U.S. patent application number 12/638320 was filed with the patent office on 2010-04-15 for cosmetic applicator.
Invention is credited to Donald Frank Rainey, David Edward Wilson, Peter Jonathan Wyatt.
Application Number | 20100089414 12/638320 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37076017 |
Filed Date | 2010-04-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100089414 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wyatt; Peter Jonathan ; et
al. |
April 15, 2010 |
COSMETIC APPLICATOR
Abstract
An apparatus for applying a cosmetic, such as mascara to
eyelashes, comprises a handle, a stem defining a longitudinal stem
axis and having a first end coupled to the handle and a second end,
an applicator head coupled to the stem second end and supported for
movement relative to the handle, an actuator operatively coupled to
the applicator head for moving the applicator head, and a container
comprising a cosmetic composition. The container may be keyed to
the applicator such that the actuator powers the applicator only
when that particular container is used. The applicator head and/or
stem may be removable from the handle and wherein at least one of
the applicator head, stem, and handle may comprise a locking
mechanism. The applicator may comprise a rigid sleeve extending
around at least a portion of the stem.
Inventors: |
Wyatt; Peter Jonathan;
(Forest Hill, MD) ; Wilson; David Edward;
(Reisterstown, MD) ; Rainey; Donald Frank; (Owings
Mills, MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY;Global Legal Department - IP
Sycamore Building - 4th Floor, 299 East Sixth Street
CINCINNATI
OH
45202
US
|
Family ID: |
37076017 |
Appl. No.: |
12/638320 |
Filed: |
December 15, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11143525 |
Jun 2, 2005 |
7654271 |
|
|
12638320 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
132/217 ;
132/218 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 2200/1053 20130101;
A61H 7/005 20130101; A45D 40/265 20130101; A61H 2201/105 20130101;
A46B 2200/106 20130101; A45D 2200/207 20130101; A61C 17/222
20130101; A46B 13/00 20130101; A46B 9/021 20130101; A61C 17/3418
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/217 ;
132/218 |
International
Class: |
A45D 2/48 20060101
A45D002/48; A45D 40/26 20060101 A45D040/26 |
Claims
1. A cosmetic applicator comprising: a handle; a stem defining a
longitudinal stem axis and having a first end coupled to the handle
and a second end; an applicator head coupled to the stem second end
and supported for movement relative to the handle; an actuator
operatively coupled to the applicator head for moving the
applicator head; and a container comprising a cosmetic composition;
wherein the container is keyed to the applicator such that the
actuator powers the applicator only when that particular container
is used.
2. The applicator of claim 1, further comprising a thermal source
to apply heat to the applicator head, thereby to promote curl and
lift of the lashes.
3. The applicator of claim 1, further comprising a sound circuit to
generate a noise during operation to provide an auditory indication
to the user that the applicator is operating.
4. The applicator of claim 1, further comprising a vibration source
to provide a tactile indication to the user that the applicator is
operating.
5. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the applicator head comprises
a surface and a plurality of protrusions extending from the
surface, wherein the surface is a first color and wherein at least
a portion of the plurality of protrusions is a second color.
6. A cosmetic applicator comprising: a handle; a stem defining a
longitudinal stem axis and having a first end coupled to the handle
and a second end; an applicator head coupled to the stem second end
and supported for movement relative to the handle; an actuator
operatively coupled to the applicator head for moving the
applicator head; and a container comprising a cosmetic composition;
wherein the applicator head and/or stem is removable from the
handle and wherein at least one of the applicator head, stem, and
handle comprise a locking mechanism.
7. The applicator of claim 6, further comprising a thermal source
to apply heat to the applicator head, thereby to promote curl and
lift of the lashes.
8. The applicator of claim 6, further comprising a sound circuit to
generate a noise during operation to provide an auditory indication
to the user that the applicator is operating.
9. The applicator of claim 6, further comprising a vibration source
to provide a tactile indication to the user that the applicator is
operating.
10. The applicator of claim 6, wherein the applicator head
comprises a surface and a plurality of protrusions extending from
the surface, wherein the surface is a first color and wherein at
least a portion of the plurality of protrusions is a second
color.
11. A cosmetic applicator comprising: a handle; a stem defining a
longitudinal stem axis and having a first end coupled to the handle
and a second end; a rigid sleeve extending around at least a
portion of the stem; an applicator head coupled to the stem second
end and supported for movement relative to the handle; an actuator
operatively coupled to the applicator head for moving the
applicator head; and a container comprising a cosmetic
composition.
12. The applicator of claim 11, further comprising a thermal source
to apply heat to the applicator head, thereby to promote curl and
lift of the lashes.
13. The applicator of claim 11, further comprising a sound circuit
to generate a noise during operation to provide an auditory
indication to the user that the applicator is operating.
14. The applicator of claim 11, further comprising a vibration
source to provide a tactile indication to the user that the
applicator is operating.
15. The applicator of claim 11, wherein the applicator head
comprises a surface and a plurality of protrusions extending from
the surface, wherein the surface is a first color and wherein at
least a portion of the plurality of protrusions is a second color.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
11/143,525, filed Jun. 2, 2005.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to cosmetic
applicators and, more particularly, to applicators for applying
cosmetic material to keratinous fibers, such as eyelashes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Various types of cosmetic applicators are known in the art.
Brushes for applying mascara to eyelashes, for example, generally
include a stem having a first end attached to a handle. An
applicator head, such as brush bristles, are coupled to a second
end of the stem. In use, the brush head loaded with mascara is
applied to the eyelashes.
[0004] Mascaras come in a variety of forms including cakes or
blocks, creams, gels, semi-solids, and low viscosity liquids. Cake
mascaras were originally the most popular form consisting of at
least 50% soap with the pigment mixed in with the soap cakes. With
a wet brush, the mascara could be lathered and then applied to the
lashes resulting in a satisfactory smooth application, but with a
thin cosmetic coating on the individual lashes. The primary
drawback was that the film on the lashes was very water soluble and
prone to smudging and running on the skin around the perimeter of
the eye. As a resolution, waxes were incorporated into mascara
compositions thereby improving their water-resistant properties.
Unfortunately, the smoothness of the application was adversely
affected. That is, as the viscosity of the mascara formulation
increased, it became increasingly harder to apply, messier, and
yielded less separation of the lashes.
[0005] With the advent of mascara applicators a means for expanding
formulation options for mascaras came into existence. Creams, for
example, combined with a twisted metal wire brush or wand
application provided a convenient use and composition that enabled
the incorporation of film formers to improve the rubbing resistance
and flexibility of mascara films. This also allowed a convenient
implement to separate and build the lashes. Today, there are
several types of mascara formulations including anhydrous,
water-in-oil emulsions, oil-in-water emulsions, and water-based
mascaras that contain little or no oil phase. The emulsions,
previously mentioned, may also be multiple emulsions for example,
but not limited to water-in-oil-in-water emulsion. Many mascaras
are water-based emulsions and contain emulsified waxes and polymers
usually with pigments dispersed into the water phase. The water
provides curling and application properties, while the waxes and
polymers create the transfer resistant end mascara film on the lash
that is colored by the pigments. Anhydrous and water-in-oil
mascaras are generally referred to as waterproof mascaras, as they
have superior transfer resistance, especially to water. Their high
content of hydrophobic materials creates a film which contains very
little materials that allow water to break up the film and make it
wear away. In the case of the water-in-oil mascaras, the internal
droplets of water can deliver water-soluble/dispersible materials
that would otherwise not be able to be incorporated into an oily
phase. The water-based mascaras are typically gelled water with a
polymer to create deposition and hold of the lashes. These mascaras
usually do not have colorants, although colorants can be added
in.
[0006] Consumers expect particular properties from their mascara
products such as adhesion to the lashes, lengthening/curling of the
lashes, lack of smudging or flaking, thick lashes, and good
separation of clumps of lashes. Particularly, the desire is for
long, luscious, full, soft, and separated lashes. Mascaras
generally distribute a smooth and relatively thin (coating
thickness) film over the eyelashes producing a satisfactory array
of reasonably separated lashes that are darker and thicker than
bare lashes, making the eyes more noticeably beautiful. It is well
understood that some lash clumping will naturally occur since
lashes are arranged in both rows and columns above and below one's
eye. Therefore, "separated" lashes are not necessarily envisioning
every lash as a single entity. Mascara that is deemed by a user to
separate well will leave more clumps of lashes than mascara that is
deemed not to separate lashes well. Typically, the deposition of
mascara has a coating that is 5-15 microns thick. Many "volumizing"
mascaras, however, are messy and clumpy and tend to clump too many
lashes together in a thick, less separated look which gives the
look of fewer lashes.
[0007] Conventional mascara brushes typically require manipulation
of the handle or other member, and often require repeated passes of
the brush across the eyelash, to completely and uniformly coat each
eyelash with mascara while maintaining or promoting separation of
the eyelashes from one another. To coat the entire eyelash, for
example, a user may move the brush in a vertical direction to
ensure that the entire eyelash is covered. In addition, a user may
rotate the brush to place different portions of the brush head in
contact with the eyelash, depending on the desired amount of
mascara to be applied to the eyelashes. Still further, a user may
also reciprocate the brush in a horizontal direction to promote
separation of the eyelashes and/or to ensure better coverage of the
eyelashes. Consequently, a user must provide the motive force for
applying the brush to the eyelashes and must have sufficient
dexterity to manipulate the brush as needed to cover the eyelashes
in a satisfactory manner. In addition, mascara application with
conventional brushes requires several brush passes and therefore is
inefficient.
[0008] More recently, rotating mascara brushes have been proposed
in which a stem of the brush is supported for rotational movement
with respect to the handle. The force for rotating the stem and
attached brush head may be either manual, such as for the brushes
described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,145,514 to Clay and 5,937,871 to
Clay, or may be electrically driven, such as the brush described in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,565,276 to Diaz. While these rotating stem brushes
eliminate the need for a user to roll the handle during application
of mascara, they do not optimally coat and separate the eyelashes.
Furthermore, these brushes are limited to simple, uni-directional
rotation of the brush head, and therefore are not capable of
performing certain, potentially more complex, application
techniques.
[0009] In addition, various types of applicators have been designed
which are adapted to impart different types of eyelash effects. For
example, a first brush design may promote separation of eyelashes
while a second brush design promotes volume or coverage of the
eyelashes. Consequently, a user must use two separate brushes or,
if a single brush head is provided with both types of brush
designs, the user must reposition the handle to use both sides.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present disclosure relates to apparatus for applying a
cosmetic. For example, the apparatus may include a handle, a stem
defining a longitudinal stem axis and having a first end coupled to
the handle and a second end, and an applicator head coupled to the
stem second end and supported for movement relative to the handle
in a direction substantially parallel to the stem axis. An actuator
may be operatively coupled to the applicator head for moving the
applicator head in an axial motion comprising a forward stroke and
a reverse stroke.
[0011] Another embodiment relates to an apparatus for applying a
cosmetic having a handle, a stem defining a longitudinal stem axis
and having a first end coupled to the handle and a second end, and
an applicator head coupled to the stem second end and supported for
movement relative to the handle in a direction substantially
parallel to the stem axis. An actuator may be operatively coupled
to the applicator head for moving the applicator head in a
composite motion including an axial component substantially
parallel to the stem axis and having a forward stroke and a reverse
stroke, and a rotational oscillating component.
[0012] A further embodiment relates to an apparatus for applying a
cosmetic including a handle, a stem defining a longitudinal stem
axis and having a first end coupled to the handle and a second end,
and an applicator head coupled to the stem second end and supported
for movement relative to the handle in a direction substantially
parallel to the stem axis. A motor is provided having a rotating
motor shaft and a transmission coupling is disposed between the
motor shaft and the applicator head for automatically converting
rotation of the motor shaft in one direction into axial movement of
the applicator head, the axial movement having a forward stroke and
a reverse stroke.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a partially schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of one embodiment of a cosmetic applicator;
[0014] FIGS. 2-6 are partially schematic side elevation views of
alternative protrusion arrangements for use with the cosmetic
applicator of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIGS. 7-28 show various examples of protrusion
cross-sectional shapes;
[0016] FIGS. 29 and 30 are perspective views of applicator heads
having alternative protrusions;
[0017] FIGS. 31A-C illustrate an applicator head having a
combination of flexible and stiff protrusions;
[0018] FIGS. 32-42 are diagrammatic cross-sections showing possible
cross-sectional shapes for the stem;
[0019] FIG. 43 shows how the center of the stem may be
off-center;
[0020] FIGS. 44-56 are plan views of applicator heads having
various distributions of protrusions about a circumference;
[0021] FIGS. 57-63 are plan views of each quadrant of various
applicator heads showing distributions of protrusions along an
axial length of the applicator head;
[0022] FIGS. 64 and 65 are graphs illustrating a varying rotational
speed of the stem;
[0023] FIG. 66 is a graph illustrating a constant rotational speed
of the stem;
[0024] FIGS. 67 and 68 are graphs illustrating a reversible
rotational speed of the stem;
[0025] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of an applicator having an
offset stem;
[0026] FIG. 70 is a perspective view of an applicator having a stem
with a non-uniform cross-sectional shape;
[0027] FIG. 71 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator having an electric motor;
[0028] FIG. 72 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator having an electric motor and
controller;
[0029] FIG. 73 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for
converting a uni-directional motor rotation into a rotating
oscillation movement of an applicator head;
[0030] FIGS. 74A-D are partial schematic side elevation views of
the transmission coupling of FIG. 73 in various stages of
operation;
[0031] FIGS. 75A-C are schematic side elevation views, in
cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for
converting an axial actuator motion into a rotating oscillation
movement of an applicator head;
[0032] FIGS. 76A-D are schematic side elevation views of an
applicator having a transmission coupling for converting a
uni-directional motor rotation into a rotating oscillation movement
of an applicator head;
[0033] FIG. 77 is a perspective view of an applicator having an
applicator head with an axial movement;
[0034] FIGS. 78A and 78B are schematic side elevation views, in
cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for
converting an axial actuator motion into a composite motion of an
applicator head having a rotational oscillation component and an
axial movement component;
[0035] FIGS. 79A-C are schematic side elevation views of an
applicator having a transmission coupling for converting
electromagnetic potential into axial movement of an applicator
head;
[0036] FIGS. 80A-D are schematic side elevation views, in
cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for
converting a uni-directional motor rotation into an axial movement
of an applicator head;
[0037] FIGS. 81A-C are schematic side elevation views, in
cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for
converting a uni-directional motor rotation into a composite motion
of an applicator head having a rotational oscillation component and
an axial movement component;
[0038] FIGS. 82A and 82B are side elevation views of flexible
protrusions on an axially moving applicator head;
[0039] FIGS. 83A-C are side elevation views of a combination of
flexible and stiff protrusions on an axially moving applicator
head;
[0040] FIGS. 84 and 85 are perspective views of a protrusions
formed to promote flow of cosmetic material from a base to a
tip;
[0041] FIG. 86 is a perspective view of an applicator having a
switch for reversing rotation of the applicator head;
[0042] FIG. 87 is a perspective view of an applicator having first
and second stems for carrying first and second applicator heads,
respectively;
[0043] FIG. 88 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator capable of vibrating an applicator
head;
[0044] FIG. 89 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator capable of moving an applicator
head in a composite motion including a vibrational component and a
rotational component;
[0045] FIG. 90 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator capable of moving an applicator
head in a composite motion including a vibrational component, a
radially translating component, and/or a rotational component;
[0046] FIG. 91 is a schematic perspective view of an applicator
having a shield for selectively covering a switch;
[0047] FIG. 92 is a schematic side elevation view of an applicator
having two switches positioned in convenient locations for either
left or right eye application;
[0048] FIG. 93 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator capable of moving an applicator
head with a vibrational motion and of generating a tactile
vibration in the handle;
[0049] FIGS. 94A and B are schematic views, in cross-section, of an
applicator capable of moving an applicator head with a vibrational
motion and of generating a tactile vibration in the handle;
[0050] FIG. 95 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator having a flexible shaft;
[0051] FIG. 96 is a schematic side elevation view, in
cross-section, of an applicator having both stationary and moving
protrusions; and
[0052] FIGS. 97A-C are plan views, in cross-section, of various
embodiments of the applicator of FIG. 96.
[0053] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter that is
regarded as the present invention, it is believed that the
invention will be more fully understood from the following
description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
None of the drawings are necessarily to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0054] A cosmetic applicator having an applicator head adapted for
use on a rotating stem is disclosed herein. The applicator head
includes protrusions that are spaced sufficiently to allow
keratinous fibers such as eyelashes to penetrate therebetween. In
accordance with other embodiments, a cosmetic applicator capable of
complex movements such as variable speed rotation, oscillating
rotation, oscillating movement along a stem axis, and vibrational
movement of the applicator head are disclosed herein for improving
coverage and separation of the keratinous fibers. The applicator is
particularly suited for applying mascara (which may be any one of
the materials noted above, or combinations thereof) to
eyelashes.
[0055] As illustrated in partial schematic form in FIG. 1, an
applicator 10 includes a handle 12 defining a housing 14. A stem 16
is supported for rotation with respect to the handle 12 by
conventional means. A motor 18 includes a motor shaft 19 coupled to
a first end of the stem 16. A second end of the stem 16 defines an
applicator head 20. A battery 22 is operatively coupled to the
motor 18 and a switch 24 may be manually actuated to selectively
deliver battery power to the motor 18. The applicator 10 may
further include a controller 26 coupled between the battery 22 and
the motor 18 for controlling operation of the motor 18.
[0056] In operation, a user may actuate the switch 24 to
selectively deliver potential energy from the battery 22 to the
motor 18. In response, the motor may rotate the motor shaft and
stem 16 attached thereto. As a result, the applicator head also
rotates. While the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a
battery for providing potential energy to the motor 18, it will be
appreciated that other types of energy sources may be used such as
mechanical potential energy stored in a resilient member such as a
spring or rubber band.
[0057] The applicator head 20 includes one or more elements
projecting from the stem for separating and applying cosmetic to
keratinous fibers, such as eyelashes. While the applicator element
may be provided as a conventional twisted wire brush, we have found
it preferable to use molded protrusions. As used herein, a
"protrusion" is a member that extends generally away from or into a
base surface of the applicator head. As such, a "protrusion"
provides a localized area that is not continuous with the
surrounding base surface. While protrusions typically extend
outwardly away from the base surface, they may also be inverted to
project inwardly to form a recess.
[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the molded protrusions are
formed as elongate fingers 30 having a base end coupled to the stem
16 and an opposite free end. In the illustrated embodiment, the
cross-sectional area of each finger 30 gradually narrows from the
base end to the free end, and each finger is oriented to extend
substantially perpendicular with respect to an axis 32 of the stem
16. It will be appreciated that the fingers may diverge from the
base so that the tip is larger, or the fingers may not taper at all
but instead have substantially consistent dimensions. Furthermore,
the fingers may extend at oblique angles with respect to the stem
axis 32.
[0059] The fingers 30 are spaced along the stem 16 and have a free
end sized such that each finger 30 may penetrate between adjacent
keratinous fibers. The spacing allows the fingers 30 to be inserted
between fibers even as the applicator head 20 is rotated, thereby
maximizing the fiber surface area engaged by each finger 30 and
promoting separation of adjacent fibers. The protrusions should be
spaced far enough to allow eyelashes to penetrate between adjacent
protrusions yet close enough to separate adjacent eyelashes.
Accordingly, the gap between adjacent protrusions may be
approximately 0.2 to 3.0 mm.
[0060] While each of the protrusions illustrated in FIG. 1 extends
from a localized area of the stem 16 circumference, other areas of
engagement between the stem and the protrusions may be used. As
illustrated in FIG. 2, for example, each protrusion 30 may be
substantially disc-shaped and have a base end with a substantially
annular shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the base end
preferably engages no more than one complete circumference of the
stem 16 surface to minimize snagging of the eyelashes as the
protrusions 30 rotate. Other disc shapes traversing more than one
complete circumference of the stem may also be used. For example,
an elongate stem having a rectangular cross-section may be twisted
so that the corners of the stem form localized extensions while the
faces of each side of the stem form recesses or gaps between
adjacent corners. Protrusions are attached to the surface of the
stem to define an irregular or non-uniform applicator head profile
generally matching the shape of the stem. The protrusions may have
a length that is 10% to 400% of the length of the stem
extensions.
[0061] While the disc-shaped protrusion 30 is illustrated in FIG. 2
as a single molded member, it will be appreciate that the
protrusion 30 may be formed of a plurality of members such as
bristles that are arranged in the disc-shaped pattern. The
protrusions 30 may extend substantially perpendicular to the stem
axis 32 to form straight rows of protrusions. Alternatively, all or
some of the protrusions 30 may be oriented at a same oblique angle
with respect to the stem axis 32 to form diagonal rows as
illustrated in FIG. 3, or may include a first set of protrusions 34
oriented at a first oblique angle and a second set of protrusions
36 oriented at a second oblique angle different from the first
angle to form reverse diagonal rows, as illustrated in FIG. 4. Each
protrusion 30 may include a first protrusion segment 38 extending
at a first oblique angle and a second protrusion segment 40
extending at a second oblique angle so that the first protrusion
segment intersects the second protrusion segment 40 to form
cross-diagonal rows, as illustrated in FIG. 5. In addition to the
first and second protrusion segments 38, 40, each protrusion 30 may
include a third protrusion segment 42 extending substantially
perpendicular to the stem axis 32 to form combination rows, as
illustrated in FIG. 6. In each of the forgoing embodiments, a
circumferential gap 44 is provided between adjacent protrusions 30
to allow insertion of the protrusions between adjacent keratinous
fibers. Each gap is preferably approximately 0.2 to 3.0 mm to
provide sufficient space for an eyelash to penetrate between
adjacent protrusions while providing at least some level of eyelash
separation.
[0062] The cross-sectional shape of the protrusions 30 may be
varied without departing from the scope of this disclosure. As
illustrated in FIG. 1, the protrusions are provided as fingers
having substantially circular cross-sectional shapes. The
protrusions may have various types of cross-sectional shapes in
additional to circular, such as any one of the shapes shown
diagrammatically in FIGS. 7 to 23, for example a circular shape
with a flat as shown in FIG. 7, a flat shape as shown in FIG. 8, a
star shape, e.g. in the form of a cross as shown in FIG. 9, or
having three branches as shown in FIG. 10, a U-shape as shown in
FIG. 11, an H-shape as shown in FIG. 12, a T-shape as shown in FIG.
13, a V-shape as shown in FIG. 14, a hollow shape, e.g. a circular
shape as shown in FIG. 15, or a polygonal shape in particular a
square shape as shown in FIG. 16, a shape that presents
ramifications, e.g. a snowflake shape as shown in FIG. 17, a
polygonal shape, e.g. a triangular shape as shown in FIG. 18, a
square shape as shown in FIG. 19, or a hexagonal shape as shown in
FIG. 20, an oblong shape, in particular a lens shape as shown in
FIG. 21, or an hourglass shape as shown in FIG. 22. It is also
possible to use protrusions having portions which are hinged
relative to one another as shown in FIG. 23.
[0063] The ends of the protrusions may be formed with various
shapes or include various structures. Where appropriate, the
protrusions may be subjected to treatment for forming respective
end balls 50 as shown in FIG. 24, end forks 51 as shown in FIG. 25,
or tapering tips as shown in FIG. 26. The protrusions may also be
flocked as shown in FIG. 27 or made by extruding a plastic material
containing a filler of particles 52 so as to impart micro-relief to
the surface of the bristles as shown in FIG. 28 or so as to confer
magnetic or other properties thereon.
[0064] The protrusions may have an exterior surface particularly
adapted to transfer cosmetic material from a base of the protrusion
to a free end. For example, each protrusion may include an exterior
coating having a low surface energy to more readily transfer
product to the lashes. The coating may be particularly suited for
use with cosmetic material, such as the mascara materials noted
above in the background.
[0065] In addition to the elongate profile illustrated in FIG. 1,
at least some of the protrusions may be somewhat shorter, such as
protruding discs 56, dimples, or ridges 58 extending from an
exterior surface of the stem 16, as illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30.
Still further, protrusions having a broad range of flexibility or
stiffness may be used.
[0066] The applicator head 20 may include a variety of protrusions
having different shapes or displaying different properties. For
example, the applicator head 20 may include a first set of
protrusions having a first cross-sectional shape and a second set
of protrusions having a second cross-sectional shape. Also, the
first set of protrusions 30a may have a first stiffness while the
second set of protrusions 30b has a second, different stiffness. By
using protrusions of varying stiffness, rotation of the applicator
head will cause the more flexible protrusions to deflect to a
greater degree than the stiffer protrusions, as illustrated in
FIGS. 31A-C.
[0067] The stem 16 may have a uniform, circular cross-section or a
non-circular shape such as the polygonal, e.g. triangular section
shown in FIG. 32. As further examples, the stem 16 may have a
square cross-sectional shape as shown in FIG. 33, a pentagonal
shape as shown in FIG. 34, a hexagonal shape as shown in FIG. 35,
or an oval shape as shown in FIG. 36. The stem 16 may have at least
one notch area 60, which may be outwardly concave as shown in FIGS.
37 and 38, wherein the notch presents a cross-section that is
constant or otherwise. The notch 60 may be made in a circular
cross-sectional shape as shown in FIG. 37, or a non-circular cross
sectional shape, e.g., triangular section, as shown in FIG. 38. In
the triangular case, the notch 60 may constitute an entire side of
the triangle as shown, in which case the applicator presents a
facet that is concave. The stem 16 shape may include a plane facet
61, as illustrated in FIG. 39. The profile may alternatively
include at least one indentation 62, such as the three indentations
shown in FIG. 40. A stem 16 shape having two indentations 62 is
shown in FIG. 41, while a stem shape with one indentation 62 is
shown in FIG. 42. The applicator head 20 may define a
cross-sectional profile that is constant or otherwise, and its core
may be rectilinear or otherwise. The stem 16 may be centered or
off-center relative to the outline of the cross-sectional profile,
as shown in FIG. 43.
[0068] The stem 16 may be circular and have protrusions of uniform
length to define a circular applicator head profile 64, as shown in
FIG. 44. The protrusions may be closely spaced as shown in FIG. 44,
intermediately spaced as shown in FIG. 49, or remotely spaced as
shown in FIG. 55. Additionally, each protrusion may have a
relatively longer length as shown in FIG. 44 or a relatively
shorter length as shown in FIG. 54.
[0069] Alternatively, the shape of the stem 16 and/or the length
and spacing of the protrusions may be varied to define a
non-circular applicator head profile. For example, the length of
the protrusions may alternate between short and long lengths around
the circumference of the stem 16 to define a cross-sectional
applicator head profile 66 having recesses, as shown in FIG.
45.
[0070] One half of the applicator may include more closely spaced
protrusions while the other half of the applicator may have farther
spaced protrusions to provide an applicator head having sections of
varying density, as illustrated in FIG. 46. The applicator head may
include protrusions of several different lengths to define an
irregular applicator head profile as shown in FIGS. 47 and 48.
Other possible embodiments include one half of the applicator
having shorter protrusions while the other half of the applicator
head 20 having longer protrusions, as shown in FIG. 50; one
quadrant of the applicator head 20 having longer protrusions while
the remaining three quadrants of the applicator head have shorter
protrusions as shown in FIG. 51; opposing sections of longer and
shorter protrusions as shown in FIG. 52; one half of the applicator
head 20 having densely spaced protrusions while the other half
includes a single protrusion as shown in FIG. 53; and one half of
the applicator including a plurality of densely spaced protrusions
while the other half includes a pair of protrusions as shown in
FIG. 56.
[0071] In addition to varying the circumferential spacing of the
protrusions, the axial spacing of the protrusions along the
applicator head 20 may also be varied. FIGS. 57A-D illustrate four
quadrants of an applicator head 20 having protrusions 30 that are
substantially uniformly spaced in the axial direction, indicated by
arrow 70. The pattern of protrusions is uniform to create
alternating or staggered rows of protrusions lying in a plane
extending substantially perpendicular to the stem axis 32. FIGS.
58A-D illustrate four quadrants of an applicator head 20 having
uniformly spaced protrusions lying in a plane extending at an
oblique angle with respect to the stem axis 32. FIGS. 59A-D
illustrate four quadrants of an applicator head 20 having
non-uniformly spaced protrusions forming a repeating pattern having
areas of closer spaced protrusions and areas of farther spaced
protrusions. FIGS. 60A-D illustrate four quadrants of an applicator
head 20 having uniformly spaced protrusions forming aligned rows of
protrusions lying in a plane extending substantially perpendicular
to the stem axis 32. FIGS. 61A-D illustrate four quadrants of an
applicator head in which each quadrant has a different pattern of
protrusions.
[0072] The applicator head 20 may include patterns of protrusions
having different lengths. As shown in FIGS. 62A-D, four quadrants
of an applicator head are shown having uniformly spaced
protrusions. The pattern includes shorter protrusions 72
(illustrated in a lighter tone) and longer protrusions 74
(illustrated in a darker tone). The shorter protrusions may be
upright to project outwardly from the stem surface, or may be
inverted to extend into the stem, and therefore may be 0-400%
shorter than the longer protrusions. The shorter protrusions 72
form a V-shaped pattern extending through a rectangular field of
longer protrusions 74. FIGS. 63A-D illustrate four quadrants of an
applicator head in which the shorter protrusions 72 form a grid
pattern while the longer protrusions 74 form a repeating square
pattern inside each grid.
[0073] The applicator may include visible indicia to identify
portions of the applicator having different characteristics. An
asymmetrical applicator head, for example, may include a first area
having protrusions with a first characteristic and a second area
having protrusions with a second characteristic. The applicator
head may have a first visible indicia, such as color, texture,
text, or other visually discernable quality, to identify the first
area and a second visible indicia to identify the second area. The
different visible indicia communicate to a user that the different
areas have protrusions with different characteristics, such as
relative flexibilities, lengths, or motions. The visible indicia
may be provided as different colors in the first and second areas.
For example, the protrusion tip, entire protrusion body, or
applicator head surface including protrusions associated with the
first area may have a first color, while similar structure in the
second area has a second color. Similarly, the first area may have
a first color scheme, such as an applicator head surface with a
first color and protrusions or portions thereof with a second
color, while the second area has a second color scheme, such as an
applicator head surface with a third color and protrusions or
portions thereof with a fourth color.
[0074] As noted above, the motor 18 is coupled to the stem 16 to
rotate the applicator head 20. The motor 18 preferably rotates the
applicator head at a rotational speed suitable for applying mascara
to keratinous fibers. Accordingly, it has been found that a speed
of approximately 1 to 200 rpm may be used, with the range of
approximately 5 to 100 rpm being preferable and the range of
approximately 10 to 60 rpm being most preferable for certain
applications. The motor speed may be fixed or may be adjustable
within the appropriate range.
[0075] The optional controller 26 may be provided for producing
more complex movements of the applicator head. For example, the
controller 26 may provide a dynamic speed signal to the motor to
automatically adjust the rotational speed of the applicator head.
The dynamic signal may generate a generally repeating speed
pattern, such as a varying speed according to the degrees of shaft
rotation, as illustrated by the graphs shown in FIGS. 64 and 65. In
FIG. 64, the graph illustrates a gradually, generally sinusoidal
speed fluctuation according to shaft rotation. In contrast, the
graph in FIG. 65 illustrates an abrupt, step change in speed
according to shaft rotation. A fixed speed is illustrated in the
graph shown in FIG. 66.
[0076] The motor may be reversible to facilitate use on eyelashes
associated with both the left and right eyes. It is often desirable
to apply mascara using an applicator movement that begins at a base
of the eyelash and progresses toward a free end. Users often hold
the applicator 20 in a hand associated with the same side as the
eye (i.e., the right hand to apply mascara to the right eye and the
left hand to apply mascara to the left eye). Because the
orientation of the applicator changes as the applicator is
transferred between hands, a reversible motor advantageously allows
the user to operate the applicator in the desired direction for
both eyes.
[0077] When providing a reversible motor to rotate the applicator
head in either direction, it is advantageous to control how a user
operates the motor so that the applicator head spins in the
anticipated and desired direction. While a simple toggle switch
with appropriate labels may be sufficient, it may be more desirable
to limit the user's ability to operate the applicator only in the
desired direction.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 91, for example, an applicator 500 may
include two switches 502, 504, one for each direction of motor
rotation. A handle 506 of the applicator 500 may include words,
icons, or other indicia indicating the eye associated with each
switch 502, 504. A pivoting shield 508 is coupled to the handle 506
and includes two windows 510, 512 sized to allow access to an
associated switch 502, 504. The windows 510, 512 are positioned
such that only the switch associated with that window is accessible
when the shield is rotated in the appropriate direction. As a
result, a user is prevented from operating one of the switches.
[0079] In the alternative embodiment illustrated at FIG. 92, the
applicator may position two switches such that only the appropriate
switch is readily accessible when held in a certain way. An
applicator 520 includes a handle 522 with two switches 524. Only
one switch 524 is visible in FIG. 92, as the other switch is
located on a side of the handle 522 opposite that shown in FIG. 92.
The switches 524 are positioned at natural contact points of the
user's hands, such as the thumbs. When the actuator is grasped in
the right hand, for example, only the switch 524 for operating the
applicator 520 with a motion direction appropriate for application
to a right eye is easily accessible to a user. The other switch may
be covered by the user's palm or may otherwise require
repositioning or additional manipulation by the user to access and
operate the switch. When switched to the left hand, the other
switch 524 is positioned for convenient engagement by the user.
Accordingly, the user is more likely to use the more accessible and
convenient switch, thereby minimizing inadvertent or unexpected
operation of the applicator in an undesired direction.
[0080] Still further, the applicator may be adapted to operate only
in the desired direction when oriented in a certain position, such
as when held to apply cosmetic to either the left or right eye. For
example, the applicator may have a motor controlled by a mercury
switch which reverses the polarity of the motor according to its
position and the contacts it makes with the motor. The applicator
handle may be shaped such that the mercury switch causes motor
rotation in a first direction when held in position near the left
eye and in a second, opposite direction when held in position near
the right eye.
[0081] The motor 18 may also be controlled to execute a fixed
degree of rotation each time the switch 24 is actuated. For
example, the motor 18 may execute a quick rotation of the
applicator head 20 through a predetermined angle of rotation to
present a different side of the applicator head 20 toward the user.
The predetermined angle of rotation may generally be approximately
0 to 270 degrees, with approximately 120 to 240 degrees being
preferred and approximately 180 degrees being most preferred. This
is of particular benefit where the applicator head includes
sections of varying protrusion patterns, such as an applicator head
having a first section with protrusions arranged to promote
separation of lashes and a second section with protrusions arranged
to provide volume. The quick, fixed rotation of the applicator head
20 allows a user to switch between the separator and volume
sections of the applicator head simply by actuating the switch 24,
without manipulating or repositioning the applicator in the
hand.
[0082] In accordance with certain embodiments, the applicator head
is driven in a rotating oscillation movement, defined herein as
automatic, bidirectional rotation. Accordingly, the applicator head
20 alternates between forward and reverse rotation upon actuation
of the switch 24. Both the forward and reverse rotation may be
performed at a static speed or a dynamic speed, as with the single
direction rotation described above. In addition, the forward and
reverse rotational speeds may be different. For example, the
reverse rotational speed may be relatively slower to facilitating
transfer of cosmetic from the applicator head 20 to the keratinous
fibers, while the forward rotational speed may be relatively faster
to promote separation of the keratinous fibers. FIG. 67 shows a
graph illustrating uniform acceleration between forward and reverse
directions with respect to the rotation angle of the stem. In this
graph, the maximum forward and reverse rotational speeds are
substantially the same. FIG. 68 in a graph showing a gradually,
sinusoidal acceleration between forward and reverse rotational
directions, where the maximum forward speed is greater than the
maximum reverse speed.
[0083] The stem may be rotated in the forward and reverse
directions during the same or different periods of time. For
example, the forward and reverse rotations may each take place for
approximately 1 second. Alternatively, the stem may be rotated in
the forward direction for approximately 2 seconds and in the
reverse direction for approximately 0.5 seconds. The foregoing time
periods are merely exemplary and are provided for clarity of
understanding only, as it will be appreciated that other time
periods may be used, whether the forward rotation period is greater
than, less than, or equal to the reverse rotation period, without
departing from the scope of this disclosure.
[0084] The applicator 10 may produce an applicator head motion that
simultaneously rotates and translates about an axis of rotation. As
illustrated in FIG. 69, for example, the stem axis 32 may be offset
from an axis of rotation 78, so that the stem 16 translates in a
circular path as it rotates. Alternatively, the stem 16 may have a
non-uniform cross section, such as an oval shape, that causes the
stem surface to translate with respect to the lashes as the stem
rotates, as shown in FIG. 70.
[0085] Various types of actuators may be used to operate the
applicator 10. For example, a mechanical device for storing
potential energy, such as a spring or twisted rubber band, may be
coupled to the stem 16 for producing rotational movement.
Alternatively, an electrical device such as the motor 18 may be
powered by a battery 22 to rotate the stem 16. The battery may be
provided in the handle housing 14 as illustrated in FIG. 1 or may
be provided in an associated container of mascara. The container
may be keyed to the applicator such that the battery powers the
applicator only when a particular mascara container is used. The
battery may be rechargeable, and may be provided with or without a
charging station.
[0086] Some examples of applicators capable of producing rotational
applicator head movement will now be described. An applicator 90
capable of simple rotation in one or both directions is
schematically illustrated in FIG. 71. The applicator 90 includes a
handle 92, a stem 94, and an applicator head 96. A motor 98 and
power source, such as a battery 100, are disposed inside the
handle. When powered, the motor 98 rotates a motor shaft 102 in a
single direction, however the motor may be reversible to
selectively rotate the motor shaft 102 in an opposite direction. In
the illustrated embodiment, the stem 94 is directly coupled to the
motor shaft 102 so that it rotates in the same direction as the
rotation of the motor shaft 102 at a 1 to 1 ratio. Alternatively,
one or more couplings, such as gears, may be provided which may
cause the stem 94 to rotate in a direction opposite the rotation of
the motor shaft 102. The gears may be sized so that the stem 94
rotates either faster or slower than the motor shaft 102. A switch
104 is operatively coupled to the battery 100 to selectively
provide power to the motor. In operation, a user actuates the
switch 104 to turn the motor on, thereby causing the applicator
head 96 to rotate.
[0087] FIG. 72 illustrates an applicator 110 capable of driving an
applicator head 112 in a rotating oscillation movement. The
applicator 110 includes a handle 114 and a stem 116 carrying the
applicator head 112. An electric motor 118 is disposed in the
handle 114 and includes a motor shaft 120 directly coupled to the
stem 116. A battery 122 is operatively coupled to the motor 118 and
a controller 124 is operatively coupled to the battery 122. A
switch 126 is operatively coupled to the controller 124 which, in
turn, controls the battery 122 to selectively provide power to the
motor 118. The controller 124 may include a timer and may be
capable of reversing the polarity of the battery 122, thereby to
reverse the direction in which the motor 118 rotates the motor
shaft 120. The controller 124 may use the timer to reverse battery
polarity at specific times or after predetermined periods of time,
thereby to automatically oscillate stem rotation at pre-set
frequencies.
[0088] Another applicator 130 is illustrated in FIGS. 73 and 74A-D
in which motor rotation in a single direction is converted into a
rotating oscillation motion. The applicator 130 includes a handle
132, a stem 134, and an applicator head 136. A motor 138 and
battery 140 are operatively coupled together and disposed inside
the handle 132. The motor 138 includes a motor shaft 142 that is
mechanically coupled to the stem 134 by a transmission coupling
144. More specifically, the transmission coupling 144 includes a
motor disc 146 coupled to the rotating motor shaft 92. The motor
disc 146 includes a pin 148 sized for insertion into a slot 150
formed in a connecting rod 152. The connecting rod 152 is pivotably
coupled to a first end of an idler rod 154. A second end of the
idler rod 154 is fixed to the stem 134, so that the idler rod 154
and stem 134 rotate together. A spring 156 extends between the
handle 132 and the idler rod 154 to bias the idler rod 154 in a
first direction. In operation, the pin 148 may first be positioned
adjacent a lower end of the slot 150 as shown in FIG. 74A. As the
motor disc 146 rotates clockwise, the pin 148 moves from the lower
end to the upper end of the slot 150, as shown in FIG. 74B. As the
pin 148 continues to rotate upwardly, the connecting rod 152 and
idler rod 154 are pulled in a vertically upward direction
illustrated in FIG. 74C, thereby causing a counter-clockwise
rotation of the stem 134. From the position shown in FIG. 74C,
further rotation of the motor disc 146 moves the pin 148 downwardly
to slide from the upper end to the lower end of the slot 150, as
shown in FIG. 74D. Further rotation of the motor disc 146 drives
the connecting rod 152 and idler rod 154 downwardly back to the
position shown in FIG. 74A, thereby to rotate the stem 134 in a
clockwise direction. Accordingly, the transmission coupling 144
converts uni-directional rotation of the motor shaft 142 into a
rotating oscillation of the stem 134.
[0089] Another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 160 capable of
driving an applicator head 162 in a rotational movement is
illustrated in FIGS. 75A-C. The applicator 160 includes a handle
164 and a stem 166 carrying the applicator head 162. An electrical
coil actuator 168 and battery 170 are disposed in the handle 164
and operatively coupled together. The coil actuator 168
reciprocates a drive shaft 172 along an axis of the shaft 172. The
drive shaft 172 is pivotably coupled to a first end of an idler
shaft 174. A second end of the idler shaft 174 is fixed to and
rotates with the stem 166. In operation, the actuator 168
reciprocates the drive shaft 172 between extended and refracted
positions, illustrated in FIGS. 75B and 75C, respectively. As the
drive shaft 172 moves from the extended position to the retracted
position, the idler shaft 174 and attached stem 166 are rotated in
a clockwise direction. When the drive shaft 172 moves in the
reverse direction from the retracted position to the extended
position, the idler shaft 174 and stem 166 are rotated in the
counter-clockwise direction. The speed of rotation and time periods
during which the stem 166 is rotated in the forward and reverse
directions may be determined by the coil actuator 168, the battery
170, and/or a controller (not shown).
[0090] Another further exemplary embodiment of an applicator 180 is
illustrated in FIGS. 76A-D. The applicator 180 includes a handle
182 and a stem 184 carrying an applicator head 186. As shown in
FIG. 76A, a motor 188 having a rotating motor shaft 190 is disposed
in an oversized cavity 192 formed in the handle 182 and is biased
toward a downward position by a spring 194. A transmission coupling
196 is provided to operably couple the motor shaft 190 to the stem
184. The transmission coupling 194 includes a motor disc 198 having
an oblong shape defining a cam surface 199, as best shown in FIG.
76B, and engages a fixed surface 200 in the handle 182 to provide a
cam action as the motor disc 198 rotates. The motor disc 198
frictionally engages a stem disc 202 attached to the stem 184. In
operation, the motor 188 rotates the motor disc 190 which drives
the stem disc 202. As the motor disc 198 rotates, the motor 188 is
driven up and down by the cam action of the motor disc 198 against
the fixed surface 200. The center of rotation of the motor disc 198
therefore moves above and below the elevation of the stem disc 202.
When the center of motor disc rotation is above the elevation of
the stem disc 202 as shown in FIG. 76D, the stem 184 is rotated in
a clockwise direction. Conversely, when the center of motor disc
rotation is below the elevation of the stem disc 202 as shown in
FIG. 76C, the stem 184 is rotated in a counter-clockwise direction.
It will be appreciated that as the center of motor disc rotation
moves farther away from the elevation of the stem disc 202, the
stem disc is rotated at a faster speed. Accordingly, the
transmission coupling 196 converts a uni-directional motor rotation
into a rotating oscillation of the stem in which the speed of
rotation varies in both the forward and reverse rotation
directions.
[0091] It is also advantageous to provide an applicator capable of
producing axial translation of the applicator head to assist with
eyelash coverage, separation, or other function associated with the
application of mascara to eyelashes. FIG. 77 illustrates an
applicator 210 having a handle 212 and a stem 214 carrying an
applicator head 216. A power source, such as the mechanical or
electrical power sources described above, may be disposed in the
handle 212 and coupled to the stem 214 to translate the stem 214
and attached applicator head 216 along an axis 218 of the stem, as
indicated by arrows 220 in FIG. 77. Alternatively, the applicator
head 216 may be directly coupled to the power source for axial
movement while the stem 214 is substantially stationary. In this
alternative, some protrusions may be coupled to the stem while
other protrusions may be coupled to the head so that the applicator
includes a combination of both moving protrusions and relatively
stationary protrusions.
[0092] The axial motion provided by the applicator 210 may be
characterized by the frequency of movement of the applicator head
216, the axial distance traveled by the applicator head 216, and
the symmetry of the speed at which the applicator head moves during
the forward and reverse components of the axial movement. The
frequency of movement is defined as the number of times per second
(Hz) that the applicator head 216 moves back and forth through one
complete cycle. In general, frequencies of approximately 0.5 to
1000 Hz are desired, with a range of approximately 1 to 300 Hz
being preferred and a range of approximately 2 to 200 Hz being most
preferred. The distance traveled by the applicator head 216 during
the axial movement is defined as the displacement distance between
the fully extended and fully retracted positions of the applicator
head. In general, a distance of approximately 0.1 to 10 mm is
desired, with a range of approximately 0.25 to 8 mm being preferred
and a range of approximately 0.5 to 5 mm being most preferred.
Axial motion is typically along a line substantially parallel to
the stem axis. This is in contrast to vibrational motion, which may
be in an axial, radial, orbital or other direction. Also, axial
motion typically has a frequency nearer the lower range limits and
a displacement distance near the upper range limits, while
vibrational motion typically has a higher frequency and lower
displacement distance. Despite these differences, many of the
embodiments described herein are capable of selectively generating
both axial motion and vibrational motion.
[0093] Speed symmetry describes the relative time taken for the
forward stroke versus the reverse stroke. In general, it is
desirable to have the ratio of the forward stroke speed to the
reverse stroke speed within the range of approximately 1:10 to
10:1, with a range of approximately 1:3 to 3:1 being preferred and
a range of approximately 1:2 to 2:1 being most preferred.
[0094] A more complex axial motion may be achieved by pausing the
motion at any point during the cycle. For example, the axial motion
may momentarily stop at the ends of both a forward stroke and a
reverse stroke. The period during which the motion is stopped may
range from being almost instantaneous to an appreciable delay,
particularly when compared to the time it takes to complete a
forward or reverse stroke. The time period during which the axial
motion is stopped may range from approximately 0.01% to 1000% of
the forward or reverse stroke time.
[0095] An exemplary embodiment of an applicator 230 capable of
producing a composite motion including both rotational and axial
oscillation is illustrated in FIGS. 78A and 78B. The applicator 230
includes a handle 232 and a stem 234 carrying an applicator head
236. A coil actuator 238 is disposed in the handle 232 and includes
a drive shaft 240. A transmission coupling 242 is provided for
operably connecting the stem 234 to the drive shaft 240.
Specifically, the transmission coupling 242 includes a stem
extension 244 connected to the drive shaft 240 by a flexible
coupling 246, which allows rotation of the stem extension 244 with
respect to the drive shaft 240. The stem extension 244 includes a
spiral groove 248 sized to receive projections 250 coupled to the
handle 232. In operation, the coil actuator 238 reciprocates the
drive shaft 240 along a vertical direction between retracted and
extended positions, illustrated in FIGS. 78A and 78B, respectively.
As the drive shaft 240 moves from the retracted to the extended
position, the stem extension 244 is driven downwardly. The groove
is forced along the projections 250 to cause the stem to rotate in
a clockwise direction when viewed from above. When the drive shaft
240 travels in the upward direction, the stem extension 244 and
stem 234 are rotated in a counter-clockwise direction as the stem
234 travels vertically upward. Accordingly, the transmission
coupling 242 simultaneously generates rotating and axial
oscillation of the stem 234. It should be noted that, for any
embodiment producing an axial movement of the stem, similar grooves
and projections may be provided to rotate the head as it is driven
axially with respect to the handle.
[0096] While the foregoing embodiment discloses a simple on/off
switch, it will be appreciated that the switch may require
continuous pressure from the user to remain in the on position.
Furthermore, the switch may be provided as a potentiometer to vary
voltage supplied to the motor, thereby to provide a variable
applicator head motion.
[0097] Another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 260 capable of
moving an applicator head 262 in an axial direction is illustrated
in FIGS. 79A-C. The applicator 260 includes a handle 264 and a stem
266 carrying the applicator head 262. An alternating current
electromagnetic motor 268 and a battery 270 are disposed in the
housing and operably coupled to one another. The motor 268 is
capable of reversing its polarity. The applicator 260 includes a
transmission coupling 272 for generating vibration or axial
oscillation of the stem 266. The stem 266 includes an extension
portion 274 carrying a polarized magnet 276. A flexible link 278
has a first end coupled to the stem extension portion 274 and a
second end pivotably coupled to the handle 264. In operation, the
polarity of the motor 268 is reversed to alternate between
attracting and repelling the polarized magnet 276, thereby driving
the stem extension 274 and attached stem 266 in a vertically
reciprocating motion. The amplitude and frequency of the stem's
vertical displacement may be controlled to produce either a
vertical oscillation (typically characterized by a lower frequency
and greater amplitude) or a vibrational motion (typically
characterized by a higher frequency and smaller amplitude).
[0098] Yet another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 280 for
producing an axial applicator head movement is illustrated in FIGS.
80A-D. The applicator 280 includes a handle 282 and a stem 284
carrying an applicator head 286. A motor 288 and battery 290 are
disposed in the handle 282 and are operably coupled to one another.
The motor 288 is capable of rotating a motor shaft 292 in at least
a first direction. A transmission coupling 294 is provided for
operably connecting the motor shaft 292 to the stem 284. The
transmission coupling 294 includes a motor cam disc 296 coupled to
the motor shaft 292. A stem disc 298 is coupled to an end of the
stem 284. A spring 300 biases the stem disc 298 toward an upper
position. In operation, the motor cam disc 296 rotates to drive the
stem disc 298 downwardly against the force of the spring 300,
thereby to push the stem disc 298 and attached stem 284 to a lower
position, as shown in FIG. 80B. Further rotation of the motor cam
disc 296 allows the spring 300 to push the stem disc 298 upwardly,
thereby returning the stem disc 298 and stem 284 to an upper
position shown in FIG. 80D. Accordingly, the transmission coupling
294 converts uni-directional rotation of the motor cam disc 296
into bi-directional, axial oscillation of the stem 284. The axial
motion of the stem 284 may be either an axial oscillation or a
vibration of the stem.
[0099] A still further exemplary embodiment of an applicator 310
for producing an axial applicator head motion is illustrated in
FIGS. 81A-C. The applicator 310 includes a handle 312 and a stem
314 carrying an applicator head 316. A motor 317 is disposed in the
handle 312 and is capable of rotating a motor shaft 318 in at least
one direction. A battery 320 is also disposed in the handle 312 and
is operatively coupled to the motor 316. A transmission coupling
322 is provided for operatively connecting the motor shaft 318 to
the stem 314. The transmission coupling 322 includes a motor disc
324 coupled to the motor shaft 318. The motor disc 324 frictionally
engages a stem disc 326 coupled to the stem 314. A cam follower 328
is coupled to the stem disc 326 and shaped to engage a cam driver
surface 330 coupled to the handle 312. A spring 332 extends between
the handle 312 and the stem disc 326 to bias the stem 314 toward an
upper position. In operation, rotation of the motor disc 324
rotates the stem disc 326. As the stem disc 326 rotates, the cam
follower 328 slides along the cam driver surface 330 to
simultaneously push the stem disc 326 downwardly against the force
of the spring 332. As a result, the elevation of the stem disc 326
moves above and below a center of rotation of the motor disc 324 as
it rotates. When the center of motor disc rotation is above the
elevation of the stem disc 326 as shown in FIG. 81B, the stem 314
is rotated in a clockwise direction. Conversely, when the center of
motor disc rotation is below the elevation of the stem disc 326 as
shown in FIG. 81C, the stem 314 is rotated in a counter-clockwise
direction. It will be appreciated that as the center of motor disc
rotation moves farther away from the elevation of the stem disc
326, the stem disc is rotated at a faster speed. Accordingly, the
transmission coupling 322 converts a uni-directional motor rotation
into a rotating oscillation and an axial movement of the stem, in
which the speed of rotation varies in both the forward and reverse
rotation directions. The axial movement may be either an axial
oscillation or a vibration of the stem.
[0100] An applicator 400 particularly suited to generate a
vibrating applicator head is illustrated at FIG. 88. The applicator
400 includes a handle 402 having an orifice 404 sized to slidingly
receive a stem 406 capable of moving between extended and retracted
positions and carrying an applicator head 408. A spring 410 biases
the stem 406 in one of the extended or retracted positions. A stem
extension 412 includes a magnet 414. An actuator in the form of an
electromagnetic coil 416 is disposed in the handle 402 and is
operably coupled to a battery 418. The coil 416 may be selectively
energized to produce a magnetic field that either attracts or
repels the magnet 414 on the stem extension 412, thereby to move
the stem 406 between extended and retracted positions, thereby
reciprocating the applicator head 408 in a vibrational motion. As
an alternative, the actuator may be provided as a piezoelectric
diaphragm to generate the vibratory force, rather than the
electromagnetic coil 416. Should such a diaphragm be used, the
magnet 414 may be removed.
[0101] An applicator 420 capable of producing a composite
vibrational and rotational motion is illustrated at FIG. 89. The
applicator 420 includes a handle 422 with a motor 424 coupled
thereto through an isolation spring 426. The motor has a rotating
motor shaft 428 with a weight 430 mounted eccentrically with
respect to an axis of the motor shaft. A switch 432 and battery 434
are operatively coupled to the motor 424. A boss 436, which may
have a generally cylindrical or frusto-conical shape, is also
coupled to the handle 422. A stem 438 includes a stem extension 440
defining a socket 442 sized to rotatably engage the boss 436. The
stem 438 also carries an applicator head 444. In operation, the
rotating eccentric weight 430 generates a vibratory force that is
substantially isolated from the handle 422 by the spring 426. The
force is transferred via the boss 436 to the stem 438, which causes
the stem to rotate. In this embodiment, where the motor shaft 428
is substantially parallel to the stem axis, rotation of the motor
shaft 428 in one direction causes rotation of the stem 438 in the
opposite direction. The direction of motor shaft rotation may be
reversed by switching the polarity of the battery 434. Accordingly,
the applicator 420 is capable of moving the applicator head 444 in
a composite motion including both a vibrational element and a
rotational element.
[0102] An applicator 450 capable of producing a composite
applicator head motion including one or more vibrational, radial,
and rotational components is illustrated in FIG. 90. The applicator
450 includes a handle 452 with an inner sleeve 454 coupled thereto.
A motor 456 is supported inside the inner sleeve 454 by a spring
458. The motor 456 includes a rotating shaft 460 and an
eccentrically mounted weight 462 coupled thereto. A switch 464 and
a battery 466 are operably coupled to the motor 456. A hollow stem
468 is sized to receive a free end of the spring 458. The stem 468
includes a socket 470 sized to rotatably receive an applicator head
472, so that the applicator head 472 is free to rotate with respect
to the stem 468. A shroud 469 may be provided to enclose a gap
between opposing ends of the inner sleeve 454 and the stem 468. In
operation, rotation of the motor 456 generates a rotational force
that is isolated from the handle 452 by one end of the spring 458
and transferred to the stem 468 by the other end of the spring 458.
The spring 458 allows the stem 468 to radially translated (i.e., to
move in a circular path with respect to the inner sleeve 454
without rotating). The applicator head 472, in turn, is free to
rotate with respect to the stem 468. As a result, the applicator
450 is capable of moving the applicator head 472 in a composite
motion including a radial translation component, a vibrational
component, and/or a rotational component.
[0103] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 89 and 90, the
spring, motor, and eccentric weight may be selected to produce a
desired frequency and amplitude for the applicator head motion. The
spring may be matched to the motor and weight so that it is
energized at or near its natural frequency. When so matched, the
motor force is amplified by the spring and delivered to the
applicator head, thereby reducing the power required by the motor
to produce a given displacement of the applicator head.
[0104] FIG. 93 illustrates another applicator 530 for moving an
applicator head 532 in a vibrational motion. The applicator 530
includes a handle 534. A toothed cam 536 is disposed in the housing
and includes a sleeve 538. A stem 540 is coupled to the toothed cam
and carries the applicator head 532. A motor 542 includes a
rotating shaft coupled to the sleeve 538. A battery 544 and switch
546 are disposed in the handle 534 and operatively coupled to the
motor 542. In operation, the motor 542 rotates the cam 536 over
teeth 548 formed in the housing to produce a composite applicator
head motion having a rotational component and a vibrational
component. The vibration is applied to the handle 534 to provide
tactile feedback to a user.
[0105] FIGS. 94A and 94B illustrate an applicator 550 for moving an
applicator head 552 with rotation and vibration. The applicator 550
includes a handle 554. A stem 556 includes a stem extension 558
includes a stabilizing blades 560 and teeth 562 adapted to engage
gear teeth 564 coupled to the handle 554. A motor 566 is coupled to
the stem extension 558 and is operatively coupled to a battery 570
and switch 572. In operation, the motor 566 rotates the stem
extension 558 to drive the teeth 562 over the gear teeth 564,
thereby to generate a vibrational motion of the applicator head
552. The vibration is passed through the handle 554 to provide
tactile feedback to a user.
[0106] While some of the foregoing embodiments produce a
vibrational applicator head movement, any of the applicators
described herein may be modified to include a vibration generator
to provide sensory feedback to the user. Such a vibration generator
may be coupled, either rigidly or resiliently, to the handle for
producing a tactile vibration. It has been found that vibrations
produced within the range of 10 Hz to 6 kHz can be sensed by the
hand of a typical user.
[0107] The stems provided in the embodiments disclosed herein may
be substantially rigid or substantially flexible as needed. Certain
embodiments, such as those having a stem with a groove that engages
projections on the housing to transfer axial stem movement into
rotational movement, may perform better with a more rigid stem.
Other embodiments, such as those that produce a vibrational head
motion, may benefit from a more flexible stem. In the embodiments
using stems with greater flexibility, a rigid sleeve may be coupled
to the housing and extend around at least a portion of the stem to
support the stem as desired.
[0108] More specifically, FIG. 95 illustrates an applicator 580
having a flexible stem 582. The applicator includes a handle 584
having a motor 586 with a rotating motor shaft 588. An eccentric
weight 590 is mounted on the shaft 588. A battery 592 and switch
594 are operatively coupled to the motor 586. Rotation of the
eccentric weight 590 generates a force that is transmitted to the
stem 582. The stem 582 is sufficiently flexible to respond to the
force by bending back and forth, as shown in FIG. 95. The
illustrated stem displacements are exaggerated for clarity of
understanding. The stem flexibility may be constant or may vary,
such as by a function of cross-sectional area or material density,
along the length of the stem 582.
[0109] Axial movement of the applicator head may be performed at
frequencies which enhance distribution of cosmetic material to the
ends of the protrusions. An applicator head 340 may include
protrusions 342 that flex in response to axially downward and
upward movement, as illustrated in FIGS. 82A and 82B, respectively.
The axial movement may be specifically tuned to produce a harmonic
motion of the protrusions, thereby more effectively advancing
cosmetic material from the base to the tip of each protrusion
342.
[0110] An axially moving applicator head 350 may include
protrusions of varying flexibility or stiffness. As illustrated in
FIGS. 83A-C, the applicator head 350 includes a first set of
protrusions 352 having a relatively low stiffness (or high
flexibility) and a second set of protrusions 354 having a
relatively high stiffness (or low flexibility). The first set of
protrusions 352 will deflect downwardly in response to axial upward
movement of the applicator head 350 and upwardly in response to
axial downward movement of the applicator head 350, as illustrated
in FIGS. 83B and 83C, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment,
the first set of protrusions includes more mass at their tips to
promote flexibility, while the second set of protrusions are
tapered to promote stiffness. Alternatively or additionally, the
protrusions may be formed of different materials to create the
relative differences in stiffness and/or flexibility.
[0111] The shape of each protrusion may also be adapted for use in
an axially moving applicator head. FIG. 84 illustrates a protrusion
360 having a generally square base 362. The protrusion gradually
tapers from a large cross-sectional area at the base 362 to a small
cross-sectional area at the free end or tip 364. A series of
recesses, such as dimples 366, are formed in the surface of the
protrusion 360 to promote movement of cosmetic product from the
base 362 to the tip 364 as the protrusion 360 is vibrated in an
axial direction.
[0112] FIG. 85 illustrates another protrusion 370 adapted to
facilitate material flow from the base to the tip during axial
vibration. The protrusion 370 includes a base 372 having a
relatively large cross-sectional area and a tip 374 having a
relatively small cross-sectional area. The surface of the
protrusion 370 includes a series of tiers 376 to form a terraced
profile. The tiers 376 form barb-shaped projections 378 which
promote movement of cosmetic from the base 372 to the tip 374 as
the protrusion 360 is vibrated in an axial direction.
[0113] The applicator may include certain ancillary features to
enhance operation or user satisfaction. For example, the applicator
may further include a thermal source to apply heat to the
applicator head, thereby to promote curl and lift of the lashes.
The applicator may include a sound circuit to generate a noise
during operation, thereby to alert the user when the applicator is
active. Similarly, the applicator may include a secondary vibration
source to provide a tactile indication to the user that the
applicator is operating, and to potentially enhance the user's
perception of the effectiveness of the applicator.
[0114] In addition to the electrical and mechanical actuators
disclosed herein, the force for applicator head movement may be
provided by sound waves. For example, a piezocrystal may be
provided for generating sound waves that vibrate the applicator
head.
[0115] As illustrated in FIG. 86, an applicator 380 may include a
simple toggle control switch 382 to allow quick and easy transition
between forward and reverse rotation.
[0116] An applicator 390 may include first and second stems 392,
394 extending from opposite ends of a handle 396, as shown in FIG.
87. The same or a different motor may power the second applicator
head 394. The second head 394 may have a second, different cosmetic
product intended for use either separately or in combination with
the cosmetic provided on the first applicator head.
[0117] An applicator may have an applicator head or combined
applicator head and stem that may be independently removable from
the handle to allow a variety of customized applicators to be used
with the same handle. The removable head or head/stem combination
may include a locking mechanism. The applicator head may further be
adapted to provide a combination of both moving (i.e., rotating,
axial moving, etc.) and stationary protrusions.
[0118] An applicator 600 having stationary and moving protrusions
is illustrated in FIGS. 96 and 97A-C. The applicator 600 includes a
handle 602. A hollow sleeve 604 is coupled to the handle 602 and a
stem 606 is disposed inside the sleeve 604. A first set of
protrusions 607 is coupled to the sleeve 604 while a second set of
protrusions 609 is coupled to the stem 606. A magnet 608 is coupled
to the stem 606 by a spring 610, which may increase or dampen
amplitude. An electromagnetic coil 612 is disposed inside the
housing and capable of generating a magnetic field to attract or
repel the magnet 608. A battery 614 and switch 616 are operatively
coupled to the coil 612. In operation, the electromagnet
periodically generates the magnetic field to axially oscillate the
magnet 608. Movement of the magnet 608 is transferred to the stem
606 via the spring 610, thereby to move the second set of
protrusions 609 relative to the first set of protrusions 607. The
patterns and relative locations of the first and second sets of
protrusions may vary, as illustrated in FIGS. 97A-C. In FIG. 97A,
the first set includes one row 620 of stationary protrusions while
the remaining protrusions move. Embodiments with three and four
rows of stationary protrusions are illustrated in FIGS. 97B and
97C, respectively.
[0119] All documents cited in the Detailed Description are, in
relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of
any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is
prior art with respect to the present disclosure.
[0120] While particular embodiments of the present disclosure have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this disclosure.
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