WO1998043588A1

WO1998043588A1 - Sleeve for male diaper and method of use

Info

Publication number: WO1998043588A1
Application number: PCT/US1998/006469
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gordon Tang
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1997-04-02
Filing date: 1998-04-01
Publication date: 1998-10-08
Anticipated expiration: 1999-10-02
Also published as: AU6877298A

Abstract

This invention is apparatus sleeves, adapters, and shields (20) into which a diaper or absorbent pad (22) may be inserted, and used to absorb urine leakage of an incontinent male; and methods of manufacture and use thereof.

Description

Title: SLEEVE FOR MALE DIAPER AND METHOD OF USE

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection.

The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.

TECHNICAL FIELD This invention relates to sleeves, adapters, or shields for use with diapers and methods of use thereof. More particularly, this invention relates primarily to sleeves into which a commercially available diaper or absorbent pad may be inserted and used to absorb urine leakage of an incontinent male.

BACKGROUND ART

Incontinence is a well-known medical condition wherein a person loses the ability to control his or her bladder. In the case of males, loss of control results in urine leakage from the penis. This condition is often prevalent immediately after a patient has undergone prostate surgery and other types of surgery. This condition is also more prevalently experienced by elderly persons.

In an effort to assist persons experiencing incontinence, a wide variety of urine absorbing apparatus have been invented. Such apparatus primarily include differently structured adult diapers, or devices which direct a catheter tube to a urine collection bag. For example, the following patents illustrate various diapers, absorbent material holding structures, and urine collection devices: Lawrence (U.S. Letters Patent No. 1,228,452; issued June 5, 1917); Ericson (U.S. Letters Patent No. 3,295,145; issued January 3, 1967); Lehman (U.S. Letters Patent No. 3,621,846; issued November 23, 1971); Bostick (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,197,849; issued April 15, 1980); Sigl et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,437,860; issued March 20, 1984) ; Brendling (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,453,938; issued June 12, 1984); Brendling (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,500,314; issued February 19, 1985); Ternstrom (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,627,846; issued December 9, 1986) ; Goulter et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,009,649; issued April 23, 1991); Byrant (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,074,853; issued December 24, 1991); Grizzaffi (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,275,592; issued January 4, 1994); Moretz et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,291,617; issued March 8, 1994); Kubo (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,300,052; issued April 5, 1994); Klinger (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,383,867; issued January 24, 1995); Chen (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,399,176; issued March 21, 1995); Runeman et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,401,266; issued March 28, 1995); Chung (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,429,622; issued July 4, 1995) ; Bruem er et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,462,541; issued October 31, 1995); Runeman et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,486,168; issued January 23, 1996); Schreiber (German Letters Patent No. 69,946; issued September 17, 1892); Lanstingens (Sverige Patent No. 7908400-0) ; Bjork (Sverige Patent No. 325102) ; Hesterman et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 3,721,243; issued March 20, 1973); Laufbahn (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,073,295; issued February 14, 1978); Grossner (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,122,851; issued October 31, 1978); Johnson, Jr. et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,511,358; issued April 16, 1985) ; Komis (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,713,066; issued December 15, 1987); Manfredi (U.S. Letters Patent No. 4,846,816; issued July 11, 1989) ; Mason (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,032,118; issued July 16, 1991); Conway et al. (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,176,666; issued January 5, 1993); Kalinoski (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,193,553; issued March 16, 1993) ; and Selzer (U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,375,265; issued December 27, 1994). Use of the devices identified above often presents several significant problems. For example, most of such devices are very expensive to design, engineer, manufacture, mass produce, and mass distribute.

Although incontinence is a dramatic inconvenience and embarrassment to those persons suffering therefrom, the number of persons within a specific geographical vicinity experiencing this condition is often insufficient to justify the time, expense, and shelf space for retailers to track down, purchase, stock, and reorder such devices. Consequently, such devices usually must be specially ordered through medical supply companies. Since small orders are usually placed, the costs involved are usually exorbitant. In the case of many patients, those who need such devices the most often are the least able to afford them. This is particularly true in the case of senior citizens who have a restricted source of income.

Furthermore, since such products must be specially ordered, they are usually not readily available in case of an emergency. For example, if the patient is out in public when the product he is wearing beings to fail and no longer retain urine therein, the patient usually cannot simply stop into the local supermarket to purchase a replacement device. Rather, the patient must return to his home to hopefully obtain a replacement device. That is assuming such replacement devices are stored or stockpiled at his home.

Another significant problem with such devices is that the absorbent material is urged against the lower torso, buttock, and genitals of the patient. Consequently, when urine is absorbed therein, the lower torso, buttock, and genitals of the patient are exposed to prolonged periods of moisture and dampness.

If the patient frequently replaces the device in order to avoid the unpleasant feeling of moisture and dampness and the unpleasant odors emitting from the device, the patient must purchase, stock and replenish a vast number of replacement devices. Due to the exorbitant price of such devices, frequent replacement of the devices can be extremely expensive, inconvenient, and time consuming.

If the device is not frequently replaced, the capacity of the device to hold urine may be exceeded. This results in leakage of urine through or around the device, usually through the pants or garments of the patient, much to the dismay and embarrassment of the wearer.

The wearer could choose to wear an additional pair of plastic, rubber or latex pants about the lower torso, buttock and genital areas of the patient. In other words, once the device is placed upon the patient, a pair of plastic or rubber pants could be pulled over the device, lower torso, buttock, and genital areas of the patient. Street clothes could then be worn over the plastic or rubber pants. Thus positioned, the plastic or rubber pants are intended to shield the street clothes of the wearer from leakage of urine from the confines of the device. This structure was often used with infants and younger children when they wore older style cotton diapers, and the required surrounding rubber pants.

The infant diaper industry quickly identified problems with using the above-mentioned plastic or rubber pants. For example, urine still often leaked out of the device and pants between at the legs and/or waist of the wearer. In response, elastic, contracting leg and waist openings were used. Such elastic, contracting leg and waist openings, however, would often cause chaffing of the skin of the wearer. Such structures were very uncomfortable to wear. Such structures also did not permit breathing of the skin contained therein. Furthermore, the feelings of dampness, moisture, and sweating were exponentially increased when plastic or rubber pants were worn. The inventor believes that the above-listed disclosures, whether taken alone or in combination, neither anticipate nor render obvious the present invention. The foregoing explanation and citations do not constitute an admission that such disclosures are relevant or material to the present Claims. Rather, such explanation and citations relate only to the general field of the current disclosure and invention.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

The present invention can be used to manufacture a wide variety of differently structured apparatus for containing moisture absorbent material. The moisture absorbent material is basically used to absorb urine of an incontinent male infant, child, patient or user.

The present invention is easily constructed, and is inexpensive and economical to manufacture. The apparatus is extremely simple to assemble.

The present invention is simple to use, and is compact, efficient, reliable, reusable, durable, rugged and washable. The present invention requires minimal manipulation to apply and remove, and is relatively comfortable to wear. Only a minimum amount of manipulation, physical dexterity and effort is required to apply and/or remove the apparatus.

The present invention also permits the wearer to easily replace the moisture absorbent material, diaper, or pad within the apparatus. This feature is particularly beneficial to permit the wearer to reverse or position the diaper end for end, and thereby obtain twice as much usage out of a single diaper. The apparatus may be easily adjusted or modified to provide a wide variety of different sizes and thereby accommodate the needs of a larger consumer base. Such adjustment or modification can be accomplished with a minimum amount of delay or difficulty. Depending upon which embodiment of the invention is used, the size of the waist band and the size of the orifice through which the penis is inserted may both be adjusted.

Furthermore, the apparatus of the present invention may assume the general overall appearance of a conventional jock strap, pair or shorts, or briefs.

It is the intention of the inventor that persons using the present invention will experience a significant increase in their level of confidence, and will lead more productive lives during its use. For example, the present invention not only increases the speed and simplifies the procedure to absorb urine flow, it also provides means for protecting oneself against the embarrassment of urinal leakage so that the user can concentrate upon other activities without having to constantly worry about the condition and leak-worthiness of the apparatus.

To achieve these general and specific objectives, the simplest form of the present invention generally comprises an apparatus having the combination of a specially structured housing and means for juxtaposing the housing adjacent to the male.

More particularly, the housing has a front panel and a rear panel . The front panel is attached to or formed integrally with the rear panel to form a generally flexible, urine impermeable sleeve. Thus structured, the housing generally forms an enclosure between the front panel and the rear panel.

The housing has at least one opening which permits selective access to the enclosure within the sleeve.

Preferably, the housing has means for selectively closing and opening the opening into the enclosure.

By selectively opening the opening into the enclosure, a moisture absorbent material, such a commercially and readily available diaper, feminine absorbent pad, or the like, may by removably inserted into and held within the enclosure of the housing. When necessary, the moisture absorbent material can be removed from the enclosure through the opening. To accomplish the purposes of the present invention, the housing is also provided with an orifice through which the penis of a male may be at least partially inserted. The inventor prefers that the orifice be positioned within the rear panel of the housing. Thus positioned, urine leakage from the penis can be readily absorbed by the moisture absorbent material contained within the enclosure.

Since the moisture absorbent material is removable and replaceable, the apparatus of the present invention can be easily cleaned.

Within alternative embodiments of the present invention, the housing may be provided with at least a first opening and a second opening. Each of such openings permits selective access into the enclosure. As illustrated hereafter, the first opening and the second opening may be positioned at opposed ends of the housing and the enclosure. The housing may also be provided with means for selectively closing and opening both the first opening and the second opening. Thus structured, the housing permits the moisture absorbent material to be inserted through the first opening and be removed through the second opening, or vice versa. Where two different openings are used, the moisture absorbent material can be first pushed into the enclosure through the first opening and then be pulled further into the enclosure by reaching through the second opening. When soiled, the moisture absorbent material can be removed from either the first opening and/or the second opening.

To increase the comfort when wearing the present invention, the front panel and the rear panel may have a narrower width near to a mid-portion thereof, as compared to width of the front panel and the rear panel near the first opening and the second opening. In other words, the housing may have a generally hourglass-shaped, or concave-concavo structure that permits more comfortable placement at the crotch of the wearer when worn.

As stated above, the orifice is preferably placed within the rear panel . The penis of the male may be at least partially inserted through the orifice within the housing. More particularly, the orifice is preferably positioned within an orifice panel that is manufactured from a generally elastic, flexible, urine impermeable membrane. The urine impermeable membrane may be provided with a generally truncated conical taper having a smaller diameter near the orifice opening. Alternatively, the urine impermeable membrane may be cut or punctured to provide adjustment in size of the orifice opening. Within a further alternative, the urine impermeable membrane has at least one slit placed adjacent to the orifice opening to accommodate adjustment in the size of the orifice opening.

The means for juxtaposing the housing adjacent to the male may generally comprise at least one waist band that is secured to the housing. The waist band should be capable of being secured about the waist of the wearer. For example, the waist band may generally comprise at least one cord that is capable of being tied about the waist of the male wearer. Alternatively, the waist band may be at least partially manufactured of a girth adjustable strapping or belt material. Such strapping or belt material may have at least one end that is capable of being secured by a snap, button, tie, clip, hook and loop fastener system, or other device that permits the girth position to be adjusted. Within the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the waist band is at least partially manufactured of a generally elastic material. For example, the juxtaposing means may take the general overall appearance of a conventional jock strap, pair of shorts and/or briefs, as long as the purposes of this invention are accomplished.

The juxtaposing means may also comprise at least one strip of adhesive material that is secured to the front panel of the housing. The adhesive material is generally capable of being urged against and removably secured to an interior surface of the above-mentioned jock strap, pair of shorts, or briefs to position the housing adjacent to the male wearer. Alternatively, the juxtaposing means may simply comprise at least one generally elastic band or strap that is capable of being secured about the housing and the penis of the male. Thus positioned, the elastic band or strap secures the housing to the penis, and a conventional jock strap, pair of shorts and/or briefs may be worn. The moisture absorbent material is not listed as a required element of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. However, within an alternative embodiment, the moisture absorbent material could comprise a required element of the present invention. In addition to the foregoing advantages and other advantages described further below, the present invention also overcomes all of the previously mentioned disadvantages.

The preferred and several different alternative embodiments of the apparatus, and associated structures, of the present invention and the processes for manufacture and use thereof are further described in greater detail in the following description, Claims, and drawings of this Specification. However, to avoid any possible confusion as to the scope of the present invention, each of the following sections, claim language, and the drawings of this Specification in their entirety are incorporated herein by this reference. The foregoing and other objectives and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent upon reading the following disclosure and referring to the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a plan view of a first embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional, side-elevational view of the first embodiment of the present invention, as seen along a plane defined by line II-II in FIG 1.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational view of a first embodiment of an orifice, as seen along a plane defined by line III-III in FIG 1.

FIG. 4 is a partial, side-elevation, schematic view of the first embodiment of the present invention secured to a patient or wearer.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a second embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional, side-elevational view of the second embodiment of the present invention, as seen along a plane defined by line VI-VI in FIG 5. FIG. 7 is an enlarged, partial, plan view of a second embodiment of the orifice, as seen in FIG 5.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged, partial, plan view of a second embodiment of the orifice as seen in FIG. 7, with a slightly larger opening therein.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational, schematic view of the second embodiment of the orifice through which at least a portion of a penis of the patient or wearer may be inserted, as otherwise seen along a plane defined by line IX-IX in FIG 5.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a third embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, partial, plan view of a third embodiment of the orifice, with a slitted, expandable opening therein.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. FIG. 16 is a partial, front-elevation, schematic view of the seventh embodiment of the present invention secured to the patient or wearer.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational, schematic view of the seventh embodiment of the present invention, wherein at least a portion of a penis of the patient or wearer is inserted through the orifice and the penis is oriented with a generally upward direction.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational, schematic view of the seventh embodiment of the present invention, wherein at least a portion of a penis of the patient or wearer is inserted through the orifice and the penis is oriented with a generally downward direction.

FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a rear plan view of the eighth embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational, schematic view of the eighth embodiment of the present invention, wherein at least a portion of a penis of the patient or wearer is inserted through the orifice and the penis is oriented with a generally downward direction.

FIG. 22 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational, schematic view of the eighth embodiment of the present invention, wherein at least a portion of a penis of the patient or wearer is inserted through the orifice and the penis is oriented with a generally upward direction. FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

FIG. 24 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational, schematic view of the ninth embodiment of the present invention, wherein at least a portion of a penis of the patient or wearer is inserted through the orifice and the penis is oriented with a generally downward direction.

FIG. 25 is an enlarged, partial, cross-sectional, side- elevational, schematic view of the ninth embodiment of the present invention, wherein at least a portion of a penis of the patient or wearer is inserted through the orifice and the penis is oriented with a generally upward direction.

One should understand that the drawings are not necessarily to scale and the elements are sometimes illustrated by graphic symbols, phantom lines, diagrammatic representations, and fragmentary views. In certain instances, the inventor may have omitted details which are not necessary for an understanding of the present invention or which render other details difficult to perceive. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present invention is intended to be used by incontinent men. However, if needed or desired, the present invention could also be used by infants, small children, and animals such as primates kept as pets.

However, prior to discussing the present invention in detail, the inventor desires to reemphasize several particular short comings of the devices heretofore known and used.

Most men suffering from incontinence use adult diapers that are purchased from drug stores or special medical supply companies at a cost of approximately $0.50 to $1.00 each. Furthermore, even if liquid consumption is restricted, an incontinent man will still urinate approximately ten (10) times a day. If a new adult diaper is used for each urination, the patient or wearer could easily use ten or more diapers each day. For persons having a limited income, the purchase and use of such adult diapers can be financially threatening and may amount to several hundred dollars a month.

Most of the commercially available adult diapers are manufactured with a lining placed on the inside of the diaper. In other words, the lining is placed on the side that comes into contact with the skin of the wearer. The lining permits the urine to pass therethrough and be absorbed by the underlying substrate or strata of absorbent material.

Some manufacturers advertise that the absorbent material is treated with chemicals to further absorb and retain a certain amount of urine on the interior side of the diaper away from the lining and skin of the wearer.

The entire diaper is usually contained within an outer skin of plastic, rubber or latex material. In theory such diapers should work well. The assumption is that the urine passes through the lining and becomes completely absorbed by the underlying substrate or strata of absorbent material. The urine was then to be wicked throughout the entire area or length of the diaper. The absorbent material, which is usually treated with chemicals, is supposed to absorb enough urine for the wearer to urinate several times before the diaper must be replaced. In theory, when wearing such commercially available adult diapers, the wearer should not feel any dampness or moisture against his skin, because the urine is supposed to be retained behind the interiorly positioned lining. The lining is supposed to stay completely dry against the skin of the wearer.

In reality such commercially available adult diapers do not function as they are intended to function. For example, in reality the lining remains continually wet after the initial urination. The dampness is especially prevalent upon urination and for an extended period thereafter. Apparently the lining adversely functions as a barrier, preventing immediate absorption of the urine. The wearer feels the wetness and uncomfortable warmth of the urine against the abdomen and groin area skin. Such feelings and sensations are very uncomfortable and can be emotionally embarrassing.

Due to the ineffectiveness of such commercially available adult diapers, wearers will usually replace the diaper immediately after the initial urination. This is particularly true if the wearer finds the feeling of dampness uncomfortable.

An important problem with such adult diapers is that only a small portion of the diaper is actually damp after the initial urination. For example, after an initial urination, the adult diaper may have a wet spot of only about three inches (3") in diameter. This represents approximately five percent (5%) or less of the total moisture holding capacity of the adult diaper. However, due to the uncomfortable and unsanitary nature of the occurrence, the wearer will likely feel compelled to change the diaper. As a result, the patient will pay for the full price of a diaper but only use approximately five to 10 percent (5%-10%) of its capacity. Such a practice is not very cost effective. If worn for an extended period of time, albeit a very uncomfortable situation, the diaper should be able to absorb more than one urination.

However, when a large or heavy volume of urine is deposited into the diaper within a short period of time, the urine usually will leak out of the diaper around the waist or legs of the diaper. This occurs despite the fact that a large portion of the diaper may still be dry. Of course, leakage of urine from the diaper usually results in an embarrassing and humiliating scene wherein the street pants of the wearer become very apparently wet.

In addition, there is always a certain amount of vapor and dampness that is never absorbed by the adult diaper. Such vapor and dampness generally stay trapped in the space between the diaper and the wearer's body. This is particularly true if the wearer drinks a large amount of water and other fluids. Please note that persons recovering from prostate surgery and/or a bladder operation are instructed to drink large amounts of water. However, patients become reluctant to drink so much water because of the loss of bladder control.

To avoid embarrassing scenes, wearers of such commercially available diapers will wear plastic pants on the outside of the diaper. Use of plastic pants adds to the discomfort of the wearer, even when the diaper is not soiled. Medical supply companies are often in short supply of such plastic pants. The likely reason for this is that many persons who suffer from this condition have shared this common and unfortunate experience of leakage and, as a consequence, purchase whatever supply of plastic pants are available.

When a person wears plastic pants over an adult diaper, the elastic bands which are positioned about the waist and legs of the plastic pants are urged into close contact with the skin of the wearer. Such close contact and the non- breathability of the plastic pants causes a buildup of sweat to accumulate around such elastic bands. Consequently, even when urination has not occurred, the elastic bands around the waist and legs of the wearer and the interior area confined by the plastic pants become very moist, damp, and wet. Nearly every movement of the wearer causes the wet plastic of the plastic pants to come into contact and stick to the skin of the wearer. In temperate climates, the wet plastic pants can be very cold against the skin of the wearer.

The wearer of such plastic pants must be careful to select a pair that is properly fitted for his waist, legs, buttock, and contained adult diaper. If not properly fitted, the plastic pants become very tight around the waist and legs of the user, causing chaffing and restricting the flow of blood through this region of the wearer's body.

Conversely, if the elastic bands about the waist and legs of the user are not tight enough urine will leak therebetween.

By using the present invention, persons will no longer feel dampness as heretofore was the unfortunate result of loss of bladder control. This is particularly true since the penis does not feel dampness as other parts of a wearer's body, or at least dampness does not cause discomfort to the penis as compared to other parts of the body. If desired, only the tip or head of the penis is inserted into the orifice. Not only will the wearer's comfort be greatly increased, but when using the present invention, the wearer will not be required to change the moisture absorbent material nearly as much as with the heretofore known devices. Basically, the moisture absorbent material or diaper will only need changing when it becomes saturated. For example, within one embodiment of the present invention, the wearer can remove and reverse the position of the moisture absorbent material or diaper. Once the moisture absorbent material or diaper is reinserted into the invention, with its end-for-end reversed orientation, the dryer portion of the moisture absorbent material or diaper may be used, thereby, dramatically prolonging the useful life of such material. As a result, each portion of moisture absorbent material or diaper can be effectively used four to six times longer than was heretofore possible, without causing discomfort or embarrassment to the wearer, or causing any possible wetting of the outer garment. The attention of the reader is now directed to the attached drawings which illustrate the preferred and several alternative embodiments of the present invention.

Referring to the attached drawings, wherein like numerals indicate like parts, the present invention generally comprises an apparatus 20 for containing a moisture absorbent material 22 to absorb urine 24 of an incontinent male wearer 26. For purposes of later discussion, the wearer 26 has a waist 28, a penis 30, and legs 32 and 34.

Within the preferred embodiment of the invention, the apparatus 20 generally comprises the combination of a housing 36 and means 38 for juxtaposing the housing 36 adjacent to the wearer 26. Although not listed as a required element within the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus 20 may also comprise the moisture absorbent material 22. The moisture absorbent material 22 may comprise any material that is capable of absorbing urine. However, within the preferred embodiment of the invention, the moisture absorbent material 22 generally comprises any commercially available diaper or absorbent pad. As used herein, the terms moisture absorbent material 22, diaper, and moisture absorbent napkin or pad shall be considered synonyms with each other and shall indicate the same or interchangeable structural elements. The moisture absorbent material 22 need not comprise an expensive adult diaper. Rather, an infant or child diaper may also be used. The diaper may be used in its entirety, or it may be cut into two or more segments to accomplish the purposes of this invention.

Please note that during a recovery period immediately following prostate surgery and during nighttime periods the wearer 26 will likely have to use a diaper having a large absorption capacity. As the wearer 26 recovers from the surgery and/or during periods of awakeness, the wearer may select to use a diaper having less bulk. For example, within the embodiments illustrated within Figures 15 through 25, the moisture absorbent material 22 generally comprises a feminine or sanitary napkin or pad. In such instances, the absorbency capacity of the moisture absorbent material 22 can be adjusted by using either a "maxi pad," a "mini pad," or the like.

The housing 36 is provided with a front panel 40 and a rear panel 42. The front panel 40 is attached to or formed integrally with the rear panel 40 to form a generally flexible, urine impermeable sleeve.

The housing 36 also forms an enclosure 44 between the front panel 40 and the rear panel 42.

The housing 36 has at least one opening 46 which permits selective access to the enclosure 44. Within the embodiments illustrated within Figures 1, 2, 5, 6 and 10, the housing 36 has an additional, opposed, second opening 48. Opening 46 and second opening 48 permit the moisture absorbent material 22 to be pulled from or inserted into either opposed end of the housing 36. In other words, the moisture absorbent material 22 can be inserted into or removed from the enclosure 44 through either opening 46 or second opening 48. Thus positioned, the housing 36 is capable of removably holding the moisture absorbent material 22 within the enclosure 44.

The housing 36 is also provided with means 50 for selectively closing and opening the opening 46 and/or the second opening 48. For example as illustrated throughout the accompanying drawings, the closing and opening means 50 may comprise one or more flaps or extensions of the front panel 40 that can be folded over itself and secured in position to close the opening 46 and/or the second opening 48. Within the preferred embodiment of the present invention the closing and opening means 50, and more particularly the aforementioned flaps, are held in a secured closed position by the use of mating strips 52 and 54 of a hook and loop fastening system, such as that sold under the trademark VELCRO. Of course other closing and opening means 50 could be used. For example, a zipper, button and button hole, clip, safety pin, or simply an overlapping flap similar to those used on plastic sandwich bags may be used.

The housing 36 also has an orifice 56, aperture, hole, or slit positioned within the rear panel 42 through which the penis 30 of the wearer 26 may be at least partially inserted. As used herein, the terms orifice 56, aperture, hole, and slit shall be considered synonyms with each other and shall indicate the same or interchangeable structural elements.

When inserted into the orifice 56, the penis 30 is positioned such that urine leakage will be absorbed by the moisture absorbent material 22. Please note that the penis 30 may assume a generally downward orientation as illustrated within Figures 18, 21 and 24. Alternatively, the penis 30 may be positioned to have a generally upward orientation as illustrated within Figures 17, 22 and 25. The juxtaposing means 38 may take several different forms. For example, as illustrated within Figures 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 10 and 12, the apparatus 20 may generally take the form of a diaper that is placed between the legs 32 and 34 of the wearer 26. The respective, opposed, terminal ends of the apparatus 20 are drawn upwardly over the buttock and abdomen of the wearer 26. The upper ends of the apparatus 20 are then secured together generally about the waist 28 of the wearer 26 by one or more waist bands 58 that are in turn secured to the housing 36. For example, such upper ends can be tied together using a waist band 58 formed from one or more cords 60 that are tied about the waist 28 of the wearer 26.

Alternatively, as illustrated within Figures 10 and 12, the waist band 58 may be manufactured of a girth adjustable material or strapping material having at least one end that is secured in a girth adjusted position by a snap, button, tie, clip, or hook and loop fastener system. Furthermore, the waist band 58 may be at least partially manufactured of a generally elastic material.

As illustrated within Figures 13, 14, 21 and 22, the juxtaposing means 38 may generally comprise a pair of shorts or briefs 60. As illustrated within Figures 15 through 18, the juxtaposing means 38 may generally comprise a jock strap 62. In other words, the apparatus 20 can be incorporated into juxtaposing means 38 which most men would otherwise consider a pair of flexible, elastic fabric having a general appearance of a pair of boxer shorts, briefs 60, jockey shorts, or an athletic jock strap 62. In essence, a mid- section of the boxer shorts, briefs 60, jockey shorts, or jock strap 62 would contain the apparatus 20 therein. The orifice 56 within the apparatus 20 may be provided through this same mid-section of such apparel.

The apparatus 20 can be worn inside a pair of traditional or conventional boxer shorts, briefs 60, jockey shorts, or an athletic jock strap 62.

Within a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated within Figures 20, 21 and 22, the juxtaposing means 38 may comprise one or more strips of adhesive material 64 that are secured the front panel 40 of the housing 36. The adhesive material 64 is capable of being urged against an interior surface of the pair of shorts or briefs 60 and/or to the jock strap 62, to properly position the housing 36 adjacent to the wearer 26.

Alternatively, if desired, the penis 30 of the wearer 26 may be passed through an open fly located within a pair of traditional or conventional boxer shorts, briefs 60, or jockey shorts, and then be at least partially inserted into the apparatus 20 of the present invention. Thus positioned, the apparatus 20 may be worn outside of such traditional or conventional apparel. Within this later embodiment, the apparatus 20 would be positioned on the outside of such apparel. The wearer 26 would not have direct physical contact with the apparatus 20 while the apparatus 20 is being worn, except for the penis 30 of the wearer 26 being gently pulled through the orifice 56 that is located within the housing 36.

Within an even further alternative embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated within Figures 23, 24 and 25, the juxtaposing means 38 may comprise one or more bands 66 that are capable of being secured about the housing 36 and the penis 30 of the wearer 26.

The simplest way to pull the penis 30 through the orifice 56 is to open the opening 46 into the enclosure 44, reach into the enclosure 44, place the penis 30 adjacent to the orifice 56, and then pull the head of the penis 30 through the orifice 56 until the head of the penis 30 comes into contact with the absorbent side of the moisture absorbent material 22.

The housing 36 may be manufactured from one or more sheets of very thin urine impermeable material, such as plastic, rubber, latex, GORTEX, or one or more of many other types of breathable but liquid impervious fabrics that have recently been introduced into the marketplace. Consequently, the cost to manufacture the housing 36 may be minimized.

When the apparatus 20 is worn between the body of the wearer and such apparel, the wearer's skin will come into direct contact with the outer surfaces of the rear panel 42 of the apparatus 20. To provide comfortable placement, the housing 36 may be manufactured from a combination of laminated materials or fabrics. For example, as seen in Figures 5 and 6, a soft fabric 68 could be laminated to the exterior surfaces of the rear panel 42. The urine impermeable material of the rear panel 42 would be positioned to face the moisture absorbent material 22 when contained within the enclosure 44. The exterior, soft fabric 68 would be positioned to face or be juxtaposed against the skin of the wearer. Although this laminated version of the invention would be slightly more expensive to manufacture, the associated comfort it would provide will more than compensate for the slight additional expense involved.

The apparatus 20 may be provided with an orifice 56 of different sizes to accommodate penises of different sizes. Within the preferred embodiment of the invention, as seen within Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, the orifice 56 and surrounding material is generally manufactured from a conically-shaped, flexible, urine impermeable material, such as from latex. The apex of the generally conically-shaped member 70 is directed toward the enclosure 44. A length or segment of the terminal end of the conically-shaped member 70 can be cut or truncated to provide orifices 56 of different diameters for differently sized wearers 26. In other words, the conically- shaped member 70 may be cut to make the orifice 56 larger as needed.

Alternatively, as shown in Figures 5 through 25, the apparatus 20 may have a diaphragm 72 or orifice panel that generally defines an elastic, flexible, urine impermeable membrane. The diaphragm 72 contains the orifice 56 therein.

The diaphragm 72 can be then secured to the housing 36. The diaphragm 72 may comprise a conical shape, a generally flat or planar shape, or any other desired shape or form. For example, the diaphragm 72 or urine impermeable membrane may have a generally truncated conical taper of smaller diameter nearer to the orifice 56.

Depending upon the size of the orifice 56 needed, a different diaphragm 72 could be used. Within one embodiment of the present invention, the diaphragm 72 may initially not have a hole therein. Rather, the diaphragm 72 is cut or punctured to provide the orifice

56 and adjustment of its size.

Similarly, the diaphragm 72 or urine impermeable membrane may simply have one or more slits therein to create and/or accommodate adjustment in size of the orifice 56.

Alternatively, the apparatus 20 may be provided with an orifice 56 of an initial size. The provided initial orifice

56 would be large or wide enough to fit the largest expected size of penis 30. Several different diaphragms 72 could then be included within a package provided to the wearer 26. Each diaphragm 72 would preferably have an outside diameter that is about one inch (1") larger than the diameter of the initially provided orifice 56. Thus structured, the outer periphery or edges of the replacement diaphragm 72 would be larger than the initially provided orifice 56.

The outer edges or periphery of the diaphragm 72 would preferably be rigid or semi-rigid to maintain adequate structural integrity when applied to the apparatus 20 and used.

Within this alternative embodiment, the diaphragm 72 is not necessarily physically secured or attached to the housing 36. Rather, the diaphragm 72 is urged against the housing 36 and held in position by a frictional fit with the penis 30. If desired, however, the diaphragm 72 could be physically secured or attached to the housing 36.

Each diaphragm 72 would have an orifice 56 placed at about the middle thereof. Each orifice 56 would be sized to fit a differently sized penis 30. During use, the diaphragm

72 would be slipped over the penis 30 on the inside or enclosure side of the enclosure 44.

Use of the diaphragm 72 could also serve as a warning device to the wearer 26 that his penis 30 might possibly be slipping out of the housing 36 and associated enclosure 44.

The diaphragm 72 also functions as a barrier between the wet moisture absorbent material 22 contained within the apparatus 20 and the skin of the wearer 26. For wearers 26 having a penis 30 large enough to fit the initially provided orifice 56, use of the diaphragm 72 would not be needed. There are other ways to accommodate size differences between wearers 26. For example, a wide variety of differently sized apparatus 20 having differently sized orifices 56 may be manufactured, stocked, and sold. Alternatively, the initially provided orifice 56 could be as small as the smallest expected penis 30 size to use the apparatus 20. The initially provided orifice 56 could then be expanded, stretched, and/or cut to accommodate placement upon differently sized wearers 26. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the initially provided orifice 56 could be provided with one or more slits 74, perforations, or cuts that radiate outwardly from the center of the orifice 56. Thus structured, the orifice 56 could be expanded similar to that of an oris to accommodate placement upon differently sized wearers 26. In essence, placement of a larger penis 30 therein would automatically expand the size of the orifice 56.

Within a further embodiment of the present invention, instead of providing a circular or oval shaped orifice 56, the orifice 56 may simply comprise a slit placed within the housing 36 that permits entry of the penis 30 into the enclosure 44.

The means and construction disclosed herein are by way of example and comprise primarily the preferred and several alternative forms of putting the invention into effect. Although the drawings depict the preferred and several alternative embodiments of the invention, other embodiments are described within the preceding and following text. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed apparatus and devices may have a wide variety of shapes and configurations. Additionally, persons skilled in the art to which the invention pertains might consider the foregoing teachings in making various modifications, other embodiments, and alternative forms of the invention.

It is, therefore, to be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments or specific features shown herein. To the contrary, the inventor claims the invention in all of its various forms, including all alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and alternative embodiments that fall within the legitimate and valid scope of the Claims, appropriately interpreted under the Doctrine Of Equivalents. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention may be used by any male person who suffers from incontinence or loss of bladder control. It may be used within hospitals, clinics, nurseries, nursing homes, and for general retail personal use. In essence, the present invention may be used by any male person or patient that could benefit from the simple, reliable, easily used apparatus that this invention provides. The apparatus of this invention is compact, unobtrusive, efficient, durable, rugged, is easily constructed, and is inexpensive and economical to manufacture. Comfort in use is dramatically increased over the prior known devices. The complexity of the apparatus as compared to the prior known devices is greatly reduced. The bulkiness of the apparatus can be minimized, depending upon the needs of the wearer. This in turn provides a greater degree of confidence and freedom to the wearer. This invention also minimizes the inconvenience, embarrassment and self-conscious paranoia that a person suffering from incontinence might experience.

Traditional and/or nontraditional manufacturing apparatus and procedures may be used to manufacture the present invention without requiring significant alteration thereto to accomplish the purposes taught herein. Once manufactured, the apparatus of the present invention can be easily transported, stored, and worn using a minimum amount of space. Consequently, the invention minimizes the packaging size and cargo space required to contain and ship the apparatus. This in turn, reduces transportation and storage costs.

The present invention has a special benefit of being able to incorporate therein mass produced and commercially available diapers and moisture absorbent pads that are readily purchased at nearly every grocery store, corner market, public restroom, and the like throughout the country and abroad. Furthermore, since such mass produced diapers and pads can be used, the wearer can purchase such absorbent materials for very competitive prices. Persons suffering with incontinence no longer must pay exorbitant fees or purchase special order apparatus from medical supply companies to accommodate their urine absorbent needs.

The present invention provides a wide variety of different attachment or securement mechanisms or systems. Consequentl , it is anticipated that the needs of particular individuals and lifestyles will be met using one or more of the structures taught herein. Thus, it is anticipated that the potential consumer base for this invention will be significantly broader than what would have been available for the heretofore known devices. The scope and versatility of the present invention are also much broader than the previously known devices.

Claims

CLAIMS I claim:

Claim 1. An apparatus for containing a moisture absorbent material to absorb urine of an incontinent male, the male having a waist and a penis, said apparatus comprising the combination of:

(a) a housing having a front panel and a rear panel, said front panel being attached to or formed integrally with said rear panel to form a generally flexible, urine impermeable sleeve, said housing generally forming an enclosure between said front panel and said rear panel, said housing having at least one opening which permits selective access to said enclosure, said housing capable of removably holding the moisture absorbent material within said enclosure, the moisture absorbent material being inserted into or removed from said enclosure through said opening, said housing having means for selectively closing and opening said opening, said housing having an orifice within said rear panel through which the penis of the male may be at least partially inserted such that urine leakage from the penis will be absorbed by the moisture absorbent material ; and

(b) means for juxtaposing said housing adjacent to the male.

Claim 2. The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein said housing has at least a first opening and a second opening which permit selective access to said enclosure, said first opening and said second opening being positioned at opposed ends of said housing and said enclosure, said housing having means for selectively closing and opening said first opening and said second opening, said housing permitting the moisture absorbent material to be inserted through said first opening and removed through said second opening.

Claim 3. The apparatus of Claim 2, wherein said front panel and said rear panel are narrower near a mid-portion thereof as compared to width of said front panel and said rear panel near said first opening and said second opening.

Claim 4. The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein said orifice within said rear panel through which the penis of the male may be at least partially inserted is defined by an orifice panel manufactured from a generally elastic, flexible, urine impermeable membrane.

Claim 5. The apparatus of Claim 4, wherein said urine impermeable membrane has a generally truncated conical taper of smaller diameter near said orifice.

Claim 6. The apparatus of Claim 4, wherein said urine impermeable membrane may be cut or punctured to provide adjustment in size of said orifice.

Claim 7. The apparatus of Claim 4, wherein said urine impermeable membrane has at least one slit adjacent to said orifice to accommodate adjustment in size of said orifice.

Claim 8. The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein said juxtaposing means generally comprises at least one waist band secured to said housing, said waist band capable of being secured about the waist of the male.

Claim 9. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein said waist band generally comprises at least one cord that is capable of being tied about the waist of the male.

Claim 10. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein said waist band is at least partially manufactured of a girth adjustable material having at least one end that is secured in a girth adjusted position by a snap, button, tie, clip, or hook and loop fastener system.

Claim 11. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein said waist band is at least partially manufactured of a generally elastic material.

Claim 12. The apparatus of Claim 8 , wherein said juxtaposing means further generally comprises a jock strap, pair of shorts, or briefs.

Claim 13. The apparatus of Claim 12, wherein said juxtaposing means further comprises at least one strip of adhesive material secured to said front panel of said housing, said adhesive material capable of being urged against an interior surface of said jock strap, pair of shorts, or briefs to position said housing adjacent to the male.

Claim 14. The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein said juxtaposing means generally comprises at least one band capable of being secured about said housing and the penis of the male.

Claim 15. An apparatus for absorbing urine of an incontinent male, the male having a waist and a penis, said apparatus comprising the combination of:

(a) a housing having a front panel and a rear panel, said front panel being attached to or formed integrally with said rear panel to form a generally flexible, urine impermeable sleeve, said housing generally forming an enclosure between said front panel and said rear panel, said housing having at least one opening which permits selective access to said enclosure, said housing having means for selectively closing and opening said opening;

(b) a moisture absorbent material to absorb the urine of the incontinent male, said housing capable of removably holding said moisture absorbent material within said enclosure, said moisture absorbent material being inserted into or removed from said enclosure through said opening, said housing having an orifice within said rear panel through which the penis of the male may be at least partially inserted such that urine leakage from the penis will be absorbed by said moisture absorbent material ; and

(c) means for juxtaposing said housing adjacent to the male.

Claim 16. The apparatus of Claim 15, wherein said housing has at least a first opening and a second opening which permit selective access to said enclosure, said first opening and said second opening being positioned at opposed ends of said housing and said enclosure, said housing having means for selectively closing and opening said first opening and said second opening, said housing permitting said moisture absorbent material to be inserted through said first opening and removed through said second opening.

Claim 17. The apparatus of Claim 16, wherein said front panel and said rear panel are narrower near a mid-portion thereof as compared to width of said front panel and said rear panel near said first opening and said second opening.

Claim 18. The apparatus of Claim 15, wherein said orifice within said rear panel through which the penis of the male may be at least partially inserted is defined by a orifice panel manufactured from a generally elastic, flexible, urine impermeable membrane.

Claim 19. The apparatus of Claim 15, wherein said urine impermeable membrane has a generally truncated conical taper of smaller diameter near said orifice.

Claim 20. The apparatus of Claim 18, wherein said urine impermeable membrane may be cut or punctured to provide adjustment in size of said orifice.