WO2002051493A1

WO2002051493A1 - Lubrication applicator system

Info

Publication number: WO2002051493A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/035196
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark W. Hendricksen
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2000-12-21
Filing date: 2000-12-21
Publication date: 2002-07-04
Anticipated expiration: 2003-06-21

Abstract

Disclosed is an applicator apparatus (1) and application process for applying lubricant to a penis. The embodiment of the invention for a penis provides a lubricant container body (2) and one or more lubricant apertures (8) directed radially inward.

Description

DESCRIPTION LUBRICATION APPLICATOR SYSTEM Technical Field

This invention pertains to a lubrication applicator and dispenser system, including an apparatus and method of applying lubrication or other substances radially inward through aperture(s) to a penis.

Background Art

Natural lubrication of the vaginal is generally provided by two means, the first is the Bartholon gland and the second are glands which provide the flow of fluid through the vaginal walls. When natural lubrication is not sufficient, sexual activity can become uncomfortable or less desirable to the participants.

There are numerous causes of vaginal dryness, and numerous reasons why lubrication is desired during sexual activities. Examples of causes of vaginal dryness are: a significant lowering of estrogen levels in women after the birth of a child; the onset of menopause, which causes a lowering of estrogen levels, thinning of the vaginal walls, as well as the reduced elasticity of the vagina tissue; hormonal imbalance caused by eating disorders; women taking certain medications such as antibiotics, which may affect hormone production and cause vaginal dryness; the nursing of infants; modern day birth control devices, such as birth control pills and vaginal sponges; and other activities which disrupt the woman's hormonal cycle.

In addition to the foregoing causes, the use of condoms has also been increasing, and condoms may adversely affect the friction between the male penis and the vagina, increasing the need for supplemental lubrication, even with lubricated condoms.

The use of a lubricant during sexual activities is desirable in many circumstances to increase the enjoyment of the activity and to reduce or eliminate the chaffing and discomfort. Lubricants reduce or eliminate the resulting soreness in both the vagina and the penis which would otherwise result from intercourse during periods of vaginal dryness.

Various water and petroleum based products are commonly available for use as lubricants. The lubricants are generally packaged or contained in squeeze containers, tubes and jars of various shapes and sizes. Lubricants are typically applied to the penis, vagina and rectal cavities in one of several different ways. A common way of applying the lubricant is by squeezing it out of the aperture in the lubricant container, depositing it directly on/in the penis, vagina, or rectal cavity, and then spreading it around with the hand and/or fingers of the person applying it. Another way to apply it is by squeezing it out of the lubricant container aperture, directly to the hand and/or fingers of the user, and then spreading or rubbing it from the hand and/or fingers, onto and around the genitals. In both cases, the fingers and/or hands of the users become covered with lubricant (if a glove is not used), which is typically difficult to remove without washing with soap and water. There is therefore a need for lubricant applicator systems which eliminate or greatly reduce the necessity of getting the lubricant on one's hands.

There has been a long felt, but heretofore unrealized need for such a lubrication applicator or dispenser system, and this invention satisfies this need with the advantages and features described herein. It is therefore an objective of this invention to provide and improved lubricant applicator system.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. '

Figure 1 is an elevation view of one embodiment of the applicator invention which is configured in a basic doughnut shape;

Figure 2 is a side view of the embodiment of the invention shown in

Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a side view of an embodiment of the invention shown in

Figure 1, only with a rounded outer perimeter wall;

Figure 4 is a cross-section shown as section 4-4 in Figure 1; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1;

Figure 6 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, with an elliptical side body support;

Figure 7 is a side view of the embodiment of the invention shown in

Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a perspective elevation view of an embodiment of the invention wherein the lubrication apertures are elongated or slit-shaped;

Figure 9 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, wherein the body of the invention is flexible to allow the inner wall to be pre-formed and/or wrapped around the penis;

Figure 10 is a cross-section shown as section 10-10 in Figure 9; Figure 11 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, wherein arcuate applicator structures are provided and pivotally attached to one another;

Figure 12 is an elevation view of an embodiment of the invention wherein a plurality of applicator or bristle elements are placed in the opening and oriented radially inward;

Figure 13 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, wherein the inner perimeter wall protracts when pressure is applied to the outer perimeter wall, but retracts when the pressure is removed;

Figure 14 is the side cross-section view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 13, with the inner perimeter wall in the retracted position;

Figure 15 is the side cross-section view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 13, wherein the inner wall is in the protracted position as a result of the force F being applied to the outer perimeter wall; Figure 16 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, wherein a structure member is utilized in combination with the lubricant container body;

Figure 17 is the side cross-section view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 17 as section 18-18; Figure 18 is an elevation view of only the structure portion of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 17; Figure 19 is an elevation view of an embodiment of the invention for use in applying lubricant to the inner walls of a vagina; Figure 20 is an elevation cross-section view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 20; Figure 21 is the cross-section 22-22 from Figure 21, showing a circular shaped cross-section;

Figure 22 illustrates an elliptical-shaped cross-section embodiment of the invention similar to the circular cross-section shown in

Figure 22; Figure 23 is an illustration of a method of applying pressure to the outer perimeter wall, imparting pressure on the lubricant and causing it to pass through the lubricant apertures and into the penile aperture; Figure 24 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, wherein a structure member is utilized in combination with the lubrication reservoir, and further wherein an outer member is utilized to more evenly impart a force on the lubricant container body; Figure 25 is side view of the applicator shown in Figure 11 ; Figure 26 is detail view of one type of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention;

Figure 27 is detail view of another type of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention; Figure 28 is detail view of another type of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention; and Figure 29 is detail elevation view of one type of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention, and illustrating lubricant being forced through the aperture. Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention and Disclosure of Invention

Many of the fastening, connection, manufacturing and other means and components utilized in this invention are widely known and used in the field of the invention described, their exact nature or type is not necessary for an understanding and use of the invention by a person skilled in the art or science, and they will not therefor be discussed in significant detail. Furthermore, the various components shown or described herein for any specific application of this invention can be varied or altered as anticipated by this invention and the practice of a specific application of any element may already be widely known or used in the art or by persons skilled in the art or science and each will not therefor be discussed in significant detail.

This invention is directed to a lubrication dispenser or applicator (and process), which has multiple embodiments and may be used for multiple different configurations.

The term "lubricant" or "lubrication" is used herein much broader than its ordinary meaning, and is not limited to what are traditionally lubricants. Instead it is intended to also mean any liquid, fluid, cream, lotion, oil, spermicide, antibiotic, extract or other fluid or semi-fluid substance. The term "applicator" as used herein is also used or defined herein broader than its ordinary meaning. Applicator not only includes devices typically referred to or known as an applicator, but also anything that applies or dispenses a lubricant as indicated.

This invention utilizes lubricant apertures through the perimeter wall for the delivery of lubricant through the perimeter wall for application to the penis. A particular shape or number of apertures is not necessary to practice this invention. Depending on the shape and rigidity of the lubricant container and/or the perimeter wall, different numbers and shapes of these lubricant delivery apertures may be utilized. The term penile aperture as used herein may be a wholly enclosed aperture, or it may be an open ended aperture as shown in Figures 9 & 11, neither of which are required to practice this invention. Instead the term penile aperture is used to describe an opening, passageway, area, hole or aperture where the penis is placed to receive the lubricant. If the invention utilizes a more rigid perimeter wall or container body, or a less viscous lubricant such as petroleum jelly, then a single slot may be provided as the aperture for the lubricant to be delivered through the perimeter wall to the penis. For instance, the apertures may be very small pinholes which remain essentially closed until pressure is applied. This type and size of aperture would be more appropriate for a very fluid, high viscosity lubricant. The lubricant aperture may also be cross shaped or include apertures with slits which are directed radially outward such that the pressure placed on the lubricant forces the aperture to open to allow the lubricant to pass through to the penile aperture. A few examples of the many possible apertures are illustrated in Figures 27-30.

On the other hand, if a more solid petroleum jelly is used as the lubricant, its flow characteristics are limited and larger apertures may be utilized without undesired leakage of the lubricant. Figure 8 for instance illustrates a slit aperture in the inner perimeter wall of the dispenser.

Generally, the combination of the aperture sizes and characteristics will need to be balanced on a case by case basis with the flow characteristics of the lubricant used and the amount of pressure desired to cause the lubricant to flow through the apertures.

Figure 1 illustrates one embodiment of a lubricant applicator 1, and generally shows a doughnut-shaped configuration. Figure 1 illustrates a simple embodiment of the invention, one in which the lubricant container body is the lubricant applicator 1, showing the outer perimeter wall 2, the inner perimeter wall 3, a side wall 7 and the penile aperture 4 through which the penis is inserted. The walls form an inner cavity which contains the lubricant.

There is no particular type of material which need be used in order to practice this embodiment and several types of polymers, rubbers and numerous other materials may be used, with no specific material being required to practice this invention. It is preferable for this embodiment that the material used for the outer perimeter wall be flexible, pliable or semi-flexible. The container body may also be one piece or multiple pieces.

There are many different types of lubricants and substances that may be used in connection with this invention, and to a certain degree, the specific type of lubricant used, as well as the application, may determine the most preferable type of material and size/shape of aperture for instance. For example a much more viscous oil may require smaller lubricant apertures than a thicker petroleum jelly.

No one particular lubricant or type of lubricant need be used to practice this invention, but in fact any one of a number of different types may be used. Petroleum jelly lubricants are popular, as are higher viscosity lubricants, as are oils and other substances.

Figure 2 is a side view of the embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 1, showing the applicator 1, the outer perimeter wall 2, the inner perimeter wall 3 (hidden lines), side walls 7, and the penile aperture 4. A partial depiction of a penis 90 is also illustrated to show positioning of the lubricant applicator 1 around the penis 90.

Figure 3 is a side view of an embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1, only wherein the outer perimeter wall of the lubricant container body has a different shape. In this illustration, the outer perimeter wall 5 of the applicator 1 is generally arcuate or rounded in shape. Figure 3 also illustrates the penile aperture 4, side walls 7, and the inner perimeter wall 3.

Figure 4 shows the cross-section shown of the applicator 1 shown as section 4-4 from Figure 1, illustrating the outer perimeter wall 2, the inner perimeter wall 3, side walls 7, lubricant apertures 8, and the lubricant 9 in the inner cavity 99 of the lubricant container body. Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment with two rows of lubricant apertures 8, however as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, no specific shape, number and/or configuration of the lubricant apertures 8 is necessary to practice this invention.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1, and illustrates the applicator 1, the outer perimeter wall 2, side wall 7, inner perimeter wall 3, lubricant apertures 8 and penile aperture 4.

Figure 6 illustrate an applicator 1 which an applicator body 10, inner perimeter wall 3, outer perimeter wall 2, and side wall 7. The applicator body structure 10 is elliptical in shape to allow for more depression of the outer perimeter wall 2 of the lubricant container body 2 on the top and the bottom sides as shown in Figure 6. The applicator body 10 also allows for a more consistent configuration of the lubricant container body and the penile aperture 4.

Figure 7 is a side view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 6, showing the applicator 1 with outer perimeter wall 2, side walls 7 and applicator body 10.

Figure 8 is a perspective elevation view of an illustration of an embodiment of the invention wherein the lubrication apertures 11 are elongated or slit-shaped apertures. The applicator 1 is shown with elongated lubricant apertures 11, inner perimeter wall 3, side walls 7 and outer perimeter wall 2.

Figure 9 is an elevation view of yet another embodiment of an applicator 1 contemplated by this invention, wherein the lubricant container body of the invention is more linear and is flexible to allow the inner perimeter wall 21 to be configured or pre-formed to form a penile aperture 4, or wrapped around the specific penis to which lubrication is being applied at the time of application, thereby forming the penile aperture with the penis to which lubricant is being applied, i.e. a custom fit. Figure 9 illustrates an outer perimeter wall 24, an inner perimeter wall 21, a lubricant container body 20 with a container body first end 20a, a container body second end 20c, a container body middle section 20b and side walls 7. In Figure 9, the container body 20 is bent or configured to form an open-ended penile aperture 4. In this embodiment, the first end 20a may be moved relative to the second end 20c to vary the size of the penile aperture 4 to adjust to the size of the particular penis to which lubrication will be applied. Although not shown in Figure 9, the inner perimeter wall 21 includes lubricant apertures.

Figure 10 is the cross-section shown as section 10-10 in Figure 9, illustrating lubricant 23 in the inner cavity 98 of the lubricant container body. Figure 10 also illustrates outer perimeter wall 24, inner perimeter wall 23, lubricant apertures 22, and side walls 7.

The embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 9 and 10 can be configured such that the penile aperture 4 is somewhat pre-formed, or in the alternative, designed to be wrapped around a penis. In either case, once a penis is inserted through the penile aperture 4, a force or pressure may be applied to the outer perimeter wall 24, which in turn applies a force or pressure to the lubricant 23 in the inner cavity 98 of the lubricant container body. Applying a force or pressure to the lubricant 23 causes it to travel or move through lubricant apertures 22 and into the penile aperture 4 for delivery to the penis inserted therein.

The lubricant container body is flexible to allow the wrapping or preforming and later varying of the size of the penile aperture 4 by simply moving the first end 20a of the container body relative to the container body second end 20c.

Figure 11 is an elevation view of yet another embodiment of the invention, wherein a structure of the invention is hinged to allow the inner perimeter wall to be adjustably moved to the correct position for the specific sized penis to which lubricant will be applied. A first generally arcuate applicator structure 30 is pivotally attached or connected to a second generally arcuate applicator structure 31 by hinge 32. There is a gap 34 between the first applicator structure

30 and the second applicator structure 31. The combination of the first applicator structure 30 and the second applicator structure 31 generally form a penile aperture 4. When the first applicator structure 30 and the second applicator structure

31 are moved with respect to one another, the size of the penile aperture 4 is varied and can be made larger or smaller to give a better fit for different sized penises. The first applicator structure 30 and the second applicator structure 31 each have structure apertures (shown in Figure 26) to allow the lubricant to enter the penile aperture 4 from the inner perimeter wall of the lubricant container body. The structure apertures 110 of the first applicator structure 30 and the second applicator structure 31 are shown in Figure 26, along with the hinge 32 which pivotally attaches the two structures. As can be seen, the two structures are configured somewhat like handcuffs.

The lubricant container body illustrated in Figure 11, illustrates the first end 30a and the second end 30b of the first applicator structure 30, and the first end 31a and the second end 31b of the second applicator structure 31.

The lubricant container body 33 is an elongated body similar to that shown in the embodiment shown in Figures 9 & 10, with a first end 33a, a second end

33c and a middle portion 33b. The outer perimeter wall 2 and the imier perimeter wall 3 are also shown in Figure 11. There are lubricant apertures (not shown) in the inner perimeter wall 3.

Figure 12 is an elevation view of an embodiment of the invention wherein a plurality of applicator elements are placed in the penile aperture, with the applicator elements being used to assist in the further spreading or application of the lubricant to the penis. Figure 12 illustrates the lubricant container body 40, with an inner perimeter wall 42 and bristles 41 directed radially inward from the inner perimeter wall 42.

The term bristles are used herein is used in its broadest sense as bristle elements may be particularly helpful in helping deliver and spread the lubricant to the penis, as well to help spread or apply it once it is delivered to the penis. The bristles may be most beneficial in controlling the uniform delivery of more viscous lubricant oils to the penis.

Although the term bristles is used herein, any other elements may be used as a vehicle on which the lubricant travels or is delivered to the penis, as well as any other element or material which may be used or desired to assist in the spreading of the lubricant or oil on the penis. An element acting more like a skirt would work as well, within the contemplation of this invention.

Figure 13 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, showing the penile aperture 4, and wherein the inner perimeter wall 57 has a middle portion 57b that is normally concave within the lubricant container body, but which protracts or becomes convex when pressure is applied to the outer perimeter wall. There is also an outer portion 57a of the inner perimeter wall 57 illustrated in Figure 13.

Figure 14 is the side cross-section (14-14) view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 13, with the inner perimeter wall 57b shown in the retracted position. Figure 14 also shows lubricant apertures 54, outer perimeter wall 52, side walls 51, inner perimeter wall 57.

In the applicator 50 embodiment illustrated in Figure 14, the lubricant container body is shown with an inner perimeter wall 57 which is more flexible or pliable than the side walls 51. This may be accomplished by making the inner perimeter wall 57 thinner or of a slightly different material than that used for the side walls 51. Thus when a force or pressure is imparted on the outer perimeter wall 52, the side walls 51 hold their position more than the inner perimeter wall 57, thereby causing the inner perimeter wall 57 to protract or become convex into the penile aperture 4.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the normal position of the inner perimeter wall 57 need not be concave, but instead may be relatively flat, so long as the inner perimeter wall 57 is still protracted into the penile aperture 4 when a force or pressure is applied to the outer perimeter wall 52.

Figure 14 also illustrates the lubricant 55 in the inner cavity 111 of the lubricant container body.

An applicator which protracts and retracts may be desirable for different reasons. One reason is that it provides an inner perimeter wall which adapts or adjusts to the size of the penis and thereby gives more even distribution around more of the circumference of the penis. Another reason is that if there is a fixed, flat surface, there will be some residual lubricant which will remain on the outward side of the inner perimeter wall, which may have a tendency to smear or become messy when not in use. The retraction feature will not eliminate the residual lubricant, but it will cause it to retract with the portion of the inner perimeter wall that retracts, and be less messy and less likely to get lubricant on items which it comes in contact with.

Figure 15 is the side cross-section view of the applicator 50 embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 13, with the inner perimeter wall 57 in the protracted or convex position (into the penile aperture), as a result of the force F being applied to the outer perimeter wall 52 (as shown). Figure 15 also illustrates side walls 51, lubricant 55, lubricant apertures 54 and delivered lubricant 58 which has been forced through the lubricant apertures 54 and into the penile aperture. In applications with this type of applicator, when pressure is applied to the lubricant by the user, the pressure overcomes the bias of the flexible inner perimeter wall 57, which is then moved radially inward until it reaches the limits of its movement range or abuts the penis. This results in a self-fitting or self- sizing feature wherein the dispenser may be adapted to the size of the penis on which it is being used. The tighter fit around the penis provided by this embodiment allows for a quicker, more even distribution of the lubrication.

Once the inner wall abuts the penis, the user continues to apply pressure to the outer perimeter wall 52 and hence to the lubricant 55, thereby causing the lubricant to pass through the lubricant apertures 54 in the inner perimeter wall 57 and be evenly applied around the penis. The user can then move the dispenser along the penis in the longitudinal direction to further apply the lubricant along the length of the penis.

When the pressure is released by the user, the bias or memory of the inner wall then causes the inner perimeter wall 57 to move back to its original or start position. This retraction feature results in a cleaner dispenser in that it has the additional advantage of reducing the potential inadvertent spilling or smearing of lubricant on the sides of the dispenser. The retracted position would desirably be the normal position or memory position to which the inner perimeter wall would be biased in this embodiment.

Figure 16 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the invention, wherein a structure member is utilized in combination with the lubricant container body as part of the applicator. Figure 16 illustrates applicator 60, with side wall 69, outer perimeter wall 66, first structure member 61, inner perimeter wall 68, penile aperture 70 and structure posts 62.

Figure 17 is the side cross-section view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 16, and further illustrates the components of this embodiment. Figure 17 illustrates applicator 60, with side walls 69, outer perimeter wall 66, first structure member 61, lubricant 65, lubricant apertures 64, inner perimeter wall 68, penile aperture 70, structure posts 62 and second structure member 63. The second structure member 63 mounts on the structure posts 62 and abuts against shoulders (not shown) contained on the structure posts 62 to position it, and it is held in position by fasteners 67 attached to the ends of structure posts 62. Figure 18 is an elevation view of only the first structure member 61 of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 16, illustrating structure posts 62 and penile aperture 70.

In providing an applicator which will be potentially used on a range of different sized penises, it is also desirable to provide one which can adapt to the particular size of penis on which it is being used, such as those embodiments shown in Figures 9, 11 & 14. Bristles or a skirt such as shown in Figure 12 can also assist in more evenly distributing or applying lubricant to different sized penises. While nice, these features are not necessary to practice the invention. Figure 19 is an elevation view of an embodiment of the invention for use in applying lubrication to the inner walls of a vagina or in a rectal cavity, illustrating an applicator 80 comprised of a lubricant container body 81, lubricant apertures 82 and plunger 83. The lubricant 85 may be placed within the inner cavity of the lubricant container body 81 and then the plunger 83 is placed therein. There are many situations in which the applicator may be utilized in a rectal cavity, such as for medical testing and probing.

Figure 20 further illustrates the end portion 83a of the plunger 83 becomes one of the containment walls of the inner cavity 122, and is used to apply pressure to the lubricant 85 within the inner cavity 122 of the lubricant container body 81. The end portion 83a of plunger 83 is configured to generally match to the shape of the inner cavity of the lubricant container body such that it can be moved -therein and apply pressure to the lubricant 85. When the plunger is pushed or forced deeper into the inner cavity 122, it imparts a force or pressure on the lubricant 85. The pressure applied by the movement of the plunger 83 forces the lubricant 85 through lubricant apertures 82, for application in the vagina.

Figure 21 is the cross-section from Figure 20, showing an applicator 80 with a circular shaped cross-section configuration, illustrating lubricant 85 within inner cavity 122. The lubricant container body 81 has an inward surface 90 and an outward surface 91.

Figure 22 illustrates an applicator 80 with an elliptical-shaped cross-section, and further shows lubricant 85 within inner cavity 122. The lubricant container body 81 has an inward surface 90 and an outward surface 91. No particular cross-sectional shape is required by this invention, but instead any one of a number of cross-sectional shapes and configurations may be used within the contemplation of this invention.

Typically the vagina needs lubrication the most in the outward most portions of the vagina near the entry. Therefore the actual dispenser need not be very elongated to deliver or apply lubricant very deep, but instead need only be long enough to apply the lubricant to the more outward areas. Thereafter during intercourse, the movement of the penis within the vagina further spreads and applies the lubricant inward and deeper into the vagina, as well as to the penis. Figure 23 is an illustration of a method of applying force F or pressure to the outer perimeter wall 91 of an applicator 90, causing deformation of the lubricant container body and causing lubricant to pass through the lubricant apertures into the penile aperture 122 and to the penis 95. Figure 23 further shows side wall 92 and inner perimeter wall 93. Figure 24 is an elevation view of another applicator 100 embodiment of the invention, wherein a pressure structure member 104 is utilized to impart a more distributed force on the lubricant container body 103. Also shown is penile aperture 102, structure 101 and a gap 105 in the pressure structure member 104. Applying a force or pressure to pressure structure member 104 evenly distributes the force over more surface area of the flexible lubricant container body 103 and makes it easier to apply the requisite pressure to force lubricant into the penile aperture for more of the life of the applicator 100.

Figure 25 is side view of the applicator shown in Figure 11 , and the items illustrated therein are more fully described above.

Figure 26 is detail view of one type of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention, showing the inner perimeter wall 130 and slits 131 cut into a pattern, which forms the lubricant aperture when pressure is applied to the lubricant in the inner cavity of the container body. The pressure on the lubricant displaces the portions of the inner perimeter wall 130, thereby causing the lubricant to flow through the opening aperture, as shown more full in Figure 29.

Figure 27 is detail view of another configuration of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention, illustrating a simple cross pattern with slits 131 being cut into inner perimeter wall 130.

Figure 28 is detail view of another type of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention, wherein a small circular hole 134 is cut or punched into the inner perimeter wall 130.

Figure 29 is detail elevation view of the type of lubricant aperture which may be used within the contemplation of this invention, such as those shown in Figures 26 & 27. Pressure P is applied to the lubricant 132 (such as by imparting a force on the outer perimeter wall) within the inner cavity of the lubricant containment body, which makes an aperture by displacing that portion of the inner containment wall 131 adjacent the slits. This pressure forces the lubricant through the aperture, and the emerging lubricant 133 enters the penile aperture for application to the penis.

In using a circumferential applicator, there will be some space between the internal surface(s) of the applicator where the lubrication is dispensed, and the side of the penis. In order to obtain a uniform application or distribution of the lubrication, the user can move the applicator in a circular motion to achieve the desired coverage and distribution. The user can also move the applicator in a direction transverse or to the general direction of the penis.

In providing an applicator which will be potentially used on a range of different sized penises, it is also desirable to provide one which can adapt to the particular size of penis on which it is being used, such as those embodiments shown in Figures 9, 11 & 14. Bristles or a skirt such as shown in Figure 12 can also assist in more evenly distributing or applying lubricant to different sized penises. While nice, these features are not necessary to practice the invention. As will be appreciated by those of reasonable skill in the art, there are numerous embodiments to this invention, and variations of elements and components which may be used, all within the scope of this invention.

One embodiment of this invention for example is an applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of: an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms the penile aperture, the inner perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture.

Other and additional embodiments may include the foregoing and: wherein there is a lubricant within the container body; wherein the outer perimeter wall is flexible, such that pressure imparted to the outer perimeter wall imparts pressure on the lubricant within the container body, which thereby forces lubricant through the lubricant apertures to the penile aperture; wherein the lubrication apertures are round; wherein the lubrication apertures are elongated.

As will be appreciated, there are method embodiments as well, such as a method for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising the steps of: providing a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of: an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and a lubricant within the inner cavity of the lubricant container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall provided generally forms the penile aperture, the inner perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture; and applying pressure to the outer perimeter wall, thereby imparting pressure on the lubricant within the inner cavity and forcing lubricant from the inner cavity of the container body through the lubricant apertures and to the penile aperture. A further or additional method would be wherein the outer perimeter wall provided is constructed of flexible material.

Another applicator embodiment would be an applictor for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of: a circular outer perimeter wall, side walls and a circular inner perimeter wall concentric within the outer perimeter wall, combining to form an inner cavity within the container body; a lubricant within the inner cavity of the lubricant container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms the penile aperture, the inner perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture. Yet another embodiment would be an applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall: generally forms the penile aperture; includes one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture; and is made of a inner perimeter wall material more flexible than a side wall material used for the side walls of the container body. A still further embodiment would be for an applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall: generally forms the penile aperture; includes one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture; is made of a inner perimeter wall material more flexible than a side wall material used for the side walls of the container body; is in a normally relatively flat, or concave position within the container body, but which may move to a convex position toward the penile aperture when pressure is imparted on the container body, which in turn imparts pressure on the lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; wherein moving the inner perimeter wall varies the penile aperture size.

A further embodiment may be one in which an applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: an elongated and flexible lubricant container body with a first end and a second end, the container body being comprised of: an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall includes one or more lubricant apertures through the inner perimeter wall; and further wherein the flexible container body may be flexed and configured such that the inner perimeter wall forms a penile aperture. Another embodiment of an applicator for applying lubricant to a penis would be one which comprises: an elongated and flexible lubricant container body with a first end and a second end, the container body being comprised of: an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall includes one or more lubricant apertures through the inner perimeter wall, and further wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms an open-ended, flexible penile aperture. Additional method embodiments for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising the steps of: providing an elongated and flexible lubricant container body with a first end and a second end, the container body provided being comprised of: an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall provided includes one or more lubricant apertures through the inner perimeter wall, and further wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms an open-ended, flexible penile aperture; and moving the first end of the container body with respect to the second end of the container body to vary the penile aperture size.

A further method embodiment for applying lubricant to a penis may include such a method which further comprises the step of applying pressure to the outer perimeter wall, thereby imparting pressure on the lubricant within the inner cavity and forcing the lubricant from the inner cavity of the container body through the lubricant apertures and to the penile aperture.

A further applicator embodiment would be one for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a first generally arcuate applicator structure, with a radially inward side and a radially outward side, including a first end, a second end and structure apertures through the applicator structure; a second generally arcuate applicator structure, with a radially inward side and a radially outward side, including a first end and a second end, the first end of the second applicator structure being pivotally attached to the first end of the first applicator structure; wherein the radially inward side of the first applicator structure and the radially inward side of the second applicator structure combine to form a penile aperture; a lubricant container body, the container body being comprised of: an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and wherein the container body is generally attached to the first applicator structure and to the second applicator structure such that the inner perimeter wall is directed toward the penile aperture. An embodiment of an applicator for applying lubricant to the walls of a vagina or rectal cavity, would be one which is comprised of: a lubricant container body comprised of a perimeter wall with an outward side and an inward side; the perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures through the perimeter wall from an inner cavity of the container body to the outward side of the perimeter wall; a plunger with an outer wall generally coinciding to the inward side of the perimeter wall, such that the plunger combined with the inward side of the perimeter wall form the inner cavity of the container body; and the plunger being further disposed to move within the inner cavity of the container body. A further embodiment for applying lubricant to the walls of a vagina or rectal cavity may also include a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body.

A further method embodiment for applying lubricant to the walls of a vagina or rectal cavity, comprising the following steps: providing a lubricant container body comprised of a perimeter wall with an outward side and an inward side; providing the perimeter wall with one or more lubricant apertures through the perimeter wall from an inner cavity of the container body to the outward side of the perimeter wall; providing a plunger with an outer wall generally coinciding to the inward side of the perimeter wall, such that the plunger combined with the inward side of the perimeter wall form the inner cavity of the container body; the plunger being further disposed to move within the inner cavity of the container body; providing a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; moving the plunger within the inner cavity and thereby imparting a force on the lubricant within the inner cavity, causing the lubricant to travel through one or more of the lubricant apertures.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in accordance with the Doctrine of Equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSI claim:

1. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a. a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of: i. an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms the penile aperture, the inner perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture.

2. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis as recited in claim 1, and which is further comprised of a lubricant within the container body.

3. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis as recited in claim 2, and wherein the outer perimeter wall is flexible, such that pressure imparted to the outer perimeter wall imparts pressure on the lubricant within the container body, which thereby forces lubricant through the lubricant apertures to the penile aperture.

4. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis as recited in claim 1, and wherein the lubrication apertures are round.

5. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis as recited in claim 1, and wherein the lubrication apertures are elongated.

6. A method for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising the following steps: a. providing a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of: i. an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and ii. a lubricant within the inner cavity of the lubricant container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall provided generally forms the penile aperture, the inner perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture; and b. applying pressure to the outer perimeter wall, thereby imparting pressure on the lubricant within the inner cavity and forcing lubricant from the inner cavity of the container body through the lubricant apertures and to the penile aperture.

7. A method for applying lubricant to a penis as recited in claim 6, and wherein the outer perimeter wall provided is constructed of flexible material.

8. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a. a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of: i. a circular outer perimeter wall, side walls and a circular inner perimeter wall concentric within the outer perimeter wall, combining to form an inner cavity within the container body; ii. a lubricant within the inner cavity of the lubricant container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms the penile aperture, the inner perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures , between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture.

9. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a. a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and b. wherein the inner perimeter wall: i. generally forms the penile aperture; ii. includes one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture; and iii. is made of a inner perimeter wall material more flexible than a side wall material used for the side walls of the container body.

10. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a. a lubricant container body disposed substantially about a penile aperture which is formed by the container body, the container body being comprised of an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and b. wherein the inner perimeter wall: i. generally forms the penile aperture; ii. includes one or more lubricant apertures between the inner cavity of the container body and the penile aperture; iii. is made of a inner perimeter wall material more flexible than a side wall material used for the side walls of the container body; iv. is in a normally relatively flat, or concave position within the container body, but which may move to a convex position toward the penile aperture when pressure is imparted on the container body, which in turn imparts pressure on the lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; wherein moving the inner perimeter wall varies the penile aperture size.

11. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a. an elongated and flexible lubricant container body with a first end and a second end, the container body being comprised of: i. an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; ii. a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall includes one or more lubricant apertures through the inner perimeter wall; and further wherein the flexible container body may be flexed and configured such that the inner perimeter wall forms a penile aperture.

12. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a. an elongated and flexible lubricant container body with a first end and a second end, the container body being comprised of: i. an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; ii. a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall includes one or more lubricant apertures through the inner perimeter wall, and further wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms an open-ended, flexible penile aperture.

13. A method for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising the following steps: a. providing an elongated and flexible lubricant container body with a first end and a second end, the container body provided being comprised of: i. an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; ii. a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; and wherein the inner perimeter wall provided includes one or more lubricant apertures through the inner perimeter wall, and further wherein the inner perimeter wall generally forms an open-ended, flexible penile aperture; and b. moving the first end of the container body with respect to the second end of the container body to vary the penile aperture size.

14. A method for applying lubricant to a penis as recited in claim 13, and comprising the further step of applying pressure to the outer perimeter wall, thereby imparting pressure on the lubricant within the inner cavity and forcing the lubricant from the inner cavity of the container body through the lubricant apertures and to the penile aperture.

15. An applicator for applying lubricant to a penis, comprising: a. a first generally arcuate applicator structure, with a radially inward side and a radially outward side, including a first end, a second end and structure apertures through the applicator structure; b. a second generally arcuate applicator structure, with a radially inward side and a radially outward side, including a first end and a second end, the first end of the second applicator structure being pivotally attached to the first end of the first applicator structure; wherein the radially inward side of the first applicator structure and the radially inward side of the second applicator structure combine to form a penile aperture; c. a lubricant container body, the container body being comprised of: i. an outer perimeter wall, side walls and an inner perimeter wall, which combine to form an inner cavity within the container body; and wherein the container body is generally attached to the first applicator structure and to the second applicator structure such that the inner perimeter wall is directed toward the penile aperture.

16. An applicator for applying lubricant to the walls of a vagina or rectal cavity, comprising: a. a lubricant container body comprised of a perimeter wall with an outward side and an inward side; b. the perimeter wall including one or more lubricant apertures through the perimeter wall from an inner cavity of the container body to the outward side of the perimeter wall; c. a plunger with an outer wall generally coinciding to the inward side of the perimeter wall, such that the plunger combined with the inward side of the perimeter wall form the inner cavity of the container body; and d. the plunger being further disposed to move within the inner cavity of the container body.

17. An applicator for applying lubricant to the walls of a vagina or rectal cavity as recited in claim 16, and further comprising a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body.

18. A method for applying lubricant to the walls of a vagina or rectal cavity, comprising the following steps: a. providing a lubricant container body comprised of a perimeter wall with an outward side and an inward side; b. providing the perimeter wall with one or more lubricant apertures through the perimeter wall from an inner cavity of the container body to the outward side of the perimeter wall; c. providing a plunger with an outer wall generally coinciding to the inward side of the perimeter wall, such that the plunger combined with the inward side of the perimeter wall form the inner cavity of the container body; d. the plunger being further disposed to move within the inner cavity of the container body; e. providing a lubricant within the inner cavity of the container body; f. moving the plunger within the inner cavity and thereby imparting a force on the lubricant within the inner cavity, causing the lubricant to travel through one or more of the lubricant apertures.