The Design of a Specialized Pouch for Men's Underwear
A design patent protecting the specific visual appearance of a supportive pouch integrated into men's undergarments.
Patent Number
US RE46892
Status
Active
Filing Date
September 16, 2016
Grant Date
June 19, 2018
Expiration
~September 2036 (estimated)
Claims
1
Assignee
0912139 B C Ltd
Inventors
Shawn Robert Ellis, Dustin Douglas BIGNEY
Citations
2 forward · 37 backward
What it covers
This patent protects the unique ornamental design of a pouch intended for a men's garment. Unlike functional patents that cover how a machine works, this design patent focuses entirely on the visual shape, contours, and aesthetic configuration of the pouch as shown in the patent's drawings. It prevents competitors from creating underwear with a pouch that looks substantially similar to the design claimed in the registration.
What it doesn't cover
- —Does not cover the functional utility or comfort benefits of the pouch design.
- —Does not cover the specific fabric, material, or stitching techniques used to construct the garment.
- —Does not cover other pouch shapes or designs that do not share the ornamental characteristics shown in the patent figures.
The clever bit
The innovation lies in the specific geometry of the pouch design, which creates a distinct visual silhouette that consumers associate with the brand's specific product line.
Why it matters
Design patents are essential in the apparel industry to prevent copycats from mimicking the signature look of a brand's products. By protecting the specific aesthetic of the pouch, the inventors ensure that their product's visual identity remains distinct in a crowded marketplace.
Real-world examples
- 1.MyPakage underwear
- 2.Specialized athletic support garments
Generated by PatentBrief · Not legal advice · patentbrief.org
US RE46892 · 2026