Undergarment support apparatus and systems

Apparatus for a penis and a scrotum of a wearer are described. The apparatus may comprise a semi-rigid body and attachment element. The semi-rigid body may comprise a first structure sized to at least partially surround a posterior portion of the penis; a second structure positionable to maintain a separation between a posterior portion of the scrotum and thighs of the wearer; and third structure positionable to maintain a separation between an anterior portion of the scrotum and the penis when the second structure maintains the separation between the posterior portion of the scrotum and the thighs. The attachment element may be configured to maintain the semi-rigid body in a position relative to the wearer such that the second structure maintains the separation between the posterior portion of the scrotum and the thighs and the third structure maintains the separation between the anterior portion of the scrotum and the penis.

BACKGROUND

Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to undergarment support apparatus and systems.

2. Description of Related Art

Many undergarments are unable to properly and comfortably support external genitalia, such as the penis, scrotum, and testicles. For example, it can be difficult for many fabric undergarments to comfortably support the male genitalia because the fabric naturally bunches and compresses when the wearer moves. Known options include undergarments providing a looser fit allowing for maximum genitalia movement, such as boxers; and undergarments providing a tighter fit with a pouch for the genitalia, such as a briefs. Neither of these solutions may be ideal for every man, particularly if his daily routine includes active movement conditions.

Many undergarments also fail to provide any form of impact protection. For example, most undergarments are made of thin fabrics that fail to provide any appreciable amount of impact protection, leaving the wearer vulnerable to injury. A jock strap with a protective cup may be worn. But these implements are often bulky and have limited sizing options, making them not suitable for everyday use, particularly for larger endowed and/or obese men.

Other genitalia-related products may have similar failings. For example, some non-undergarment products may be attached to the genitalia for erotic purposes without providing any appreciable degree of support or impact protection.

SUMMARY

Numerous aspects are described in this disclosure. One aspect is an apparatus for supporting a penis and a scrotum of a wearer. The apparatus may comprise a semi-rigid body, which may comprise: a first structure sized to at least partially surround a posterior portion of the penis; a second structure positionable to maintain a separation between a posterior portion of the scrotum and thighs of the wearer; and a third structure positionable to maintain a separation between an anterior portion of the scrotum and the penis when the second structure maintains the separation between the posterior portion of the scrotum and the thighs. The apparatus also may comprise an attachment element, which may be configured to maintain the semi-rigid body in a position relative to the wearer such that the second structure maintains the separation between the posterior portion of the scrotum and the thighs and the third structure maintains the separation between the anterior portion of the scrotum and the penis.

The semi-rigid body may comprise a silicone. The semi-rigid body may comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of a non-fabric material, a non-fibrous material, or a non-woven material. The attachment element may be removably attachable to the semi-rigid body. The apparatus may comprise a reinforcing element that is attachable to, embedded in, or formed integral with the first structure; and configured to resist deformations from forces applied to the semi-rigid body by the attachment element. The attachment element may be removably attachable to at least one of the first structure and the reinforcing element. The semi-rigid body may have a Young's modulus of at least 33 MPa.

A posterior face of the semi-rigid body may comprise an inlet opening sized to receive the penis in the first structure and the scrotum in the second structure, and at least a portion of the semi-rigid body adjacent the inlet opening may be removable to accommodate a size of the penis or the scrotum. The third structure may comprise a concave surface positionable below the penis when the second structure maintains the separation between the posterior portion of the scrotum and the thighs and the third structure maintains the separation between the anterior portion of the scrotum and penis, and at least a portion of the semi-rigid body adjacent the concave surface may be removable to accommodate a size of the penis. The first structure may define a protective hood and a conduit extending through the protective hood, and an interior diameter of the conduit may be sized to surround the posterior portion of the penis. The second structure may define a protective shell and a chamber inside the protective shell, and the chamber may be sized to at least partially surround the scrotum. A plurality of openings may extend into the chamber. The plurality of openings may comprise at least one of a ventilation opening, a flexibility-enhancing opening, and a drainage opening.

The apparatus may comprise a cover that is removably attachable to at least one of the semi-rigid body and the attachment element. The cover may comprise a layer of any type of fabric or fabric-like material. The cover may be impact absorbing. The cover may comprise a moisture retaining element configured to retain a predetermined amount of fluid. A portion of the moisture retaining element may be removably attachable to the semi-rigid body. The portion of the moisture retaining element may comprise at least one of an adhesive and an elastic element.

Another aspect is an apparatus for supporting a penis and a scrotum of a wearer. The apparatus may comprise a semi-rigid body, which may comprise: a means for at least partially surrounding the penis; and a means for at least partially surrounding the scrotum. The apparatus also may comprise an attachment means for maintaining a position of the semi-rigid body relative to the wearer. In some aspects, the body may comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of a non-fabric material, a non-fibrous material, or a non-woven material.

Additional apparatus and systems also are expressly or inherently described, along with various kits and methods related thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to the exemplary structural details and component arrangements described in this description and shown in the accompanying drawings. Many aspects of this disclosure may be applicable to other aspects and/or capable of being practiced or carried out in various variants of use, including the examples described herein.

Throughout the written descriptions, specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding to persons of ordinary skill in the art. For convenience and ease of description, some well-known elements may be described conceptually to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the focus of this disclosure. In this regard, the written descriptions and accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive, enabling rather than limiting.

Exemplary aspects of this disclosure reference undergarment support apparatus and systems. Some aspects are described with reference to particular structures (e.g., a body), materials (e.g., medical grade silicone), and attachment elements (e.g., straps) configured to support and protect particular body parts (e.g., the male genitalia). Unless claimed, these exemplary aspects are provided for convenience and not intended to limit the present disclosure. Accordingly, the concepts described in this disclosure may be utilized to support and protect any body part(s).

Several reference axes are described, including: a longitudinal axis X-X and a sagittal axis Y-Y. Some aspects are described relative to these axes. Each longitudinal axis X-X and sagittal axis Y-Y may define relative arrangements. For example, each longitudinal axis X-X may be non-parallel with at least one sagittal axis Y-Y in some perspectives, meaning that axis Y-Y may extend across and/or intersect axis X-X. The term “elongated” may describe any aspect having a length along one of axes X-X or Y-Y that is longer in relation to a width along a non-parallel one of axes X-X or Y-Y. Additional axes, movements, and forces also may be described with reference to axes X-X and Y-Y. These relative terms are provided for convenience and do not limit this disclosure unless claimed.

Anatomical terms such as “anterior” and “posterior” are used to orient some aspects relative to a wearer's body (e.g., a body of a human male). Anterior generally refers to a position toward a front the wearer and posterior generally refers to a position closer to a rear of the wearer. Additional anatomical terms also may be used. For example, longitudinal axis X-X may be oriented relative to a cranial-caudal axis of the wearer, and sagittal axis Y-Y may be oriented relative to an anterior-posterior axis of the wearer.

As used herein, inclusive terms such as “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” and variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that an apparatus, method, system, or element thereof comprising a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed and/or inherent thereto. Unless stated otherwise, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of “example,” rather than “ideal,” and does not limit this disclosure to any particular embodiment. Various terms of approximation may be used in this disclosure, including “approximately” and “generally.” Unless stated otherwise, approximately means within 10% of a stated number or outcome and generally means “within most cases” or “usually.”

As shown inFIG. 1, one exemplary aspect of this disclosure is a genitalia support apparatus10for a wearer1with a penis2and a scrotum3. Support apparatus10may comprise a body20comprising a plurality of different structures that are formed together and/or attached to one another. For example, shown inFIG. 1, body20may comprise a first structure30for penis2and a second structure50for scrotum3. In some aspects, body20also may comprise a third structure70positionable between the penis and the scrotum.

Over time, penis2and scrotum3may be subject to the pull of gravity much like the way a woman's breasts are. Women may wear a bra to correct the sagging effects of gravity by holding the breasts in a supported position. Unlike breasts, the size and shape of penis2and scrotum3may vary due to many factors, such as emotional state, movement conditions, temperature, and the like. Aspects of support apparatus10are configured to accommodate these changes. For example, first structure30may comprise a protective hood for penis2that accommodates changes in girth, allowing for free movement; and second structure50may comprise a protective shell for scrotum3that provides injury protections. As a further example, second structure50may be positionable to maintain a separation between a posterior portion of scrotum3and thighs of wearer1; and third structure70may be positionable to maintain a separation between an anterior portion of scrotum3and penis2when second structure50maintains the separation between the posterior portion of scrotum3and the thighs, thereby preventing skin-on-skin contact between penis2and scrotum3, and scrotum3and the thighs, resulting in a cool skin feel. As shown inFIG. 1, support apparatus10also may comprise an attachment element80that supports the weight of body20, a weight of penis2, and a weight of scrotum3from a waist of wearer1, further countering the effects of gravity by transferring those weights to the waist (or other non-genitalia portion of wearer1) while holding body20snug against wearer1.

As shown inFIG. 2, body20may extend along a longitudinal axis X-X, first structure30may be located above second structure50along axis X-X, and third structure70may be located between structure30and structure50. Body20may be worn by wearer1so that first structure30is oriented generally in a cranial direction (e.g., toward the head of wearer1) and second structure50is oriented generally in a caudal direction (e.g., toward the feet of user1). In some aspects, longitudinal axis X-X ofFIG. 2may be generally parallel with a cranial-caudal axis of wearer1when body20is worn. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, when worn, body20may comprise skin-facing exterior surfaces oriented generally in a posterior direction P (e.g., toward skin of wearer1), and clothing-facing exterior surfaces oriented generally in an anterior direction A (e.g., away from the skin of wearer1).

Body20may be a semi-rigid body having a flexural stiffness that is greater than traditional undergarment fabrics (e.g., greater than cotton and/or synthetic blends), but not inflexible. For example, body20may comprise a non-fabric or non-woven material, meaning that is not made of a cloth or cloth-like material produced by weaving or knitting textile fibers; and/or a non-fibrous material, meaning that it is not made of a material containing or resembling fibers, either of which may have a flexural stiffness comparable to that of silicone.

Body20also may be made from formable and/or flowable materials, including any materials that can be molded or printed using known methods, such as silicone. For example, body20may be unitarily formed from injection molding or 3D-printing and/or from coupling two or more separately formed bodies. As a further example, body20may be molded or 3D-printed from a silicone material in different generic sizes for penis2and scrotum3, or mass-customized in particular sizes for penis2and scrotum3based on size and shape data for wearer1(e.g., a picture). Depending upon the material, portions of body20also may be removed (e.g., cut-away) to provide a more custom fit around penis2and/or scrotum3.

In each of these examples, body20may comprise any material(s) having a Young's modulus that is greater than traditional undergarment fabrics (e.g., greater than cotton and/or synthetic blends) and/or equivalent to the Young's modulus of silicone. For example, body20may have a Young's modulus that is: greater than 5 MPa; between approximately 5 MPa and approximately 20 MPa; between approximately 20 MPa and approximately 40 MPa; at least 33 MPa; between approximately 33 MPa and approximately 50 MPa; or 40 MPa or greater.

Body20may comprise any combination of one or more of such materials, homogeneous or heterogeneous. For example, first and second structures30and50of body20may be made of a flexible biocompatible material, such as a flexible polymeric material, like medical grade silicone. Depending on their flexural stiffness, such materials may deflect when body20is worn. Body20may limit such deflections. For example, a material composition, shape, and/or thickness of body20may be configured to limit such deflections in one or more directions.

First structure30may at least partially surround a posterior portion of penis2(e.g., a base of penis2). As shown inFIG. 2, first structure30may comprise a posterior face32, an anterior face34, and a protective hood36extending between face32and face34. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, for example, posterior face32may be generally parallel with longitudinal axis X-X, anterior face34may be generally non-parallel with axis X-X, and protective hood36may extend along a sagittal axis Y1-Y1that is generally non-parallel with posterior face32and axis X-X. For example, an angle between longitudinal axis X-X and sagittal axis Y1-Y1may be relative to an angle between a cranial-caudal axis of wearer1and penis2when flaccid; or a range of angles between the cranial-caudal axis of wearer1and penis2when flaccid or erect.

To provide compression free movement of penis2, protective hood36may be sized to “tent” any clothing over penis2. As shown inFIG. 14, a length of penis2when flaccid for 90% of men is between approximately 6.5 cm. (or approximately 2.5 inches) and 11.5 cm (or approximately 4.5 inches), meaning that a length of protective hood36along sagittal axis Y1-Y1may be between approximately 2.5 cm (or approximately 1 in) and approximately 10 cm (or approximately 4 in), or between approximately 5 cm (or approximately 2 in) and approximately 9 cm (or approximately 3.5 in), to accommodate and/or sufficient tent over most penis sizes in a flaccid state with little to no compression from clothing or underwear. Other sizes may be used. For smaller endowed men, the exemplary dimensions may be sufficient to avoid or eliminate “turtling,” which occurs when penis2retracts into the abdomen when sitting or crouching. Larger sizes may be used to accommodate larger endowed men, as needed.

Exterior surfaces of protective hood36may define a cylindrical shape extending along sagittal axis Y1-Y1to surround and/or protect penis2. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the cylindrical shape may curve relative to sagittal axis Y1-Y1and/or have rounded edges at faces32and34. Protective hood36may be configured to support and stabilize body20. As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, the material composition of protective hood36, a curvature of its cylindrical shape, a wall thickness33of posterior face32, and/or a wall thickness37of protective hood36may be configured to support and stabilize body20by increasing the rigidity of first structure30. For example, wall thickness33may be between approximately 1 mm (or approximately 0.04 inches) and approximately 8 mm (or approximately 0.31 inches). The increased rigidity may help to maintain a shape of body20when worn by limiting deflections caused by forces applied thereto by wearer1or their clothing, such as lateral forces F1and F2shown inFIG. 8. In some aspects, protective hood36may be rigid enough to resist forces applied by clothing or other impacts, yet flexible enough to allow movements of penis2. For example, a lateral strength of protective hood36without any additional reinforcing elements may be strong enough to resist deflections (e.g., from lateral forces F1and F2) without placing any hard surfaces in contact with penis2or scrotum3.

Interior surfaces of protective hood36may define a conduit40extending through body20along sagittal axis Y1-Y1. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, conduit40may be defined by a plurality of interior surfaces that are oriented relative to and/or generally centered on sagittal axis Y1-Y1. For example, conduit40may extend between: an inlet opening42extending through posterior face32; an outlet opening44extending through anterior face34; and conduit-defining surfaces46extending between openings42and44. The relative shapes and sizes of inlet opening42, outlet opening44, and surfaces46may vary. As shown inFIG. 4, a size of inlet opening42may be different (e.g., larger) than a size of outlet opening44; and a shape of conduit-defining surfaces46may vary along sagittal axis Y1-Y1to accommodate the different sizes of openings42and44.

Inlet opening42may be sized to receive penis2. For example, inlet opening42ofFIG. 4may comprise a first diameter at posterior face32that is sized to receive a posterior portion of penis2(e.g., the base), outlet opening44may comprise a second diameter at anterior face34that is sized to receive an anterior portion (e.g., the shaft) of penis2, and the second diameter may be larger than the first diameter. As a further example, at least upper portions of conduit-defining surfaces46may taper along sagittal axis Y1-Y1between inlet opening42and outlet opening44. As shown inFIG. 4, wall thickness37of protective hood36may be generally uniform in some areas, such that a curvature of conduit-defining surfaces46about sagittal axis Y1-Y1may be defined by a curvature of protective hood36about sagittal axis Y1-Y1. In some aspects, a portion of body20adjacent inlet opening42may be adjustable for different girth (e.g., by removing portions of posterior face32), yet still able to separate penis2from scrotum3.

Posterior face32may extend downward from protective hood36to contact a portion of penis2. As shown inFIG. 4, inlet opening42may comprise rounded edges that may contact penis2when flaccid or erect. Outlet opening44also may contact a portion of penis2. As also shown inFIG. 4, for example, outlet opening44may comprise rounded edges configured to maintain contact with penis2when erect, and wall thickness37of protective hood36may be configured to limit deformations of body20caused by the erection.

Second structure50may define a protective shell configured to envelop scrotum3by at least partially surrounding anterior and posterior portions thereof. In some aspects, second structure50may be strong enough to support scrotum3without compression, yet light enough to ensure comfort. For example, second structure50may be described as a non-compressive, semi-spherical cage that at least partially surrounds anterior and posterior portions of scrotum3when body20is worn and/or provides a support frame for other objects, such cover210described below.

As shown inFIG. 2, second structure50may comprise a posterior face52and an anterior face54extending outwardly from posterior face52. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, posterior face52may be generally parallel with longitudinal axis X-X, and anterior face54may comprise a curved shape extending from posterior face52along a sagittal axis Y2-Y2that is generally non-parallel with anterior face54, longitudinal axis X-X, and/or sagittal axis Y1-Y1of first structure30. As shown particularly inFIG. 2, the curved shape of anterior face54may comprise one or more semi-spherical or pear-like shapes that extend along and/or are oriented relative to axes X-X and/or Y2-Y2. For example, the curvature of anterior face54may be defined relative to an exterior size and/or shape of scrotum3, and include any regular or irregular shapes.

Interior surfaces of posterior face52and anterior face54may define a chamber56(e.g.FIG. 4) configured to contain and/or protect scrotum3. As shown inFIG. 4, for example, chamber56may extend between: an inlet opening58extending through posterior face52; a chamber opening60in communication with conduit40of first structure30; and chamber-defining surfaces62connecting inlet opening58and chamber opening60.

Inlet opening58may be sized to receive scrotum3. As shown inFIG. 6, inlet opening42of conduit40and inlet opening58of chamber56may be merged to define a single inlet opening for penis2and scrotum3. Inlet opening42may define an upper diameter of the single opening, inlet opening58may define a lower diameter of the single opening, and the single opening may comprise a shape defined by intersections of the upper and lower diameters, such as a hippopede. The shape may correspond with the natural shape of penis2and scrotum3. As also shown inFIG. 6, inlet opening58may comprise an entry59that flexes to receive and capture scrotum3. For example, entry59may be flexed in anterior direction A when receiving scrotum3into chamber56, and then flexed in posterior direction P behind scrotum3to capture it within chamber56. Portions of entry59may be removed (e.g., cut-away) to adjust the size of inlet opening58.

Chamber opening60(e.g.,FIG. 4) may comprise any shape that places conduit40in communication with chamber56. As shown inFIG. 4, first structure30may taper towards chamber opening60in a caudal direction along body axis X-X, second structure50may taper toward chamber opening60in a cranial direction along axis X-X, and chamber opening60may comprise an irregular shape extending between structures30and50. A shape of chamber-defining surfaces62also may be defined relative to an exterior size and/or shape of scrotum3, and thus, like anterior face54, many include any combination or regular or irregular shapes. As shown inFIG. 4, a wall thickness55of anterior face54may be generally uniform in some areas, such that a curvature of chamber-defining surfaces62about sagittal axis Y2-Y2may be defined by a curvature of anterior face54about axis Y2-Y2. For example, wall thickness55may be between approximately 1 mm (or approximately 0.04 inches) and approximately 8 mm (or approximately 0.31 inches).

Second structure50may be ventilated to provide non-pinching support for scrotum3. As shown inFIGS. 1-8, second structure50may comprise a plurality of openings64extending through anterior face54and conduit-surfaces62(FIG. 4) to chamber56at spaced apart locations. Each opening64may be sized and positioned to perform a different function. For example, plurality of openings64may comprise: (i) openings65that are oriented in radial patterns on anterior face54(e.g.,FIG. 2) and configured to ventilate chamber56; (ii) at least one opening66that extends down a center of anterior face54(e.g.,FIG. 2) and is configured to promote lateral flexibility between left and right portions of second structure50; (iii) openings67that are located on each side of second structure50(e.g.,FIG. 2), and configured to promote vertical flexibility between first structure30and second structure50; and (iv) openings68that are located on the bottom of second structure50(e.g.,FIG. 7), and configured to drain fluids from chamber56. Any shape, size, and position of openings may be used to perform these functions, including these examples.

Each opening64may modify the rigidity of second structure50. For example, wall thickness55of anterior face54(e.g.,FIG. 4) and/or plurality of openings64may be configured to maintain the shape of second structure50and/or limit deflections of the shape caused by movements of wearer1. As a further example, the material composition of body20, the thickness55of face54, and/or the size and location of openings64may be configured to absorb or deflect a portion of any compression and/or impact forces applied to scrotum3during the movements, helping to prevent injuries to scrotum3and/or the testes contained therein.

Accordingly, wearer1may wear body20by guiding penis2into inlet opening42of first structure30and scrotum3into inlet opening52of second structure50so that openings42and52fit snugly around penis2and scrotum3, the posterior portion of penis2is surrounded by conduit40, the anterior portion of penis2extends through outlet opening44, and anterior and posterior portions of scrotum3are surrounded by chamber56.

Third structure70may comprise one or more surfaces or structures that are positionable between penis2and scrotum3when body20is worn. As shown inFIG. 4, for example, third structure70may comprise a dividing surface72that extends between conduit40and chamber56, and may be located adjacent the posterior portion of penis2and a upper anterior portion of scrotum3when body20is worn. For example, dividing surface72may comprise a wedge shape and/or rounded edges positionable to maximize comfort when maintained against soft tissues of penis2and scrotum3.

Put another way, second structure50may be positionable to maintain a separation between a posterior portion of scrotum3and thighs of wearer1; and third structure70may be positionable to maintain a separation between an anterior portion of scrotum3and penis1when second structure50maintains the separation between the posterior portion of scrotum3and the thighs.

Third structure70also may maintain an alignment of penis2relative to scrotum3to allow for easy access and voiding. As shown inFIG. 2, third structure70may comprise an alignment surface74configured to align penis2generally with a centerline of anterior face54. Alignment surface74may comprise a concave portion of anterior face54that is generally aligned with longitudinal axis X-X and/or curved to accommodate a diameter of the underside of penis2. For example, the curvature of alignment surface74may help to center penis2relative to scrotum3when wearer1is resting, and return penis2to center if moved off of center when wearer1is moving. As shown inFIG. 2, alignment surface74also may comprise one or more grooves or openings configured to minimize contacts with penis2and promote additional airflows around penis2. The grooves or openings of alignment surface74also may permit adjustment of body20to accommodate different sizes of penis2. For example, the grooves or openings may allow portions of alignment surface74to be removed (e.g., cut-away) to achieve a desired fit with penis2or scrotum3. As further example, any removable portions of body20described herein may comprises similar grooves, openings, or other scoring means.

Penis2may naturally retreat toward wearer1when sitting or bending over, and expand away from wearer1when standing. Third structure70may accommodate this motion by allowing first structure30to flex toward second structure50and vice versa. Other structures of body20may help with the flexing, such as openings67. This flexibility means that, through daily movements, penis2is free to ease from a retracted position to an expanded position within conduit40. In some aspects, the flexibility also may decrease turtling.

As shown inFIG. 1, attachment element80may be configured to maintain body20in a position relative to wearer1such that second structure50maintains the separation between the posterior portion of scrotum3and the thighs and third structure70maintains the separation between the anterior portion of scrotum3and penis2. Attachment element80may suspend a weight of body20and a weight of the genitalia from wearer1, and maintain a snug fit between body20and wearer1. For example, attachment element80may suspend the weights of body20and the genitalia from the waist of wearer1in order to reduce the amount of weight supported by the genitalia; and maintain one or both of posterior surfaces32and52against anterior portions of wearer1so as to limit movements of body20.

As shown inFIG. 1, attachment element80may comprise one or more straps engageable with body20. For example, the straps may be configured to travel up the “V” of the lower abdomen and around the small of the back to free wearer1from posterior straps and/or fabrics. Aspects of the straps may have elastic characteristics and/or otherwise be configured to maintain posterior surfaces32and/or52against the anterior portions of wearer1.

The straps may be removably attachable to body20. As shown inFIG. 5, for example, attachment element80may comprise a first attachment opening82on one side of body20and a second attachment opening84on the other side of body20. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 8, attachment element80also may comprise a first strap portion83comprising a first end connector (not visible inFIG. 5) engageable with first attachment opening82; and a second strap portion86comprising a second end connector85engageable with second attachment opening84. For example, each attachment opening82and84may comprise a shape; and each end connector of strap portions83and86(e.g., such as connector85ofFIG. 8) may comprise a corresponding shape engageable with the shape of attachment openings82and84to removably attach strap portions83and86to body20. Any interlocking shapes and/or structures may be used.

As shown inFIG. 1, first and second strap portions83and86may be attached to one another and configured to wrap around the waist of wearer1, thereby transferring weight to a waist of wearer1. Strap portions83and86also may be attached to another portion and/or garment of wearer1. For example, strap portions83and86also may comprise additional connectors or surfaces that are engageable with adjacent portions of skin (e.g., via a biocompatible adhesive) and/or other garments (e.g., such as another undergarment or belt) of wearer1by any known means. As a further example, strap portions83and86may be attachable to a form fitting undergarment without the use of a belt.

However configured, attachment element80may apply vertical and/or lateral forces to body20when worn. Aspects of body20may be configured to limit deflections caused by those forces. As shown inFIG. 8, exemplary forces may comprise first lateral force F1applied to attachment opening82by first strap portion83and second lateral force F2applied to attachment opening84by second strap portion86. As shown inFIG. 5, attachment openings82and84may be located in first structure30; and first structure30may be configured to maintain the shape of body20by resisting forces F1and F2. For example, the cylindrical shape of protective hood36may comprise a semi-circular cross-section extending between attachment openings82and84; and any one or more of a diameter of the semi-circular cross-section, the material composition of first structure30, and/or wall thickness37of protective hood36may be configured to limit deflections of the semi-circular shape caused by lateral forces F1and F2when body20is worn.

Additional aspects of this disclosure are now described with reference toFIGS. 9-11with reference to a genitalia support apparatus110. Particular differences between apparatus110and10are described. Other aspects of support apparatus110may be similar or identical to counterpart aspects of support apparatus10, but within the100series of numbers, whether or not those aspects are expressly described herein or marked onFIGS. 9-11. Without limitation, any aspects described with reference to genitalia support apparatus110may be applicable to any variation of support apparatus10described herein and vice versa, each possible iteration being part of this disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 9, genitalia support apparatus110may similarly comprise a body120defining: a first structure130, a second structure150, and a third structure170; and an attachment element180configured to secure body120against a wearer. In contrast to above, first structure130ofFIG. 9may comprise a reinforcement element190configured to maintain a shape of body120when support apparatus110is worn by limiting deflections caused by forces applied thereto by wearer1or their clothing, such as lateral forces F1and F2.

Reinforcing element190may comprise any material that is attachable to, embeddable in, and/or formed integral with body120. As shown inFIG. 9, first structure130may similarly comprise a protective hood136, and a conduit140extending through protective hood136. For example, body120may comprise a first material, such as medical grade silicone; and reinforcing element190may comprise a second material that is attached to, embedded in, or formed integral with protective hood136. A shape of reinforcing element190and/or a composition of the second material may be configured to maintain a shape of body120when support apparatus110is worn (e.g., a diameter of conduit140) by reinforcing the first material at one or more structures of body120. Any second material may be used in any form, including any polymeric material(s), including thermoplastics, like PEEK.

Reinforcing element190may comprise a structural frame191that is removably attachable to body120. As shown inFIG. 10, attachment element180may comprise portions of body120, such as a first attachment opening182, a second attachment opening184, and a frame receiving channel186in communication with attachment openings182and184. Attachment openings182and184may extend partially into protective hood136; and channel186may extend partially into a conduit defining surface146of conduit140, between openings182and184. A shape of structural frame191may correspond with a shape of first attachment opening182, second attachment opening184, and channel186, allowing frame191to be snapped into opening182, opening184, and/or channel186.

As shown inFIG. 10, body120may be comprised of a flexible material (e.g., medical grade silicone); structural frame191may be comprised of a rigid polymeric material (e.g., PEEK, PVC, and the like); and each end192and194of frame191may be keyed to obtain a snap-fit with attachment openings182and184. For example, structural frame191may have a diameter that is slightly larger than a diameter of conduit140, allowing frame191to apply a tensioning force to body120that maintains a shape of body120, such as the diameter of conduit140; and secures structural frame191in frame receiving channel186. As shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, each end192and194may be located in one of openings182and184to seat frame191in channel186.

Reinforcing element190may be engageable with attachment element180. For example, each end192and194of structural frame191may be engageable with another attachment element, such as a strap, tape, and/or another garment. As shown inFIGS. 9, 10, and 11, end192may be seated in opening182and removably attachable to an end connector of a strap portion183; and end194may be seated in opening184and removably attachable to an end connector185of a strap portion186. In this configuration, when body120is worn, lateral forces F1and F2may be applied to strap portions183and186and transferred into structural frame191via the end connectors of strap portions183and186. Frame191may be configured to resist forces F1and F2. For example, a cross-sectional shape, a diameter, and/or a material composition of structural frame191may allow it to function as a curved beam configured to limit lateral deflections at ends192and194. As a further example, the connection between ends192and194and strap portions183and186may allow the entirety of lateral forces F1and F2to be transferred into frame191without substantial deformations of body120.

Any number and shape of structural frame(s)191may be used to similarly reinforce body120. For example, reinforcing element190also may comprise: a plurality of structural frames191; a material composition of first structure130; and a reinforcing mesh embedded in protective hood136. Either body120and/or reinforcing member190may comprise shape memory materials. For example, structural frame191may comprise a shape memory metal and/or polymer configured to both resist lateral forces F1and F2, and restore the shape of body120after removal of any other forces applied thereto.

In some aspects, genitalia support apparatus10and/or110may be maintained against skin of wearer1, at a generally fixed location, for extended durations of time (e.g., hours), making it a desirable support frame for other objects. An example is now described with reference toFIGS. 12 and 13, which reference an exemplary cover210. For ease of description, aspects of cover210are shown and described with reference to body20of support apparatus10.

As shown inFIG. 12, cover210may comprise any type of covering material that is attached to body20and configured to protect penis2or scrotum3from one or more elements. For example, for circumcised males, cover210may comprise a thin fabric configured to protect a tip of penis2from movement-induced injuries caused by interactions between the circumcised tip and an interior surface of the wearer's clothing. As a further example, for incontinent males, cover210may comprise moisture absorbing and/or retaining elements configured to retain a predetermined amount of moisture (e.g., an amount equivalent to one or more bladder voids of an adult male), much like a diaper. As yet another example, for athletic males, cover210also may comprise additional impact absorption and/or deflective layers configured to prevent impact related injuries to penis2or scrotum3. For example, cover210may have a rigid shape and/or a supporting structure.

However cover210is configured, body20may be configured to limit deflections caused by forces and any additional weight associated with cover210. For example, a rigidity of first structure30may be configured to limit deflections caused by lateral forces F1and F2(e.g.,FIG. 8) and the additional weight. Alternatively, if cover210is used with support apparatus110, then reinforcing element190may be configured to limit the deflections. For example, if cover210comprises moisture absorbing and/or retaining elements, then the additional weight may comprise a weight of those elements and the predetermined amount of moisture; and one or both of cover210and/or reinforcing element190may be configured to support the additional weight without substantial deformations of body120.

As also shown inFIG. 13, interior surfaces212,214and/or edges213,215of cover210may be removably attachable to exterior and/or interior surfaces of body20. For example, interior surfaces212and/or edges213may comprise an adhesive engageable with outer surfaces of first structure30of body20and interior surfaces214and/or edges215may comprise an adhesive engageable with outer surfaces of second structure50of body20. As a further example, surfaces212,214and/or edges213,215also may comprise interlocking attachment features engageable with corresponding features of body10, such as snaps, Velcro®, and the like. Further still, portions of cover210(e.g., surfaces212,214and/or edges213,215) may comprise elastic elements that are conformable around body20. For example, the elastic elements may extend at least partially around a perimeter of cover210, allowing it to be stretched elastically around one or more exterior portions of body20when removably attached thereto.

Any combination of attachment features may be used. For example, if cover210comprises moisture absorbing and/or retaining elements, then the attachment features may be configured to maintain a moisture-tight seal between cover210and the exterior surfaces of body20. For example, as shown inFIG. 13, a bottom portion211of cover210may wrap around second structure50, creating a moisture capture area; and edge215may comprise adhesive and/or elastic elements positionable to form a moisture-tight seal with exterior surfaces of body20so that fluids draining out of chamber56through one or more openings64(e.g., openings68) are directed into the moisture capture area. As a further example, cover210may be suspended from a portion of body20by the elastic elements, allowing it to support the weight of the moisture without being sealed against body20.

Any number of alternative and/or additional objects also may be similarly attached to and supported by body20. For example, exterior surfaces of protective hood36and/or interior surfaces of conduit40may comprise one or more attachment structures (e.g., clamps or hooks) configured to removably attach a portion of a condom (e.g., a posterior portion) to body20(e.g., protective hood36). As a further example, any surface of body20also may comprise protrusions or openings engageable with any other objects, such as a sensor or other electronic device.

As described above, genitalia support apparatus10and110may be worn under any garment. First structures30,130and second structures50,150, respectively, may at least partially surround penis2and scrotum3. For example, first structures30,130may protect penis2from compression while allowing it to rest naturally in a downward position; and second structures50,150may limit sagging of scrotum3. Other aspects of bodies20,120may accommodate different sizes and/or performance features. For example, at least second structures50,150may comprise a biocompatible material (e.g., silicone) defining a combination of solid and webbed surfaces configured to maintain a cool skin feel by maintaining separations between penis2, scrotum3, and the thighs wearer1. Accordingly, when properly fitted, apparatus10and110may be worn without folding, cramping, pinching, or binding penis2and/or scrotum3.

Although described independently, it is contemplated that aspects of support apparatus10and110(e.g., any of first structures30,130, second structures50,150, and third structures70,170) may be integrated into any known undergarments, such as briefs, boxers, and the like. For example, without departing from this disclosure, the structures defining conduits40,140and/or chambers56,156may be integrated into the pouch of a traditional brief or boxer brief, or a protective cup for traditional jock straps. As a further example, these traditional undergarments also may serve as attachment elements80,180.

Without limiting any of the aspects described herein, ornamental designs of the structures shown in the drawings are also disclosed. Some of the described aspects may be optional features in some of the designs. For example, in some ornamental designs, portions of first structures30,130, second structures50,150, and/or third structures70,170may be optional features and/or form no part of the design. As a further example, in some ornamental designs, any or all of plurality of openings64may be optional features and/or form no part of the design. Some ornamental designs may consist of any ornamental features visible from any perspective relative to the orientations shown in the drawings.

While principles of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrative aspects for particular applications, the disclosure is not limited thereto. Those having ordinary skill in the art and access to the teachings provided herein will recognize additional modifications, applications, aspects, and substitution of equivalents all fall in the scope of the aspects described herein. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not to be considered as limited by the foregoing description.