 . Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the at least one shoulder strap  9  may be criss-crossed around the neck, may be wrapped around one shoulder only or may not be used at all. If the breasts are different sizes, individual adjustments may be made for each support member  2 . The wearer may require that one shoulder strap  9  adjust differently than the other. The adjustment of the at least one shoulder strap  9  compensates for wearers of different heights and breast sizes. Ideally, the at least one shoulder strap  9  is fabricated from the same clandestine material as the rest of the imperceptible undergarment  1 , such as a clear plastic. However in other embodiments, other transparent materials may be utilized. 
         [0049]    The imperceptible undergarment  1  is designed to restrict the view of an undergarment while being worn underneath an outer garment. The imperceptible undergarment  1  may also provide support, and dissipate heat and sweat from a body part. Details of the donning of the imperceptible undergarment are illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 6 . In operation, the wearer would position the imperceptible undergarment  1  in front of the pair of breasts. The at least one support members  2  would be oriented to align with and contour the shape of the breasts. Ideally in this orientation, the first back band  5  and the second back band  6  extend past the back of the wearer. The wearer then passes the arms through each shoulder strap  9 , letting each support member  2  hang in front of the breasts. The wearer reaches back, or may acquire assistance, to join the first back band  5  and the second back band  6 . Hooks and eyelets engage to create a secure fit. Each shoulder strap  9  should still be loose at this point. The wearer should then make sure that the fit of each support member  2  is not loose or constrained around the torso. Each shoulder strap  9  is then adjusted for height by pulling on each shoulder strap  9  through the adjusting member  10 , such as a clip. The wearer should then tighten each shoulder strap  9  until a snug fit occurs on the shoulders. The at least one shoulder strap  9  may be wrapped around the shoulders and clasped to at each back band  5 , 6  and to each support member  2  at the front of the torso. However, in other embodiments, the at least one shoulder strap  9  may be criss-crossed around the neck, may be wrapped around one shoulder only or may not be used at all. If the breasts are different sizes, individual adjustments may be made for each support member. It may be common to find that one shoulder strap  9  may need to be tightened more tightly than the other. The shoulder strap  9  adjustment compensates for wearers of different heights and breast sizes. The wearer should then look in a mirror to make sure that the imperceptible undergarment  1  fits smoothly and the breasts are inside each support member  2 . The at least one shoulder strap  9  should lie flat against the chest. If the at least one shoulder strap  9  continue to fall off the shoulders, the wearer should consider utilizing an imperceptible undergarment  2  with wider shoulder straps  9  that are set more closely or sewn at different angles. Finally, the wearer should check closely to verify that the imperceptible undergarment  1  is not visible through low cut or minimal outer garments. 
         [0050]    Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.