Gap. has been granted a patent for a clothing waistband featuring an inner and outer fabric layer, with a mesh layer in between. The design includes two adhesive layers that secure the mesh to the inner layer, creating a stitch-free seam for enhanced comfort and functionality. GlobalData’s report on Gap gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

According to GlobalData’s company profile on Gap, Thermoformed fabric undergarments was a key innovation area identified from patents. Gap's grant share as of July 2024 was 35%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Waistband design with layered fabric and adhesive structure

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: The Gap Inc

The granted patent US12063998B2 outlines a novel design for a waistband in an article of clothing, featuring a multi-layered construction that enhances both comfort and functionality. The waistband consists of an inner fabric layer, an outer fabric layer, and a mesh layer positioned between them. Additionally, two adhesive layers are integrated longitudinally between the mesh and inner fabric layers, effectively securing the mesh to the inner layer. The design is segmented into three distinct regions: an upper region that includes all layers with a specific arrangement of adhesive layers, a middle region that retains the inner layer, mesh, and outer layer, and a lower region that comprises the inner fabric layer, mesh, and outer layer. Notably, the inner fabric layer is composed of two different fabrics, which are joined together to create a stitch-free seam, enhancing the aesthetic and comfort of the waistband.

Further specifications of the waistband include the orientation of the layers when worn, with the inner fabric layer facing the wearer's body and the outer fabric layer facing outward. The patent also details that the outer fabric layer can extend along a portion or the entire length of the waistband. This innovative construction aims to provide a seamless and comfortable fit, potentially improving the overall user experience in clothing design. The claims emphasize the unique integration of materials and adhesive layers, which collectively contribute to the waistband's structural integrity and comfort.

To know more about GlobalData’s detailed insights on Gap, buy the report here.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.