WO2020041830A1 - Device for treating erectile dysfunction - Google Patents

Device for treating erectile dysfunction Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020041830A1
WO2020041830A1 PCT/AU2019/050909 AU2019050909W WO2020041830A1 WO 2020041830 A1 WO2020041830 A1 WO 2020041830A1 AU 2019050909 W AU2019050909 W AU 2019050909W WO 2020041830 A1 WO2020041830 A1 WO 2020041830A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
previous
user
regulation system
temperature
temperature regulation
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2019/050909
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Masoud TAHGHIGHI JAFARZADEH
Original Assignee
Cosmetic Edge Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2018903148A external-priority patent/AU2018903148A0/en
Application filed by Cosmetic Edge Pty Ltd filed Critical Cosmetic Edge Pty Ltd
Publication of WO2020041830A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020041830A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/41—Devices for promoting penis erection
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N5/0613—Apparatus adapted for a specific treatment
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/44—Devices worn by the patient for reception of urine, faeces, catamenial or other discharge; Portable urination aids; Colostomy devices
    • A61F5/4404—Details or parts
    • A61F5/4408—Means for securing receptacles or bags to the body otherwise than by adhesives, e.g. belts, straps or harnesses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H19/00—Massage for the genitals; Devices for improving sexual intercourse
    • A61H19/30—Devices for external stimulation of the genitals
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/41—Devices for promoting penis erection
    • A61F2005/417—Devices for promoting penis erection by vibrating means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0119—Support for the device
    • A61H2201/0153—Support for the device hand-held
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0157—Constructive details portable
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0173—Means for preventing injuries
    • A61H2201/0176—By stopping operation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0173—Means for preventing injuries
    • A61H2201/0184—Means for preventing injuries by raising an alarm
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/10—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes with further special therapeutic means, e.g. electrotherapy, magneto therapy or radiation therapy, chromo therapy, infrared or ultraviolet therapy
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
    • A61H2201/165—Wearable interfaces
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
    • A61H2201/165—Wearable interfaces
    • A61H2201/1652—Harness
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1683—Surface of interface
    • A61H2201/169—Physical characteristics of the surface, e.g. material, relief, texture or indicia
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1683—Surface of interface
    • A61H2201/169—Physical characteristics of the surface, e.g. material, relief, texture or indicia
    • A61H2201/1697—Breathability of the material
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
    • A61H2201/5005—Control means thereof for controlling frequency distribution, modulation or interference of a driving signal
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
    • A61H2201/5023—Interfaces to the user
    • A61H2201/5043—Displays
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
    • A61H2201/5058—Sensors or detectors
    • A61H2201/5082—Temperature sensors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2205/00—Devices for specific parts of the body
    • A61H2205/08—Trunk
    • A61H2205/087—Genitals
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2230/00—Measuring physical parameters of the user
    • A61H2230/50—Temperature
    • A61H2230/505—Temperature used as a control parameter for the apparatus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0626—Monitoring, verifying, controlling systems and methods
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0635—Radiation therapy using light characterised by the body area to be irradiated
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0635—Radiation therapy using light characterised by the body area to be irradiated
    • A61N2005/0643—Applicators, probes irradiating specific body areas in close proximity
    • A61N2005/0644—Handheld applicators
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0635—Radiation therapy using light characterised by the body area to be irradiated
    • A61N2005/0643—Applicators, probes irradiating specific body areas in close proximity
    • A61N2005/0645—Applicators worn by the patient
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/065—Light sources therefor
    • A61N2005/0651—Diodes
    • A61N2005/0652—Arrays of diodes

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for treating erectile dysfunction using phototherapy and vibrotherapy.
  • Phototherapy and vibrotheraphy have both been proposed as methods of treating erectile dysfunction.
  • phototherapy and vibrotherapy are non-invasive.
  • Conventional devices are placed over the male genitalia and apply either phototherapy or vibrotheraphy to the male genitalia to stimulate vasodilation, which results in increased blood flow.
  • a device for treating erectile dysfunction comprising at least one light emitting diode for providing phototherapy to a user; at least one vibrator for providing vibrotherapy to the user; and a temperature regulation system.
  • the temperature regulation system may include a temperature sensor, and the ability to adjust the temperature if the temperature becomes too high - which in some embodiments may be by alerting the user and enabling them to switch off the device.
  • the temperature regulation system may automatically switch off the light emitting diode (and in some cases the vibrator), if the measured temperature exceeds a particular threshold.
  • the temperature regulation system may switch off the components progressively - for example, the light emitting diode(s) may be switched off at a lower temperature threshold than the vibrator(s), or vice versa. Alternatively, the components may be switched off at the same temperature threshold.
  • the temperature sensor may be positioned to measure the temperature around the testicles of the user.
  • the temperature threshold may be at 38 degrees - in particular, the device may be configured to regulate the temperature around the testicles at between 32 and 38 degrees Celsius.
  • the temperature regulation system may include an audible alarm activated when the temperature exceeds the threshold and/or a visual temperature display.
  • the temperature regulation system may include a ventilation unit.
  • the device may also comprise a timer.
  • the frequency of light emitted by the light emitting diode may be adjustable by a user.
  • the frequency and amplitude of the vibrator may also be adjusted by the user.
  • the device may operable by a remote control.
  • the device may comprise a strap adapted to attach the device to a user.
  • the device may comprise a wearable garment worn by the user.
  • the device may comprise a rechargeable battery, and may also be adapted to be connected to an external power source.
  • the term “device” is used to refer to both a hard device, and to a wearable garment.
  • the device may comprise a body in the form of a hard shell (e.g. formed of plastic) which is worn by the user and mounted by means of a strap around the hips or waist of the user.
  • the device may comprise a wearable garment comprised of a stretchable material, and having the vibrators and LEDs affixed to the garment (e.g. sewn in pockets of the garment, or integrated in other ways into the fabric of the garment).
  • Figure 1 is a front view
  • Figure 2 is a side view
  • Figure 3 is a cut-away side view.
  • Figure 1 depicts a device 10 the subject of one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the device 10 has a body 12 which is placed over the male genitalia (not shown) when in use, providing a sleeve therefor.
  • the device 10 comprises buckles 14 for accommodating a waist strap (not shown) which allows the device 10 to be secured to the waist of a user.
  • the device 10 includes a temperature regulation system which, in this embodiment, includes a fan 16 to regulate the temperature applied to the user by the device 10.
  • the temperature regulation system may also include an audible alarm (not shown) and a visual temperature display (not shown) to alert the user when a set temperature is reached.
  • the temperature regulation system may be set to alert the user when the temperature applied to the user by the device 10 reaches normal human body temperature (37 degrees Celsius).
  • the temperature regulation system may operate to automatically switch off some or all of the components contributing to heating, when the temperature exceeds a particular threshold (e.g. 38 degrees). In some embodiments, the temperature regulation system may switch on temperature reduction apparatus (such as the fan 16 described above), when the temperature exceeds a threshold.
  • the temperature regulation system may comprise a processor configured to control the other components of the device 10, the components of the temperature regulation system itself, and to receive information from a temperature sensor located at an appropriate location within the device (e.g. adjacent the testicles).
  • the temperature regulation system may include a ventilation unit (not shown) adapted to ventilate air from the device 10. Some embodiments may include more than one ventilation unit.
  • the device 10 may include a timer (not shown) to allow the user to monitor the time period the device is in use.
  • the timer may be set by the user to limit operation of the device to a pre-set time period.
  • the device 10 will be used from about 12 to 20 minutes, which will typically be sufficient to stimulate vasodilation.
  • different embodiments of the invention may be suited to longer or shorter periods of use.
  • the device 10 includes a cup 18 which is adapted to hold the testicles of a user.
  • the device 10 includes vibrators 20 (preferably located on the inside of the body 12), for delivering vibrotherapy to the male genitalia.
  • vibrators 20 are in direct contact with the skin of the user and apply vibration directly to the skin.
  • the vibrators 20 are not in direct contact with the skin of the user but instead vibrate the device 10.
  • the frequency and amplitude of vibration can be controlled by the user.
  • the device 10 also includes light emitting diodes (LED) 22 for delivering phototherapy to the male genitalia.
  • the device 10 comprises an array of LEDs which are located on the inside of the body 12, and direct light inwardly towards the male genitalia within the body 12.
  • the LEDs emit light in the range of 645-670 nm.
  • the wavelength of light emitted by the LEDs can be controlled by the user.
  • the application of light from the LEDs can also be controlled by the user - for example, the LEDs may emit light in pulses.
  • the device 10 also includes a rechargeable battery 24.
  • the device 10 may be connected to an external power source, such as mains power or an external battery.
  • an external power source such as mains power or an external battery.
  • the use of a rechargeable battery enables the device to be portable; the battery can be charged for at least one period of use (typically 12 to 20 minutes), and during this time the user can move around without being bound by a power cord or other charging apparatus.
  • the device 10 may be operated by controls located on the body 12 of the device. Alternatively, the device 10 may be operated by a remote control.
  • the remote control may be a dedicated remote control for the device 10, may be a web-based software program, or may be an app configured to operate on the user's mobile phone or tablet computer, and may communicate with the device 10 by means of a wireless connection such as WiFi or Bluetooth.
  • the device 10 is provided in the form of a wearable garment, which is preferably formed of a stretchable fabric.
  • the fabric is preferably breathable, so as to reduce temperature increases associated with use of the device 10.
  • the various components of the device 10, including LEDs 22, vibrators 20, and rechargeable battery 24, may be located in pockets of the garment, or may be individually sewn into the garment.
  • the LEDs may be oriented to direct light inwardly towards the male genitalia, and the vibrators 20 may be located over the male genitalia to direct vibration to the genitalia, through the garment.
  • This embodiment of the invention may also incorporate a remote control, for example in the form of a dedicated device or an app configured on a mobile phone or tablet computer and may communicate with the device 10 by means of a wireless connection such as WiFi or Bluetooth.
  • a remote control for example in the form of a dedicated device or an app configured on a mobile phone or tablet computer and may communicate with the device 10 by means of a wireless connection such as WiFi or Bluetooth.
  • light and vibration may also be directed toward the perineum of the user, to stimulate vasodilation in that area.
  • the perineum includes structures which can be important for erectile function.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Reproductive Health (AREA)
  • Nursing (AREA)
  • Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Vascular Medicine (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Percussion Or Vibration Massage (AREA)
  • Radiation-Therapy Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for treating erectile dysfunction comprising at least one light emitting diode for providing phototherapy to a user; at least one vibrator for providing vibrotherapy to the user; and a temperature regulation system. The device may comprise a wearable garment. The temperature regulation system helps prevent overheating of the male genitalia during operation of the device.

Description

DEVICE FOR TREATING ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
Field
[0001 ] The present invention relates to a device for treating erectile dysfunction using phototherapy and vibrotherapy.
Background
[0002] Phototherapy and vibrotheraphy have both been proposed as methods of treating erectile dysfunction. Advantageously, phototherapy and vibrotherapy are non-invasive. Conventional devices are placed over the male genitalia and apply either phototherapy or vibrotheraphy to the male genitalia to stimulate vasodilation, which results in increased blood flow.
[0003] Conventional devices suffer from several drawbacks, such as the risk of overheating the male genitalia.
[0004] There is a need for a device for treating erectile dysfunction using phototherapy and vibrotherapy but which does not overheat the male genitalia.
Summary
[0005] According to the present invention, there is provided a device for treating erectile dysfunction comprising at least one light emitting diode for providing phototherapy to a user; at least one vibrator for providing vibrotherapy to the user; and a temperature regulation system.
[0006] The temperature regulation system may include a temperature sensor, and the ability to adjust the temperature if the temperature becomes too high - which in some embodiments may be by alerting the user and enabling them to switch off the device. In some embodiments, the temperature regulation system may automatically switch off the light emitting diode (and in some cases the vibrator), if the measured temperature exceeds a particular threshold. The temperature regulation system may switch off the components progressively - for example, the light emitting diode(s) may be switched off at a lower temperature threshold than the vibrator(s), or vice versa. Alternatively, the components may be switched off at the same temperature threshold.
[0007] The temperature sensor may be positioned to measure the temperature around the testicles of the user. The temperature threshold may be at 38 degrees - in particular, the device may be configured to regulate the temperature around the testicles at between 32 and 38 degrees Celsius.
[0008] The temperature regulation system may include an audible alarm activated when the temperature exceeds the threshold and/or a visual temperature display.
[0009] The temperature regulation system may include a ventilation unit.
[0010] The device may also comprise a timer.
[001 1 ] The frequency of light emitted by the light emitting diode may be adjustable by a user.
[0012] The frequency and amplitude of the vibrator may also be adjusted by the user. [0013] The device may operable by a remote control.
[0014] The device may comprise a strap adapted to attach the device to a user. Alternatively, the device may comprise a wearable garment worn by the user.
[0015] The device may comprise a rechargeable battery, and may also be adapted to be connected to an external power source.
[0016] In the context of this specification, the term "device" is used to refer to both a hard device, and to a wearable garment.
[0017] In some embodiments, the device may comprise a body in the form of a hard shell (e.g. formed of plastic) which is worn by the user and mounted by means of a strap around the hips or waist of the user. [0018] However, in alternative embodiments, the device may comprise a wearable garment comprised of a stretchable material, and having the vibrators and LEDs affixed to the garment (e.g. sewn in pockets of the garment, or integrated in other ways into the fabric of the garment).
Brief Description of Drawings
[0019] An embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a front view;
Figure 2 is a side view; and
Figure 3 is a cut-away side view.
Description of Embodiments
[0020] Referring to the drawings, Figure 1 depicts a device 10 the subject of one embodiment of the present invention. The device 10 has a body 12 which is placed over the male genitalia (not shown) when in use, providing a sleeve therefor. In the embodiment depicted, the device 10 comprises buckles 14 for accommodating a waist strap (not shown) which allows the device 10 to be secured to the waist of a user.
[0021 ] The device 10 includes a temperature regulation system which, in this embodiment, includes a fan 16 to regulate the temperature applied to the user by the device 10. The temperature regulation system may also include an audible alarm (not shown) and a visual temperature display (not shown) to alert the user when a set temperature is reached. For example, the temperature regulation system may be set to alert the user when the temperature applied to the user by the device 10 reaches normal human body temperature (37 degrees Celsius).
[0022] The temperature regulation system may operate to automatically switch off some or all of the components contributing to heating, when the temperature exceeds a particular threshold (e.g. 38 degrees). In some embodiments, the temperature regulation system may switch on temperature reduction apparatus (such as the fan 16 described above), when the temperature exceeds a threshold. The temperature regulation system may comprise a processor configured to control the other components of the device 10, the components of the temperature regulation system itself, and to receive information from a temperature sensor located at an appropriate location within the device (e.g. adjacent the testicles).
[0023] The temperature regulation system may include a ventilation unit (not shown) adapted to ventilate air from the device 10. Some embodiments may include more than one ventilation unit.
[0024] The device 10 may include a timer (not shown) to allow the user to monitor the time period the device is in use. Optionally, the timer may be set by the user to limit operation of the device to a pre-set time period. In general, it is anticipated that the device 10 will be used from about 12 to 20 minutes, which will typically be sufficient to stimulate vasodilation. However, different embodiments of the invention may be suited to longer or shorter periods of use.
[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the device 10 includes a cup 18 which is adapted to hold the testicles of a user.
[0026] As shown in Figure 3, the device 10 includes vibrators 20 (preferably located on the inside of the body 12), for delivering vibrotherapy to the male genitalia. In some embodiments, vibrators 20 are in direct contact with the skin of the user and apply vibration directly to the skin. In other embodiments, the vibrators 20 are not in direct contact with the skin of the user but instead vibrate the device 10. Optionally, the frequency and amplitude of vibration can be controlled by the user.
[0027] The device 10 also includes light emitting diodes (LED) 22 for delivering phototherapy to the male genitalia. In the embodiment depicted in the Figures, the device 10 comprises an array of LEDs which are located on the inside of the body 12, and direct light inwardly towards the male genitalia within the body 12. Optionally, the LEDs emit light in the range of 645-670 nm. Optionally, the wavelength of light emitted by the LEDs can be controlled by the user. Optionally, the application of light from the LEDs can also be controlled by the user - for example, the LEDs may emit light in pulses.
[0028] In the embodiment depicted in the Figures, the device 10 also includes a rechargeable battery 24. In other embodiments, the device 10 may be connected to an external power source, such as mains power or an external battery. However, the use of a rechargeable battery enables the device to be portable; the battery can be charged for at least one period of use (typically 12 to 20 minutes), and during this time the user can move around without being bound by a power cord or other charging apparatus.
[0029] The device 10 may be operated by controls located on the body 12 of the device. Alternatively, the device 10 may be operated by a remote control. The remote control may be a dedicated remote control for the device 10, may be a web-based software program, or may be an app configured to operate on the user's mobile phone or tablet computer, and may communicate with the device 10 by means of a wireless connection such as WiFi or Bluetooth.
[0030] In an alternative embodiment, the device 10 is provided in the form of a wearable garment, which is preferably formed of a stretchable fabric. The fabric is preferably breathable, so as to reduce temperature increases associated with use of the device 10. The various components of the device 10, including LEDs 22, vibrators 20, and rechargeable battery 24, may be located in pockets of the garment, or may be individually sewn into the garment. The LEDs may be oriented to direct light inwardly towards the male genitalia, and the vibrators 20 may be located over the male genitalia to direct vibration to the genitalia, through the garment.
[0031 ] This embodiment of the invention may also incorporate a remote control, for example in the form of a dedicated device or an app configured on a mobile phone or tablet computer and may communicate with the device 10 by means of a wireless connection such as WiFi or Bluetooth.
[0032] In either embodiment described above, light and vibration may also be directed toward the perineum of the user, to stimulate vasodilation in that area. The perineum includes structures which can be important for erectile function.
[0033] For the purpose of this specification, the word "comprising" means "including but not limited to," and the word "comprises" has a corresponding meaning.
The above embodiments have been described by way of example only and modifications are possible within the scope of the claims that follow.

Claims

Claims
1 . A device for treating erectile dysfunction comprising;
at least one light emitting diode for providing phototherapy to a user;
at least one vibrator for providing vibrotherapy to the user; and
a temperature regulation system.
2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the temperature regulation system includes an audible alarm.
3. The device of any previous claim, wherein the temperature regulation system includes a visual temperature display.
4. The device of any previous claim, wherein the temperature regulation system includes a ventilation unit.
5. The device of any previous claim, wherein the device comprises a timer.
6. The device of any previous claim, wherein the frequency of light emitted by the light emitting diode can be adjusted by the user.
7. The device of any previous claim, wherein the frequency and amplitude of the vibrator can be adjusted by the user.
8. The device of any previous claim, wherein the device is operable by a remote control.
9. The device of any previous claim, wherein the device comprises a strap adapted to attach the device to a user.
10. The device of any previous claim, wherein the device comprises an external power source.
1 1 . The device of any previous claim, wherein the device comprises a rechargeable battery.
12. The device of any previous claim, wherein the device is adapted to be connected to an external power source.
13. The device of any previous claim, wherein the device comprises a wearable garment.
14. The device of any previous claim, wherein the temperature regulation system switches off the at least one light emitting diode, if a measured temperature exceeds a temperature threshold.
15. The device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the temperature regulation system switches off the at least vibrator, if a measured temperature exceeds a temperature threshold.
PCT/AU2019/050909 2018-08-27 2019-08-27 Device for treating erectile dysfunction WO2020041830A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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AU2018903148 2018-08-27
AU2018903148A AU2018903148A0 (en) 2018-08-27 Device for treating erectile dysfunction

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