U.S. patent application number 10/457116 was filed with the patent office on 2003-10-30 for dispensing article.
Invention is credited to Wallo, Warren.
Application Number | 20030203010 10/457116 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24001362 |
Filed Date | 2003-10-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030203010 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wallo, Warren |
October 30, 2003 |
Dispensing article
Abstract
An article including a first exterior layer; a second exterior
layer; and a cell layer having at least one cell containing an
active material wherein at least one layer is an apertured film and
the cell layer is disposed between the two exterior layers.
Typically the article is useful for cleaning or treating surfaces
including skin, metal, wood, glass, and plastics.
Inventors: |
Wallo, Warren; (Belle Mead,
NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Philip S. Johnson, Esq.
Johnson & Johnson
One Johnson & Johnson Plaza
New Brunswick
NJ
08933-7003
US
|
Family ID: |
24001362 |
Appl. No.: |
10/457116 |
Filed: |
June 9, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10457116 |
Jun 9, 2003 |
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09503261 |
Feb 14, 2000 |
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6607739 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
424/443 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 7/03 20130101; A47L
13/17 20130101; A45D 34/04 20130101; A45D 2200/1018 20130101; A45D
2200/1045 20130101; A61Q 19/10 20130101; C11D 17/049 20130101; A61K
8/0208 20130101; A61Q 19/00 20130101; B32B 3/266 20130101; A45D
37/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/443 |
International
Class: |
A61K 009/70 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A cleansing article comprising: a first exterior layer; a second
exterior layer; and a cell layer having a plurality of cells
containing an active material, wherein at least one of the exterior
layers is an apertured film and the cell layer is disposed between
the first exterior layer and the second exterior layer, and wherein
said apertured film is made from a polymer selected from the group
consisting of polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, ethylene
vinyl acetate copolymer, metallocene polyethylene, blends thereof,
and copolymers thereof.
2. The article of claim 1 wherein the ethylene vinyl acetate
copolymer has a vinyl acetate content of, based upon the total
weight of the copolymer, from about 9 percent to about 28
percent.
3. The article of claim 1 wherein at least one of the exterior
layers contains an anti-bacterial agent.
4. The article of claim 1 wherein the aperatured film has an open
area of no more than about 45%.
5. The article of claim 1, wherein the at least one cell is
comprised of a cell film selected from water insoluble films, water
soluble films, oil insoluble films, and combinations thereof.
6. The article of claim 5 wherein the water insoluble film is
selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride,
polyvinylidine chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl
chloride copolymers, ethylene vinyl alcohol, and blends and
copolymers thereof.
7. The article of claim 5 wherein the water insoluble film has a
moisutre vapor permeability of from about 10 g/m.sup.2/24 hr/day to
about 50 g/m.sup.2/24 hr/day.
8. The article of claim 5 wherein the thickness of the cell film is
from about 0.5 mil to about 3.0 mil.
9. The article of claim 1 wherein the at least one cell contains an
active material that is prevented from escaping unless either
pressure is applied or is dipped in a liquid which dissolves or
disperses out the active material.
10. The article of claim 9 wherein the at least one cell contains
an active material that is prevented from escaping unless pressure
is applied.
11. The article of claim 1 wherein the active material is selected
from the group consisting of moisturizers, bubble bath
compositions, cleansers; toners; astringents; conditioners;
sunscreens; shaving foams; tanning agents; anti-acne agents;
anti-aging agents; anti-irritant agents; perfumes/fragrances;
moisturizers and mixtures thereof.
12. The article of claim 11 wherein the active material is selected
from cleansers, moisturizers, conditioners, and combinations
thereof.
13. The article of claim 1 further comprising a core layer.
14. The article of claim 13 wherein the core layer is a material
selected from non-wovens, wovens, sponges, open-celled foam
selected from a natural and/or a synthetic source, extruded plastic
scrim, polymeric films, and mixtures thereof.
15. The article of claim 1 further comprising a hanging means.
16. The article of claim 15 wherein the hanging means is selected
from straps, handles, knobs, hooks, a character figure, hooks and
loops, magnets, plastics, rubbers, synthetic elastics, and
combinations thereof.
17. The article of claim 1 wherein a sensory device is located in
the article in locations that correspond to the at least one
cell.
18. The article of claim 17 wherein the sensory device is a gas
enclosed in a film.
19. The article of claim 1, wherein the first exterior layer has a
first end and the second exterior layer has a second end, and the
first exterior layer and the second exterior layer are removably
attached along the first end and second end.
20. The article of claim 19 wherein a second cell layer may be
inserted into the article when the active material in the first
cell layer is expended.
21. A method of dispensing active materials comprised of permitting
the active material contained in the cells of the article of claim
1 to escape in a given order.
22. The method of claim 21 wherein the cells are serially
arranged.
23. The method of claim 22 wherein the cells are disposed on top of
each other.
24. The method of claim 21 wherein the active material is permitted
to escape by applying pressure to the cell.
25. A process comprising: permitting the active material in at
least one cell of the article of claim 1 to escape; and appying the
article to a desired surface.
26. The process of claim 26 wherein the article is applied to a
desired surface in the presence of water.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 09/503,261 filed Feb. 14, 2000, the disclosure of which is
hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates to an article that is useful for
cleansing or treating various surfaces. More particularly, this
invention is related to an article containing a top layer, a bottom
layer, and at least one cell therebetween, the latter of which
contains an active material.
[0004] 2. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
[0005] Many scrubbing or scouring implements or articles are
designed for cleaning or treating surfaces such as skin, wood,
glass, plastics, and metal. As used herein, by "treating" is meant
applying a material such as a medicine, skin care product, wax,
polish, and the like to a desired location. Generally, the
scrubbing implements are made from materials such as sponges, woven
fabrics, or nonwoven fabrics. These scrubbing implements may be
supplied either with the accompanying cleaning or treating solution
in a system, or alternatively may be supplied as a stand-alone
item. When using such implements, a consumer disadvantageously is
required to perform a three-step process: first the cleaning or
treating solution is measured; second, the cleaning or treating
solution is dispensed onto a scrubbing implement; and third, the
scrubbing implement is then used with the cleaning or treating
solution to clean or treat a surface. Not only is this process
often messy, but it is also inconvenient to the user.
[0006] Several attempts have been made to make to reduce the
inconveniences incurred with cleaning or treating processes. For
example, U.S. Pat. No. 2,102,858 discloses an absorbent pad
material that is pre-loaded with a liquid cleaning substance, then
stored in a water proof wrapper. When desired, the absorbent pad is
removed from the wrapper and then used for cleaning purposes. One
disadvantage to this design is that the liquid cleaner is
pre-loaded on the absorbent pad; therefore, the amount of liquid
cleaner utilized can not be adjusted by the user. In addition,
consumers are unable to easily rinse the cleansing product from the
absorbent pad.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 3,635,567 discloses a disposable combination
package and soft absorbent pad applicator. Within the applicator is
a rupturable cell, which houses a liquid. Upon rupturing the cell,
the liquid is released for use into the absorbent pad.
Disadvantageously, the absorbent pad tends to absorb the cleaning
or treating solution, and therefore precludes a thorough cleaning
of the pad after use. In addition, the absorbent pad may also
promote microbial growth because it tends to stay wet for a
considerable period of time. Further, the design provides only one
cell for housing a cleaning or treating solution, and thus has
limited reusability.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,515,703 discloses a perforated article
having a top substrate and a bottom substrate wherein each
substrate is comprised of a paper or nonwoven having an inner
liquid impermeable thermoplastic material laminated thereto.
Between the substrates is an active material that is arranged into
compartments via sealing the article. The size of the perforations
is dependent upon the type of active material contained therein.
Due to the use of paper and nonwoven exteriors, these articles
disadvantageously tend to retain moisture, which promotes microbial
growth. Furthermore, such exteriors do not contribute to improved
foaming characteristics when foamable surfactants are selected as
the active material.
[0009] It would be desirable to have a re-usable cleaning product
that can be used with a variety of cleaning or treating solutions,
is easily cleaned after use, and dries quickly. Moreover, when
foamable surfactants are used therein, it would be further
desirable to have a product having superior foaming
capabilities.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In accordance with this invention, there is an article
comprising:
[0011] a first exterior layer;
[0012] a second exterior layer;
[0013] and a cell layer having at least one cell containing an
active material, wherein at least one of the exterior layers is an
apertured film and the cell layer is disposed between the first
exterior layer and the second exterior layer.
[0014] The articles of this invention are not only reusable, but
also easily cleaned and dried after use. Moreover, the articles are
not only versatile in view of the fact that they may be
incorporated with a variety of cleaning or treating solutions, but,
when used with foamable surfactants, are also capable of producing
superior foam.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The invention will be more fully understood and further
advantages will become apparent when reference is made to the
following detailed description of the invention and the
accompanying drawing in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a representation of an expanded perspective view
of the article of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 2A is a representation of the top view of a
triangular-shaped article of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 2B is a representation of the bottom view of the
article of FIG. 2A.
[0019] FIG. 3A is a representation of the top view of a
rectangular-shaped article of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 3B is a representation of the bottom view of the
article of FIG. 3A.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0021] It is believed that one skilled in the art can, based upon
the description herein, utilize the present invention to its
fullest extent. The following specific embodiments are to be
construed as merely illustrative, and not limitative of the
remainder of the disclosure in any way whatsoever.
[0022] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Also, all
publications, patent applications, patents, and other references
mentioned herein are incorporated by reference.
[0023] As used herein, "width" shall mean the diameter when
referring to generally circular apertures/holes or the largest
distance across a given shape when referring to non-circular
apertures/holes.
[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention provides a
scrubbing or scouring article including: a) a first exterior layer
1; b) a second exterior layer 2; and c) a cell layer 3 comprised of
at least one cell 4. The cell layer 4 is disposed between the first
and second exterior layers 1, 2. The first exterior layer 1 is
attachable, either removably or fixedly, to the second exterior
layer 2.
[0025] The first exterior layer 1 and the second exterior layer 2
may be made of the same or different materials; however, at least
one exterior layer must be comprised of an apertured or perforated
film. The other exterior layer may be made from polymeric sheets
that optionally may be textured, i.e. apertured films or embossed
films; substantially coarse mesh, such as that used in known
diamond mesh puffs; porous foams; reticulated foams; natural fibers
(e.g. wood, or cotton fibers); synthetic or polymeric fibrous
sheets; combinations thereof and the like, with apertured polymeric
films being the material of choice. The fibrous sheets may be
comprised of either woven or nonwoven fabrics. For example, the
sheet may be comprised of a spunbonded or meltblown web or
polyolefin fibers or may be a bonded-carded web comprised of
natural and/or synthetic fibers.
[0026] Suitable polymer films nonexclusively include those
comprised of polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, ethylene vinyl
acetate, metallocene polyethylene, and blends and copolymers
thereof. Where ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers are utilized, a
vinyl acetate content from about 9 weight percent to about 28
weight percent, based upon the total weight of the copolymer, is
preferred. The polymeric fibrous sheets may also be comprised of
any of these polymers. Examples of suitable commercial polymeric
apertured films include those available from Tredegar Film
Products, Inc. under the tradename, "VisPore.RTM." or those from
Polymer Group, Inc. under the tradename, "Reticulon.RTM., with the
"VisPore.RTM." film being preferred.
[0027] Suitable apertured films may be prepared by a process which
generates macroporous cone shaped holes or pores. The pores of the
perforated films may be created in the films via known processes as
described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,054,148; and 4,741,877;
or via a post treatment perforation step, see U.S. Pat. Nos.
3,929,135 and 3,394,211 (blast of heated air creates a pressure
differential across a perforated forming surface covered with a
pre-formed film). Generally speaking, the resulting apertured film
possesses a "rough" side, which contains the raised protuberances
and an alternative "smooth" side. By "smooth" side, it is meant the
side from which the raised protuberances originate. The
protuberances in apertured films are generally cone-shaped. In uses
of the articles of the present invention where exfoliation is of
concern, it is preferable to have the protuberances facing
outward.
[0028] Although the type of apertures, as well as their depth and
width, in the apertured film may vary depending upon, for example,
the type of active material to be used with the article, the
desired rate at which active material, e.g., soap, to be released
to the surface of the article, the ease of rinsability desired, the
desired end use of the article, the size of bubbles desired, and
the volume of foam desired, generally the apertured film contains
from about 1.6 apertures/cm.sup.2 to about 248 apertures/cm.sup.2,
preferably from about 3 apertures/cm.sup.2 to about 30
apertures/cm.sup.2, and most preferably from about 5
apertures/cm.sup.2 to about 15 apertures/cm.sup.2. Preferably, for
uses of the articles on locations such as the face, where softness
is of concern, the film contains from about 80 apertures/cm.sup.2
to about 200 apertures/cm.sup.2. Preferably, for uses of the
articles on locations such as the arms, where volume of foam is of
concern, the film contains from about 5 apertures/cm.sup.2 to about
15 apertures/cm.sup.2.
[0029] The width of the apertures, as measured across the "smooth"
side of the apertured film, ranges in size from about 1 mm to about
22 cm, and preferably from about 2 mm to about 10 mm. In
embodiments where it is desirable to slowly deplete the soap from
the article, it is preferable to use film with apertures having a
relatively smaller width, i.e. less than about 5 mm and preferably
greater than 2 mm.
[0030] The apertures may be of any shape that can perforated into
the film. Although the shape of the aperture will generally depend
upon, for example, aesthetics, the type of active material to be
used with the article, the desired rate at which the active
material, e.g., soap, to be released to the surface of the article,
the ease of rinsability desired, the desired end use of the
article, the size of bubbles desired, and the volume of foam
desired, the shape of the aperture, as it appears on the "smooth"
side of the film, is typically in the general form of circles,
honeycombs, hearts, pears, squares, hexagons, triangles, pentagons,
stellates, rectangles or combinations thereof, with the general
circular shapes and hexagonal shapes being most preferred.
[0031] Although the post-textured basis weight of the film may vary
depending upon, for example, the desired end use of the article and
the desired aesthetic appearance and feel of the article, generally
the apertured film has a basis weight thickness of about 10
g/m.sup.2 to about 80 g/m.sup.2, and preferably from about 20
g/m.sup.2 to about 50 g/m.sup.2.
[0032] Apertured films suitable for use in the articles of the
present invention have an open area of no more than about 45%, and
preferably greater than about 15% and no more than about 35%, based
upon the total area (both film and void space) of the apertured
film. As used herein, "open area" is a measure of the void space or
area fraction measured as the sum of the exit opening areas of the
protuberances on the rough side of the apertured film divided by
the total area examined.
[0033] In one embodiment, the extured films suitable for use in the
articles of the present invention may preferably possess general
mechanical properties as shown below in Table A:
1TABLE A Mechanical Properties - Perforated Films Force to Force to
strength to 20% strength to 50% Tensile elongation* elongation*
Strength* Type of N/m N/m Direction of N/m Material (lb.sub.f/in)
(lb.sub.f/in) Stretch (lb.sub.f/in) Elasticity # Perforated 25-263
88-250 Machine >263 About 60% - Film suitable (0.2 to 1.5) (0.5
to 2.0) (>1.5) less than for use in and and about 100%, present
preferably 35 preferably 88 and invention -175 -263 preferably (0.2
to 1.0) (0.5 to 1.5) from about 80% to less than about 100% * using
ASTM D-882 # measured by the percent recovery time from a 50%
elongation using an Instron testing device
[0034] The orientation of the apertured films will also depend upon
the intended final use of the article. For example, when the
article is intended to provide exfoliating properties, the
apertured film may be oriented such that the rough side, i.e. the
side containing the cone protuberances, faces outward and thus
contacts the skin. Alternatively, where a smooth feel to the skin
is desired, the smooth side of the apertured film may face outward
and thus contact the skin. The article may also be designed such
that the first exterior layer contains the apertured film with the
rough side facing outward, while the second exterior layer contains
the apertured film with the smooth side facing outward. In
addition, the article can be made from more than one type of
apertured film, i.e. different aperture shapes and/or sizes, in
order to provide different "skin feel" or functions on either
exterior side of the article.
[0035] Optionally, at least one of the exterior layers 1, 2 may
contain an effective amount of additive agents such as
anti-bacterial agents, colorants, fragrances, and mixtures thereof.
The additive agents may be applied to the film via a variety of
known methods such as, for example, via spray coating, or may be
incorporated into the film during its production. While the amount
of additive agent on or in the exterior layer will depend upon, for
example, the desired end use of the article, the type of additive
agent selected, the shelf-life of the additive agent, typically the
film will contain from about 0.01 mg/cm.sup.2 to about 10
mg/cm.sup.2 and preferably from about 0.1 mg/cm.sup.2 to about 1.0
mg/cm.sup.2 of additive agent.
[0036] Examples of a suitable anti-bacterial agent includes those
triclosan containing agents available from Microban Products
Company under the tradename, "Microban.TM.."
[0037] The article 10 of the present invention is further comprised
of a cell layer 3 that contains at least one cell 4, and preferably
a plurality of cells disposed between the first exterior layer 1
and the second exterior layer 2. Each cell 4 is comprised of an
upper cell film 11 and a lower cell film 12.
[0038] The cells may be made from any cell film that includes but
is not limited to water insoluble film, oil-insoluble film, or
combinations thereof, which are capable of being sealed while
containing an active material enclosed therein. Although the cell
film may possess small perforations, e.g. from about 0.2 mm to
about 1.2 mm in width, it is preferred that the cell film does not
possess perforations having a width greater than about 0.2 mm.
[0039] Suitable water insoluble films may be comprised of materials
nonexclusively including polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidine
chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl chloride copolymers,
ethylene vinyl alcohol, and blends and copolymers thereof.
Preferably, the water insoluble film also possesses a low moisture
vapor permeability, i.e. from about 10 g/m.sup.2/24 hr/day to about
500 g/m.sup.2/24 hr/day, and preferably from about 50 g/m.sup.2/24
hr/day to about 100 g/m.sup.2/24 hr/day.
[0040] Although a variety of cell films may be used to produce the
cells, it is desirable to use a cell film that possesses a
sufficient strength to contain the active material therein during
storage, but flexible enough for a consumer to puncture or "pop"
through the cell film to enable usage of the product contained
therein.
[0041] Each cell may contain an upper cell film 11 that is the same
or different from the bottom cell film 12 with respect to
thickness, composition, etc. The thickness of the cell film may
range from about 0.5 mil to about 3 mil, and preferably about 1 mil
to about 2 mil. For uses of the article 10 by persons such as
children, the elderly, and those of limited strength, the use of
thinner cell films, i.e. less than about 2.0 mil, may be utilized.
In a preferred embodiment, the cell film is comprised of a
polyvinylidene and polyvinyl chloride film available from S. C.
Johnson & Son, Inc. under the tradename, "Saran Wrap."
[0042] In an alternative embodiment, the cell film may be comprised
of a material that precludes the active material contained within
the cell from escaping unless the article is dipped in a liquid
that dissolves or disperses out the active material. Examples of
such materials include water soluble materials such as water
soluble films comprised of polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose derivatives
such as methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose,
carboxymethylcellulose, gelatin, and those disclosed in Davidson,
Robert L., et al., "Water Soluble Resins," Ch. 2-9 (1968), and
blends and copolymers thereof. The thickness of the water insoluble
film may range from 0.1 mil to about 5.0 mil, and preferably from
about 0.5 mil to about 2.0 mil. The active material may be
dispensed from the cell having cell film walls comprised of water
soluble materials by wetting the device with a sufficient amount of
water needed to solubilize the walls.
[0043] Depending upon the final use of the article, the clarity of
the film used in the cells may become an important parameter for
this film, and the addition of color to such film may also be
useful to differentiate certain closed cells as well as the
cleaning/treating solutions within the cells.
[0044] The cell layer 3 may be comprised of at least one cell, a
row of cells or a multiple matrices of cells. Although the amount
of cells and the shapes thereof will depend upon, for example, the
desired appearance of the article 10 and the active material
contained therein, the cell layer 3 preferably contains a plurality
of cells.
[0045] In one embodiment, a row of multiple cells may be utilized
in the article, and the cells optionally be labelled with, for
example, the different days of the week; an "AM and PM;" or a sun
or moon in order to specify when to apply the active material
and/or the name of the active material therein.
[0046] Using offset spacing, single bursting cells could be used in
series for treatments, e.g. a cell containing shampoo, adjacent to
a cell containing conditioner, which is adjacent to a cell
containing hair styling gel. In an alternative embodiment, a given
cell may be placed directly over another cell for the safe storage
of different, incompatible active materials that may be activated
in one step for simultaneous use at treatment time. In this way,
the article can be used for regiment therapies and multiple
cleaning or treating solutions.
[0047] Although the thickness of the cell layer 3 will depend upon
the type and amount of active material used, it typically may range
from about 0.2 cm to about 2 cm.
[0048] At least one cell in the cell layer 3 contains an active
material, which may be in the form of a liquid, a solid, a
semi-solid, a sol, or a gel. The term "active material," as used
herein is not intended merely to include detergent-active materials
but also to include any substance capable of delivery via an
article according to the present invention to give a benefit.
[0049] Examples of suitable active materials include known
cleansers; i.e. surfactants and soaps; conditioners; moisturizers;
bubble bath compositions; shaving foams; skin treatment agents such
as sunscreens; tanning agents; anti-acne agents; anti-aging, i.e.
wrinkles, fine lines, and other manifestations of photodamage,
agents; anti-irritant agents; perfumes/fragrances and the like.
[0050] Examples of suitable cleansers and conditioners include
those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.: 5,804,539. Cleansers having low
irritation properties such as shampoos available from Johnson &
Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc., under the tradename, "Johnson's
Baby Shampoo," and washes available from Johnson & Johnson
Consumer Companies, Inc., under the tradename, "Johnson's Baby
Bath," are preferred.
[0051] Examples of suitable sunscreens include agents
nonexclusively include butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, octyl
methoxycinnamate, oxybenzone, octocrylene, octyl salicylate,
phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid, ethyl hydroxypropyl
aminobenzoate, menthyl anthranilate, aminobenzoic acid, cinoxate,
diethanolamine methoxycinnamate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, titanium
dioxide, zinc oxide, oxybenzone, padimate o, red petrolatum, and
mixtures thereof.
[0052] Examples of suitable tanning agents include
dihydroxyacetone.
[0053] Examples of suitable anti-acne agents include, but are not
limited to topical retinoids (tretinoin, isotretinoin, motretinide,
adapalene, tazarotene, azelaic acid, retinol); salicylic acid;
benzoyl peroxide; resorcinol; antibiotics such as tetracycline and
isomers thereof, erythromycin, and the anti-inflammatory agents
such as ibuprofen, naproxen, hetprofen; botanical extracts such as
alnus, arnica, artemisia capillaris, asiasarum root, birth,
calendula, chamomile, cnidium, comfrey, fennel, galla rhois,
hawthrom, houttuynia, hypericum, jujube, kiwi, licorice, magnolia,
olive, peppermint, philodendron, salvia, sasa albo-marginata;
imidazoles such as ketoconazole and elubiol, and those described in
Gollnick, H et al. 196(I) Dermatology Sebaceous Glands, Acne and
Related Disorders, 119-157 (1998), which is incorporated by
reference herein, and mixtures thereof.
[0054] Preferred anti-acne agents include benzoyl peroxide,
retinol, elubiol, antibiotics, and salicylic acid, with retinol and
tretinoin being most preferred.
[0055] Examples of suitable anti-aging, i.e. wrinkles, fine lines,
and other manifestations of photodamage, comprising topically
applying the above-described delivery system composition, the
relevant benefit agent, and the optional detergent to the skin of
an animal or human at a desired area, wherein the benefit agent is
comprised of an effective amount of an anti-acne agent or an
anti-aging agent, respectively.
[0056] Examples of suitable anti-aging agents include, but are not
limited to inorganic sunscreens such as titanium dioxide and zinc
oxide; organic sunscreens such as octyl-methyl cinnamates and
derivatives thereof; retinoids; vitamins such as vitamin E, vitamin
A, vitamin C, vitamin B, and derivatives thereof such as vitamin E
acetate, vitamin C palmitate, and the like; antioxidants including
beta carotene, alpha hydroxy acid such as glycolic acid, citric
acid, lactic acid, malic acid, mandelic acid, ascorbic acid,
alpha-hydroxybutyric acid, alpha-hydroxyisobutyric acid,
alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid, atrrolactic acid,
alpha-hydroxyisovaleric acid, ethyl pyruvate, galacturonic acid,
glucopehtonic acid, glucopheptono 1,4-lactone, gluconic acid,
gluconolactone, glucuronic acid, glucurronolactone, glycolic acid,
isopropyl pyruvate, methyl pyruvate, mucic acid, pyruvia acid,
saccharic acid, saccaric acid 1,4-lactone, tartaric acid, and
tartronic acid; beta hydroxy acids such as beta-hydroxybutyric
acid, beta-phenyl-lactic acid, beta-phenylpyruvic acid; botanical
extracts such as green tea, soy, milk thistle, algae, aloe,
angelica, bitter orange, coffee, goldthread, grapefruit, hoellen,
honeysuckle, Job's tears, lithospermum, mulberry, peony, puerarua,
nice, safflower, and mixtures thereof.
[0057] Preferred anti-aging agents include retinoids,
anti-oxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acid with
retinol and tretinoin being most preferred.
[0058] Examples of suitable anti-irritant agents include colloidal
oatmeal, oat extract, agents known for reducing the symptoms of
diaper rash such as dimethicone, zinc oxide and combinations
thereof and the like.
[0059] Water or other suitable solvents may be contained in cells
to enable use of an article without a sink or other source of
water.
[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the article contains a plurality
of cells having upper and lower cell films 11, 12 comprised of
polyvinylidene and polyvinyl chloride and about 1 mL of a cleansing
wash available from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.
under the tradename, "Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash," in each cell.
The cells are arranged in about a 5.times.7 matrix measuring about
7.5 cm wide by about 9 cm long by about 0.35 cm thick.
[0061] Different active materials can be included in the same or
separate cells within a given article depending upon the type and
amount of active material and the desired final use of the article.
Suitable amounts of cleaning or treating solutions will vary
depending upon the active material utilized, but generally may
range from 0.1 mL to 50 mL, and preferably from 1 mL to 10 mL.
[0062] Each cell may be prepared individually by securing the
periphery of the cell together via means known in the art, e.g.,
heat sealing, after the cell is loaded with the desired amount of
active material. Alternatively, one sheet of cell film may be
folded upon itself or two independent cell films may be disposed on
top of another, then each cell may be formed by heat sealing the
cell film combination in accordance with the desired cell shape. In
one preferred embodiment, a multiplicity of cells may be supplied
in a sheet having separate columns of cells. Each column may then
be filled with the desired active material. See also U.S. Pat. No.
4,515,703.
[0063] Optionally, the article 10 may further comprise a core layer
20 disposed between the upper exterior layer 1 and the lower
exterior layer 2. The core layer may be comprised of any material
capable of providing the article 10 with softness, greater overall
structural thickness, and/or improved lather and is preferably
hydrophobic. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not
limited to non-wovens; wovens; sponges; open-celled foam of a
natural or synthetic source; extruded plastic scrim such as loofah,
or netting; apertured films, embossed films, and combinations
thereof. Particular examples of such materials include those set
forth above with respect to the exterior layers. A preferred
embodiment utilizes a core layer comprised of a diamond mesh used
in body poufs available from San Francisco Soap Company, which has
been cut into strips about 10 cm wide by 15 cm long, and/or an
apertured film available from Tredegar Film Products, Inc. under
the tradename, "Vispore.TM. 16013," which has been cut into strips
about 1.25 cm wide by 8 cm long; however, the size of these strips
is not critical.
[0064] Although the thickness of the core layer 20 may depend upon
the type of core layer selected, and the desired end use of the
article, typically the core layer has a thickness of from about 0
cm to about 5 cm, and preferably from about 1 cm to about 3 cm.
[0065] Although the shape and size, i.e. length, width, and
thickness, of the overall article 10 will depend upon the desired
use of the article and the components selected for use in the
article, typically the article has a length of from about 4 cm to
about 20 cm, and preferably from about 5 cm to about 15 cm, a width
of from about 3 cm to about 15 cm, and preferably from about 4 cm
to about 10 cm, and a depth of from about 1 cm to about 8 cm, and
preferably from about 3 cm to about 6 cm. The overall shape of the
article is not critical as shown in FIGS. 2A and B, which
illustrate a triangular article, and FIGS. 3A and B, which
illustrate a rectangular article.
[0066] Optionally, other materials can be disposed within the
article 10 to impart additional sensory experiences, for example
"popping" sounds. In one embodiment, polymeric film cells filled
with a gas, e.g. commercially available "bubble-wrap" material, may
be placed inside the article in locations that correspond to the
filled cells. In this embodiment, the user experiences a sound from
the breaking of both the cell film containing the active material,
as well as the cell of the corresponding "bubble-wrap."
[0067] The overall article 10 may be formed by any means for
attaching the upper exterior layer 1 to the lower exterior layer 2,
either directly or indirectly, with the cell layer 3 therebetween.
More specifically, the article of the present invention may be made
by removably attaching, or preferably substantially permanently
attaching, the first and second exterior layers 1, 2 by any
attaching means known in the art. As used herein, "substantially
permanently" means a period of time at least as long as the article
is suitable for scrubbing or scouring uses. Alternatively, the
first exterior layer 1 may be removably or substantially
permanently attached to the cell layer 3, which is then removably
or substantially permanently attached to the second exterior layer
2.
[0068] Examples of suitable attaching methods include snaps, heat
sealing with a sealer capable of reaching a temperature greater
than the melting temperature of the film; ultrasonic sealing;
pressure sealing; tying with a ribbon, cord, strip, string, band,
and the like; applying hooks and loops such as that registered as
"VELCRO", hot or cold adhesive, elastic, tape such as double-sided
adhesive tape, heat shrinkable film, or other known fastening
article thereto; and the like, and combinations thereof. See U.S.
Pat. No. 4,515,703. Preferably the attaching means is comprised of
heat sealing the periphery of the article.
[0069] In one embodiment, the upper exterior layer 1 may be
partially attached to the lower exterior layer 2 to form a pocket,
the cell layer 3 is inserted into the pocket, and then the upper
and lower exterior layers are attaching along the open end of the
pocket. Alternatively, the cell layer 3 may be disposed between
such exterior layers 1, 2 prior to performing the attachment. In
embodiments wherein it is desirable to insert new cell layers when
the existing cell layers have been expended, it is preferable to
use a removably attachable attaching method along at least one side
of the article.
[0070] The cell layer 3 may contain cells that are pre-filled, or
the cells may be filled while disposed between the exterior layers.
The core layer 20 may be inserted between the exterior layers 1, 2
either before or after the addition of the cell layer 3
thereto.
[0071] Optionally, the article 10 may further comprise a holding
means 14 to enable the user to hold the article during use. In
addition, this holding means 30 may also be used to hang the
article for storage and drying after use. Examples of suitable
holding articles nonexclusively include those disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No.: 5,727,278, as well as straps, handles, knobs, hooks, with
looped straps being preferred. In an alternative embodiment, the
holding means may be a character figure, such as a character's
head. Suitable materials for the holding articles nonexclusively
include hooks and loops such as that registered as "VELCRO",
magnets, plastics, rubbers, and synthetic elastics, and
combinations thereof. The location of the holding means is not
critical.
[0072] In embodiments using a looped strap as the holding means,
the strap is typically comprised of interwoven strands of flexible
material and preferably has a substantially narrow and flat
configuration. The holding means may be secured to the article 10
at any location via any known securing methods such as those
described above, with looping and tying being preferred.
Preferably, the outer end of the strap 14 substantially extends
beyond the exterior of the body 12. The strap 14 can be of any
desired length but is preferably of a length suitable for forming a
loop 16, which is large enough to permit a variety of hand sizes to
fit therethrough. The material forming the strap can be either
substantially inelastic or elastic. In a preferred embodiment,
approximately 20 cm length of nylon filament is looped through a
punched hole in the corner of article 10.
[0073] The following examples are intended to illustrate the
article of the invention and its use. The examples should not be
interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
[0074] Preparation of the Filled Cells
[0075] A piece of 30 cm.times.30 cm water insoluble film available
from S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. under the tradename, "Saran
Wrap" was folded in half. A model AIE300 Impulse heat sealer
available from American International Electric, Inc. was used to
seal one edge, utilizing a setting of 4 and a time length of 2
seconds. The film was moved to the right by 2 cm and sealed in a
like manner to yield parallel seals which formed a tube or column.
This heat sealing technique was used to form five columns, which
were then filled with a liquid cleanser commercially available from
Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc. under the tradename,
"Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash."
[0076] After drawing the liquid cleanser into a disposable plastic
pipet, the contained cleanser was then inserted into one of the
columns in an amount sufficient to fill about 3/4 of the column's
volume. After each column was appropriately filled with cleanser, a
drop of cosmetically acceptable dye was added to each column, with
each column having a different color.
[0077] The individual cells were then formed by using the above
heat sealing technique in the transverse direction in order to form
rectangular cells. This sealing technique was repeated until a
5.times.5 matrix of cells were formed. The excess film was cut away
with scissors.
Example 2
[0078] Preparation of the Article
[0079] A 10 cm.times.17.5 cm piece of Tredegar Vispor.TM. 6582
apertured film was folded over lengthwise and sealed along the
periphery of the sides adjacent to the folded side in accordance
with the procedure set forth in Example 1. The resulting film
possessed an open end opposite to the fold side. Excess film was
then cut away with scissors.
[0080] The 7.5 cm.times.7.5 cm bag so formed was then turned inside
out to hide the seams. The cell layer prepared in accordance with
Example 1 was then placed inside the bag. About twenty 1.25
cm.times.8 cm strips of Tredegar Vispor.TM. 6582 apertured film
were inserted between the cell layer and the exterior apertured
film layer. The open end was then heat sealed and the excess
material was trimmed off with scissors. A hole was then punched in
a corner of the resulting article and a 0.2 cm.times.25 cm strip of
nylon filament was threaded therethrough and tied.
Example 3
[0081] Use of the Article
[0082] The article prepared in accordance with Example 2 above was
used by 5 consumers who manually pressed on a section of the
exterior layer of the article that corresponded to a cell in order
to burst the cell and release the cleansing solution contained
therein.
[0083] The article was then placed in contact with water for about
5 seconds, then squeezed to generate foam for washing. After the
article was used on the consumer's body for about 10 minutes in a
typical washing regiment, all remaining foam on the article was
easily rinsed away therefrom. The article was then hung by the
nylon filament to dry. The article dried within several hours.
[0084] When the article was used again in a similar washing
regiment, the article produced a superior amount of foam, was
easily rinseable, and quickly dried.
[0085] This Example showed that the article of the present
invention provided a very useful and uncomplicated means of
dispensing cleaning or treating solutions in an aesthetically
pleasing manner. In addition, this Example showed that the article
is quick-drying and capable of producing a superior amount of foam
during use.
* * * * *