U.S. patent application number 13/282171 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-03 for applicator with application from the front.
This patent application is currently assigned to GEKA GMBH. Invention is credited to Manuela GEUTHER.
Application Number | 20120103361 13/282171 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45444391 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120103361 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GEUTHER; Manuela |
May 3, 2012 |
APPLICATOR WITH APPLICATION FROM THE FRONT
Abstract
The invention relates to a mascara applicator with a finger
carrier which is permanently fixed relative to a handle and
comprises a main finger covering consisting of at least one row of
fingers, which are disposed in an aligned manner along an imaginary
main covering axis or one behind the other with an offset along the
main covering axis and are molded onto the finger carrier, and with
a handle which itself comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the at
least one main covering axis and the longitudinal axis of the
handle extend at least substantially orthogonally relative to one
another.
Inventors: |
GEUTHER; Manuela; (Ansbach,
DE) |
Assignee: |
GEKA GMBH
Bechhofen
DE
|
Family ID: |
45444391 |
Appl. No.: |
13/282171 |
Filed: |
October 26, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/218 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 9/021 20130101;
A45D 40/265 20130101; A45D 40/262 20130101; A46B 2200/1053
20130101; A45D 40/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/218 |
International
Class: |
A45D 40/26 20060101
A45D040/26 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 27, 2010 |
DE |
20 2010 014 794.8 |
Claims
1. A mascara applicator comprising: a finger carrier which is
permanently fixed relative to a handle and comprises a main finger
covering consisting of at least one row of fingers, which are
disposed in an aligned manner along an imaginary main covering axis
or one behind the other with an offset along the main covering axis
and are molded on to the finger carrier; and a handle which itself
comprises a longitudinal axis; wherein the at least one main
covering axis and the longitudinal axis of the handle extend at
least substantially orthogonally relative to one another.
2. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the
applicator comprises only a single bristle carrier which is either
formed integrally or consists of several parts, which from the
standpoint of the user are permanently fixed relative to one
another.
3. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the main
covering axis is curved over a predominant part of its length, its
radius of curvature being .gtoreq.10 mm; and the curvature being
substantially constant.
4. The mascara applicator according to claim 3, wherein the
curvature is a concave curvature directed towards the handle which
substantially corresponds to a curvature of eyelashes of a human
eye.
5. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the handle
is substantially configured as a plate having a
non-rotation-symmetrical body, which distally transitions
integrally or via a distal end face into a finger carrier section
and which has a proximally free end face as well as substantially
two large and two small free side surfaces, wherein a surface area
of the large side surfaces is larger than a surface area of the
small side surfaces (6) by at least a factor of 4.
6. The mascara applicator according claim 5, wherein the largest
width of the handle configured as a plate is no more than four
times a maximum length L.sub.max of the applicator.
7. The mascara applicator according to claim 6, wherein the maximum
length L.sub.max of the applicator is .ltoreq.75 mm.
8. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the handle
and the main finger covering are arranged relative to one another
in such a way that, when the applicator is used as intended,
fingers of a user guiding the applicator are located in front of
the user's eye, seen in the viewing direction, instead of laterally
next to the eye.
9. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger
carrier is substantially configured as a plate having a
non-rotation-symmetrical body, which on its proximal side
transitions integrally or via a proximal end face into the handle
and which is distally equipped in such a way that the finger
carrier comprises: a finger-covered end face; and two large and two
small free side surfaces, wherein a surface area of the large side
surfaces is larger than a surface area of the small side surfaces;
by at least a factor of 4.
10. The mascara applicator according to claim 9, wherein the two
small side surfaces include an angle .alpha..ltoreq.90.degree.,
with a straight connecting line (VB) between edges that the
finger-covered end face forms towards the two small side
surfaces.
11. The mascara applicator according to claim 9, wherein at least
30% of the main finger covering comprises fingers that protrude
from the distal end face of the finger carrier, predominantly in a
direction which is oriented substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the handle.
12. The mascara applicator according to claim 11, wherein the main
finger covering comprises fingers in the form of bristles, which
are bodies that are flexible to such an extent that their tip can
be deflected by at least 15%, of their length from a base to a
tip.
13. The mascara applicator according to claim 12, wherein the
bristles are injection-molded bristles, which are injection-molded
in a single working step together with the bristle carrier, or in a
single working step together with the bristle carrier and the
handle, and which taper from their bases to their tips.
14. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein a jacket
surface of the main finger covering grasps around the main covering
axis at least over an angle (.beta.) of 90.degree., wherein the
finger covering comprises several first fingers whose longitudinal
axis is perpendicular to a first main surface, and several second
fingers, whose longitudinal axis is perpendicular to a second main
surface.
15. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the handle
of the mascara applicator consists essentially of a plate which is
configured in such a way that two large surfaces of the plate lie
between a user's thumb and index finger when the applicator is
brought towards the user's eye.
16. The mascara applicator according to claim 12, wherein the plate
forming the finger carrier forms a contact surface with which a
wiper, when the mascara applicator is a part of a sealed mascara
unit, comes into engagement at rest without putting a load on the
bristles; wherein this contact surface is constricted or recedes in
relation to a plate section of the plate forming the finger carrier
which is covered with the fingers, so that this configuration
results in a positive engagement between the contact surface and
lips of the wiper.
17. The mascara applicator according to claim 12, wherein the plate
forming the finger carrier forms a continuously circumferentially
extending sealing surface which protrudes in a manner of a hilt and
which, when the mascara applicator is part of a sealed mascara
unit, sealingly comes into engagement with a complementary surface
on a wiper or on a mascara container, wherein this sealing surface
is configured in such a way that, when the mascara applicator is
part of a sealed mascara unit, the sealing surface separates a part
of the applicator wetted with mascara from a remaining part of the
applicator.
18. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger
carrier and the handle are two independent components separate from
each other and the finger carrier comprises in an area of its
proximal end face a connecting section for connection to the
handle, wherein the connecting section comprises a latching
projection or a latching recess for positive engagement of the
finger carrier with a complementary latching component of the
handle.
19. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the
mascara applicator comprises at least one latching component with
which a section forming the finger carrier and/or the handle can be
fixed by positive fit directly on a container accommodating the
mascara applicator in its ready position.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to a mascara applicator.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Conventional mascara applicators consist of a handle section
or handling means followed by a longer stem which carries on its
end the actual applicator body. Such an applicator body is usually
configured in the form of a brush covered with fingers or bristles.
In this case, the stem of the known applicators comprises a
pronounced longitudinal axis and the bristle carrier as a rule has
a cylindrical or at least rod-like shape.
[0003] If the bristle carrier consists of two twisted metal wires,
the bristles are arranged more or less haphazardly and do not form
any sufficiently clear lines that could be meaningfully defined as
main covering axes or the like.
[0004] If the bristle carrier and the bristles consist of
injection-molded plastic, the bristles are more or less arranged in
rows of bristles disposed one behind the other. The imaginary,
substantially straight line which extends in the direction of the
largest extent of the bristle area through any such bristle row can
be referred to as a main covering axis--as is illustrated by FIG.
20, which shows the typical prior art. As can be seen, the bristles
5a are in this case disposed one behind the other aligned in the
longitudinal direction. The imaginary line that goes through the
center of the bristles in the area of transition between the
respective bristle and the bristle carrier and extends in the
longitudinal direction (L>>R) in this case forms a main
covering axis 4a. The corresponding line in the case of the
bristles 5b forms the main covering axis 4b. Another such line in
the case of the bristles 5c forms the main covering axis 4c. The
above-mentioned bristles in this case form the main finger
covering, i.e. the main finger covering by means of which mascara
is mainly applied.
[0005] Since the bristles, in the prior art shown in drawings by
this application, are disposed one behind the other also in the
circumferential direction along a circular line, circumferential
covering axes or secondary covering axes, which, however, are of no
particular interest here, are also to be defined in the case of
such a brush.
[0006] Other bristles may also be available, primarily in the tip
area which in this case is only indicated, for example in order to
touch up the make-up result or to achieve a certain combing effect.
However, the number of these other bristles is smaller than the
number of those bristles which all together form the main finger
covering, so that these bristles only form a secondary finger
covering.
[0007] As can be seen, the main covering axes of the individual
bristles forming the main finger covering, in the prior art
illustrated by FIG. 26, extend at least substantially parallel to
the longitudinal axis 3 of the stem 2 and the handling means which
adjoins the stem and is not shown here.
[0008] Another illustrative example from the prior art is
illustrated by FIG. 27. In the case of this injection-molded brush,
the bristles 5a, which are only indicated and shown in a top view
from above, are disposed not precisely in a line but are disposed
relative to one another with a certain offset V at regular
intervals. In this case, the main covering axis is the calculated
central axis around which the individual bristles are disposed at a
periodically changing distance, see, purely by way of example, the
main axis of the covering 4a.
[0009] During application, such known applicators as those
described above are handled in such a way that the handle section
is brought up laterally next to the eye, in the approximate area of
the temple. The actual applicator section is brought up to the
eyelashes by means of the long stem and drawn along the eyelashes
in order thus to charge the eyelashes with the liquid or pasty
mascara mass that adheres to the fingers or bristles. The use of
such applicators requires a certain dexterity, and primarily a
steady hand because even a slight trembling of the hand is strongly
amplified by the long stem.
[0010] In view of this, it is the object of the invention to
propose a mascara applicator which enables an improved handling
during application.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] This object is achieved by a mascara applicator with a
finger carrier which is permanently fixed relative to the handling
means and comprises a main finger covering consisting of at least
one row of fingers, which are aligned along an imaginary main
covering axis or one behind the other with an offset along the main
covering axis and are molded on to the finger carrier, and with a
handling means which itself comprises a longitudinal axis.
[0012] According to the invention, the main covering axes of the
preferably several finger rows forming the main finger covering and
the longitudinal axis of the handling means extend orthogonally
relative to one another. This also applies, mutatis mutandis, if
the main finger covering were to consist only of a single finger
row. If the respective main covering axis and the longitudinal axis
do not have a common point of intersection, then the condition
according to the invention is deemed also to be fulfilled if the
projection of the main covering axis on the longitudinal axis of
the handling means and the longitudinal axis of the handling means
extend substantially orthogonally relative to one another. In cases
where the handling means does not have a clear longitudinal axis,
it is an option of the invention instead to design and align the
covering in such a way that the main covering axes extend
substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the finger
carrier. In this case, the longitudinal axis of the finger carrier
is the straight line that connects the proximal section with which
the finger carrier is coupled to a stem or a handling means with
the distal end face of the finger carrier over the shortest
distance.
[0013] Even if "orthogonal" preferably denotes an angle of 90
degrees plus the usual manufacturing tolerances, a substantially
orthogonal arrangement relative to one another is given also if,
for the smaller of the two angles that the two intersecting axes
include (main covering axis or projection of the covering axis on
the one hand, and longitudinal axis of the handling means on the
other hand), it holds that .alpha..gtoreq.60.degree., preferably
.alpha..gtoreq.75.degree. and ideally .alpha..gtoreq.85.degree.. If
the main covering axis is curved, this condition is to apply
substantially over the entire length of the main covering axis.
However, deviations at the edges of the main covering axis which
result, for example, from a rounding of the bristle covering
provided there, are deemed to be harmless. In view of this,
deviations on the edges of less than 30% and preferably of less
than 20% of the length of the respective main covering axis are
generally non-critical.
[0014] A main finger covering within the sense of the invention is
understood to be that part of the finger covering which, as
intended, serves for carrying out at least the predominant part of
mascara application, i.e. the part with which the user using the
mascara applicator as intended first takes up the mascara mass from
the storage container and applies it on to the eyelashes. As a
rule, the main finger covering includes more than 40% of the total
number of fingers available on the applicator. Preferably, the main
finger covering even includes at least 60% of the total number of
fingers available on the applicator. Ideally, the main finger
covering even includes at least 75% of the total number of fingers
available on the applicator. The remaining other fingers may form a
secondary finger covering, for example in the form of a bristle
group disposed on an edge of the main finger covering, which does
not primarily serve for the first application of mascara, but for
example for locally retracing or retouching the mascara application
or for combing.
[0015] Fingers molded on to the finger carrier are, for example,
fingers molded on to the finger carrier integrally, and preferably
even molded on being made of the same substance. Generally
speaking, such fingers may be considered as molded-on fingers which
consist of the same material as the finger carrier and which were
injection-molded together with the latter in one step, or which
were injection-molded on to the latter from the same or a different
material in a second step.
[0016] A finger carrier is permanently fixed relative to the
handling means if the user does not have any possibility to adjust
the finger carrier during the application relative to the handling
means by rotation about a hinge or a joint. A certain positional
change of the finger carrier relative to the handling means caused
merely by elastic deformation bears no relevance with regard to the
feature "permanent fixation".
[0017] Preferably, the applicator consists of a single finger
carrier. Ideally, this finger carrier is configured integrally. A
very efficient production is thus possible. The uniform finger
carrier can be connected to the stem of the handling means or to
the handling means directly after injection molding without
requiring any major effort. Basically, it is also possible to
configure the finger carrier in several parts. In that case, such a
finger carrier consists of individual sections which are fixed
relative to one another, for example by being latched into one
another, or by being connected to each other by welding. From the
standpoint of the user, the several parts of the finger carrier can
thus be fixed relative to one another permanently and so as to be
non-adjustable for him.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided
that the main covering axis of at least one of those finger rows
forming the main finger covering is configured with a curvature.
Preferably, at least a portion of this covering axis is configured
in such a way that the covering axis is curved over the predominant
part of its length and is preferably curved continuously. In this
case, the radius of curvature of the covering axis is preferably
.gtoreq.10 mm, better still .gtoreq.30 mm and ideally even
.gtoreq.50 mm. Ideally, the curvature is a concave curvature
directed towards the handling means which preferably substantially
corresponds to the curvature of the curve of the eyelashes of the
human eye. As a rule, an applicator according to the invention will
not only include a single finger row that has a main covering axis
curved in this way, but several such finger rows.
[0019] In this way, it becomes possible to wet with mascara mass
substantially the entire curve of the eyelashes of an eyelid,
preferably of the upper lid, with a single application stroke. In
contrast to a conventional applicator with a substantially circular
cylindrical bristle covering, the hand guiding the applicator does
not have to execute a pivoting movement about a vertical spatial
axis in order for the entire eyelid to come into contact with the
bristle covering. This facilitates application.
[0020] Another preferred exemplary embodiment provides that the
handling means is substantially configured as a plate, i.e. as a
non-rotation-symmetrical body, which distally transitions
integrally or via a distal end face into a finger carrier section
and which has a proximally free end face as well as substantially
two large and two small free side surfaces, wherein the surface
area of the large side surfaces is larger by at least the factor 4,
and better by at least the factor 6, than the surface area of the
small side surfaces.
[0021] Another preferred exemplary embodiment provides that the
largest width of the handling means configured as a plate is no
more than four times, preferably no more than three times the
maximum length of the applicator.
[0022] Preferably, the handling means and the finger carrier body
are directly interconnected, i.e. without the interposition of a
stem. The connection takes place in such a way that it is not one
of the side surfaces of the finger carrier that serves for
connection to the handling means, but the proximal end face, i.e.
the surface of the finger carrier facing furthest away from the
finger carrier.
[0023] It is through this measure, in particular, that it becomes
possible that the handling means and the main finger covering are
arranged relative to one another in such a way that when the
applicator is used as intended, the fingers of the user guiding the
applicator are located in front of the eye, seen in the viewing
direction, instead of laterally next to the eye, as is the case in
conventional applicators.
[0024] In this case, the handling means of the mascara applicator
ideally consists of a plate which is preferably configured in such
a way that its two large surfaces lie between the thumb and the
index finger when the applicator is brought towards the eye.
[0025] Such an embodiment as is provided by the four last-mentioned
preferred embodiments offers a completely new feel of use, which is
perceived as more pleasant--compared with the feeling of use given
by conventional applicators--by a not inconsiderable number of
users. For an applicator of such a design can be gripped with 2 or
3 fingers and can be brought up to the eye in a convenient manner
from the front. The insecurity experienced by some users when a
finger carrier section has to be brought up to the eye from the
side using a long stem is eliminated. In particular, it is easier
to keep the applicator as steady as possible.
[0026] Another preferred embodiment provides that the two small
side surfaces include an angle .alpha..ltoreq.90.degree.,
preferably .ltoreq.85.degree., and preferably .gtoreq.65.degree.,
ideally .gtoreq.75.degree., with the straight connecting line
between the edges that the finger-covered end face forms towards
the small side surfaces of the finger carrier.
[0027] In this manner, a finger carrier that narrows towards the
side facing away from the eye is obtained. On the whole, such a
finger carrier is perceived as being not so massive and therefore
as being more pleasant when approaching the eye, even though it
makes a relatively large width available for the finger
covering.
[0028] It is another preferred design option that at least 30% and
preferably the predominant part of the main finger covering
consists of fingers that protrude from the distal end face of the
finger carrier. The distal end face of the finger carrier is the
surface of the finger carrier which faces away from the handling
means and directly faces the eye during the application as
intended. Equipping the finger carrier with bristles in this manner
is precisely what permits wetting the curve of the eyelashes with
mascara mass by a pivoting movement of the applicator about a
horizontally extending axis from the bottom upwards. Such an
application movement is perceived as being very pleasant.
[0029] Within the context of a clearly preferred embodiment of the
invention, the main finger covering is formed from bristles, i.e.
of bodies that are flexible to such an extent that their tip can be
deflected by at least 15%, better by at least 25% of their length
from the base to the tip. In this case, the bristles are preferably
injection-molded bristles, which are preferably injection-molded in
a single working step together with the bristle carrier, or
preferably even in a single working step together with the bristle
carrier and the handling means, and which ideally taper from their
bases to their tips, preferably steadily.
[0030] Within the context of another preferred embodiment of the
invention, it is provided that the jacket surface of the main
finger covering grasps around the distal end face of the finger
carrier at least over an angle .beta. of 120.degree. and
particularly preferably an angle of at least 150.degree.. A finger
covering is thus provided whose shell contour is substantially
similar to a roller, or a circumferential section of a roller.
Application is very pleasant with such a finger covering because
the roller can be brought before the eye in such a way that it
extends substantially parallel to the curve of the eyelashes and
then can be rolled over a certain distance on the eyelashes of the
curve of the eyelashes to be treated.
[0031] Preferably, a special, as a rule smooth, contact surface,
with which the wiper comes into engagement at rest without putting
a load on the bristles once the mascara applicator forms a part of
a completely sealed mascara unit, is formed on the plate forming
the finger carrier.
[0032] Ideally, this contact surface is constricted, or has an
offset, in relation to the section of the plate forming the finger
carrier which is covered with the fingers. This results in a
certain positive engagement between said contact surface and the
wiper lips.
[0033] Within the context of another preferred embodiment of the
invention, it is provided that the plate forming the finger carrier
forms a sealing surface which as a rule protrudes, in the manner of
a hilt, perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the applicator
and which, when the mascara applicator is part of a sealed mascara
unit, sealingly comes into engagement with a complementary surface
on the wiper or on the mascara container. This sealing surface is
preferably configured as a sealing surface which extends all around
and is closed in itself in the circumferential direction, and which
is ideally provided in such a way that it can act as a tapering or
conical seal. In this case, this sealing surface is preferably
designed in such a way that, when the mascara applicator is part of
a sealed mascara unit, it separates the mascara-wetted part of the
applicator from the remaining part of the applicator. It is thus
prevented that the mascara mass advances in more than only
inconsiderable amounts into areas that actually should not be
wetted by the mascara mass in order to ensure clean handling.
[0034] Preferably, the finger carrier and the handling means are
two independent components separate from each other. In order to be
able to interconnect them in an uncomplicated way, the finger
carrier comprises in the area of its proximal end face (i.e. facing
away from the eye) a connecting section for connection to the
handling means. In this case, the connecting section comprises a
latching means, preferably a latching projection or a latching
recess, for positive engagement of the finger carrier with a
complementary latching means of the handling means.
[0035] A particularly beneficial embodiment of the invention
provides that the mascara applicator comprises at least one
latching means with which the section forming the finger carrier
and/or the handling means can be fixed by positive fit directly on
the container accommodating the mascara applicator in its ready
position.
[0036] Further optional embodiments, advantages and effects become
apparent from the following description of the invention with
reference to four exemplary embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of the invention
seen from the side.
[0038] FIG. 1B shows a second exemplary embodiment of the invention
depicting a modification of the 1st exemplary embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 2 shows a section through the first exemplary
embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1 along the line of cut
A-A.
[0040] FIGS. 3 to 6 show a detailed view of the bristle covering as
is used by the two exemplary embodiments according to the FIGS. 1
and 1B.
[0041] FIG. 7 illustrates the flexibility of a bristle belonging to
a bristle covering as is used by the first exemplary embodiment and
the close modification of the first exemplary embodiment.
[0042] FIGS. 8 and 9 show a second exemplary embodiment in a side
view.
[0043] FIG. 10 shows a second exemplary embodiment in a top
view.
[0044] FIG. 11 shows the second exemplary embodiment head-on from
the front.
[0045] FIGS. 12 to 19 show alternative designs for fingers as they
can be used by the third exemplary embodiment of the invention
shown in the FIGS. 8 to 11.
[0046] FIGS. 20 to 22 show an option of providing an additional
special mass reservoir that can be applied by all the exemplary
embodiments.
[0047] FIGS. 23 to 25 show a fourth embodiment in various
views.
[0048] FIG. 26 shows the prior art known so far.
[0049] FIG. 27 also shows the prior art known so far.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0050] FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of the applicator
according to the invention. Here, the applicator has a two-part
structure and consists of a handling means 2, namely a handle, and
a finger carrier 10 rigidly attached thereto. As can be seen well
in FIG. 2, the finger carrier 10 comprises a connecting section 20
with which it is latched into a corresponding recess of the
handling means so that the proximal end face 14 of the finger
carrier and the distal end face 8 of the handling means rest
directly against one another (see FIG. 2).
[0051] FIG. 2 also shows that the finger carrier 10 is
substantially configured as a plate, i.e. as a
non-rotation-symmetrical body. The finger carrier 10 as such is
configured integrally, as a component injection-molded together
with the bristles in a single working step. The finger carrier has
a longitudinal axis 24 of its own, which is shown as a continuous
line in FIGS. 1 and 2, in contrast to the dash-dotted line
representing the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means.
[0052] Due to its plate-like design, the finger carrier 10 has two
large side surfaces 12 and two small side surfaces 11 (FIG. 11) as
well as a proximal end face 11 (FIG. 2) via which it transitions
into the handling means, and a distal end face covered with
bristles. Comparing the FIGS. 1 and 2, it can be seen that the
surface area of the two large side surfaces 12 is larger by at
least about the factor 2.5 than the surface of the two small side
surfaces 11, which constitutes the plate-like design within the
sense of the invention. In the predominant number of cases, the
size ratios will be even more in favor of the two large side
surfaces 12 than is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0053] In the area of its proximal end, the finger carrier 11 is
equipped with a kind of hilt as it is known from a knife, i.e. with
a structure protruding at least substantially radially with respect
to the longitudinal axis of the applicator. This radially
protruding structure is more pronounced along the large side
surfaces 12 than along the small side surfaces 11, but is
preferably also provided here, at least rudimentarily. This
radially protruding structure has the function of a stop which
limits the further insertion of the applicator into the storage
container, and preferably at the same time that of a sealing
surface 17, preferably in the shape of a conical seal. Thus, the
applicator rests sealingly, through this sealing surface, on the
storage container or a corresponding sealing surface of a wiper at
the moment it forms a sealed cosmetics unit together with a
corresponding storage container.
[0054] On its rear (i.e. proximally), the hilt is equipped with a
substantially planar stop face surrounding the latching appendage
or a latching opening of the plate carrier all around. With this
stop face, the finger carrier 10 contacts a corresponding,
preferably substantially equally large stop face of the handling
means 2. In particular, these two surfaces are elastically biased
against one another due to the latching engagement between the
finger plate and the handling means. These measures constitute a
particularly bending-resistant connection between the handling
means 2 and the finger carrier 10. According to FIG. 1, the distal
end face of the finger carrier has a curvature which is preferably
configured concavely, so that the lateral areas of the end face
protrude further in the distal direction than the area in the
center of the curvature. The radius of curvature of the end face is
preferably .gtoreq.20 mm and ideally .gtoreq.30 mm.
[0055] As can further be seen in FIG. 1, the planes in which the
predominant part of the finger carrier side surfaces 11 lie
include, with the straight connecting line VB placed over the two
corner areas of the curved distal end face 13, an angle .alpha.,
which is <90.degree., and is approximately 86.degree. in the
present exemplary embodiment.
[0056] FIG. 1 illustrates that the handling means and/or the finger
carrier optimally comprise a latching means 18 with which the
applicator can be latched to the storage container receiving it in
a rest position of the applicator, independently of a possible
latching engagement or retaining function of the wiper lip.
[0057] The synopsis of the FIGS. 1 and 2 show how the finger
covering is constructed.
[0058] In this exemplary embodiment, the finger covering consists
of a number of fine bristles which preferably have an average
diameter of .gtoreq.0.5 mm and preferably even .gtoreq.0.3 mm. The
bristles taper from their base areas towards their tips. Tapering
is preferably steady. Ideally, the cross section of the bristles is
circular, oval or elliptical. Due to the selection of their
material, the bristles are very elastic. Their tips can preferably
be deflected perpendicularly to the longitudinal bristle axis by an
amount AL, which is at least 25% and better at least 35% of the
length of the respective bristle from its base to its tip, without
more than only an inconsiderable permanent deformation occurring
when load is relieved. FIG. 7 depicts such a deflection.
[0059] In FIG. 1, the main covering axes extend from the left to
the right, because the bristle area has its largest extent in this
direction--while in this direction, more than 14 and preferably
even more than 16 bristles stand behind one another along a line,
less than 8 and preferably even less than 6 bristles, respectively,
stand behind one another along a line in the circumferential
direction. Accordingly, the main covering axis in FIG. 2 extends
substantially perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.
[0060] Generally, it must be noted that a main covering axis within
the sense of the invention preferably only is such a line along
which at least 10 and preferably at least 14, ideally at least 16
bristles are disposed one behind the other in alignment or, in
accordance with a regular pattern, alternating by a certain lateral
offset V, first in the one and then in the other direction.
[0061] Embodiments preferred for certain cases of application have
a bristle covering V (see FIG. 27), for which the following
applies: 0.25 bristle base diameter <V<1.25 bristle base
diameter. Ideally, the bristles disposed along a joint main axis of
the covering are exactly aligned one behind the other, apart from
manufacturing tolerances.
[0062] The bristles 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d and 5e, respectively, which are
shown by way of example, are respectively disposed in rows one
behind the other along a line, see FIGS. 1 to 5. The line
intersecting their base points, at which these bristles transition
into the bristle carrier respectively, constitutes the main
covering axis 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e, respectively.
[0063] It can be seen clearly in FIGS. 1 to 5 that the situation is
the same with respect to the other bristles that are not given
their own reference numerals.
[0064] In particular in FIG. 1, it can be seen clearly that each of
the main covering axes is curved over its entire length, and in
this exemplary embodiment approximately continuously. Even if that
is not discernible due to the highly enlarged illustration, the
curvature is selected approximately so that the distal end of the
applicator formed by the bristle tips (see arrow D in the Figures)
has a concave configuration and approximately corresponds to the
curvature of an eyelid. In this exemplary embodiment, the radius of
curvature is .gtoreq.20 mm.
[0065] As can be seen well in FIG. 2, a secondary covering axis or
a circumferential covering axis (not expressly marked by a
reference numeral) can be defined in the bristle covering, for the
bristles form a section of an approximately roller-shaped body,
seen in the circumferential direction. However, the circumferential
covering axis is strongly curved and in the present case forms a
radius of curvature .ltoreq.5 mm.
[0066] As can be seen, the largely roller-shaped jacket surface of
the main finger covering reaches around the distal end face of the
finger carrier over an angle .beta. of more than 150.degree., in
the specific case about 180.degree.. The bristle central lines at
least of those bristles whose main covering axis lies in the area
of the imaginary center of the bristle area extend substantially
parallel to the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means, whereas
the bristle central lines at least of one row of those bristles
whose main covering axis lies in the area of an edge of the bristle
area extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 3
of the handling means.
[0067] Instead of a substantially roller-shaped contour, the jacket
surface of the main finger covering could also have, for example, a
substantially barrel-shaped contour or a contour that substantially
corresponds to the contour of a so-called single-shell hyperboloid,
i.e. a centrally waisted rotation body whose diameter increases
again towards its two outer ends.
[0068] The main covering axes 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e, respectively,
and preferably all other main covering axes extend substantially
orthogonally to the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means 2. It
should be noted, not only with respect to this first exemplary
embodiment, that the longitudinal axis of the handling means as a
rule is the imaginary axis extending in the direction of the
greatest length of the handling means of the applicator.
[0069] Thus, the applicator can be brought up to the eye in a
convenient manner from the front, without it requiring, between the
handling means and the bristle carrier, a long stem which gives
rise to problems due to its length and in certain cases also due to
its elastic deformation.
[0070] As can be seen in FIG. 1, the bristles, in the direction
perpendicular to the main covering axes, are disposed with an
offset relative to one another. In the exemplary embodiment
specifically shown by FIG. 1, this offset is selected such that the
bristles are positioned along a second main covering axis, in each
case approximately in the area of the center of the intermediate
bristle space between two bristles that belong to a directly
adjacent bristle row extending along a first main covering
axis.
[0071] According to the invention, the plate-like finger carrier is
equipped with a bare plate section, i.e. a plate section that
carries no fingers or bristles and has itself two large bare side
surfaces and two smaller bare side surfaces that are smaller by at
least the factor 2.5, better by at least the factor 5, see FIGS. 1
and 2. This bare plate section serves as a contact surface 15 for
the wiper whenever the mascara applicator is a part of a completely
sealed mascara unit. Since this plate section does not bear any
bristles, the wiper is able to nestle against it in its rest
position without the wiper or bristles becoming overstrained and
deformed thereby in an undesired manner in the long run.
[0072] Preferably, in relation to the plate section of the plate
forming the finger carrier which is covered with the fingers, the
contact surface 15 is constricted, or forms an offset at least in
the area of its large side surfaces, into which the respective
wiper lip can nestle when assuming its rest position. On the one
hand, a further load relief of the wiper lips becomes possible
thereby. On the other hand, this can result a positive engagement
between the wiper lip concerned and the contact surface 15. The
latter may contribute to fixing the applicator relative to the
storage container for the mascara mass.
[0073] FIGS. 3 to 5 show a more detailed illustration of the
bristle area of the applicator according to FIG. 1. As in the other
Figures, the arrows D and P illustrate in these FIGS. 3 to 5 which
directions are referred to by the adjectives distal (=D) and
proximal (=P).
[0074] How the respective main axes of the covering 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d
and 4e, respectively, extend or how they are to be determined is
once again shown by way of example in these Figures with the
bristles 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d and 5e, respectively. The preferably
slightly curved contour of the main covering axes can be seen,
rather clearly, in these Figures. The fact is easily recognizable
that there is (viewed in the direction of the main covering axes) a
row of bristles whose bristles are injection-molded to the distal
end face 13 of the plate-like finger carrier in such a manner that
they protrude substantially perpendicularly to the surface of this
middle area of the distal end face 13, and that there is at least
one further bristle row that is also injection-molded to the distal
end face 13 of the plate-like finger carrier in such a way,
however, that the bristles of this at least one further bristle row
include with the surface of the middle area of the distal end face
an angle .mu..gtoreq.10.degree., wherein, however,
.mu..ltoreq.30.degree.. By means of such a bristle arrangement, the
applicator brought up to the eye head-on from the front achieves a
good combing effect.
[0075] In this context, at least one bristle row is ideally
provided additionally at the distal end face 13 where the angle
.mu.=45.degree.+/-7.5.degree., and better still
45.degree.+/-3.degree.. Preferably, the bristle area is configured
symmetrically in the direction perpendicular to the main covering
axes in such a way that bristle areas whose bristles respectively
protrude substantially at the same angle .mu. from the distal end
face respectively adjoin, by and by, to both sides of the bristle
rows whose bristles substantially protrude perpendicularly from the
distal end face.
[0076] It must be noted that, in any case, the predominant part of
the central lines of all bristles extending along one and the same
main covering axis are substantially oriented in parallel, which
can also be seen well in FIGS. 3 to 5.
[0077] FIG. 1b shows a second exemplary embodiment of the
invention. This second exemplary embodiment of the invention
completely corresponds to the first exemplary embodiment of the
invention which was explained above. Therefore, all statements made
above also apply without qualification to this second exemplary
embodiment. The sole difference between this first exemplary
embodiment and the second exemplary embodiment is the
following:
[0078] The finger carrier 10 in this exemplary embodiment is
provided with a recess 22. In this way, two optimally flexible webs
are produced via which the proximal part of the finger carrier to
which the handling means is bonded is connected to the distal part
of the finger carrier carrying the bristles.
[0079] FIGS. 8-12 show a third exemplary embodiment of the
invention which comprises a finger covering of substantially rigid
finger-like elements instead of a covering of flexible bristles.
Moreover, this exemplary embodiment comprises a handling means
whose longitudinal axis 3 is bent relative to the longitudinal axis
24 of the finger carrier. In other respects, this third exemplary
embodiment of the invention also corresponds completely to the
first exemplary embodiment of the invention which was explained
above.
[0080] Therefore, all of the statements made above in respect of
the first exemplary embodiment apply without qualification to this
third exemplary embodiment, with the exception of the statements
that were made specifically with regard to the bristles. In
particular, the finger carrier comprises the two large and small
side surfaces 11 and 12 mentioned above, the bent arrangement of
the two small side surfaces 11 relative to the straight line
connecting the outer edges of the distal end face 8, the sealing
surface 17 extending in the circumferential direction, which is
preferably designed like a hilt, the division into two parts of the
applicator into a finger carrier 10 and a handling means 2 engaged
therewith, as well as a latching means 18 by means of which the
applicator can be latched to the storage container receiving it in
a rest position of the applicator, independently of a possible
engagement or retaining function of the wiper lip.
[0081] The finger-like elements of this exemplary embodiment are
configured like small pyramids or teeth 5a to 5c. These small,
substantially rigid pyramids or teeth are also disposed in rows one
behind the other along a line, see FIG. 11. The line that centrally
intersects their base point at which these pyramids or teeth
transition into the bristle carrier respectively constitutes the
main covering axis 4a, 4b, or 4c. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the
main covering axes and the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling
means do not intersect, but are disposed relative to one another in
such a manner that they include a substantially right angle if
projected onto one another. In this regard, reference is made in
particular to FIG. 9, which expressly shows the main covering axis
4b, in particular.
[0082] The main covering axis is preferably curved also in this
case, within the limits described above in respect of the first
exemplary embodiment. However, the main covering axis is not
concavely curved in this case, but convexly curved.
[0083] In FIGS. 8 to 11, the main covering axes extend from the
left to the right, because the bristle area has its largest extent
in this direction--while in this direction, more than 14 and
preferably even more than 16 bristles stand behind one another
along a line, less than 8 and preferably even less than 6 bristles,
respectively, stand behind one another along a line in the
circumferential direction. Accordingly, the main covering axes in
FIG. 11 extend substantially parallel to the plane of the drawing.
Moreover, the way the main axes of the covering extend is also
illustrated for this third exemplary embodiment by FIG. 12, with
reference to the example of the main axis of the covering 4c for
bristle 5c.
[0084] Generally, it must be noted also for this third exemplary
embodiment that a main covering axis within the sense of the
invention preferably only is such a line along which at least 10
and preferably at least 14, ideally at least 16 bristles are
disposed one behind the other in alignment or, in accordance with a
regular pattern, alternating by a certain lateral offset, first in
the one and then in the other direction.
[0085] The pyramids are preferably configured as pyramids with 4
lateral surfaces.
[0086] The longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means is inclined
relative to the longitudinal axis 24 of the finger carrier by an
angle .OMEGA.. The following preferably applies for this angle:
5.degree..ltoreq..OMEGA..ltoreq.45.degree. and ideally
7.5.degree..ltoreq..OMEGA..ltoreq.30.degree..
[0087] The applicator comprises an additional latching means 19 for
connection to the storage container once the applicator assumes its
rest position relative thereto.
[0088] FIG. 13 shows alternative options for embodiments for such
fingers as are used by the above-described third exemplary
embodiment.
[0089] For example, there is the option of using fingers 5w.sub.1
with forked ends 66, wherein these ends 66 can be so narrow beyond
(distally of) the fork that they are as elastic as was defined
within the context of the first exemplary embodiment for the
bristles described by it. However, they may also be more or less
rigid. The intermediate space 67 between two ends branching off due
to the forking from one and the same root can then be used as an
additional mass reservoir. The further intermediate space 68, which
is cut in deeply, also serves for improving the mass reservoir
capacity.
[0090] Other fingers 5w.sub.2 are configured like arrows and are
thus capable of better retaining individual eyelashes in their
intermediate arrow space 69. This improves curling, i.e. the
possibility of providing the eyelashes with a stronger
curvature.
[0091] Still other fingers 5w.sub.3 are designed to be pin-like and
comprise, at least in the area of the center of the finger, a
constricted portion, whereas the distal end of the respective
finger thickens again relative to the constricted portion.
[0092] All of these fingers are disposed along a main covering axis
4w, as was already described in respect of the other exemplary
embodiments.
[0093] As FIG. 14 shows, the fingers can be disposed in a single
row, i.e. for example on an applicator that is otherwise configured
in accordance with FIGS. 8 to 11, they form a finger covering
consisting only of a single row of fingers that are disposed one
behind the other. The main covering axis is in this case depicted
by the line 4.
[0094] FIG. 15 shows another alternative for the fingers which,
with regard to function, largely corresponds to the above-described
fingers 5w.sub.1, so that the statements in respect thereof apply,
mutatis mutandis, to the fingers according to FIG. 15.
[0095] The main covering axis is depicted by the line 4 also in
this case.
[0096] The fingers shown by FIG. 15 respectively consist of a
uniform root which protrudes on both sides of two deeply cut
intermediate spaces 69. Each root finally transitions into at least
three, preferably at least four fork-like ends 66 with intermediate
spaces 67 respectively formed therebetween, each of which is
smaller than a deeply cut intermediate space 69. The fork-like ends
can be similarly elastic as was described above with regard to the
bristles of the first exemplary embodiment, but may also be more or
less rigid. The decisive factor also in this case is the
improvement of the mass reservoir capacity due to the particular
form of all the intermediate spaces.
[0097] The fingers shown by FIG. 15 can be disposed in a single
row, i.e. for example on an applicator that is otherwise configured
in accordance with FIGS. 8 to 11, they form a finger covering
consisting only of a single row of fingers that are disposed one
behind the other.
[0098] As FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate, these fingers can, however,
also be disposed in several rows, and in particular in three rows,
for example in such a manner as is shown by the FIG. 11, which is
unchanged in this respect. A main covering axis is depicted, by way
of example, by the line 4 also in this case.
[0099] FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate another alternative for the
fingers. Here, the fingers are configured as acute-angled wedges
instead of pyramidally. They are preferably disposed next to one
another in three rows, preferably also on the distal end face of an
applicator as is otherwise shown in FIGS. 8 to 11. A main covering
axis is depicted, by way of example, by the line 4 also in this
case.
[0100] FIGS. 20 to 22 illustrate a particular type of mass
reservoir as can basically be used optionally for all applicators
described as being in accordance with the invention.
[0101] The actual bristle covering in FIG. 20 is formed by a row,
preferably only a single row, of fingers (in this case, purely by
way of example, in the form of triangular teeth) disposed along a
main covering axis 4 oriented according to the invention. At least
on a flank that is parallel to the main covering axis, a lamella
covering consisting of lamellas 77 disposed substantially parallel
to one another is disposed on a distal part of the large side
surface 12 of the finger carrier 10. The lamellas have a different
geometry from the actual fingers. Preferably, they are thicker by
at least the factor 2, viewed in the direction of the main covering
axes, than a single finger at its base area, i.e. in the area with
which it transitions into the finger carrier. These lamellas
enclose additional mass reservoir spaces 78 between them. Ideally,
the intermediate spaces enclosed between adjacent fingers directly
open into one of the mass reservoir spaces 78 so that an eyelash
which comes to rest in the intermediate space between two adjacent
fingers can also be charged with mascara mass that was first stored
in the mass reservoir space 78 concerned.
[0102] FIGS. 23 to 25 show a fourth exemplary embodiment which is
basically the most strongly related to the first exemplary
embodiment described above. Therefore, the statements regarding the
configuration of the bristle covering of the first exemplary
embodiment and the illustrations of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 to 7 also
apply without qualification to this fourth exemplary embodiment.
This is also shown by FIG. 23, in which a main covering axis
associated with the bristles 5 (these are those bristles that lie
exactly in the plane of drawing) is depicted, by way of example, by
a line that bears the reference numeral 4. As can be seen, the main
covering axis extends orthogonally to the longitudinal axis 3 of
the handling means 2 also in this case.
[0103] However, there are differences with regard to the
configuration of the finger or bristle carrier. In this case, this
is not consistently configured in the shape of a plate, but either
substantially rod-shaped and in this case substantially
cylindrical, oval or approximately quadrangular, and then
corresponds to the comparable section of the plate-shaped finger
carrier of the first exemplary embodiment.
[0104] The finger carrier is not proximally coupled to the handling
means, but unilaterally via one of its small side surfaces 11.
[0105] What is special in this case, however, is the fact that the
substantial part of the handling means does not lie on the side of
the small end face 11 through which the bristle carrier 10 is
coupled to the handling means 2, but on the side of the bristle
carrier 10 maximally averted from the bristle covering. To this
end, a preferably substantially c-shaped, u-shaped or approximately
semi-circular bracket section 90 is formed on the handling means
which connects the part of the handling means adjacent to the small
end face 11 of the finger carrier 10 to the part of the handling
means lying on the side of the finger carrier 10 maximally averted
from the bristle covering.
[0106] Thus, even though this is an applicator brought up to the
eye head-on from the front (in the manner described for the first
exemplary embodiment), an applicator is provided which--apart from
its small side surfaces 11, which are used for connecting
purposes--comprises a finger carrier 10 that is accessible from all
sides, which is inserted in the usual manner into a storage
container, and which, above all, can be wiped off in the usual
manner when it is pulled out again (without using a modified or
significantly modified wiper). FIG. 25 illustrates this. In this
Figure, a storage container and a wiper of an at least largely
conventional design are shown in dashed lines.
[0107] As a matter of form, the following must be remarked with
regard to the system of reference numerals: Fingers or bristles are
basically given the reference numeral 5, the associated main
address of the covering is basically given the reference numeral 4.
In order to be able to refer to different bristle rows, letters a,
b, c etc. are affixed to the reference numeral used, so that the
reference numeral 5a, for example, marks bristles of the bristle
row a and the reference numeral 4a refers to the main covering axis
of the bristle row a.
* * * * *