US20090178174A1

US20090178174A1 - Apertured clothing

Info

Publication number: US20090178174A1
Application number: US12/324,632
Authority: US
Inventors: James Grady Cash, JR.
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2005-07-21
Filing date: 2008-11-26
Publication date: 2009-07-16

Abstract

An article of clothing configured to cover leg portions of a wearer; wherein the clothing includes a first leg member. The first leg member includes a first selectably sealable aperture disposed about a front portion of the first leg member. The first leg member also includes a second selectably sealable aperture disposed about an exterior side portion of the first leg member. The first and second selectably sealable aperture include a zipper. In addition, the clothing includes a modesty layer coupled to the first and the second selectably sealable apertures. Furthermore, the article of clothing includes a second leg member coupled to the first leg member. The second leg member includes selectably sealable apertures that are substantially mirrored in number, position and orientation of those of the first leg member.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation in Part application of, under 35 U.S.C. § 121, and claims priority to, under 35 U.S.C. § 121, U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 11/186,579, entitled Apertured Clothing, by Cash Jr., filed on Jul. 21, 2005, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an article of clothing, specifically to clothing including a plurality of selectably sealable apertures.
2. Description of the Related Art
One function of clothing is to protect a wearer from exposure. However, a need to be protected from exposure may be variable, such as over different activities, or even different segments of a single activity. For example, a jogger may need full leg coverings when jogging in cold weather, especially at an initial portion of a jogging session. As a session continues, the exercise may generate additional body heat that may then offset the need for full leg covering. In fact, additional generation of body heat may cause discomfort and/or overheating, wherein the body is shielded from heat exchange with the outside air. However, it may be inconvenient, awkward, or inappropriate to remove and/or carry the leg coverings, despite what other clothing may be worn underneath and despite how easy it may be to remove the leg coverings.
Some clothing tries to solve this problem by having removable portions of the clothing. For example, there may be a removable lower leg portion, thereby permitting a user to configure a pair of pants to change to a pair of shorts. However, the removed portion remains an inconvenience, as it may be lost, is no longer carried by the legs and may be difficult to reattach. Also, while removing a lower leg portion may expose a substantial surface area, not all the area exposed is a source of heat, and may thereby be inefficiently and/or inappropriately cooled. Some improvements have been made in the field. Examples of references related to the present invention are described below, and the supported teachings of each reference are incorporated by reference herein:
U.S. Pat. No. 4,017,910, issued to Bente, discloses Trousers for a combined training and leisure suit are provided, at the lower end of each leg, with a first substantially vertically extending slit which can be closed by a zip fastener or a press-fit fastener and there is located within each leg a gaiter which is preferably secured to the inside of the trouser leg at approximately the location of the knee and this gaiter can be wrapped around the leg of a wearer and is also provided with a vertical slit which can be closed by an adjustable width fastener.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,332,221, issued to Gracey, discloses It is an object of the present invention to provide a means by which clothing may be made more effective in its role in assisting temperature regulation, by: 1) providing increased heat exchange by means of reduced insulation (herein defined as “lower insulatory capacity”) of temperature sensitive sites (11, 16, 14)—reducing insulation of temperature sensitive areas not protected by “fat pads”; and/or 2) providing for increased vapor exchange by means of specific ventilation of temperature sensitive areas (herein defined as “increased ventilatory capacity”)—allowing flexibility for rapid increases in heat generation owing to facility for improved vapor exchange e.g. the loss of excess heated air or humidity, by, for example, convection and evaporation of sweat from the surface of the skin.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,864,888, issued to Archer, discloses Convertible skiing pants are disclosed. The skiing pants comprise an upper pants portion or shorts, which includes a waist opening and respective leg openings. The leg openings of the upper pants portions are located around the knees of the skier. A pair of lower pants portion may be removably attached to the upper pants portion by an attachment device, such as a zipper, which extends substantially circumferentially around the legs of the skier. The upper pants portion and both lower pants portions include a device for opening the respective portions along a longitudinal length thereof so that the ski pants may be converted to ski short and the shorts removed altogether, all without the need to remove skis or ski boots.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,282,277, issued to Onozawa, discloses A body cover, or clothing, for athletes is disclosed. The body cover is comprised of a first material portion adapted to be placed over the anterior portion of the body of the athletes. The first material portion is comprised of a plurality of longitudinal, attached panels of “NEOPRENE” having a thickness of preferably from about 1 to 3 millimeters. The first material portion is waterproofed, provides insulation and wind protection, and is adapted to hold liquid against the anterior portion of the athlete's body such that the liquid absorbs body thermal energy. A second material portion adapted to be placed over the posterior portion of the body of the athlete is comprised of a plurality of longitudinal, attached panels of “LYCRA”. The second material portion allows evaporation of liquid on the posterior portion of the body of the athlete and radiation of thermal energy therethrough. Third material portions attach the first material portion and the second material portion to form the body covering. The third material portion is comprised of an elastic substance.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,056, issued to Riley, discloses A revision to the standard fireproof garments currently worn by race car drivers and pit crew people that allows the wearer to remove the bottom section of the pants to cool off when not in the car or in an area where protection from possible fire is not required. The top and bottom sections of the pants secure through use of hook and loop fasteners designed to withstand extremely high temperatures. The top section features a stretchy material at the lower end that hugs the leg to prevent any extreme heat from going up the leg opening. The bottom section slides up over the stretchy portion and secures to the top section via the hook and loop fasteners. The bottom section features a cuff or fold that folds over the secured two sections to hide the seam. Also, cooperating snap button elements are located on the top and bottom sections to allow for quick alignment by the user.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,608,915, issued to Libit, discloses A combination garment constructed of stretch material including a torso portion to snugly engage and enclose the lower torso of a wearer and at least a portion of the thighs or upper leg portions of a wearer and a pair of leg portions engaging and enclosing the remainder of the legs of a wearer. Coacting connecting structures are provided on the upper end of the leg portions and the lower ends of the portions of the torso portion that engages and encloses the thighs or upper leg portions of a wearer for attaching and detaching the leg portions in relation to the torso portion.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,153,944, issued to Teel, discloses A process or method for altering pants so that they can be used either as shorts or long pants. The process comprises taking a pair of long pants and marking a predetermined length for shorts around the circumference of the legs at the predetermined length. Permanently attaching a first fastener strip to the circumference of the leg of the pants at the predetermined length for shorts. Cutting the first fastener strip and pants along the center of the first fastener strip so that the first fastener strip is cut in half at its center and the pants are cut leaving two separate severed lower leg portions which have half of the first fastener strips at the top edge and an upper pants portion forming shorts which has half of the first fastener strip at the bottom edge of each leg portion of the shorts. Taking a second fastener strip and attaching it to the first fastener strip at the bottom edge of each leg of the shorts to form shorts. Taking the lower leg portion of the pants and aligning the first half of the first fastener strip to the lower leg portion of the pants with half of the first fastener strip at the base of the shorts and attaching the second fastener strip around the joined first fastener strips to convert the garment to long pants.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 20020040496, by Blaire, discloses A type of pants is disclosed which allows the wearer of heavy equipment or objects easy, quick, and safe access for restroom purposes. The pants comprise: a) a waistband; (b) two leg members extending from the waistband; (c) a fastener member positioned along the inseam of the leg members; and (d) a protective shield positioned beneath the fastener member. The fastener member is selected from the group consisting of zippers, snaps, buttons, hooks, and hook and loop type fasteners. In a preferred embodiment, the fastener member is a zipper. The zipper is of the regular, visible or invisible type when positioned inside the pants. In another embodiment of the present invention, the pants comprise: (a) a waistband; (b) two leg members extending from the waistband; (c) a fastener member positioned along the inseam of the leg members; (d) a protective shield positioned beneath the fastener member; and (e) an outer flap positioned on top of the fastener member. The outer flap functions to conceal the fastener member from view. This outer flap is unnecessary when an invisible type zipper is used as the fastener member The construction of the fastener member leaves additional pant fabric extending downward beyond the fastener member on each leg member. The additional fabric creates an unfinished hem, which allows the wearer to make the necessary hem adjustments to the length of each pant leg member to suit the wearer's needs. The construction of the fastener member also creates an opening approximately several inches long formed by the space between the bottom edge of each leg member and the point at which the fastener member ends on each leg member. The wearer has the option of keeping the opening as is or, in the alternative, the opening may be closed with a Velcro®. type closure (i.e., hook and loop fastener) or any other closure means. The pants are particularly well suited for persons in law enforcement, the military, security, construction and the like as well as medical patients and senior citizens who desire easier access, convenience and safety when attending to their restroom needs.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 20040040068, by Silver, discloses An article of safety clothing is disclosed, and comprises a pair of trousers, of the type including a trunks part adapted to securely receive the lower region of the torso of a wearer in use and having apertures through which the legs of said wearer protrude in use; and a pair of tubular pant leg parts, each adapted to receive therethrough a respective protruding leg of said wearer in use and extending between an upper end, connected to said trunks part, and a lower end. The trunks part is substantially opaque, to conceal the pelvic region of said wearer in use, and each pant leg part includes a vent portion constructed from mesh.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 20020108163, by Steinman, discloses This invention pertains to disposable garments which can be easily fitted to bodies of various sizes. The garments comprise a top section and a bottom section. The top section comprises a neck opening, sleeves and a body portion. The bottom section comprises a waist opening, pant legs and a waist fastener. The waist fastener is preferably comprised of two fasteners of materials such as adhesive or Velcro which are situated on either side of the bottom section and which may be pulled toward the front of the wearer and affixed so as to allow for customization of waist width. The sleeve and pant legs may further comprise an elastic portion at or near an end of the sleeve or pant legs to allow for customization of sleeve or leg length.
The inventions heretofore known suffer from a number of disadvantages which include being expensive, being limited in application, being limited in versatility, being limited in adaptability, being cumbersome, and being difficult to use. In addition, in time competitions, such as running, cycling, or skiing, the necessity to stop the activity to adjust or remove clothing is a major disadvantage.
What is needed is an article of clothing that solves one or more of the problems described herein and/or one or more problems that may come to the attention of one skilled in the art upon becoming familiar with this specification.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available article of clothing. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide an efficient and effective article of clothing that includes selectably sealable apertures that enable the user to control body temperature.
In one embodiment of the invention, there is an article of clothing configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg and a second leg of a wearer; wherein the article of clothing may include a first leg member. The first leg member may be configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg of a wearer, wherein the first leg member may include a first selectably sealable aperture disposed about a front portion of the first leg member. The first aperture may extend substantially vertically along the front portion of the first leg member. In addition, the first selectably sealable aperture may further include a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a bottom position when the clothing is in a closed mode. Furthermore, the first selectably sealable aperture may be disposed substantially about a thigh area of a wearer.
The article of clothing may also include a second selectably sealable aperture disposed about an exterior side portion of the first leg member. The second aperture may extend diagonally along the exterior side portion of the first leg member extending downwardly towards the rear portion of the first leg member such that a top portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is closer to a top portion of the first selectably sealable aperture than a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is close to a bottom portion of the first selectably sealable aperture. The second selectably sealable aperture may further include a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a top position, when the clothing is in a closed mode. The second selectably sealable aperture may be disposed substantially about the hamstring area of a wearer.
The article of clothing may further include a second leg member, configured to cover at least a second leg of a wearer, coupled to the first leg member. The second leg member may include selectably sealable apertures that are substantially mirrored in number, position and orientation of those of the first leg member. The article of clothing may still further include wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture forms a loop forming an air passageway disposed completely away from the body when the leg is raised. Moreover, wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture is configured in position, orientation, and elasticity such that it provides a pumping action that transfers a quantity of air across the width of the fabric between the fabric and the wearers leg during a leg raise and drop motion of the wearer. Finally, the article of clothing may include a modesty layer coupled to the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture configured to substantially restrict visual access through the apertures.
Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.
Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention.
These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order for the advantages of the invention to be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawing(s). It is noted that the drawings of the invention are not to scale. The drawings are mere schematics representations, not intended to portray specific parameters of the invention. Understanding that these drawing(s) depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not, therefore, to be considered to be limiting its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawing(s), in which:

FIG. 1 is front elevational view of an article of clothing, according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of an article of clothing, according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of an article of clothing, according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of an article of clothing, according to one embodiment if the invention;

FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of an article of clothing, according to one embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of an article of clothing, according to one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawing(s), and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention.
Reference throughout this specification to an “embodiment,” an “example” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or combinations thereof described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases an “embodiment,” an “example,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, to different embodiments, or to one or more of the figures. Additionally, reference to the wording “embodiment,” “example” or the like, for two or more features, elements, etc. does not mean that the features are necessarily related, dissimilar, the same, etc.
Each statement of an embodiment, or example, is to be considered independent of any other statement of an embodiment despite any use of similar or identical language characterizing each embodiment. Therefore, where one embodiment is identified as “another embodiment,” the identified embodiment is independent of any other embodiments characterized by the language “another embodiment.” The features, functions, and the like described herein are considered to be able to be combined in whole or in part one with another as the claims and/or art may direct, either directly or indirectly, implicitly or explicitly.
As used herein, “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “is, are,” “characterized by,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional unrecited elements or method steps. “Comprising” is to be interpreted as including the more restrictive terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of.”
FIG. 1 is front elevational view of an article of clothing 10, according to one embodiment of the invention; wherein the article of clothing 10 is configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg and a second leg of a wearer. The article of clothing 10 includes a first leg member 12, wherein the first leg member 12 is configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg of a wearer. The first leg member 12 includes a first selectably sealable aperture 14 disposed about a front portion of the first leg member 12. The first selectably sealable aperture 14 extends substantially vertically along the front portion of the first leg member, wherein the first selectably sealable aperture 14 is configured to expose a thigh area of a wearer. The first selectably sealable aperture 14 includes a zipper 20, wherein the zipper 20 is disposed about a top position when the article of clothing 10 is in a closed mode 24. The article of clothing 10 also includes a modesty layer 16 coupled to the first selectably sealable aperture 14, wherein the modesty layer 16 is configured to restrict visual access through the aperture 14. The modesty layer 16 may be such as but not limited to an athletic mesh material, coupled to the interior of the aperture. The article of clothing also includes a second leg member 18, wherein the second leg member 18 is configured to cover at least a portion of a second leg of a wearer. The second leg member 18 is coupled to the first leg member 12 and includes a selectably sealable aperture that is substantially mirrored in number, position, and orientation of those of the first leg member 12.
In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user couples the article of clothing 10 to a first leg and a second leg of a wearer. The user then begins to warm up and prepare for a run/walk. The user begins the run/walk with the selectably sealable apertures in a closed mode, wherein the user wants to maintain as much heat within the article of clothing. As the run/walk progresses and the user is beginning to perspire; the user may then select to open one of the apertures by pulling the zipper downwards along the selectably sealable aperture. The user may also select how much and how little to open the aperture depending on temperature and the runner's condition, thereby preventing a runner from overheating. In addition, the user may open the selectably sealable apertures, partially or fully, depending on the running conditions. Furthermore, positioning the selectably sealable aperture may be performed without stopping the running motion; high speed, low speed, without removing the user's shoes and may be performed without removing the user's gloves. Moreover, in competitions, adjusting the clothing may be made without stopping or slowing down, allowing the athlete to keep pace with the other competitors.
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of an article of clothing 10, according to one embodiment of the invention; wherein the article of clothing 10 includes a second leg member 18. The second leg member 18 includes a first selectably sealable aperture 14 disposed about a front portion of the second leg member 18. The second leg member also includes a second selectably sealable aperture 22, wherein the second selectably sealable aperture 22 is disposed about an exterior side portion of the second leg member 18. The second selectably sealable aperture 22 extends diagonally along the exterior side of the second leg member 18 towards the rear portion of the second leg member 18 such that a top portion of the second selectably sealable aperture 22 is closer to a top portion of the first selectably sealable aperture 14 than a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture 22 is close to a bottom portion of the first selectably sealable aperture 14. The second selectably sealable aperture 22 is disposed substantially about the hamstring area of a wearer. The second selectably sealable aperture 22 also includes a zipper, wherein the zipper is disposed about a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture 22 when the aperture 22 is in an open mode 26. The article of clothing 10 also includes a modesty layer 16 coupled to the first selectably sealable aperture 14 and the second selectably sealable aperture 22, wherein the modesty layer 16 is configured to restrict visual access through the apertures 14, 22. The article of clothing also includes a first leg member 12, wherein the first leg member 12 is configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg of a wearer. The first leg member 12 is coupled to the second leg member 18 and includes a selectably sealable aperture that is substantially mirrored in number, position, and orientation of those of the second leg member 18.
In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user couples the article of clothing 10 to a first leg and a second leg of a wearer. The user then begins to warm up and prepare for a run/walk. The user begins the run/walk with the first and the second selectably sealable apertures in a closed mode, wherein the user wants to maintain as much heat within the article of clothing. As the run/walk progresses and the user is beginning to perspire; the user may then select to open one of or both of the selectably sealable apertures by pulling the zippers downwards along each of the selectably sealable aperture. The user may also select how much and how little to open each of the selectably sealable apertures depending on temperature and the runner's condition, thereby preventing a runner to overheat. The user may open both of the selectably sealable apertures thereby creating a wind draft between the first and second selectably sealable apertures and cooling down a thigh and hamstring area of a wearer.
FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of an article of clothing 10, according to one embodiment of the invention; wherein the article of clothing 10 includes a first leg member 12 coupled to a second leg member 18. The second leg member 18 includes a second selectably sealable aperture 22 disposed about an exterior side portion of the second leg member 18. When in an open mode 26, the fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture 14 and the second selectably sealable aperture 22 forms a loop 28 forming an air passageway disposed completely away from the body when the leg is raised.
In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user couples the article of clothing 10 to a first leg and a second leg of a wearer. The user then begins to warm up and prepare for a run/walk. The user begins the run/walk with the first and the second selectably sealable apertures in a closed mode, wherein the user wants to maintain as much heat within the article of clothing. As the run/walk progresses and the user is beginning to perspire; the user may then select to open one of the selectably sealable apertures by pulling the zipper downwards along the selectably sealable aperture. The user may also select how much and how little to open the selectably sealable aperture depending on temperature and the runner's condition, thereby preventing a runner to overheat. In addition, in competitions, minor or major clothing adjustments may be made without stopping or slowing down, thereby allowing the athlete to keep pace with the other competitors.
FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of an article of clothing 10, according to one embodiment if the invention; wherein the article of clothing 10 includes a second leg member 18. The second leg member 18 includes a first selectably sealable aperture 14 disposed about a front portion of the second leg member 18. When in an open mode 26, the fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture 14 and the second selectably sealable aperture forms a loop 28 forming an air passageway disposed completely away from the body when the leg is raised.
In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user couples the article of clothing 10 to a first leg and a second leg of a wearer. The user then begins to warm up and prepare for a run/walk. The user begins the run/walk with the first selectably sealable aperture in a closed mode, wherein the user wants to maintain as much heat within the article of clothing. As the run/walk progresses and the user is beginning to perspire; the user may then select to open the first selectably sealable aperture by pulling the zipper downwards along the selectably sealable aperture. The user may also select how much and how little to open the selectably sealable aperture depending on temperature and the runner's condition, thereby preventing a runner to overheat.
FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of an article of clothing 10, according to one embodiment of the invention, wherein the article of clothing 10 includes In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user couples the article of clothing 10 to a first leg and a second leg of a wearer. The user then begins to warm up and prepare for a run/walk. The user begins the run/walk with the first and the second selectably sealable apertures in a closed mode, wherein the user wants to maintain as much heat within the article of clothing. As the run/walk progresses and the user is beginning to perspire; the user may then select to open one of the selectably sealable apertures by pulling downwards along the selectably sealable aperture. The user may also select how much and how little to open the selectably sealable aperture depending on temperature and the runner's condition, thereby preventing a runner to overheat.
FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of an article of clothing 10, according to one embodiment of the invention, wherein the article of clothing 10 includes a first leg member 12 coupled to a second leg member 18. The second leg member 18 includes a first selectably sealable aperture 14 disposed about a front portion of the second leg member 18. The second leg member 18 also includes a second selectably sealable aperture 22, wherein the second selectably sealable aperture 22 is disposed about an exterior side portion of the second leg member 18. The second selectably sealable aperture 22 extends diagonally along the exterior side of the second leg member 18 towards the rear portion of the second leg member 18 such that a top portion of the second selectably sealable aperture 22 is closer to a top portion of the first selectably sealable aperture 14 than a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture 22 is close to a bottom portion of the first selectably sealable aperture 14. The second selectably sealable aperture 22 is disposed substantially about the hamstring area of a wearer. The second selectably sealable aperture 22 also includes a zipper, wherein the zipper is disposed about a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture 22 when the aperture 22 is in an open mode 26. The fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture 14 and the second selectably sealable aperture 22 is configured in position, orientation, and elasticity such that is provides a pumping action 30 that transfers a quantity of air across the width of the fabric between the fabric and the wearers leg, the loop 28, during a leg raise and drop motion of the wearer.
In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user couples the article of clothing 10 to a first leg and a second leg of a wearer. The user then begins to warm up and prepare for a run/walk. The user begins the run/walk with the first and the second selectably sealable apertures in a closed mode, wherein the user wants to maintain as much heat within the article of clothing. As the run/walk progresses and the user is beginning to perspire; the user may then select to open one of the selectably sealable apertures by pulling the zipper downwards along the selectably sealable aperture. The user may also select how much and how little to open the selectably sealable aperture depending on temperature and the runner's condition, thereby preventing a runner to overheat. When the article of clothing is in an open mode the motion of raising the leg creates a loop forming an air passage way between the wearer and the fabric wherein when the wearer drops the leg the loop closes as the fabric rests about the wearer before the motion of raising the leg again. This motion creates a pumping action that forces a quantity of air between the fabric and the wearer, thereby cooling down the wearer during a run/walk.
In operation of another embodiment of the invention, a wearer or user may wear the article of clothing. In one example, the wearer may wear the clothing while exercising. At an initial portion of time of an exercise session, air external the wearer may be cold, a portion of the wearer's body may not be a sufficient source of heat to maintain a comfortable and/or safe temperature if exposed to convective heat exchange with the cold air, and the clothing may protect the wearer from the cold air. Any apertures present in the embodiment may be sealed or may be partially sealed, thereby not interfering, or only appropriately interfering, with the protection of the wearer from cold air external the clothing.
During a subsequent portion of time during the exercise session, the muscles of the wearer may generate significant heat, particularly in the thighs. Heat generation may be from a single burst of activity, and/or may be continuous heat generation from an extended exertion, such as long distance running. Therefore, a wearer may need to exchange away an amount of heat and/or may need to have a substantially continuous rate of heat exchange. Gaseous fluid communication through the pants 140 may act to exchange heat from the muscles of the legs, in particular from the thigh muscles such as the quadriceps and/or the hamstring muscles of the leg. The wearer may selectably unseal one or more apertures included in the pants, thereby permitting gaseous fluid communication through the clothing. Once unsealed, an aperture may permit and/or enable gaseous fluid communication between a layer of material that may be a layer of clothing positioned under the clothing, may be a layer of the clothing, and/or may be the skin of the wearer.
The flexing of the fabric, as the user is in motion, creates an aperture wider at the mouth of the aperture than at the leg. This narrowing of the aperture combined with a slight forward motion creates a Venturi Effect. That is, air flow becomes faster than one's running speed as air is forced through the smaller loop in fabric. As air speed increases, air pressure drops which creates additional cooling effect. This is called Bernoulli's Principle, although in outdoor activities, it is commonly referred to as “wind chill.” As running speed increases, there is more of a need for cooling the body, in addition to a greater wind chill effect.
A layer of the clothing that may be exposed upon unsealing an aperture may include a modesty layer such as an athletic mesh layer that may be configured to permit gaseous fluid flow but substantially block light, thereby enabling heat exchange with an increased level of modesty for the wearer. Preferably, the athletic mesh is attached to the clothing. The athletic mesh may be of any color and may be of any material, preferably a flexible material including a plurality of holes. The athletic mesh may serve as a pocket.
Wherein a plurality of apertures, each included about a single leg, may be unsealed there may additionally be enabled gaseous fluid communication internal the clothing between one aperture and another. For example, air may flow into one aperture, traverse the skin of the wearer under the clothing, and flow out of a second aperture. This generally enhances heat exchange between the wearer and the air.
It is understood that the above-described embodiments are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiment is to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
For example, although there is substantial disclosure relating to jogging and/or jogging clothes, an embodiment may be focused about any or no type of exercise and about any form of clothing. For example, and not by way of limitation, there may be an embodiment of the invention that may include a jacket, shoes, or a hat that may include one or more apertures that may have one or more of the features, structures, purposes, and/or functions herein described. In another example, and not by way of limitation, there may be an embodiment configured and or designed to be used with weight lifting, horse racing, martial arts, cycling, aerobics, and/or any other sport and/or exercise known in the art.
Additionally, although the figures illustrate particular shapes of apertures and/or aperture configurations, it is envisioned that the variety of aperture shapes, placements, and configurations included in the invention is innumerable and plethoric.
It is also envisioned that layers not herein described may be included. For example, there may be a layer that is not athletic mesh that may be exposed when an aperture may be unsealed. Such a layer may be a thick or thin material and may resist heat transfer weakly or strongly. Such a layer may substantially block light or may be substantially transparent. Such a layer may be of any color and/or of any material. In addition, such a layer may be selectively removable; wherein such a layer may resist rain weakly or strongly.
It is expected that there could be numerous variations of the design of this invention. An example is that an aperture may be disguised, covered, or hidden. In another example, there may be stiff supports at one or more of the ends of the aperture that may be configured to flare an aperture open when the aperture may be unsealed.
Finally, it is envisioned that the components of the device may be constructed of a variety of materials. An embodiment may include natural fibers, synthetic fibers, polymers, coatings, woven materials, metal, ceramic, plastic, resin, liquids, gels, and any combination thereof.
Thus, while the present invention has been fully described above with particularity and detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made, without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention as set forth in the claims. Further, it is contemplated that an embodiment may be limited to consist of or to consist essentially of one or more of the features, functions, structures, methods described herein.

Claims

1. An article of clothing configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg and a second leg of a wearer, comprising:

a) a first leg member, configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg of a wearer, comprising:

a1) a first selectably sealable aperture disposed about a front portion of the first leg member; wherein the first aperture extends substantially vertically along the front portion of the first leg member; and

a2) a second selectably sealable aperture disposed about an exterior side portion of the first leg member; wherein the second aperture extends diagonally along the exterior side portion of the first leg member extending downwardly towards the rear portion of the first leg member such that a top portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is closer to a top portion of the first selectably sealable aperture than a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is close to a bottom portion of the first selectably sealable aperture; and

b) a second leg member, configured to cover at least a second leg of a wearer, coupled to the first leg member, including selectably sealable apertures that are substantially mirrored in number, position and orientation of those of the first leg member.

2. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein the first selectably sealable aperture is disposed substantially about a thigh area of a wearer.

3. The article of clothing of claim 2, wherein the second selectably sealable aperture is disposed substantially about the hamstring area of a wearer.

4. The article of clothing of claim 3, wherein the article of clothing further includes a modesty layer coupled to the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture configured to substantially restrict visual access through the apertures.

5. The article of clothing of claim 4, wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture forms a loop forming an air passageway disposed completely away from the body when the leg is raised.

6. The article of clothing of claim 5, wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture is configured in position, orientation, and elasticity such that it provides a pumping action that transfers a quantity of air across the width of the fabric between the fabric and the wearers leg during a leg raise and drop motion of the wearer.

7. The article of clothing of claim 6, wherein the first selectably sealable aperture further includes a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a top position when the clothing is in a closed mode.

8. The article of clothing of claim 7, wherein the second selectably sealable aperture includes a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a top position, when the clothing is in a closed mode.

9. An article of clothing configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg and a second leg of a wearer, consisting of a first leg member, configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg of a wearer, comprising:

a) a first selectably sealable aperture disposed about a front portion of the first leg member; wherein the first aperture extends substantially vertically along the front portion of the first leg member; and

b) a second selectably sealable aperture disposed about an exterior side portion of the first leg member; wherein the second aperture extends diagonally along the exterior side portion of the first leg member extending downwardly towards the rear portion of the first leg member such that a top portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is closer to a top portion of the first selectably sealable aperture than a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is close to a bottom portion of the first selectably sealable aperture.

10. The article of clothing of claim 9, wherein the first selectably sealable aperture is disposed substantially about a thigh area of a wearer.

11. The article of clothing of claim 9, wherein the second selectably sealable aperture is disposed substantially about the hamstring area of a wearer.

12. The article of clothing of claim 9, wherein the article of clothing further includes a modesty layer coupled to the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture configured to substantially restrict visual access through the apertures.

13. The article of clothing of claim 9, wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture forms a loop forming an air passageway disposed completely away from the body when the leg is raised.

14. The article of clothing of claim 9, wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture is configured in position, orientation, and elasticity such that it provides a pumping action that transfers a quantity of air across the width of the fabric between the fabric and the wearers leg during a leg raise and drop motion of the wearer.

15. The article of clothing of claim 9, wherein the first selectably sealable aperture further includes a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a top position when the clothing is in a closed mode.

16. The article of clothing of claim 9, wherein the second selectably sealable aperture includes a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a top position, when the clothing is in a closed mode.

17. An article of clothing configured to cover at least a portion of a first leg and a second leg of a wearer, comprising:

a1) a first selectably sealable aperture disposed about a front portion of the first leg member; wherein the first aperture extends substantially vertically along the front portion of the first leg member; wherein the first selectably sealable aperture further includes a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a top position when the clothing is in a closed mode; wherein the first selectably sealable aperture is disposed substantially about a thigh area of a wearer; and

a2) a second selectably sealable aperture disposed about an exterior side portion of the first leg member; wherein the second aperture extends diagonally along the exterior side portion of the first leg member extending downwardly towards the rear portion of the first leg member such that a top portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is closer to a top portion of the first selectably sealable aperture than a bottom portion of the second selectably sealable aperture is close to a bottom portion of the first selectably sealable aperture; wherein the second selectably sealable aperture includes a zipper; wherein the zipper is disposed about a top position, when the clothing is in a closed mode; wherein the second selectably sealable aperture is disposed substantially about the hamstring area of a wearer;

b) a second leg member, configured to cover at least a second leg of a wearer, coupled to the first leg member, including selectably sealable apertures that are substantially mirrored in number, position and orientation of those of the first leg member;

c) wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture forms a loop forming an air passageway disposed completely away from the body when the leg is raised;

d) wherein fabric between the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture is configured in position, orientation, and elasticity such that it provides a pumping action that transfers a quantity of air across the width of the fabric between the fabric and the wearers leg during a leg raise and drop motion of the wearer;

e) a modesty layer coupled to the first selectably sealable aperture and the second selectably sealable aperture configured to substantially restrict visual access through the apertures;