U.S. patent application number 16/277036 was filed with the patent office on 2019-09-12 for methods and devices relating to molded adult devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is OBOTICS INC.. Invention is credited to BRUCE MURISON.
Application Number | 20190274918 16/277036 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54011958 |
Filed Date | 2019-09-12 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20190274918 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MURISON; BRUCE |
September 12, 2019 |
METHODS AND DEVICES RELATING TO MOLDED ADULT DEVICES
Abstract
Adult devices for sexual and therapeutic purposes are typically
developed and marketed into a limited number of developed countries
with high disposable incomes. However, these represent a fraction
of the total potential adult population and accordingly it would be
beneficial in all of these markets to offer low cost, ideally very
low cost, but effective devices. Solutions meeting this very low
cost manufacturing requirement as well as offering new concepts
such as limited use or disposable devices are presented exploiting
blow molding techniques. Further, many potential markets present
issues not prevalent in historical markets that may make it
difficult for individuals to acquire devices, even without the
financial issues, and hence solutions are presented wherein adult
devices can be acquired and/or marketed in manners that address or
mitigate these issues.
Inventors: |
MURISON; BRUCE; (NORTH
GOWER, CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
OBOTICS INC. |
NORTH GOWER |
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CA |
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|
Family ID: |
54011958 |
Appl. No.: |
16/277036 |
Filed: |
February 15, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14796077 |
Jul 10, 2015 |
10206849 |
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16277036 |
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62022713 |
Jul 10, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 2201/10 20130101;
A61H 19/40 20130101; A61H 2201/5012 20130101; B29L 2031/7158
20130101; A61H 2201/0214 20130101; A61H 19/44 20130101; A61H
2201/5097 20130101; B29C 49/06 20130101; A61H 2201/0153 20130101;
A61H 23/0263 20130101; A61H 2201/0257 20130101; A61H 19/32
20130101; B29C 49/04 20130101; A61H 23/00 20130101; A61H 2201/1253
20130101; A61H 2201/0207 20130101; A61H 19/34 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61H 23/00 20060101
A61H023/00; A61H 19/00 20060101 A61H019/00; A61H 23/02 20060101
A61H023/02 |
Claims
1. A sexual stimulation device comprising: providing a molded outer
body enclosing a predetermined region with a threaded portion
defining a threaded opening allowing the predetermined region to be
filled with a fluid and reversibly sealed via a cover attached to
the threaded portion; and providing a body portion of a plurality
of body portions for insertion into the molded outer body, each
body portion having a first configuration mechanically engaging
both an internal geometry of the molded outer body and a vibrator
element inserted into the molded outer body through the threaded
opening and a second configuration allowing the body portion to be
inserted through the threaded opening; wherein the body portion of
the plurality of body portions imparts mechanical vibration to the
molded outer body from the vibrator element in the deployed
configuration.
2. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the
body portion comprises a solid disk with at least one of a flat
surface, a contoured surface, a convex surface and a concave
surface.
3. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the
body portion comprises: a central ring or a central opening; and a
plurality of radial arms, each arm of the plurality of radial arms
has a design of a plurality of designs and a tip designs of a
plurality of tip designs; and the plurality of radial arms fold-up
or collapse in the second configuration.
4. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 3, wherein the
plurality of radial arms are designed with thin sections to allow
the plurality of radial arms to fold as it is inserted through the
threaded opening.
5. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the
body portion of the plurality of body portions and the vibrator
element are each provided to a user of the sexual stimulation
device separately from the molded outer body.
6. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the
body portion comprises an inner portion dimensioned to engage the
vibrator element and an outer portion comprising a series of radial
elements; in the second configuration the series of radial elements
bend towards the inner portion allowing the body portion to be
inserted within the molded outer body through the threaded opening;
in the first configuration the series of radial elements flex
outwards towards the inner geometry of the molded outer body to
engage the inner geometry of the molded outer body.
7. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 6, wherein at
least one of: the inner portion defines a mechanical ring to which
the series of radial elements are attached; and the inner portion
has an opening allowing a predetermined portion of the vibrator
element to be inserted into the opening.
8. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 6, wherein at
least one of: the series of radial elements are formed from
compliant material; the series of radial elements are formed from a
rigid material and geometrically defined to allow their motion
between their positions in the first configuration and the second
configuration; and the inner geometry of the molded outer body is
larger than the threaded opening.
9. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 6, wherein each
radial element of the series of radial elements comprises a first
portion which in the first configuration extends radially from the
inner portion and a second portion disposed at the end of the first
portion distal to the inner portion; and the second portion is at a
predetermined angle to the first portion such that the second
portion engages along longitudinal portion of the inner geometry of
the molded outer body.
10. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the
body portion comprises: a first portion dimensioned to engage a
first predetermined portion of the vibrator element; a second
portion dimensioned to engage a second predetermined portion of the
vibrator element; and a third portion comprising one or more radial
elements mechanically coupled to the first portion at a first end
and the second portion at a second distal end; in the second
configuration the one or more radial elements flex such that the
body portion can be inserted within the molded outer body through
the threaded opening; in the first configuration the series of
radial elements flex outwards towards the inner geometry of the
molded outer body to mechanically engage the inner geometry of the
molded outer body; and in the first configuration a spacing between
the first portion and the second portion is less than in the second
configuration.
11. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 10, wherein at
least one of: at least one of the first portion and the second
portion defines a mechanical ring to which the series of radial
elements are attached; the first portion has a first opening
allowing the first predetermined portion of the vibrator element to
be inserted into the first opening; and the second portion has a
second opening allowing the second predetermined portion of the
vibrator element to be inserted into the second opening.
12. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 10, wherein at
least one of: the one or more radial elements are formed from
compliant material; the one or more radial elements are formed from
a rigid material and geometrically defined to allow their motion
between their positions in the first configuration and the second
configuration; and the inner geometry of the molded outer body is
larger than the threaded opening.
13. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 1, further
comprising two or more body portions of the plurality of body
portions.
14. A sexual stimulation device comprising: providing a molded
outer body enclosing a predetermined region with a threaded portion
defining a threaded opening allowing the predetermined region to be
filled with a fluid and reversibly sealed via a cover attached to
the threaded portion; and providing a body portion for insertion
into the molded outer body.
15. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 14, wherein
the body portion mechanically engages a vibrator element inserted
into the molded outer body through the threaded opening; and the
body portion supports placement of the vibrator element at a
predetermined position within the molded outer body and imparts
mechanical vibration to the molded outer body from the vibrator
element.
16. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 15, wherein
the body portion comprises: a first portion to surround a
predetermined portion of the vibrator element; and a second portion
mechanically coupled to the first portion; and the second portion
mechanically couples to the lid when it is attached to the threaded
portion; the first portion mechanically couples to an inner surface
of the molded outer body.
17. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 14, wherein
the first portion comprises a series of radial elements.
18. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 14, wherein
the body portion comprises at least a rod; and the body portion
mechanically couples to the lid when it is attached to the threaded
portion; and the predetermined position is a distal end of the
molded outer body to that with the threaded opening.
19. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 14, wherein in
a first configuration of the molded outer body prior to insertion
of the body portion the molded outer body has a first predetermined
length; in a second configuration of the molded outer body after
insertion of the body portion the molded outer body has a second
predetermined length; the second predetermined length is greater
than the first predetermined length; and the increased second
predetermined length is maintained by the mechanical contact of the
body portion at a first end of the molded outer body via mechanical
contact with the lid when attached to threaded portion and a second
distal end via mechanical contact with either a region of the inner
geometry of the molded outer body distal to the threaded opening or
a vibrator element inserted into the molded outer body through the
threaded opening.
20. The sexual stimulation device according to claim 19, wherein
the body portion is initially longer than the second predetermined
length and is trimmed to the second predetermined length by a user
of the sexual stimulation device; and either a plurality of
features within the molded outer body all extend together as the
body portion is inserted into the molded outer body or different
subsets of the plurality of features within the molded outer body
extend as the body portion is inserted into the molded outer body;
and the different subsets of the plurality of features within the
molded outer body are established in dependence upon the second
predetermined length.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of priority as a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/796,077 filed
Jul. 10, 2015 entitled "Methods and Devices Relating to Molded
Adult Devices" and therein to U.S. Provisional Patent Application
62/022,713 filed on Jul. 10, 2014 entitled "Methods and Devices
Relating to Molded Adult Devices," the entire contents of which are
included herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to devices for sexual pleasure
and more particularly to low cost and/or disposable devices
exploiting blow molding, injection molding, or a combination
thereof in conjunction with active and/or elements providing
functions such as vibration, rigidity, movement, sensing, user
sensations, communications, control and power.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The sexual revolution, also known as a time of "sexual
liberation", was a social movement that challenged traditional
codes of behavior related to sexuality and interpersonal
relationships throughout the Western world from the 1890s to the
1980s. However, its roots may be traced back further to the
Enlightenment and the Victorian era in the Western world and even
further in the Eastern world. Sexual liberation included increased
acceptance of sex outside of traditional heterosexual, monogamous
relationships (primarily marriage) as well as contraception and the
pill, public nudity, the normalization of homosexuality and
alternative forms of sexuality, and the legalization of
abortion.
[0004] At the same time the growing acceptance of sexuality and
masturbation resulted in the growth of a market for sexual devices,
also known as sex toys, and then with technology evolution the
concepts of "cyber-sex," "phone sex" and "webcam sex." A sex toy is
an object or device that is primarily used to facilitate human
sexual pleasure and typically is designed to resemble human
genitals and may be vibrating or non-vibrating. Prior to this shift
there had been a plethora of devices sold for sexual pleasure,
although primarily under euphemistic names and a pretense of
providing "massage" although their history extends back through
ancient Greece to the Upper Paleolithic period before 30,000BC.
Modern devices fall broadly into two classes: mechanized and
non-mechanized, and in fact the American company Hamilton Beach in
1902 patented the first electric vibrator available for retail
sale, making the vibrator the fifth domestic appliance to be
electrified. Mechanized devices typically vibrate, although there
are examples that rotate, thrust, and even circulate small beads
within an elastomeric shell. Non-mechanized devices are made from a
solid mass of rigid or semi-rigid material in a variety of
shapes.
[0005] Examples of such non-mechanized devices which require their
motion to be induced either by the individual user themselves or a
partner within the prior art include U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,853,362;
5,690,603; 5,853,362; 6,436,029; 6,599,236; 6,533,718; 6,997,888;
7,513,868; 7,530,944 as well as U.S. Patent Applications
2003/0,023,139; 2005/0,228,218; 2007/0,106,109; 2010/0,087,703;
2010/0,204,542; 2011/0,021,870; 2012/0,123,199; 2012/0,136,205 and
2012/0,143,001. Other associated prior art relates to how such
devices may be "worn" by a partner either with or without the need
of straps or belts or used by an individual including U.S. Pat.
Nos. 5,725,473; 6,203,491; and 6,991,599 as well as U.S. Patent
Applications 2010/0,087,703; 2011/0,082,333; and
2012/0,118,296.
[0006] Not surprisingly many early mechanized devices within the
prior art were primarily intended to automate the motion of
penetrative intercourse. Such prior art includes for example U.S.
Pat. Nos. 4,722,327; 4,790,296; 5,076,261; 5,690,604; 5,851,175;
6,142,929; 6,866,645; 6,899,671; 6,902,525; 7,524,283 and U.S.
Patent Application 2004/0,147,858. In contrast to these mechanized
devices producing repeated penetrative action, vibrators are used
to excite the nerve endings in the pelvic region, amongst others,
of the user such as those same regions of the vagina that respond
to touch. For many users the level of stimulation that a vibrator
provides is inimitable. They can be used for masturbation or as
part of sexual activities with a partner. Vibrators may be used
upon the clitoris, inside the vagina, inserted into the rectum, and
against nipples either discretely or in some instances in
combination through multiple vibratory elements within the same
vibrator or through using multiple vibrators.
[0007] Vibrators typically operate through the operation of an
electric motor wherein a small weight attached off-axis to the
motor results in vibration of the motor and hence the body of the
portion of the vibrator coupled to the electric motor. They may be
powered from connection to an electrical mains socket but typically
such vibrators are battery driven which places emphasis on
efficiency to derive not only an effective vibration but one over
an extended period of time without the user feeling that the
vibrator consumes batteries at a high rate. For example, typical
vibrators employ 2 or 4 AA batteries, which if of alkaline
construction, each have a nominal voltage of 1.5V and a capacity of
1800 mAh to 2600 mAh under 500 mA drain. As such, each battery
under such a nominal drain can provide 0.75 W of power for 3 to 5
hours such that a vibrator with 2 AA batteries providing such
lifetime of use must consume only 1.5 W in contrast to less than 3
W for one with 4 AA batteries. More batteries consume more space
within devices which are generally within a relatively narrow range
of physical sizes approximating that of the average penis in
penetrative length and have an external portion easily gripped by
the user thereby complicating the design. Typically, toys that are
large due to power requirements are not as successful as more
compact toys.
[0008] Example of such vibrators within the prior art include U.S.
Pat. Nos. 5,573,499; 6,902,525; 7,108,668; 7,166,072; 7,438,681;
7,452,326; 7,604,587; 7,871,386; 7,967,740 and U.S. Patent
Applications 2002/0,103,415; 2003/0,195,441 (Wireless);
2004/0,082,831; 2005/0,033,112; 2006/0,074,273; 2006/0,106,327;
2006/0,247,493; 2007/0,055,096; 2007/0,232,967; 2007/0,244,418;
2008/0,071,138; 2008/0,082,028; 2008/0,119,767; 2008/0,139,980;
2009/0,093,673; 2008/0,228,114; 2009/0,099,413; 2009/0,105,528;
2009/0,318,753; 2009/0,318,755; 2010/0,292,531; 2011/0,009,693;
2011/0,034,837; 2011/0,082,332; 2011/0,105,837; 2011/0,166,415;
2011/0,218,395; 2011/0,319,707; 2012/0,179,077; 2012/0,184,884; and
2012/0,197,072.
[0009] Within these prior art embodiments of vibrators different
approaches have been described to provide different stimulation
mechanisms other than simple vibration. Some of these, such as
rotating rows or arrays of balls, typically metal, have been
commercially successful. However, others have not been commercially
successful to date including, for example, the use of linear screw
drive mechanisms to provide devices that adjust in length. Another
common approach has been to include a rotary motor with a profiled
metal rod to either impact the device's outer body or provide
rotary motion of the device head.
[0010] The prior art devices described above exploit mechanical
actions arising from linear and/or rotary motors in order to
achieve the desired physical stimulation. However, motion and
pressure may be achieved also through the use of fluidics wherein a
fluid is employed such that controlling the pressure of the fluid
results in the movement of an element within a structure or the
expansion/contraction of an element. Some sex toys exploiting
fluidics have provisioned for lubricating oils or gels during use
of the device to reduce friction and subsequent pain/irritation
either through extended use of the device or from low natural
lubrication of the user upon whom the device is used.
[0011] It would be evident from consideration of the prior art
devices described above that these devices are primarily driven to
stimulation of the female clitoris, vagina and rectum as well as
the male rectum. Whilst vibrators such as described supra may be
used for stimulating the male penis, and in some instances such as
the "Cobra Libre" vibrator designed specifically for attachment to
the penis there has been relatively little prior art and
development towards stimulating the male penis through simulation
of intercourse above and beyond manual devices. One exception being
Gellert in U.S. Pat. No. 5,501,650 that provides a variable speed
motor powering a crankshaft driven sealed assembly producing
pneumatically induced reciprocating motion against the penis when
inserted.
[0012] Accordingly, today, a wide range of vibrators are offered
commercially to users but most of them fall into several broad
categories including:
[0013] Clitoral: The clitoral vibrator is a sex toy used to provide
sexual pleasure and to enhance orgasm by stimulating the clitoris.
Although most of the vibrators available can be used as clitoral
vibrators, those designed specifically as clitoral vibrators
typically have special designs that do not resemble a vibrator and
are generally not phallic shaped. For example, the most common type
of clitoral vibrators are small, egg-shaped devices attached to a
multi-speed battery pack by a cord. Common variations on the basic
design include narrower, bullet-shaped vibrators and those
resembling an animal. In other instances, the clitoral vibrator
forms part of a vibrator with a second portion to be inserted into
the vagina wherein they often have a small animal, such as a
rabbit, bear, or dolphin perched near the base of the penetrative
vibrator and facing forward to provide clitoral stimulation at the
same time with vaginal stimulation. Prior art for clitoral
stimulators includes U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,670,280 and 8,109,869 as well
as U.S. Patent Application 2011/0,124,959.
[0014] In some instances, such as the We-Vibe.TM., the clitoral
vibrator forms part of a vibrator wherein another section is
designed to contact the "G-spot." Prior art for such combined
vibrators includes U.S. Pat. No. 7,931,605, U.S. Design Pat. No.
605,779 and 652,942, and U.S. Patent Application
2011/0,124,959.
[0015] Dildo-Shaped: Typically, these devices are approximately
penis-shaped and can be made of plastic, silicone, rubber, vinyl,
or latex. Dildo is the common name used to define a phallus-like
sex toy, which does not, however, provide any type of vibrations.
But as vibrators have commonly the shape of a penis, there are many
models and designs of vibrating dildos available including those
designed for both individual usage, with a partner, for vaginal and
anal penetration as well as for oral penetration, and some may be
double-ended.
[0016] Rabbit: As described above these comprise two vibrators of
different sizes. One, a phallus-like shaped vibrator intended to be
inserted in the user's vagina, and a second smaller clitoral
stimulator placed to engage the clitoris when the first is
inserted. The rabbit vibrator was named after the shape of the
clitoral stimulator, which resembles a pair of rabbit ears.
[0017] G-Spot: These devices are generally curved, often with a
soft jelly-like coating intended to make it easier using it to
stimulate the g-spot or prostate. These vibrators are typically
more curved towards the tip and made of materials such as silicone
or acrylic.
[0018] Egg: Generally small smooth vibrators designed to be used
for stimulation of the clitoris or insertion. They are considered
discreet sex toys as they do not measure more than 3 inches in
length and approximately 3/4 inches to 11/4 inches in width
allowing them to be used discretely, essentially at any time.
[0019] Anal: Vibrators designed for anal use typically have either
a flared base or a long handle to grip, to prevent them from
slipping inside and becoming lodged in the rectum. Anal vibrators
come in different shapes, but they are commonly called butt plugs
or phallus-like vibrators. They are recommended to be used with a
significant amount of lubricant and to be inserted gently and
carefully to prevent any potential damage to the rectal lining.
[0020] Vibrating Cock Ring: Typically, a vibrator inserted in or
attached to a cock ring primarily intended to enhance clitoral
stimulation during sexual intercourse.
[0021] Pocket Rocket (also known as Bullet): Generally cylindrical
in shape one of its ends has some vibrating bulges and is primarily
intended to stimulate the clitoris or nipples, and not for
insertion. Typically, a "pocket rocket" is a mini-vibrator that is
typically about three to five inches long and which resembles a
small, travel-sized flashlight providing for a discreet sex toy
that can be carried around in a purse, pouch, etc. of the user. Due
to its small dimension, it is typically powered by a single battery
and usually has limited controls; some may have only one speed.
[0022] Butterfly: Generally describing a vibrator with straps for
the legs and waist allowing for hands-free clitoral stimulation
during sexual intercourse. Typically, these are offered in three
variations, traditional, remote control, and with anal and/or
vaginal stimulators, and are generally made of flexible materials
such as silicone, soft plastic, latex, or jelly.
[0023] In addition to the above general categories there are
variants including, but not limited to: [0024] Dual vibrators which
are designed to stimulate two erogenous zones simultaneously or
independently, the most common being both clitoral and vaginal
stimulators within the same vibrator; [0025] Triple vibrators which
are designed to stimulate three erogenous zones simultaneously or
independently; [0026] Multispeed vibrators which allow users to
adjust how fast the vibrator's pulsing or massaging movements occur
and generally provide a series of discrete speed settings
selectable through a button, slider etc. or pseudo-continuously
variable through a rotary control; [0027] Double ended devices for
use by two users together, usually doubled ended dildo or double
ended vibrator, for vaginal-vaginal, vaginal-anal, or anal-anal
stimulation; [0028] Nipple stimulators which are designed to
stimulate the nipples and/or areola through vibration, suction, and
clamping; [0029] Electrostimulators which are designed to apply
electrical stimulation to the nerves of the body, with particular
emphasis on the genitals; [0030] "Flapping" stimulators which have
multiple flexible projections upon a "Ferris-wheel" assembly to
simulate oral stimulation; and [0031] Male stimulators which are
typically soft silicone sleeves to surround the penis and stimulate
it through rhythmic movement by the user.
[0032] Naturally, there are other common forms including, but not
limited to, so-called "alarm clock vibrators" wherein a vibrator is
combined with a clock or a timer and worn in or against the
genitals such that the user is woken with a gentle vibration and
then with increasing power. "Undercover" vibrators are discreetly
shaped as everyday objects, such as lipstick tubes, cell phones, or
art pieces and typically only one speed and are powered by a single
battery. By virtue of being an exact copy of the shape and design
of the object they are intended to be mistaken for as they are very
discreet for users.
[0033] The prior art devices described above are primarily
sold/marketed as fully assembled and functional products to
consumers at a range of prices from tens of dollars to hundreds of
dollars with the intention that the user owns and uses the product
over an extended period of time having invested financially into
the product. However, such products are essentially caught with a
self-fulfilling design and product cycle. The devices are either
designed to be passive, such as dildos, plugs, etc. wherein the
design/marketing focus is to increased length, girth, etc. and
simulating realistic human skin textures/colours etc., or be
active, such as vibrators, wherein the design/marketing focus also
includes increased functions, range of controls, etc. Accordingly,
the current market/design focus is based upon the premise that most
consumers purchasing such adult devices will do so rarely and
accordingly it is important to essentially exploit an "up-selling"
approach of getting the consumer to purchase a product at a price
point in excess of that they initially intended to purchase at.
Accordingly, devices today are manufactured from a range of
materials including, but not limited to, hard plastics for internal
battery housings, outer shell, etc. and silicones for external
surfaces or the body of the adult device.
[0034] However, there are many instances that a consumer may wish
to purchase a lower cost adult device either as a result of
circumstances or personal preferences. In other instances, the
consumer may wish to have a disposable adult device or an adult
device that does not look like an adult device. Even today, despite
the financial value of the adult device market, the volumes of
these adult devices are relatively low and have typically been
marketed into markets such as Europe, North America, Japan,
Australia etc. where disposable incomes support purchasing adult
devices at the pricing points in existence today. However, these
markets represent approximately 1.5 billion people out of a global
population of over 7 billion and even here a large portion of the
population cannot afford these devices. Accordingly, it would be
beneficial in all of these markets to offer low cost, ideally very
low cost, but effective devices.
[0035] Further, in many regions of the world potential markets are
not accessible today due to a range of issues including cultural
barriers, making it difficult for individuals to acquire devices,
as well as financially where even current entry level devices can
cost individuals many weeks and/or months disposable income in
these markets. Accordingly, it would beneficial in these markets
that not only are devices offered at low cost, ideally very low
cost, whilst being effective that they can be acquired and/or
marketed in manners that address cultural issues etc.
[0036] Accordingly, it would be beneficial to exploit manufacturing
techniques, such as blow molding techniques, to allow a range of
adult devices to be manufactured at costs that support the above
competing requirements and offer manufacturing volumes addressing
volumes unknown previously within the adult device industry.
[0037] Other aspects and features of the present invention will
become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review
of the following description of specific embodiments of the
invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0038] It is an object of the present invention to mitigate
limitations within the prior art relating to devices for sexual
pleasure and more particularly to low cost and/or disposable
devices exploiting blow molding, injection molding, or a
combination thereof in conjunction with active and/or elements
providing functions such as vibration, rigidity, movement, sensing,
user sensations, communications, control and power.
[0039] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening wherein the opening allows the
predetermined region to be filled with a fluid and sealed.
[0040] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a sex toy comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening wherein the opening allows the
predetermined region to be filled at least one of filled with a
fluid and sealed, left empty and sealed, and left empty and not
sealed.
[0041] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening wherein the opening allows the
insertion of a stimulation module at least one of prior to and
after a user obtains the blow molded outer body.
[0042] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a sex toy comprising an outer body and a plurality of
active elements for insertion into the outer body wherein each
active element providing a predetermined function selected from the
group comprising a physical effect, a stimulation, a controller, a
power source, and communications interface and the user may select
varying combinations of the plurality of active elements with each
use of the sex toy.
[0043] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with a threaded opening wherein the threaded
opening allows the predetermined region to be filled with a fluid
and sealed, wherein the threaded opening is dimensioned to allow
the insertion of a vibrator element and a cap for sealing the
device comprising a portion extending into the device to hold the
vibrator element at the distal end from the threaded opening.
[0044] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening of predetermined geometry,
wherein the opening allows the predetermined region to be filled
with a fluid and sealed and is dimensioned to allow the insertion
of an active element providing a physical effect and the attachment
of a sealing element for sealing the device which comprises a
portion extending into the device to hold the active element.
[0045] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with a threaded opening wherein the threaded
opening allows the predetermined region to be filled with a fluid
and sealed such that the device can be used to penetrate an orifice
of a user, wherein the threaded opening is dimensioned to allow the
insertion of a vibrator element having a threaded portion for
sealing the device once the vibrator element is inserted into the
threaded opening.
[0046] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening of predetermined geometry
wherein the opening allows the predetermined region to be filled
with a fluid and sealed such that the device can be used to
stimulate a region of a human body, wherein the opening is
dimensioned to allow the insertion of an active element having a
portion for sealing the device once the active element is inserted
into the opening.
[0047] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening wherein the opening allows the
predetermined region to be filled with a foam and sealed, wherein
the opening is dimensioned to allow the insertion of a vibrator
element at least one of prior to and after filling the device with
foam.
[0048] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening wherein the opening allows a
first predetermined region to be filled with a foam and a second
predetermined region to be unfilled with the foam and the opening
is dimensioned to allow the insertion of a vibrator element and for
sealing the device once the vibrator element is inserted into the
opening and the second predetermined region is dimensioned to fit
the vibrator element.
[0049] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region with an opening wherein the opening allows the
predetermined region to be filled with a fluid and sealed such that
the device can be used to penetrate an orifice of a user, wherein
the device is initially sold with at least one of a snap-fit cap
and a threaded cap sealing the device.
[0050] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a first predetermined portion to
provide a vibratory function and a second predetermined portion
comprising at least a threaded region mating to a predetermined
thread.
[0051] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a method comprising providing a device comprising at least
a blow molded outer body filled with a filler enclosing a first
predetermined region and a threaded opening wherein the threaded
opening allows the insertion of a vibrator element having a
threaded portion for mounting the vibrator element to the blow
molded outer body, wherein the vibrator element is inserted into
the blow molded outer body, and offering the device through a
standard commercial channel as a product not associated with sex
products.
[0052] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a method of providing a user with a device for use as a
sex toy by selling to the user an initial product employing a blow
molded plastic bottle containing at least one of a food, a
beverage, a cleaning product, and a beauty product.
[0053] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device for use as a sex toy by selling to the user an
initial product employing a blow molded plastic bottle containing
at least one of a food, a beverage, a cleaning product, and a
beauty product.
[0054] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is
provided a device comprising a blow molded outer body enclosing a
predetermined region filled with a predetermined material and a
vibrating element, the blow molded outer body sealed by crimping
either end.
[0055] Other aspects and features of the present invention will
become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review
of the following description of specific embodiments of the
invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0056] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described,
by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures,
wherein:
[0057] FIG. 1 depicts a range of prior art passive adult
devices;
[0058] FIG. 2 depicts a range of prior art active adult
devices;
[0059] FIG. 3 depicts a blow molded adult device according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0060] FIG. 4 depicts a range of blow molded adult device
geometries according to embodiments of the invention;
[0061] FIG. 5 depicts a typical blow molding process according to
the prior art exploiting a preform;
[0062] FIG. 6 depicts a typical blow molding process according to
the prior art exploiting direct blow molding from extruded
tubing;
[0063] FIG. 7 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0064] FIG. 8 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0065] FIG. 9 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0066] FIG. 10 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0067] FIGS. 11A and 11B depict adult devices according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0068] FIGS. 12A and 12B depict adult devices according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0069] FIG. 13 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0070] FIG. 14 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0071] FIG. 15 depicts an approach to modular adult devices
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0072] FIG. 16 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0073] FIG. 17 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0074] FIG. 18A depicts an assembly configuration and assembled
adult device according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0075] FIG. 18B to 18D depict assembly configurations and inserts
for positioning a vibrating element within an adult device
according to embodiments of the invention;
[0076] FIG. 19 depicts an assembly configuration and assembled
adult device according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0077] FIG. 20 depicts an assembly configuration and assembled
adult device according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0078] FIG. 21 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0079] FIG. 22 depicts a base mounting for adult devices according
to embodiments of the invention;
[0080] FIG. 23 depicts a blow molding methodology exploiting a
non-uniform preform according to an embodiment of the invention to
provide an adult device comprising a shell with "strengthening"
ribs; and
[0081] FIG. 24 depicts blow molded adult device geometries
according to embodiments of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0082] The present invention is directed to devices for sexual
pleasure and more particularly to devices for sexual pleasure and
more particularly to low cost and/or disposable devices exploiting
blow molding, injection molding, or a combination thereof in
conjunction with active and/or elements providing functions such as
vibration, rigidity, movement, sensing, user sensations,
communications, control and power.
[0083] The ensuing description provides representative
embodiment(s) only, and is not intended to limit the scope,
applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the
ensuing description of the embodiment(s) will provide those skilled
in the art with an enabling description for implementing an
embodiment or embodiments of the invention. It being understood
that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of
elements without departing from the spirit and scope as set forth
in the appended claims. Accordingly, an embodiment is an example or
implementation of the inventions and not the sole implementation.
Various appearances of "one embodiment," "an embodiment" or "some
embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.
Although various features of the invention may be described in the
context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided
separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the
invention may be described herein in the context of separate
embodiments for clarity, the invention can also be implemented in a
single embodiment or any combination of embodiments. It would also
be evident that an embodiment may refer to a method or methods of
manufacturing a device for sexual pleasure rather than the actual
design of a device for sexual pleasure and that vice-versa an
embodiment of the invention may refer to a device or devices rather
than the method or methods of manufacturing.
[0084] Reference in the specification to "one embodiment", "an
embodiment", "some embodiments" or "other embodiments" means that a
particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in
connection with the embodiments is included in at least one
embodiment, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the inventions.
The phraseology and terminology employed herein is not to be
construed as limiting but is for descriptive purpose only. It is to
be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a"
or "an" element, such reference is not to be construed as there
being only one of that element. It is to be understood that where
the specification states that a component feature, structure,
method, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be
included, that particular component, feature, structure, or
characteristic is not required to be included. It would also be
evident that an embodiment and/or the phraseology and/or
terminology may refer to a method or methods of manufacturing a
device for sexual pleasure rather than the actual design of a
device for sexual pleasure and that vice-versa an embodiment and/or
the phraseology and/or terminology may refer to a device or devices
rather than the method or methods of manufacturing.
[0085] Reference to terms such as "left", "right", "top", "bottom",
"front" and "back" are intended for use in respect to the
orientation of the particular feature, structure, or element within
the figures depicting embodiments of the invention. It would be
evident that such directional terminology with respect to the
actual use of a device has no specific meaning as the device can be
employed in a multiplicity of orientations by the user or
users.
[0086] Reference to terms "including", "comprising", "consisting"
and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of
one or more components, features, steps, integers or groups thereof
and that the terms are not to be construed as specifying
components, features, steps or integers. Likewise, the phrase
"consisting essentially of", and grammatical variants thereof, when
used herein is not to be construed as excluding additional
components, steps, features integers or groups thereof but rather
that the additional features, integers, steps, methods, components
or groups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novel
characteristics of the claimed composition, device or method. If
the specification or claims refer to "an additional" element, that
does not preclude there being more than one of the additional
element or method.
[0087] A "personal electronic device" (PED) as used herein and
throughout this disclosure, refers to a wireless device used for
communications and/or information transfer that requires a battery
or other independent form of energy for power. This includes
devices such as, but not limited to, a cellular telephone,
smartphone, personal digital assistant (PDA), portable computer,
pager, portable multimedia player, remote control, portable gaming
console, laptop computer, tablet computer, and an electronic
reader.
[0088] A "fixed electronic device" (FED) as used herein and
throughout this disclosure, refers to a device that requires
interfacing to a wired form of energy for power. However, the
device can access one or more networks using wired and/or wireless
interfaces. This includes, but is not limited to, a television,
computer, laptop computer, gaming console, kiosk, terminal, and
interactive display.
[0089] A "server" as used herein, and throughout this disclosure,
refers to a physical computer running one or more services as a
host to users of other computers, PEDs, FEDs, etc. to serve the
client needs of these other users. This includes, but is not
limited to, a database server, file server, mail server, print
server, web server, gaming server, or virtual environment
server.
[0090] A "user" as used herein, and throughout this disclosure,
refers to an individual engaging a device according to embodiments
of the invention wherein the engagement is a result of their
personal use of the device or having another individual using the
device upon them.
[0091] A "vibrator" as used herein, and throughout this disclosure,
refers to an electronic sexual pleasure device intended for use by
an individual or user themselves or in conjunction with activities
with another individual or user wherein the vibrator provides a
vibratory mechanical function for stimulating nerves or triggering
physical sensations.
[0092] A "dildo" as used herein, and throughout this disclosure,
refers to a sexual pleasure device intended for use by an
individual or user themselves or in conjunction with activities
with another individual or user wherein the dildo provides
non-vibratory mechanical function for stimulating nerves or
triggering physical sensations.
[0093] An "adult device", sex toy" or "sexual pleasure device" as
used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a sexual
pleasure device intended for use by an individual or user
themselves or in conjunction with activities with another
individual or user which can provide one or more functions
including, but not limited to, those of a dildo and a vibrator. The
sexual pleasure device/toy can be designed to have these functions
in combination with design features that are intended to be
penetrative or non-penetrative and provide vibratory and
non-vibratory mechanical functions. Such sexual pleasure devices
can be designed for use with one or more regions of the male and
female bodies including but not limited to, the clitoris, the
clitoral area (which is the area surrounding and including the
clitoris), vagina, rectum, nipples, breasts, penis, testicles,
prostate, and "G-spot." In one example a "male sexual pleasure
device" is a sexual pleasure device configured to receive a user's
penis within a cavity or recess. In another example, a "female
sexual pleasure device" is a sexual pleasure device having at least
a portion configured to be inserted in a user's vagina or rectum.
It should be understood that the user of a female sexual pleasure
device can be a male or a female when it is used for insertion in a
user's rectum.
[0094] Texture as used herein, and throughout this disclosure,
refers to a feel of a surface of a device and is generally
described and/or defined in terms of smoothness, roughness,
hardness, softness, waviness, and form. Such texturing may adjust
the feeling of the device in respect of contact to a user and may
control and/or adjust friction between the device and human
skin/tissue. Surface texture may be isotropic or anisotropic.
Textures may be, but not limited to, smooth, rough, ridged, dumped,
grainy, and may refer to the visual and/or tactile qualities of the
surface.
[0095] A "nubby" or "nubbies" as used herein, and throughout this
disclosure, refers to a projection or projections upon the surface
of a sexual pleasure device intended to provide additional physical
interaction. A nubby can be permanently part of the sexual pleasure
device or it can be replaceable or interchangeable to provide
additional variation to the sexual pleasure device.
[0096] An "accessory" or "accessories" as used herein, and
throughout this disclosure, refers to one or more objects that can
be affixed to or otherwise appended to the body of a sexual
pleasure device in order to enhance and/or adjust the sensation(s)
provided. Such accessories can be passive, such as nubbies or a
dildo, or active, such as a vibrator.
[0097] A "balloon" as used herein, and throughout this disclosure,
refers to an element intended to adjust its physical geometry upon
the injection of a fluid within it. Such balloons can be formed
from a variety of elastic and non-elastic materials and be of
varying non-inflated and inflated profiles, including for example
spherical, elongated, wide, thin, etc. A balloon may also be used
to transmit pressure or pressure fluctuations to the sexual
pleasure device surface and user where there is an inappreciable,
or very low, change in the volume of the balloon.
[0098] FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a range of prior art passive and active
adult devices respectively showing the typical shapes etc. that
make each of these immediately evident as an adult device.
[0099] FIG. 3 depicts a blow molding concept for adult devices
according to an embodiment of the invention in first to fifth
images 310 to 360 respectively applied to a bottle shaped adult
device depicting: [0100] First image 310--perspective view of blow
molded adult device with and without lid attached; [0101] Second
image 320--perspective view of top of blow molded adult device with
and without lid attached [0102] Third image 330--perspective view
of closed end of blow molded adult device; [0103] Fourth image
340--perspective view of open end with sealing cap of blow molded
adult device; [0104] Fifth image 350--perspective view of sealable
end of blow molded adult device with fluid disposed within prior to
sealing; [0105] Sixth image 360--perspective view of sealable end
of blow molded adult device with fluid disposed within and sealing
cap proximate opening prior to sealing.
[0106] As discussed within this specification embodiments of the
invention provide low cost disposable adult devices as well as
providing adult devices in manners crossing barriers relating to
culture, etc. In this manner, an adult device appearing to be a
common consumable object such as bottle may be beneficial when
compared to prior art solutions such as "lip stick" vibrators which
tend to be very small. In contrast an adult device masquerading as
a bottle can be larger, cheaper, disposable, etc.
[0107] FIG. 4 depicts a range of blow molded adult device
geometries according to embodiments of the invention including
double egg 410, hooked 420, ribbed 430, tapering 440, and
asymmetric 450. Also depicted are first and second abrupt tapering
geometries 460 and 470 which each contain vibrator inserts 465 and
475 respectively. Also depicted is sealing cap 480 which is also
depicted in cross-section 485. It would be evident that the sealing
cap and sealable opening to the adult device may be formed using
designs which have been standardized within the plastics industry
for non-adult device devices in order to reduce the design
requirements and support designs that have manufacturing volumes at
levels supporting the target markets and user characteristics for
the adult devices according to embodiments of the invention.
Accordingly, it would be evident that the blow molded adult device
may be manufactured with a range of dimensions from those with
capacities of tens of milliliters and physical dimensions of the
order 75-125 mm (3-5 inches) long and 25-35 mm (1-1.5 inch
diameter) to those holding hundreds of milliliters and dimensions
of 125-250 mm (5-10 inches) long and 35-75 mm (1.5-3 inch diameter)
to those with capacities of 1-2 liters and above. For example, a 1
liter bottle may be .about.240 mm long by 88 mm diameter
(.about.9.5.times.3.5 inches) and a 2 liter bottle .about.300 mm
long by .about.110 mm diameter (.about.12.times.4.3 inches).
However, bottles may be tapered, gourd shaped, double bulbed,
square, elliptical, and polygonal in cross-section as well.
[0108] For example, a container's neck finish holds the cap,
stopper, or closure with protruding threads and the container, and
its corresponding cap must have matching finishes. For example, a
24/400 bottle will only accept a 24/400 closure. Typically, screw
thread or continuous thread closure sizes are expressed with two
numbers separated by a hyphen or slash. The first number refers to
the millimeter diameter measured across the outside of the bottle's
threads. The second number refers to the thread style, "GPI" or
"SPI" finish. The Glass Packaging Institute (GPI) and Society of
the Plastics Industry (SPI) have established uniform standards for
glass and plastic container neck finishes. Common GPI/SPI neck
finishes include: [0109] 400--1 thread turn [0110] 410--1.5 thread
turns [0111] 415--2 thread turns [0112] 420--2 thread turns, tall
[0113] 425--2 thread turns with narrow threads [0114] 430--buttress
finish with thick threads and top bead; [0115] 2030--1 ug finish
with non-continuous threads; and [0116] 2035--1 ug finish with
non-continuous threads, tall.
[0117] Other dimensions include: [0118] T Dimension: The outside
diameter of the thread. The tolerance range of the "T" dimension
will determine the mate between bottle and closure. [0119] I
Dimension: The inner diameter of the bottle neck. Specifications
require a minimum "I" to allow sufficient clearance for filling
tubes. Linerless closures, with a plug or land seal, and dispensing
plugs and fitments require a controlled "I" dimension for a proper
fit. [0120] S Dimension: Measured from the top of the finish to the
top edge of the first thread. The "S" dimension defines the height
of the thread start and accordingly determines the amount of thread
engagement between the bottle and cap. [0121] E Dimension: The
outside diameter of the neck. The difference between the "E" and
"T" dimensions divided by two determines the thread depth. [0122] H
Dimension: The height of the neck finish. Measured from the top of
the neck to the point where the diameter "T", extended down,
intersects the shoulder.
[0123] Accordingly, "T" dimensions may, for example, include 13 mm,
15 mm, 18 mm, 20 mm, 22 mm, 24 mm and dimensions downwards and
upwards from these.
[0124] Caps or screw caps may be lined, unlined, ribbed, smooth,
domed, smooth ball caps, push-down and pull-up child resistant
caps, tamper evident caps, and with foam induction liners.
Alternatively, adult devices may exploit other closures including,
but not limited to, sports "pop-up/push-down" tops, flip-top caps,
and hinged caps.
[0125] Today, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the most
commonly used plastics within consumer products such as adult
devices. PET adult devices are made with two different processes, a
single-stage process, injection stretch blow molding (ISBM) and a
dual-stage process, injection molding (IM) and reheat stretch blow
molding ( ). Within the single-stage process the preforms and adult
devices are both made within the same machine. These machines
feature 3 or 4 stations comprising injection, optional
conditioning, blow, and ejection. Dried PET resin is melted in an
extruder and injected into vertically arranged cavities. The
finished preform is held by the neck inserts whilst it is removed
from the injection core and cavity. The machine rotates 90 degrees
on machines with conditioning and 120 degrees on machines without.
Preforms are then conditioned (optional step), blown and finally
stripped off the neck inserts. Because of this procedure there is
no parting or witness line in the body of the preform, only in the
necks. Such an over-molding feature for preforms may employ a
single common material or different materials in different preform
sections.
[0126] In the two-stage process preforms are injection molded and
subsequently re-heated as described below in respect of FIG. 5 for
a typical blow molding process according to the prior art
exploiting a preform. Accordingly, FIG. 5 depicts what is known as
a two-stage stretch blow (SBM) molding process. In the SBM process,
the plastic is first molded into a "preform" using an injection
molding process such as described below in respect of FIG. 6. These
preforms are produced with the necks of the adult devices,
including threads (the "finish") on one end. These preforms are
packaged, and fed later (after cooling) into a reheat stretch blow
molding machine. In the SBM process, the preforms are heated
(typically using infrared heaters) above their glass transition
temperature, then blown using high pressure air into adult devices
using metal blow molds. This is depicted in first to sixth blow
images 510 to 560 respectively whilst preform image 570 depicts
clear preforms with their screw caps. The preform is always
stretched with a stretch rod as part of the process. The advantages
of this process are that very high volumes can be produced, there
are little restrictions on adult device design, and the preforms
may be sold/purchases as a completed item from a third party to
blow subsequently into any desired adult device shape. Amongst the
disadvantages are generally a high capital cost, high floor space
requirements and it suits round adult devices better than oblong
ones.
[0127] FIG. 6 depicts an extrusion blow molding (EBM) process
according to the prior art exploiting direct blow molding from
extruded tubing. As depicted plastic is melted and extruded into a
hollow tube (a parison). This parison is then captured by closing
it into a cooled metal mold. Air is then blown into the parison,
inflating it into the shape of the adult device body, container, or
part. Air can be transferred with blow pins or blow needles
depending on the application. After the plastic has cooled
sufficiently, the mold is opened, and the part is ejected.
Continuous and Intermittent are two variations of Extrusion Blow
Molding. In Continuous EBM the parison is extruded continuously and
the individual parts are cut off by a suitable knife. In
Intermittent EBM there are two processes: straight intermittent is
similar to injection molding whereby the screw turns, then stops
and pushes the melt out. This process is known as the reciprocating
screw process. With the accumulator method, an accumulator gathers
melted plastic and when the previous part has cooled and enough
plastic has accumulated, a rod pushes the melted plastic and forms
the parison. In this case the screw may turn continuously or
intermittently. With continuous extrusion the weight of the parison
drags the parison and makes calibrating the wall thickness
difficult. The accumulator head or reciprocating screw methods use
hydraulic systems to push the parison out quickly reducing the
effect of the weight and allowing precise control over the wall
thickness by adjusting the die gap with a parison programming
device.
[0128] Advantages of EBM include low tool and die cost, fast
production rates, the ability to mold complex parts; and handles
may be incorporated into the design. Amongst the disadvantages are
that it's limited to hollow parts and low resistance to gas and
vapor ingress and egress. To increase barrier properties multilayer
parisons of different materials are typically employed and pose
challenges to recycling.
[0129] It is also possible to inject two different materials, one
hard and one soft, sequentially. This is accomplished by two
extruders, each with the respective material and extruding the
materials at different times or at different speeds into a special
head from where they flow out. This results in a part that has a
soft section with a stiff section on either side where the length
of the sections does not have to be equal. Materials that can be
combined are HDPE or nylon and TPE, for example, but other
combinations are also possible.
[0130] The optimal multi-layer process would be two layers: an
inner one with a flexible material like LDPE and an outer one that
gives a soft-touch surface. This could be made on a standard
machine with a special `head`, which is the part that gives the
parison its shape. That head would have a small satellite extruder
feeding the outside layer of about 20% of the total.
[0131] In addition to EBM and SBM processes there is injection blow
molding (IBM) where the polymer is injection molded onto a core pin
which is then rotated to a blow molding station to be inflated and
cooled. This is generally the least-used of the three blow molding
processes, and is typically used to make small medical and single
serve bottles. The process is divided into three steps: injection,
blowing and ejection.
[0132] The IBM machine utilizes an extruder barrel and screw
assembly which melts the polymer which is then fed into a hot
runner manifold where it is injected through nozzles into a heated
cavity and core pin. The cavity mold forms the external shape and
is clamped around a core rod which forms the internal shape of the
preform. Preform orientation is horizontal and there is a parting
line going along the entire body and neck. Horizontal orientation
allows undercuts in the longitudinal direction which is not
possible with ISBM. This can be helpful to direct material in adult
device areas with larger geometry. The preform consists of a fully
formed neck with a thick tube of polymer attached, which will form
the body. The preform mold opens and the core rod is rotated and
clamped into the hollow, chilled blow mold. The end of the core rod
opens and allows compressed air into the preform, which inflates it
to the finished article shape. After a cooling period, the blow
mold opens and the core rod is rotated to the ejection position.
The finished article is stripped off the core rod and as an option
can be leak-tested prior to packing.
[0133] Advantages of IBM include the ability to produce an
injection molded neck for accuracy. However, it only suits small
capacity adult devices as it is difficult to control the base
centre during blowing, there is no increase in barrier strength as
the material is not biaxially stretched, and handles cannot be
incorporated. Beneficially, EBM in comparison to other forms of
blow molding, in addition to a lower tool cost, allows for the
weight and wall thickness of the parts to be changed without
requiring a tool change. This is possible because the die gap
through which the material flows can be manipulated during
production. This allows tailoring of it to fit container geometry
as well as dialing in a specific weight and wall thickness. It is
therefore possible to use the same molds to make both a lightweight
and highly flexible part and a much more rigid, heavier part.
Moving mold parts are common in EBM for industrial and automotive
parts. Usually, they are activated with hydraulic cylinders rather
than the cams that are typical for injection molding. Moving mold
parts, however, do increase the mold costs considerably and
accordingly it is normally an issue of how to lay the parting line
during the design phase thereby avoiding any moving mold parts.
[0134] With respect to EBM then this process allows for the
production of adult devices in a wide variety of materials,
including but not limited to High-Density PolyEthylene (HDPE),
Low-Density PolyEthylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), BAREX.RTM. acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate
copolymers, polyethylene terephthalate (P.E.T.), K Resin,
polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (P.E.T.G.),
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), acetal, acetates (such as
EVOH), aliphatic polyamides (known as various forms of nylon),
co-polyester, polycarbonates (PCs), silicones, and thermoplastic
vulcanizates (TPVs).
[0135] IBM allows for the production of adult devices in a variety
of materials, including, but not limited to, HDPE, LDPE, PP, PVC,
BAREX.RTM., P.E.T., and polycarbonate. In respect to ISBM then in
addition to P.E.T. a number of other materials have been stretch
blown, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, HDPE,
polycarbonate, and various bio-resins. With time and technology
evolution more materials will lend themselves to stretch blow
molding as their molecular structures are altered to suit this
process.
[0136] Alternatively, convoluted 3D injection molding allows the
formation of single piece-parts such as depicted in insert 610
comprising one or more hard plastic portions with one or more
soft/elastomeric plastic portions. It would also be evident that
embodiments of the invention in addition to the materials described
supra that biodegradable "plastics" such as corn plastic may be
employed, wherein corm plastic is a kind of polylactide, or PLA,
plastic. Polylactides are made from the resin of corn and other
plants and in some jurisdictions such as the United States approved
for use in food packaging, which as may be evident from
descriptions in respect of FIG. 21, for example, allow
biodegradable polylactide based adult devices to further blur the
boundary of adult device and food packaging.
[0137] By designing the parting line of a blow mold into the right
axis it would be possible to design a mold such, that for example
so-called rabbit or G-spot adult devices could be implemented using
a single piece with only a few design changes. This has the
advantage that no seals are required for the part itself to make it
water proof. Using a standard two-piece closure, which means a cap
with a liner inside, then a battery compartment may also be sealed
cost-effectively. Large openings in EBM manufacturing, those
typically greater than 50 mm or so, are usually blown with a dome
that is cut off afterwards. This is a standard process and
wide-mouth cutters are ubiquitous. Accordingly, as part of the
molding process battery compartments may be formed economically in
addition to features such as handles, threads, etc.
[0138] Twin sheet thermoforming is another process suitable to
produce adult devices. Within this process two plastic sheets are
heated simultaneously and then fused together during the
thermoforming process. They can also be filled with foam at that
time. They could be of different color and have different
geometries and/or wall thickness on either side. A number of
materials are available for this process, including, for example
high impact polystyrene (HIPS), polyacrylonitrile butadiene styrene
(ABS), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), HDPE, PP, thermoplastic
polyurethane (TPU), and PET modified with cyclohexanedimethanol
(PETG).
[0139] Insert molding is done in EBM manually and handles are
inserted in molds automatically in the stretch blow molding (SBM)
process. The latter requires hooks that the material flows around
to secure the insert. Manual insert molding can add cost to the
part. However, it is possible to mold a so-called
"ship-in-a-bottle" part where a motor and other parts, for example,
are placed at the bottom of the mold and the parison flows over
them.
[0140] EBM may also be used for the blow molding of thermoplastic
elastomers (TPEs) to form rubber-like articles or rubber-like
elements of articles. TPEs are a class of copolymers or a physical
mix of polymers, typically a plastic and a rubber, which consist of
materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties.
Classes of TPEs include styrenic block copolymers, polyolefin
blends, elastomeric alloys, thermoplastic polyurethanes,
thermoplastic copolyester and thermoplastic polyamides. As with
other EBM materials such TPEs benefit from coreless flash free
molding, ability to form complex shapes, exploit sequential
material construction, and utilize multiple layers. Accordingly,
single layer TPE EBM processing exploits one grade of thermoplastic
rubber pellets to create a hollow part allowing small parts to be
extruded continuously in a single layer. Multi-layer parts are
generally produced via the intermittent or continuous extrusion of
several materials. The process is excellent for applications
requiring multi-functionality such as a barrier resin that cannot
come in contact with the environment, or a combination of soft and
hard materials using both rubbery and plastic properties in
different ways. Sequential parts are produced through the
successive extrusion of two or more materials, or differing grades
of one material.
[0141] For example, hard and soft grades of Santoprene.TM. rubber
can be used when mobility and sealing properties are needed in a
single component. Alternatively, for example, a hard grade of
Santoprene.TM. rubber can also be alternated with polypropylene for
applications that need both local flexibility and stiffness. A
major advantage of Santoprene.TM. rubber is its ability to be
processed in virtually any color by blending the TPE pellets with
the appropriate colorant or in some instances pre-colored pellets
are available from several sources. For stability, compatibility
and dispersion, solid color concentrates are typically a preferred
method of coloring TPEs as they consist of a pigment compounded
with a carrier resin and are dust-free, easy-to-use, and they can
be tumble-blended or accurately metered.
[0142] In addition to these techniques rotational molding, commonly
referred to as rotomolding, is another process that may be applied
to produce adult devices according to embodiments of the invention.
It is similar to the other blow molding processes in that it
produces hollow containers. However, a rotomold is first filled
with plastic in granular, powder, or liquid form. The shell-type
mold is then closed and starts to rotate in two axes at a slow
speed while it is heated up at the same time. The resin now adheres
to the mold walls forming a solid layer in the process. The mold is
then cooled, and the plastic solidifies while the mold is still
rotating. Rotation stops when the plastic is cool enough, so it
won't deform when the mold is opened, and the part taken out.
[0143] Suitable resins are polyethylene, both standard and
cross-linked, polypropylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, polycarbonate,
elastomers, polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyamide, and
fluorocarbons. As a result of the different process rotomolded
parts do not suffer the same undercut restrictions as other forms
of blow molding. It is possible to make items with very elaborate
protuberances and parts that do not feature weld lines. Molds are
inexpensive and can be made in single or multiple cavities.
[0144] Now referring to FIG. 7 there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising a blow
molded (BM) body 710 with screw-thread onto which is fitted cap
730. The inner hollow portion of BM body 710 as depicted has been
filled with a fluid 720 such as water, for example. Accordingly, a
user may purchase an empty BM body 710 with or without cap 730. In
some embodiments of the invention the cap 730 and its matching
thread on the BM body 710 are designed to be common to a standard
commodity item such as bottle of carbonated drink such that the cap
730 may be obtained from the commodity item for use with the BM
body 710 or may be replaced in the event of loss of such a cap.
Optionally, the BM body 710 may be sold as a container for a drink
and subsequently used with the drink as sold or after replacement
with water as an adult device. In some cultures, this may present a
route to market that avoids the stigma potentially associated with
the purchase and/or use of an adult device. As discussed below the
BM body 710 may be chosen to be coloured, white, black,
transparent, tinted, etc. towards a demographic and likewise may be
sold in multiple sizes with varying length and diameter.
[0145] In some embodiments of the invention the BM body 710 may
contain a marker line such that when filled with water it may be
safely frozen without the expanding water below approximately
4.degree. C. rupturing the BM body 710 or pushing the cap 730 off.
Alternatively, it may be filled with hot water, room temperature
water, cold water, water from a refrigerator etc. Within other
embodiments of the invention the fluid may be other liquids,
including, for example, alcoholic spirits, alcohol, a vegetable oil
or oils, mineral oil or oils, a silicone or silicones, and a
synthetic oil or oils. Such options provide alternate channels to
market for simple dildo type adult devices at dimensions suitable
for use without necessarily being immediately evident as a sex toy.
For example, a 1'' (25 mm) diameter by 6'' (150 mm) BM body holds
approximately 75 cc.sup.3 or approximately 75 ml of fluid, which is
more than a double shot of spirits (60 ml) sold in India. At 8''
(200 mm) this volume increases to approximately 100 m/of fluid.
[0146] Now referring to FIG. 8 there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising the blow
molded (BM) body 710 with screw-thread onto which is fitted cap 730
as depicted and described supra in respect of FIG. 7. The inner
hollow portion of BM body 710 as depicted has been filled with a
fluid 720 such as water, for example. However, now within the BM
body 710 there is now disposed a vibrator 810, such as a so-called
"egg" vibrator employing a wireless interface to provide remote
control operations. Typically, liquids are not considered good
acoustic media, but this is primarily when considering sound
penetration from an air interface. However, within a liquid such as
water sound propagation at supported frequencies is actually better
than air. At frequencies defined by 1 Hz<<f<<20 kHz the
attenuation of water is low, such that at 1 kHz it is 0.06 dB/km at
T=20.degree. C.
[0147] Accordingly, a user may purchase an empty BM body 710 with
or without cap 730, fill it with water or another suitable fluid,
and drop a bullet/egg vibrator within and experience the effects of
a vibrator without having to purchase a clearly phallic device. A
discrete small vibrator, e.g. a 50 mm by 15 mm diameter vibrator
can be used to make a 200 mm by 25 mm diameter with ease from an
apparently consumable plastic container and a simple fluid such as
water. Referring to FIG. 9 there is depicted a variant of FIG. 8
wherein a positioning bar 920 is disposed between the inner surface
of the screw cap 730 and the vibrator 810 such that it is pushed
against the end of the BM body 710. In this manner the positioning
bar 920 may limit movement of the vibrator 810 during the movement
of the final assembly by the user. Optionally, the positioning bar
920 may support placement of a vibrator 810 at a position within
the BM body 710 other than against the inner end surface.
[0148] Now referring to FIG. 10 there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising the blow
molded (BM) body 710 with screw-thread onto which is fitted cap 730
as depicted and described supra in respect of FIG. 7. The inner
hollow portion of BM body 710 as depicted has been filled with a
foam 1010 after the vibrator 810 has been placed within it.
Examples of foam 1010 include, but are not limited to, open cell
polyurethane of the ester and ether based forms.
[0149] It would be evident to one skilled in the art that the foam
1010 may expand once inserted into the body of the adult device
expanding one or more collapsed regions of the body such that an
initially smaller more discreet body may be sold before being
filled, expanded and employed as an adult device. In this instance
the foam 1010 may provide a lighter adult device than in the
instances that the BM body 710 is filled with a liquid such as
described supra in respect of FIG. 8. Examples of such foams may
include, but not be limited to, expanding foam insulation,
expanding foam sealant, polyurethane based expanding foam, latex
based insulation foam.
[0150] Now referring to FIG. 11A there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising the blow
molded (BM) body 710 with screw-thread onto which is fitted cap
1130 as depicted and described supra in respect of FIG. 7. As with
the adult device depicted in FIG. 7 the BM body 710 is filled with
a fluid by the user or may be pre-filled at purchase with a fluid.
However, cap 1130 is now part of a vibrator assembly which also
includes vibrator body 1120. Accordingly, the vibrator assembly may
be purchased separately to the BM body 710 or purchased initially
with a BM body 710. However, the user may dispose of the BM body
710 and replace as frequently as they define and may, in fact, as
described supra purchase BM body 710 through a non-traditional
adult device sales channel. The user may also easily change BM body
710 with a range of BM bodies 710 according to their preference or
a preference of their partner.
[0151] Referring to FIG. 11B there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising the blow
molded (BM) body 710 with screw-thread onto which is fitted cap
1130 as depicted and described supra in respect of FIG. 7. As with
the adult device depicted in FIG. 10 the BM body 710 is filled with
foam 1140 and the cap 1130 is now part of a vibrator assembly which
also includes vibrator body 1120. Accordingly, the vibrator
assembly may be purchased separately to the BM body 710 or
purchased initially with a BM body 710. However, the user may
dispose of the BM body 710 and replace as frequently as they define
and may, in fact, as described supra purchase BM body 710 through a
non-traditional adult device sales channel. The user may also
easily change BM body 710 with a range of BM bodies 710 according
to their preference or a preference of their partner.
[0152] Within FIGS. 11A and 11B and other embodiments of the
invention wherein an end of the vibrator assembly and/or vibrator
body provides sealing to the opening of the BM body then it would
be evident that optionally the control(s) and charging contact(s)
of the active vibratory element may be provided on the top surface
of the sealing mechanism so that they are accessible externally
once the BM body and vibratory element have been combined.
[0153] Now referring to FIG. 12A there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising the blow
molded (BM) body 1210 but now without screw-thread and absent the
fitted cap. In this instance the BM body 1210 has been pre-filled
with foam 1220, such as described supra in respect of FIG. 10,
wherein the BM body 1210 and foam 1220 have been designed to fit
onto a vibrator 1230. Accordingly, a small compact vibrator 1230
may be turned into a large vibrating adult device through its
placement within the cavity at the end of the BM body 1210. Again,
a variety of BM bodies 1210 may be sold as disposable/consumable
elements in conjunction with a vibrator 1230. Optionally the BM
body 1210 may comprise a threaded end and have a cap with a
positioning bar such as described and depicted in respect of FIG. 9
such that the cap and positioning bar maintain a small vibrator in
position within the modified BM body 1210 and in contact with the
foam 1220.
[0154] Now referring to FIG. 12B there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising the blow
molded (BM) body 1260 with screw-thread. In this instance the BM
body 1260 has been pre-filled with foam 1220, such as described
supra in respect of FIG. 12A, wherein the BM body 1260 and foam
1220 have been designed/formed to fit onto a vibrator 1250.
Accordingly, a small compact vibrator 1250 may be turned into a
large vibrating dildo through its placement within the cavity at
the end of the BM body 1260. Again, a variety of BM bodies 1260 may
be sold as disposable/consumable elements in conjunction with a
vibrator 1250.
[0155] Now referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 there are adult devices
according to embodiments of the invention wherein the outer profile
of the BM bodies 1310 and 1410 have been formed with a series of
rings 1320 and nubbies 1420 respectively. Each maintains the cap
1330 and 1430 for filling with fluid for a dildo, filling with
fluid and vibrator element for vibrating dildo/vibrator, etc. such
as described supra in respect of FIGS. 7 through 12
respectively.
[0156] FIG. 15 depicts an approach to modular adult devices
according to an embodiment of the invention. Accordingly, there are
depicted BM body 1510, BM extender 1530, BM joint 1520, vibrator
element 1540 and screw cap 1550. These may, for example, be
purchased as discrete elements in a single purchase, over multiple
purchases, etc. or purchased as a set. Accordingly, the user may
assemble, according to the elements they have purchased a variety
of adult devices including, for example, small dildo 1500A, small
vibrator 1500B, long vibrator 1500C, and doubled ended dildo 1500D.
Accordingly, a user may purchase initially a vibrator together with
a container, not shown for clarity, comprising BM body 1510 and
screw cap 1550. Subsequently, they can add additional elements,
replace different elements, dispose of elements etc. at low cost
allowing them to, in different circumstances explore dimensions of
adult devices to find what is comfortable or giving them best
sensations, adjust the adult device to their current desire/need,
adjust the toy to their partner's desires/interest etc. In other
embodiments of the invention BM joint 1520 may be designed with a
central deformable region allowing the assembled toy to be flexed
over a predetermined range of angles allowing the adult device to
conform to the user's body.
[0157] Now referring to FIG. 16 there is depicted an adult device
according to an embodiment of the invention comprising the blow
molded (BM) body 1610 but without screw-thread and absent the
fitted cap. In this instance the BM body 1610 has been pre-filled
with foam 1620, such as described supra in respect of FIG. 10,
wherein the BM body 1210 and foam 1220 have been designed to
provide an opening of a minimum diameter and the foam 1220 is
compliant to allow insertion of objects larger than the minimum
diameter. The fit onto an inserted object is therefore akin to a
friction coupling and to ease movement of the adult device a
lubricating layer 1640 may be provided. Accordingly, the adult
device as depicted in FIG. 16 allows a low cost BM based adult
device to be used to provide frictional engagement to a male penis,
for example. The lubrication layer 1640 may be part of the adult
device when purchased or alternatively applied to the adult device
and/or penis prior to use such as by a spray or manually. After use
the adult device can be simply disposed/thrown away due to its low
cost. Optionally, the adult device may have a tapering BM body 1610
that narrows with distance offering engagement to varying sized
objects. Beneficially, such a tapering as depicted in FIG. 16
allows a large number of adult devices 1650 to be stacked within a
small space.
[0158] According to an embodiment of the invention adult device
1650 and/or BM body 1610 with or without foam as well as other
designs described supra in respect of FIGS. 4, 7-15, and 17-20 may
be sold as discrete elements without filling fluid or other filler
material. In these embodiments the BM adult device may be sold
through other age restricted channels of sale, e.g. tobacco and
alcohol, rather than solely through adult stores.
[0159] Within embodiments of the invention the "empty" BM body may,
as an alternative/option to the essentially blank opening depicted
in FIG. 16 and the threaded opening depicted in many embodiments of
the invention depicted FIGS. 4, 7-15, and 17-20, have a smooth
shaped opening with increased thickness around the lip of the
opening. Such a thicker lip region would provide for the option of
the user adding a closing element to allow the BM body to be filled
and then sealed. Such a closing element may, for example be a cork
shaped tapering stopper or a parallel walled stopper which may
provide sealing by wedging into, locking into, or being a
compression fit with the BM body. Alternatively, the opening may be
designed to receive snap fit lid or threaded cap. Optionally, a
lid/cap may contain active electronics which produce and/or control
the provisioning of at least one of an electrical, electromagnetic,
vibration, temperature, texture, movement, and friction sensation
to the user. Optionally, the lid/cap may also contain one or more
sensors for internal use, controlling the device, and/or
communications relating to said device to at least one of a remote
controller, a PED, and the Internet, for example.
[0160] Referring to FIG. 17 there is depicted an adult device in
external view 1700 and cross-section 1750 according to an
embodiment of the invention. As depicted the adult device comprises
a blow molded (BM) body 1710 with a screw-thread. In this instance
the BM body 1710 has been pre-filled with foam 1720, such as
described supra in respect of FIG. 12A, wherein the BM body 1710
and foam 1720 have been designed/formed to fit onto a vibrator 1250
having at its end a threaded section matching the screw thread on
the BM body 1710. Accordingly, a small compact vibrator 1250 may be
turned into a large vibrating adult device through its placement
within the cavity at the end of the BM body 1710. Again, a variety
of BM bodies 1710 may be sold as disposable/consumable elements in
conjunction with a vibrator 1250. Within the end of the BM body
1710 is a recess 1260 such that the threaded portion of the BM body
1710 does not project outside the base of the BM body 1710 allowing
the BM body 1710 to stand unaided in either unassembled or
assembled state. Accordingly, the BM body 1710 may appear when
unassembled to be a plastic ornament but can be converted with ease
by the user.
[0161] Optionally, in other embodiments of the invention the
opening within the foam 1720 may be designed to fit one or more
vibrators, including compact vibrator 1750. For example, a vibrator
may, when implemented in technologies other than offset weights on
a motor, resemble a pencil for example such that the opening within
foam is a long narrow opening. In other embodiments of the
invention the foam may fill the internal volume of the BM body 1710
and be compressed when the vibrator is initially inserted into the
BM body 1710.
[0162] Now referring to FIG. 18A there is depicted an assembly
configuration and assembled adult device according to an embodiment
of the invention. Accordingly, the assembly consists of BM body
1820, cap 1830, and frame 1810 for use in conjunction with a
vibrator 1840, such those commonly referred to as an egg or bullet.
In use the user assembles the vibrator 1840 into the frame 1810
before inserting it into the BM body 1820 and screwing on the cap
1830. The result being assembled device 1850 wherein the vibrator
1840 is now at the bottom of the BM body 1820 held in position by
the frame 1810 and retained through pressure applied by cap 1830
via the frame 1810 which is dimensioned appropriately relative to
the length of the BM body 1820. The frame 1810 also by virtue of
being in contact with the vibrator 1840 and BM body 1820 couples
the mechanical vibrations of the vibrator 1840 to the user via the
BM body 1820. Optionally, the design/dimensions of frame 1810 may
be varied to suit a range of vibrators whilst within other
embodiments the frame 1810 may be double ended so that one end
suits one sub-set of vibrators and the other send a second sub-set
of vibrators.
[0163] Now referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B there are depicted
assembly configurations and inserts for positioning a vibrating
element within an adult device according to embodiments of the
invention. Referring to first and second elements 1800A and 1800B
in FIG. 18 representing inserts for insertion into a BM body such
as described supra in respect of embodiments of the invention in
FIGS. 7 to 18A respectively and below in respect of FIGS. 19 and 20
respectively. As depicted first element 1800A comprises a plurality
of arms 1806B terminating in tips 1860A attached to a central ring
1865A with opening 1865B. As depicted first element 1800A is one of
range of designs for "flower-shaped" or "spider" inserts although
it would be evident that other designs may be employed including
those with varying design arms, varying tip designs, central ring,
opening, thickness, etc. as well as choice of material for the
fabrication of the insert. Within other embodiments of the
invention the insert may alternatively be a solid disk with flat
surface, contoured surface, convex surface, concave surface,
etc.
[0164] As depicted in normal and during insertion cross-sections
for first element 1800A show that it folds-up/collapses to a
smaller cross-section allowing it to be inserted within a BM body
through an opening wherein it expands and contacts the wall of the
BM body such that vibrations from a vibrator element fitted within
the opening 1865B are coupled by the first element 1800A to the
outer wall of the BM body, see FIG. 18C for example. In order to
adjust the characteristics of the insert the arms/disk of the first
element 1800A may be designed with thin sections so that the first
element 1800A has natural weak places to fold as it is inserted
into the BM body.
[0165] The first element 1800A may lock into place by springing
open once inside the BM body such that the first element opens up
to approximately ninety degrees and held between the vibrator
element and the wall of the BM body. Optionally, the first element
1800A may jam tight after being pressed in over the center or just
under center. In some embodiments of the invention the profile of
the BM body walls may be such that the insert engages within a
ridge or trough, for example. In contrast second insert 1800B
whilst engaging and restraining a vibrating element within a BM
body and communicating the vibrations to the wall of the BM body
comprises multiple members 1870 attached to first and second ends
1875A and 1875B wherein the multiple members 1870 flatten for
insertion and spring back open after insertion. In contrast to
first element 1800A the second element 1800B can also provide
retention and placement of the vibrator element relative to the
distal end of the BM body from the opening within which it is
inserted.
[0166] Now referring to FIG. 18C it can be seen in first to third
assembly images 1800C to 1800E that a plurality of first inserts
1800A, e.g. 3, may be employed in a cascading fashion along the
length of a vibrating element, e.g. bullet vibrator, to improve the
coupling of the vibrations to the surface of the BM body and hence
the surface of the adult device. Alternatively, multiple first
elements 1800A may be formed as a single piece-part with connecting
body elements or the number of first inserts 1800A may be varied
according to the vibrating element, e.g. 3 for a bullet vibrator
and 2 for an egg vibrator. Similarly, different geometries of the
first element 1800A may be employed with a common vibrating element
or different vibrating elements or a single first element 1800A may
be designed with `knock-outs" allowing the diameter of the opening
1865B to be varied by the user at deployment. In other embodiments
of the invention a tool may be employed to push the insert "home"
to recesses in the BM body wall which may be provided with the
first inserts 1800A or BM body 1800B or be a common household
object, e.g. chop stick, knitting needle etc. inserted through the
opening within the BM body.
[0167] Now referring to FIG. 18D it can be seen in first to third
assembly images 1800F to 1800H that a plurality of second inserts
1800B, e.g. 2, may be employed in a cascading fashion along the
length of a vibrating element, e.g. bullet vibrator, to improve the
coupling of the vibrations to the surface of the BM body and hence
the surface of the adult device, whilst also positioning the
vibrating element within the BM body. Accordingly, as depicted in
FIGS. 18C and 18D low cost vibrators may be implemented using BM
bodies in conjunction with retaining elements for a vibrating
element.
[0168] Referring to FIG. 19 there is depicted an assembly
configuration comprising concertina BM body 1920, cap 1910, and rod
1930. Accordingly, the user may select a rod 1930, e.g. a chop
stick, branch, etc. or a purchased rod. The user then breaks, cuts,
or trims as appropriate the rod 1930 to a desired length wherein by
inserting the trimmed rod 1930 into the concertina BM body 1920,
pushing it with the cap 1910 and then screwing the cap 1910 onto
the concertina BM body 1920 he/she extends the concertina BM body
1920 to a desired length. Accordingly, depending upon the design of
the concertina BM body 1920 and the way the user extends it then
all sections may extend together or only some sections may be
extended. It would be evident that the design approach of FIG. 19
may be combined with that of FIG. 18 to provide a low cost and/or
disposable adult device design that supports user configuration for
length and vibration. Similarly, merging one or more of these
design concepts with a modular device concept such as depicted in
FIG. 15 allows for user configuration of each end of a double-ended
adult device.
[0169] Now referring to FIG. 20 there is depicted an assembly
configuration comprising BM body 2020, cap 2030, and frame 2010. In
use the user assembles the vibrator 2040 into the frame 2010 before
inserting it into the BM body 2020 and screwing on the cap 2030.
The result being assembled device 2050 wherein the vibrator 2040 is
now at the top of the BM body 2020 held in position by the frame
2010 and retained through pressure applied by cap 2030.
Accordingly, the vibration from the vibrator 2040 is coupled to the
bulge 2025 and the shell of BM body 2020. In this embodiment the
bulge 2025 may engage the clitoris whilst the BM body 2020
penetrates.
[0170] Now referring to FIG. 21 depicts an adult device 2100
according to an embodiment of the invention exploiting an EBM body
2110 with crimped ends 2130. Within EBM body 2110 there is a
vibrating element 2140 within filler 2120. As depicted in first and
second cross-sections 2100A and 2100B respectively the adult device
2100 may be circular or elliptical in cross-section respectively,
for example. The vibrating element 2140 may, for example,
incorporate a battery or this may be separately disposed within the
EBM body 2110. In some embodiments of the invention activation of
the vibrating element 2140 may be through pressure and/or
vibration/shock being applied to the adult device 2100. Optionally,
the filler 2120 may be a fluid dispensed into the EBM body 2110
during manufacturing process that subsequently cures. Optionally,
the filler 2120 may be frozen for using the adult device 2100 in
order to couple the vibrations from the vibrating element 2140 to
the wall of the EBM body 2110 and therein to the user. It would be
evident that the outer surface of the EBM body 2110 may be
printed/patterned in a manner similar to or mimicking other
commercial products such as beauty products, yoghurt, etc.
[0171] Optionally, an adult device 2100 may also be sold and/or
given away as what is known as a "freezie", also known as a freeze
pop, ice-pole, icy-pole, or ice pop, which is typically a
water-based frozen snack made by freezing flavored liquid such as
sugar water, fruit juice or puree inside a plastic casing or tube,
either round or flat. Accordingly, an adult device 2100 may be
designed such that the EBM body 2110 is compressible enough to get
the frozen or semi-frozen filling out to eat, but stiff enough,
that when filled with a frozen or thawed liquid, including the
original contents for example, it can be used as an adult toy.
Optionally, the EBM body 2110 is thick enough that it may be left
empty or in other embodiments of the invention it may be gas filled
after consumption of its contents.
[0172] Optionally, within other embodiments of the invention the
EBM body 2110 may have a snap fit lid, screw cap, plastic zippers
(e.g. Ziploc), or fold over. As noted supra the EBM body 2110 and
therein adult device 2100 may be sealed from the factory like a
freezie which the user must tear open, but could still be used as a
dildo, or the user can open it allowing the freezie shell, EBM body
2110, to subsequently receive a standard bullet vibrator available
separately. Such designs may also exploit snap fit lids, screw
caps, or plastic zippers for example.
[0173] Optionally, adult device 2100 may start as a balloon which
is filled with a fluid, sealed such as by tying a knot within the
material forming the opening to the balloon, and then frozen with
or without a vibrating element disposed within. Optionally, the
adult device 2100 exploiting a balloon construction may exploit
additional elements such as described and depicted in respect of
FIG. 23.
[0174] It would be evident that many embodiments of the invention,
by providing BM bodies compatible with use as adult toys, have
profiles at one end or both ends that are generally incompatible
with the BM body self-supporting within a retail environment or the
user's residence, for example. Accordingly, as depicted in FIG. 22
within the retail environment a base 2210 may be employed in
conjunction with first to fourth BM bodies 2220 to 2250
respectively. The base 2210 may be provided as part of the
purchased product wherein it is removed by the user prior to using
the BM body as an adult device or alternatively it may be provided
as part of the retail display, for example. Optionally, the base
2210 may be designed to support the adult devices, as depicted by
first to fourth BM bodies 2220 to 2250 respectively at the distal
end from penetration and/or use and at the end with a sealing
mechanism, e.g. threaded caps.
[0175] Now referring to FIG. 23 there is depicted a blow molding
methodology exploiting a non-uniform preform according to an
embodiment of the invention to provide an adult device comprising a
shell with "strengthening" ribs. Referring to first structure 2300A
a section of an initial preform comprising a plurality of "ribbed"
regions 2310 are disposed on the inner surface of a shell 2320 is
depicted prior to being blow molded. The first structure 2300A
corresponding to region 2350 in preform 2300C. Subsequently, the
first structure 2310 is blown leading to second structure 2300B
wherein the expanded shell 2340 now has a number of ridges 2330
around the inner surface. Within first and second structures the
"ribbed" regions 2310 and ridges 2330 are depicted as circular
elements for ease of depiction. However, it would be evident that
these may have a variety of initial "widths" and "thicknesses"
which in combination with the blow molding lead to ridges of a
predetermined final geometry. Accordingly, a thin shell 2340 has
"strengthening" ribs 2330. Within first and second structures 2300A
and 2300B the ribs 2310/ridges 2330 run longitudinally along the
preform.
[0176] However, it would be evident that alternatively these may
run around the surface radially as a series of rings along the
length of the preform and thence blow molded part or alternatively
that they may be spiraled in a similar manner to a multi-start
thread such that the multiple spirals are interleaved relative to
one another such as depicted in fourth structure 2300D wherein a
five-start spiral is depicted with first to third spirals 2310A to
2310E respectively. Further as evident in fifth and sixth
structures 2300E and 2300F wherein the "ridges" are formed on the
outer and inner surfaces of the shell based upon the local
thickness of the preform varying and the geometry of the mold in
the two instances. Optionally, the material employed for the adult
devices as depicted within FIG. 23 may be latex, rubber, or an
elastic polymer such that when removed from the mold the second
structure collapses to a smaller geometry but subsequently
re-expands when the adult device is filled with a fluid.
Alternatively, the polymer may be sufficiently thin when blown that
the adult device may be "collapsed" such as by applying a negative
pressure, external force, etc. to the structure which is then
reversed by filling the "collapsed" adult device to its "expanded"
form. In these instances, the "ridges" and/or "ribs" engineered
into the adult device provide added integrity and resilience to the
structure when filled with the fluid. Optionally, embodiments of
the invention as described within FIG. 23 may be considered to be
balloons through the elastic nature of the shell within which are
disposed rigid or semi-rigid structural elements.
[0177] Referring to FIG. 24 there are depicted blow molded adult
device geometries according to embodiments of the invention similar
to those described and depicted in respect of FIG. 4. Accordingly,
a beverage container 2410 is depicted with threaded portion 2420 to
which a sealing cap, not depicted, would be attached when the
beverage container 2410 was purchased. In common with the designs
in FIG. 4 in first configuration 2400A a vibrator 2440 can be
attached to the beverage container 2410 but it's threaded section
2430 is designed to place the vibrator 2440 outside the beverage
container 2410 such that now a compact vibrator 2440 can be held
and/or manipulated in a manner or manners common to larger
dedicated adult devices either against or within regions of the
user's anatomy or another user's anatomy by the user.
[0178] Now referring to second configuration 2400B then there is
similarly depicted a beverage container 2410 is depicted with
threaded portion 2420 to which a sealing cap, not depicted, would
be attached when the beverage container 2410 was purchased. In
common with the designs in FIG. 4 in first configuration 2400A a
vibrator 2440 can be attached to the beverage container 2440 but
now it has first and second threaded sections 2430 and 2450 which
are designed to place the vibrator 2440 outside and inside the
beverage container 2410 respectively. Accordingly, in common with
first structure 2400A use of first threaded section 2430 places the
vibrator 2440 outside the beverage container 2410 and then, in
common with FIG. 4, the use of second threaded section 2450 places
the vibrator 2440 within the beverage container 2410.
[0179] Optionally, embodiments of the invention may be provided as
a collapsible insert inside a BL body, e.g. bottle, so it can be
tossed or recycled or could receive a standard screw cap, snap fit
etc. compatible bullet. Optionally, the insert could be part of the
BM body itself, molded inside as a pre- or over-mold or one step
operation. Optionally, a bullet vibrator insert may include an
optical source, e.g. LED(s), for clear and coloured BM/EBM bodies
of adult devices.
[0180] Optionally, bullet vibrators or other vibrators compatible
with use with BM/EBM bodies according to the embodiments of the
invention may combine other technologies discretely or in
combination to provide user stimulation. Such technologies may
provide electrical stimulation, electromagnetic stimulation (e.g.
infrared heat for example), vibration, temperature (heating or
cooling for example), variable texture, adult device movement,
adult device dimensional variations and/or geometry variations, and
friction. Active elements, including bullet vibrators and
vibrators, may further include control interfaces, interfaces to
remote controls, sensors, etc. Optionally, multiple small active
elements, e.g. bullets or balls, may be employed wherein varying
combinations provide varying effects to the user and/or the active
elements adjust/vary their function in dependence upon identifying
other locally associated devices etc. For example, a user may
employ three active elements to provide vibration, heat, and visual
stimuli. Further, such non-traditional geometries may allow
disguise etc. of the active elements. As the active elements are
now within an outer shell their geometry is now not defined by
providing smooth surfaces for ease of penetration etc. Accordingly,
active elements may be cubic, spherical, elliptical, polygonal,
etc. and may stack, interlock, etc. Equally a user may employ a
varying number of vibratory elements according to mood, activity,
etc. Similarly, such active elements may be used with other adult
device elements formed by manufacturing processes other than the
blow molding techniques described supra in respect of embodiments
of the invention.
[0181] Within the embodiments of the invention discussed supra the
blow molded (BM) body may be clear, white, black, coloured,
transparent, tinted, etc. according to demographics, marketing,
etc. Once the adult device has been blow molded then it is possible
to spray colour and other additives onto the BM part(s) although
this may prove risky or difficult. Typically, the BM parts should
be flamed in order to get improved adhesion of the coating which
with the intended use of adult devices there is potential for the
coating to delaminate during use or washing. Regarding washing,
only PP and PC are dishwasher safe. Other BM materials should be
hand-washed in warm water.
[0182] Within the embodiments of the invention described supra in
respect of FIGS. 7 to 21 the opening of the body of the adult
device has been primarily considered as having a threaded opening,
although FIG. 21 does exploit crimped seals. However, it would be
evident to one skilled in the art that other designs of re-sealable
opening including, but not limited, to screw caps, cork stoppers,
glass stoppers, snap on closures that fit onto lugs/rims on the top
of the opening, recloseable clasps, sports caps that can be removed
and replaced, friction fitting tops, and interference fitting
tops.
[0183] Adult devices may be manufactured clear with PETG,
co-polyester, or PVC allowing compatibility with dual uses such as
initial sale and distribution as a consumable item and then
subsequent use as an adult device. Alternatively, devices may be
slightly opaque (i.e. milky), or fully coloured. It is also
possible to manufacture BM parts with coloured stripes in the
vertical direction.
[0184] As noted supra some embodiments of the invention have foam
filling the BM body part(s). Whilst today no machines are known by
the inventors to exist that automatically add foam to blow molded
parts machines for forming-filling-sealing are known wherein the
blow molded parts are filled with a liquid and crimped to avoid
contamination. With some "foams" these may be dispensed as liquids
that foam and harden once dispensed.
[0185] Within embodiments of the invention exploiting blow molding
processes that have a phallic shape and/or a protrusion of some
form it will be common for a flash line to form along the axis
where the protruding part(s) extend from. Such an artifact is
common, for example, to EBM bottles and all parts will have it at
the opposite end of the neck. Removal of such flash lines may be
undertaken using flaming, typically manually. However, EBM molds
open along the vertical axis and undercuts within the vertical
direction are possible allowing such flash lines to be eliminated
along the major axis of an adult device.
[0186] In respect of some forms of adult device such considerations
adjust manufacturing/design methodologies. For example, for
clitoral vibrators so that a parting line avoids any undercuts
these may be blown upside down so that the opening allows room for
a battery pack in a blow molded vibrator or insertion of a vibrator
as depicted in embodiments of the invention supra. Considering
other adult devices then: [0187] Rabbit Vibrators: essentially same
as clitoral vibrator but would typically be one piece, rather than
two; [0188] Realistic Vibrators: wherein a primary issue is the
design of undercuts; [0189] G Spot Vibrators: as with clitoral
vibrators but wherein the neck needs to be wide enough to allow
insertion of the egg vibrator/bullet vibrator etc. as described in
embodiments of the invention; [0190] Traditional Vibrators:
represent a relatively straight-forward design for blow molding
with access through neck for electronics/battery insertion for
example; [0191] Bullet Vibrators: wherein for tapered designs these
would need to be molded with a neck protruding out that can be
capped off and used to insert any parts; [0192] Anal Vibrators:
essentially the same where even dual pleasure ones can be made in
one piece; [0193] Dildos: essentially same but with more design
freedom as there is no opening for batteries/control circuit etc.;
[0194] Anal Toys: essentially same, wherein tapered designs,
different size beads etc. could be easily incorporated; [0195]
Nipple Toys: wherein elements may be blow molded; [0196] Male
Masturbators: provide difficult design issues but soft foam filling
may be employed to form the internal surface; and [0197] Prostate
Toys: may be blow molded by appropriate design changes.
[0198] Within embodiments of the invention described supra in
respect of FIGS. 3 to 20 and the specification adult devices have
been described exploiting blow molded bodies and/or piece parts. In
order to blow mold, one requires a mold. Correct mold design is
important for the success of extrusion blow molding. Extrusion blow
molds can be either machined or cast, as both processes produce
similar physical characteristics. The ability of the cavity to
conduct heat from the part is important. Extrusion blow molds can
be made from cast aluminum, machined solid aluminum, or other good
heat conducting alloys, such as copper bronzes.
[0199] Cast aluminum molds require that a model be built and are
often useful when a representation of the product is needed before
the start of major mold construction. Cut or machined molds can be
made from computer aided design (CAD) models and do not require the
use of a physical model. The choice between cast and cut is
generally based on performance needs. Cast aluminum molds are a
little softer and less durable than the equivalent cut
aluminum/alloy molds. For products with very low annual usage
requirements or very large parts, a cast mold is often the best
option. Cut or machined molds are typically more robust and can be
modified more easily than a cast mold.
[0200] Material grades for casting are typically unique to
individual foundries but common grades of aluminum include 6061 and
7075. While ferrous and copper alloys are usually not cast for the
body of the mold, steel and copper alloys can be inserted as pinch
edges to improve a cast aluminum mold's durability. With machined
molds aluminum is the material of choice and 6061-T6 or 7075-T6
grades of aluminum are commonly used. For molds that may see
rigorous use or require durable pinch-off, a harder material can be
substituted or inserted. Materials commonly used for this purpose
include copper alloys or P-20 tool steel. Proper maintenance of
ferrous alloys is required to avoid damage by oxidation.
[0201] For untextured molds a sandblasted finish is typically
applied. For aluminum molds, the use of a coarse grade of silica
sand is adequate. A sandblasted finish is coarse enough to create
surface venting, but not deep enough to texturize the surface of
the BM adult device. If a textured surface is desired, then coarser
and deeper patterns within the mold are reproduced during the BM
process.
[0202] BM molds can also accommodate inserts but in order to do so
require receptacles to hold and allow the insert to release during
part ejection. Inserts placed in a blow mold should allow the blown
part to release on removal from the mold. If this is not possible,
a pneumatic slide mechanism may be used. Venting around the insert
is generally necessary to ensure consistent encapsulation. Inserts
should be securely placed while the mold is closing. Typical
inserts may include, mounting tabs, nuts, bolts, ports and tubes.
These can be added to a part by placing an insert into the mold and
blowing a parison around it. Attachment to the part can be
accomplished through mechanical, adhesive or thermal weld. For
mechanical attachment, inserts need a large base with a design that
allows for parison encapsulation are one option.
[0203] In some embodiments of the invention it may be appropriate
to provide a visual effect to the adult device. In some instances,
this may be to give a surface the appearance of another material,
e.g. leather, wood, stipple, sand, etc. In other instances, it may
be employed to give parts a more even, planned effect, or to get
rid of a glossy appearance and change it to a matte finish. This
can add richness to a parts appearance, therefore making the adult
device more marketable, giving it a perception of higher value and
quality, or making its appearance match a product that the adult
device is seeking to masquerade as or initially be sold as. Surface
finish may be also employed for other reasons, including, but not
limited to: [0204] include a company's logo or a pattern into the
appearance of the part; [0205] to diffuse light on clear parts,
such as serrations or frosting; [0206] make clear parts appear
translucent; [0207] for visual contrast;--through the use of two
different textures on one part or by frosting; [0208] hiding splay
lines, flow lines, knit lines, blush marks, and other molding
flaws; [0209] add part numbers, designs, instructions for
consumers, etc.; [0210] eliminating secondary processes such as hot
stamping or label application; and [0211] improve tactile
sensations.
[0212] Within devices according to embodiments of the invention the
fluid within the device can be heated or cooled prior to filling
the device in order to provide additional sensations to the user
during their use of the device. Optionally, by varying the thermal
conductivity of the body of the device in different regions and/or
by varying the thickness of the external device body etc. between
the fluid and user's skin the degree of hot or cold applied to the
user's skin can be varied across the surface of the device. In
other embodiments dual fluidic chambers may, optionally, provide
hot and cold within the same device.
[0213] In terms of materials for the fabrication of the device a
variety of plastic materials can be employed as described supra in
respect of the blow molded elements of an adult device in
conjunction with the fluids and/or foam for filling the internal
volume of the body. However, it would be evident that other
materials may also be employed including, but not limited to,
closed-cell foam, open-celled foam, polystyrene, expanded
polystyrene, extruded polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam, phenolic
foams, rubber, latex, jelly-rubber, silicone rubber, elastomers,
stainless steel, Cyberskin and glass. Within embodiments of the
invention the fluid may be a sexual lubricant or a household item,
e.g. water, vegetable oil, mineral oil, or even beverage such as
milk, juice, carbonated drink etc. In this manner a simple BM body
with cap may be filled to form a solid dildo. The BM body may even
be sourced initially in a manner appearing to be a consumable item
for a household. Optionally, the BM body may be filled with a
powder and/or paste such as flour, sugar, etc. Optionally, the BM
body may be filled with a building material such as silicone
sealant (which will cure), sand, etc. Alternatively, the filling
material within an adult device according to an embodiment of the
invention may be a food, a beverage, a cleaning product, a
lubricant, and a beauty product. In embodiments of the invention
the user may therefore fill an empty BM body with any suitable
material to provide the desired characteristics. Alternatively, an
empty BM body may be filled/pressurized with a gas, e.g. air, from
a small hand pump or other pump, e.g. bicycle tire pump.
[0214] Optionally, in some embodiments of the invention the BM body
may be inserted within a sheath such as one formed from an elastic
material examples of which include rubber, latex, silicone rubber
and an elastomer. Such a sheath may be a condom or prophylactic in
order to provide lubrication, additional chemical induced
sensations, and physical sensations through the geometry and
profile of the surface of the prophylactic. In some embodiments of
the invention the sheath may be permanently applied to the outer
surface of the BM body through one or more manufacturing processes
including, but not limited to, dip-coating, spray coating, and
molding. It would also be evident that a single BM body may be
formed through manufacturing within a single process step a single
piece-part. Alternatively, multiple discrete BM bodies may be
coupled together directly or via intermediate tubing through
processes such as thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, mechanical
features, adhesives, etc. Alternatively, multiple discrete BM
bodies may be coupled together by the user in order to provide a
range of adult devices from a single "kit" of parts. Accordingly, a
single vibrator may be inserted into different BM bodies as
depicted in FIG. 15 discretely or through combination with expander
elements.
[0215] Whilst emphasis has been made to self-contained discrete
devices it would be evident that according to other embodiments of
the invention that the device can be separated into multiple units,
such as for example a vibrator element coupled to an inserted BM
body via a flexible BM tube in order to either keep the vibrator
element external to the user's body or as part of a flexible
portion of the body allowing user adjustment such as arc of a
vaginal penetrative portion of a device. Optionally, it would also
be evident that devices according to embodiments of the invention
can be configured to be held during use; fitted to a harness;
fitted via an attachment to a part of the user's body or another
user's body, e.g., hand, thigh, or foot; or fitted via a suction
cup or other mounting means to a physical object such as a wall,
floor, or table.
[0216] Within embodiments of the invention with respect to devices
and the electronic control the descriptions supra in respect of the
Figures have described electrical power for vibrator elements as
being derived from batteries, either standard replaceable
(consumable) designs such as alkaline, zinc-carbon, and lithium
iron sulphide (LiFeS.sub.2) types, or rechargeable designs such as
nickel cadmium (NiCd or Nicad), nickel zinc, and nickel-metal
hydride (NiMH). Typically, such batteries are AAA or AA although
other battery formats including, but not limited to, C, D, and PP3.
Accordingly, such devices would be self-contained with electrical
power source, controller, and remote interface which may be
pump(s), valve(s) and actuator(s) all formed within the same body.
It would be evident that fluidic pumps, electronic controller, and
fluidic valves are preferably low power, high efficiency designs
when considering battery driven operation although electrical main
connections can ease such design limits. In instances of wired
interface remote controls and electrical mains connections then the
cap may be fitted with an opening allowing the screw cap to be
attached with the cable in a slot with rubber/elastomeric
grommet/edge etc. in order to reduce fluid leakage in such
instances.
[0217] However, alternate embodiments of devices can be configured
in so-called wand type constructions, see for example Hitachi Magic
Wand within the prior art for example, wherein increased dimensions
are typical but additionally the device includes a power cord and
is powered directly from the electrical mains via a transformer.
Optionally, a device can be configured with battery and electrical
mains connections via a small electrical connector with a cord to a
remote transformer and therein a power plug. Within embodiments of
the invention to devices and the electronic control the
descriptions supra in respect of the Figures the electrical control
has been described as being within the device. However, optionally
the controller can be remote to the device either connected via an
electrical cable or communicating via an indirect means such as
wireless communications for example. Additionally, the electronic
controller has been primarily described as providing control
signals to the active element(s), of the device. However, in some
embodiments of the invention the electronic controller can receive
inputs from sensors embedded within the device or external to the
device. For example, a sensor can provide an output in dependence
upon pressure applied to that portion of the device by the user,
for example from vaginal contractions or a hand squeeze, wherein
the controller can adjust one or more aspects of the device.
[0218] Specific details are given in the above description to
provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it is
understood that the embodiments can be practiced without these
specific details. For example, circuits can be shown in block
diagrams in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary
detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes,
algorithms, structures, and techniques can be shown without
unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
[0219] Implementation of the techniques, blocks, steps and means
described above can be done in various ways. For example, these
techniques, blocks, steps and means can be implemented in hardware,
software, or a combination thereof. For a hardware implementation,
the processing units can be implemented within one or more
application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal
processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs),
programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays
(FPGAs), processors, controllers, micro-controllers,
microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the
functions described above and/or a combination thereof.
[0220] Also, it is noted that the embodiments can be described as a
process, which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data
flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a
flowchart can describe the operations as a sequential process, many
of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In
addition, the order of the operations can be rearranged. A process
is terminated when its operations are completed, but could have
additional steps not included in the figure. A process may
correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a
subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its
termination corresponds to a return of the function to the calling
function or the main function.
[0221] The foregoing disclosure of the embodiments of the present
invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and
description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many variations and
modifications of the embodiments described herein will be apparent
to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the above
disclosure.
[0222] Further, in describing representative embodiments of the
present invention, the specification may have presented the method
and/or process of the present invention as a particular sequence of
steps. However, to the extent that the method or process does not
rely on the particular order of steps set forth herein, the method
or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of
steps described. As one of ordinary skill in the art would
appreciate, other sequences of steps may be possible. Therefore,
the particular order of the steps set forth in the specification
should not be construed as limitations on the claims. In addition,
the claims directed to the method and/or process of the present
invention should not be limited to the performance of their steps
in the order written, and one skilled in the art can readily
appreciate that the sequences may be varied and still remain within
the spirit and scope of the present invention.
* * * * *