U.S. patent application number 13/496826 was filed with the patent office on 2012-07-19 for false eyelashes.
This patent application is currently assigned to PROPIA CO., LTD. Invention is credited to Hiroshi Hochi, Mitsuhiro Watanabe.
Application Number | 20120180804 13/496826 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43758661 |
Filed Date | 2012-07-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120180804 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hochi; Hiroshi ; et
al. |
July 19, 2012 |
FALSE EYELASHES
Abstract
A false eyelash that is easily wearable and prevented from
slippage and separation while in use includes an extremely thin
base, bonding layer formed linearly on a surface of the base, a
plurality of hair segments individually and separately adhered to
the bonding layer, and an adhesive layer formed on an entire
underside of the base. The base is formed into substantially a
two-dimensional configuration or three-dimensional configuration
that contours a curved shape of an eyelid to which the base is
fitted. Since the base is formed into an extremely thin
two-dimensional configuration or a three-dimensional configuration
that contours a curved shape of the eyelid, it may be fitted
tightly to the eyelid. The hair segments are firmly adhered to the
bonding layer such that they remain linearly attached to the base,
by which the false eyelash with the well-aligned hair segments can
easily be fitted to the eyelid.
Inventors: |
Hochi; Hiroshi; (Tokyo,
JP) ; Watanabe; Mitsuhiro; (Tokyo, JP) |
Assignee: |
PROPIA CO., LTD
Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
43758661 |
Appl. No.: |
13/496826 |
Filed: |
September 14, 2010 |
PCT Filed: |
September 14, 2010 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2010/065848 |
371 Date: |
March 16, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/53 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41G 5/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/53 |
International
Class: |
A41G 5/02 20060101
A41G005/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 17, 2009 |
JP |
2009-215955 |
Aug 10, 2010 |
JP |
2010-179710 |
Aug 10, 2010 |
JP |
2010-179711 |
Claims
1. A false eyelash comprising: a base having extremely small
thickness, a bonding layer formed linearly on a surface of said
base, a plurality of hair segments individually and separately
adhered to said bonding layer, and an adhesive layer formed on an
entire underside of said base, wherein said base is formed into a
three-dimensional configuration that contours a curved shape of an
eyelid to which said base is fitted.
2. A false eyelash comprising: a base having extremely small
thickness, a bonding layer formed linearly on a surface of said
base, a plurality of hair segments individually and separately
adhered to said bonding layer, and an adhesive layer formed on an
entire underside of said base, wherein said base is formed into
substantially a two-dimensional shape.
3. The false eyelash according to claim 1, wherein said base is
smaller than said eyelid.
4. The false eyelash according to claim 1, wherein a base end
portion of said base is cut linearly, and an end portion thereof
opposite to said base end portion is cut into a convex arc
shape.
5. The false eyelash according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of
said base is not greater than 20 micrometers.
6. The false eyelash according to claim 1, wherein a root portion
of said hair segment is formed to have a curved shape in
cross-section.
7. The false eyelash according to claim 6, wherein said root
portion is formed to have a sphere in cross-section.
8. The false eyelash according to claim 7, wherein said hair
segment is cut by a laser beam.
9. The false eyelash according to claim 1, wherein a root portion
of said hair segment is formed into a planar shape.
10. The false eyelash according to claim 9, wherein said hair
segment is cut by a cutter.
11. The false eyelash according to claim 1, wherein said hair
segments are adhered to said bonding layer while they are connected
and aligned with each other by one or more linear members.
12. The false eyelash according to claim 11, wherein said hair
segments are entwined with said linear members.
13. The false eyelash according to claim 11, wherein said hair
segments are bonded to said linear members.
14. The false eyelash according to claim 12, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises a single linear member.
15. The false eyelash according to claim 12, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises plural linear members.
16. The false eyelash according to claim 12, wherein said one or
more linear members and said hair segments are formed in one
body.
17. The false eyelash according to claim 6, wherein said hair
segments are adhered to a lower end portion of said bonding
layer.
18. The false eyelash according to claim 6, wherein said root
portion of said hair segment is adhered perpendicularly to said
bonding layer.
19. The false eyelash according to claim 6, wherein said root
portion of said hair segment is adhered aslant to said bonding
layer.
20. The false eyelash according to claim 6, wherein a leading end
portion of said hair segment is curled outwardly in relation to a
base end portion of said base.
21. The false eyelash according to claim 13, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises a single linear member.
22. The false eyelash according to claim 13, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises plural linear members.
23. The false eyelash according to claim 13, wherein said one or
more linear members and said hair segments are formed in one
body.
24. The false eyelash according to claim 2, wherein a base end
portion of said base is cut linearly, and an end portion thereof
opposite to said base end portion is cut into a convex arc
shape.
25. The false eyelash according to claim 2, wherein the thickness
of said base is not greater than 20 micrometers.
26. The false eyelash according to claim 2, wherein a root portion
of said hair segment is formed to have a curved shape in
cross-section.
27. The false eyelash according to claim 26, wherein said root
portion is formed to have a sphere in cross-section.
28. The false eyelash according to claim 27, wherein said hair
segment is cut by a laser beam.
29. The false eyelash according to claim 2, wherein a root portion
of said hair segment is formed into a planar shape.
30. The false eyelash according to claim 29, wherein said hair
segment is cut by a cutter.
31. The false eyelash according to claim 2, wherein said hair
segments are adhered to said bonding layer while they are connected
and aligned with each other by one or more linear members.
32. The false eyelash according to claim 31, wherein said hair
segments are entwined with said linear members.
33. The false eyelash according to claim 31, wherein said hair
segments are bonded to said linear members.
34. The false eyelash according to claim 32, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises a single linear member.
35. The false eyelash according to claim 32, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises plural linear members.
36. The false eyelash according to claim 32, wherein said one or
more linear members and said hair segments are formed in one
body.
37. The false eyelash according to claim 26, wherein said hair
segments are adhered to a lower end portion of said bonding
layer.
38. The false eyelash according to claim 26, wherein said root
portion of said hair segment is adhered perpendicularly to said
bonding layer.
39. The false eyelash according to claim 26, wherein said root
portion of said hair segment is adhered aslant to said bonding
layer.
40. The false eyelash according to claim 26, wherein a leading end
portion of said hair segment is curled outwardly in relation to a
base end portion of said base.
41. The false eyelash according to claim 33, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises a single linear member.
42. The false eyelash according to claim 33, wherein said one or
more linear members comprises plural linear members.
43. The false eyelash according to claim 33, wherein said one or
more linear members and said hair segments are formed in one body.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a false eyelash.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] As shown in FIG. 12, the prior art false eyelash 103
comprises an extremely thin linear base 101 having approximately
0.5 mm width and artificial eyelash transplanted onto the base,
which is attached with bonding agent to an eyelid just above an
eyelash 122. Another type prior art is, as shown in FIG. 13,
adhered spottedly by using tweezers, for example, to a removed part
of an eyelash 122 or to other reinforcing sites, at usually one or
several points.
PRIOR ARTS
Patent Documents
[0003] Patent Document 1: JP1974-044493A(U)
[0004] Patent Document 2: JP2008-231632A
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Problems to be Solved
[0005] The prior arts use bonding agent for adhesion of false
eyelash, which has the risk that the eye could be damaged.
Accordingly, the false eyelash adhering operation should be done
with case, which requires prudent attention and take a long time.
In some case, the false eyelash is used even though not
sufficiently adhered.
[0006] This will result from the following reasons. As shown in
FIG. 14, the prior art false eyelash is linear and, therefore, may
be variously deformed when it is to be adhered. It may be deformed
in a vertical direction, in a horizontal direction and in any
directions in 360 degrees. The false eyelash should be adhered to
the lower edge of an upper eyelid, which is difficult enough as it
is. In addition, the linear false eyelash with full deformability
should be adhered to such site. This makes it extremely difficult
to fit the false eyelash in position, which requires high-level
skill.
[0007] Even if it is once adhered successfully, it is adhered
linearly or spottily only in an extremely small area so that it
could be slipped off due to up-and-down movement of the eyelid
while in use, which greatly spoils appearance.
[0008] The prior art false eyelash has a linear or spotty base 101
providing a small area for adhesion, which makes it impossible to
wear the false eyelash for a long period of time. It could be
detached or slipped off by face-washing.
[0009] Moreover, the prior art requires use of solvent-containing
bonding agent, when it is to be fitted to the eyelid or while in
use, so that a wearer cannot open her eyes for a predetermined time
after the false eyelash is adhered, because solvent will
volatilize.
[0010] Furthermore, the linear base, especially its opposite end
portions may hit against the eyelid, which causes pain to a wearer.
Because of the linear body to be attached, it lasts only six hours
around at the longest. It would easily be removed by face-washing
or tears.
[0011] To cope with these problems, the present inventors have
offered Patent Document 2, which, however, still have the following
defects.
[0012] The false eyelash of Patent Document 2 utilizes a base that
has been developed for a hair-transplanted wig with a rugged
underside. When such base is fitted onto a head, ruggedness on the
underside will turn the other way around. Such inversion of
ruggedness on the underside can be expected because the wig has
relatively wide area for fitting. This, however, is not practically
applicable to a false eyelash to be fitted to an eyelid. This is
because why an eyelid is one of the thinnest human skin sites,
usually having thickness of the order of 10-20 micrometers, which
could not bear a great value of pressure applicable to a head when
a wig is to be fitted.
[0013] Accordingly, an adhesive layer only on the convex of the
base underside is adhered to the eyelid, but the adhesive layer on
the concave is very hard to be adhered to the eyelid.
[0014] As a consequence, a gap is formed between the concave and
the eyelid to lower the fitting power and also lower the fitting
period, by which the false eyelash once adhered could be easy to be
removed due to water flooded into the concave during face-washing
or by tears.
[0015] The object of the present invention is to eliminate the
above-described defects, more particularly to provide a false
eyelash that is easily wearable with hair segments being aligned in
good order and is prevented from slippage and separation while in
use. Other objects will become apparent from the following
description.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0016] To achieve the above-described objects, a false eyelash
according to the present invention is characterized in that it
comprises an extremely thin base, a bonding layer formed linearly
on a surface of the base, a plurality of hair segments individually
and separately adhered to the bonding layer, and an adhesive layer
formed on an entire underside of the base, said base being formed
into a three-dimensional configuration that contours a curved shape
of an eyelid to which the base is fitted.
[0017] In another aspect, the false eyelash according to the
present invention is characterized in that it comprises an
extremely thin base, a bonding layer formed linearly on a surface
of the base, a plurality of hair segments individually and
separately adhered to the bonding layer, and an adhesive layer
formed on an entire underside of the base, said base being formed
into substantially a two-dimensional shape.
[0018] The false eyelash according to Claim 1 is further
characterized in that the base is smaller than the eyelid.
[0019] The false eyelash according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 is further
characterized in that a base end portion of said base is cutting
linearly, and its end portion opposite to said base end portion is
cut into a convex arc shape.
[0020] The false eyelash according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 is further
characterized in that the thickness of said base is equal to or
smaller than 20 micrometers.
[0021] The false eyelash according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 is further
characterized in that a root portion of said hair segment is formed
to have a curved shape in cross-section.
[0022] The false eyelash according to Claim 6 is further
characterized in that said root portion is formed to have a sphere
in cross-section.
[0023] The false eyelash according to Claim 7 is further
characterized in that said hair segment is cut by a laser beam.
[0024] The false eyelash according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 is further
characterized in that a root portion of said hair segment is formed
into a planar shape.
[0025] The false eyelash according to Claim 9 is further
characterized in that said hair segment is cut by a cutter.
[0026] The false eyelash according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 is further
characterized in that said hair segments are adhered to said
bonding layer while they are connected and aligned with each other
by one or more linear members.
[0027] The false eyelash according to Claim 11 is further
characterized in that said hair segments are entwined with said
linear members.
[0028] The false eyelash according to Claim 11 is further
characterized in that said hair segments are bonded to said linear
members.
[0029] The false eyelash according to Claim 12 or Claim 13 is
further characterized in that said linear member(s) comprises a
single one.
[0030] The false eyelash according to Claim 12 or Claim 13 is
further characterized in that said linear member(s) comprises
plural ones.
[0031] The false eyelash according to Claim 12 or Claim 13 is
further characterized in that said linear member(s) and said hair
segments are formed in one body.
[0032] The false eyelash according to any one of Claim 6 to Claim
16 is further characterized in that said hair segments are adhered
to a lower end portion of said bonding layer.
[0033] The false eyelash according to any one of Claim 6 to Claim
17 is further characterized in that said root portion of said hair
segment is adhered perpendicularly to said bonding layer.
[0034] The false eyelash according to any one of Claim 6 to Claim
17 is further characterized in that said root portion of said hair
segment is adhered aslant to said bonding layer.
[0035] The false eyelash according to any one of Claim 6 to Claim
17 is further characterized in that a leading end portion of said
hair segment is curled outwardly in relation to a base end portion
of said base.
Effects of Invention
[0036] In the false eyelash according to the present invention,
since the base is formed into a three-dimensional configuration
that contours a curved shape of the eyelid, it may be fitted
tightly to the eyelid. Even when the base is formed into
substantially a two-dimensional configuration, the base is
extremely thin and, therefore, can be fitted tightly to the eyelid
along the curved shape of the eyelid. At this time, the hair
segments are firmly adhered to the bonding layer in such manner
that they remain linearly attached to the base, by which the false
eyelash with the hair segments being kept in well aligned state can
easily be fitted to the eyelid.
[0037] Further, when it is fitted to the eyelid, because the hair
segments are linearly attached to the lower end portion of the
base, it can be fitted in such manner that the hair segments are
substantially aligned with the own eyelash. Accordingly, the false
eyelash could not be distinguished from the own eyelash, providing
very good appearance. In addition, the remaining portion of the
bonding layer is not visible, providing good visibility.
[0038] The false eyelash according to the present invention
provides a planar, wide area for adhesion, and said wide adhesive
area is adhered to an upper eyelid, for example. Accordingly, in
addition to the fact that the surfaces of the base held by the user
are wide, planar, easily-handled surfaces, it is very easy to
position the base end portion to align with the lower edge of the
upper eyelid when fitting the false eyelash, thereby greatly saving
labor and time required for the fitting operation. Further, the
adhesive surface is planar and has a wide area for adhesion to the
eyelid, which prevent slippage and separation of the false eyelash
while in use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0039] FIG. 1: (A) is a front view showing an embodiment of a false
eyelash according to the present invention, (B) is a plan view of
(A), (C) is an enlarged left-side view of (A), (D) is a rear view
of (A), (E) is an oblique view of (A), and (F) is an enlarged view
showing F portion in (D);
[0040] FIG. 2: (A) is a front view showing another embodiment of a
false eyelash according to the present invention, (B) is a plan
view of (A), (C) is an enlarged left-side view of (A), (D) is a
rear view of (A), (E) is an oblique view of (A), and (F) is an
enlarged view showing F portion in (D);
[0041] FIG. 3: (A) is an upper surface view of a base, for use to a
left eye, of FIG. 2, (B) is an upper surface view of a base, for
use to a right eye, of the same, and (C) is a C-C cross-section of
(A);
[0042] FIG. 4: (A) is a front view showing another embodiment of
hair segments used in a false eyelash according to the present
invention, (B) is a right-side view of (A), (C) is a front view
showing still another embodiment, (D) is a right-side view of (C),
(E) is a front view showing still another embodiment, (F) is a
right-side view of (E), (G) is a front view showing still another
embodiment, and (H) is a right-side view of (G);
[0043] FIG. 5: (A) is a front view showing still another embodiment
of a false eyelash according to the present invention, (B) is a
plan view of (A), (C) is a left-side view of (A), (D) is a rear
view of (A), (E) is an oblique view of (A), (F) is an enlarged view
showing F portion in (C), and (G) is an enlarged view showing G
portion in (D);
[0044] FIG. 6 shows an example of process of manufacturing a false
eyelash according to the present invention, wherein (A) shows a
first step, (B) shows a second step, (C) shows a third step, and
(D) shows fourth and fifth steps;
[0045] FIG. 7: (A) is a front view showing an example of a size
pattern scale of a false eyelash according to the present
invention, (B) is a front view showing another embodiment, and (C)
is a front view showing still another embodiment;
[0046] FIG. 8: (A) is a schematic front view showing the false
eyelash according to the present invention in a fitted state, (B)
is a right-side view of (A), and (C) is an enlarged view showing C
portion in (B);
[0047] FIG. 9 is a view explaining the false eyelash according to
the present invention in a fitted state;
[0048] FIG. 10: (A) is a view explaining the cutting of the base,
and (B) is a view showing the cutting of the base according to the
present invention;
[0049] FIG. 11: (A) is an enlarged side view showing another
embodiment of a false eyelash according to the present invention,
(B) is an enlarged view of B portion in (A), and (C) is an enlarged
side view showing still another embodiment of a false eyelash
according to the present invention;
[0050] FIG. 12: (A) is a schematic front view showing an example of
the prior art false eyelash, and (B) is a front view showing in
general the fitted state of the false eyelash (A);
[0051] FIG. 13(A) is a schematic front view showing another example
of the prior art false eyelash, and (B) is a front view showing in
general the fitted state of the false eyelash (A); and
[0052] FIG. 14 is a view explaining the fitted state of the prior
art false eyelash.
EMBODIMENTS FOR PRACTICING THE INVENTION
[0053] Next, the false eyelash according to the present invention
will be described in more detail based on the drawings that
illustrate embodiments thereof. As a matter of convenience, any
part having the same facility will be represented by the same
reference numeral and their explanation will be omitted.
[0054] In FIG. 1, a reference numeral 1 denotes a base consisting
of an extremely thin sheet. Its thickness is equivalent to a human
skin (of the order of 20 micrometers, for example). The base 1 is
made from elastic material such as polyurethane, tinged with a
transparent light skin color and contoured into a three-dimensional
configuration in conformity to a curved shape of an eyelid. The
base 1 has a space 2a on its surface, which extends along a lower
end portion 1c in a lengthwise direction, and also has a bonding
layer 4 on the lower end portion 1c, leaving the space 2a. At the
opposite ends of the bonding layer 4, there are spaces 2b of
substantially equal size. The bonding layer 4 comprises UV-curable
agent and is formed linearly on the base 1 (shown in FIG. 6(B)), to
which hair segments 3 are adhered. A reference numeral 1d denotes
an upper end portion of the base 1, which is formed into a convex
arc. On the entire underside of the base 1 is formed an adhesive
layer 7 comprising a medical-grade adhesive agent for fitting to a
human body. The adhesive layer 7 comprises, for example, acrylic
adhesive agent, which is formed with even thickness on the entire
underside of the base 1 by transfer process. More particularly,
acrylic adhesive agent having release papers (PET) on the opposite
sides thereof is prepared, and one of the release papers is
separated from one side so that the said side is firmly fixed to
the entire underside of the base 1. For use, a release paper 9 at
the other side is separated, and then the base is adhered to an
application site of an upper eyelid 20 (shown in FIG. 7(A)-(C)).
Reference numerals 3 denote hair segments that are individually and
separately adhered to the base 1, which comprises polyester fiber,
for example. The hair segment 3 is formed such that its leading end
portion is curled upwardly.
[0055] A root portion 5 of the hair segment 3 is formed into
substantially a sphere, which is adhered to the bonding layer 4.
The adhesion is carried out in such a manner that the root portion
5 is positioned on the lower end portion 4a of the bonding layer 4,
as shown in FIG. 1(C). Its reason will be described later.
[0056] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the base 1 is curved into
a three-dimensional configuration, after being cut into a
predetermined false eyelash shape, as described later. In this
case, the length (f) of the base end portion 1c of the base 1a
might be greater than the length (i) of the eyelid 20 (shown in
FIG. 8(A)) between the inner corner and the tail of a human eye
(f>i), equal to the latter (f=i) or smaller than the latter
(f<i). As a result of experiment, it has been revealed that the
case of (f>i) can provide the same effect as in the case of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and more particularly will prevent
separation of the false eyelash due to presence of the spaces 2a,
2b on the base 1. This will be described later based on FIG. 10. It
has also been found that the case of (f=i) is preferable, because
it will, in addition to achieving the above effect, prevent
wrinkling of the base end portion 1c when fitted onto the upper
eyelid 20, more effectively than in the embodiment of FIG. 2. It
has also been found that the case of (f<i) is still more
preferable, because it will, in addition to achieving the above
effects, facilitate the fitting to the upper eyelid 20 and prevent
wrinkling of the base end portion 1c more effectively, when
compared with the embodiment shown in FIG. 2.
[0057] FIG. 2 shows the second embodiment of a false eyelash
according to the present invention. A base 1 of this embodiment is
formed substantially planar, not customized. Hair segments 3 are
adhered to the bonding layer 4 in a state wherein they are
connected with each other by linear members 31. The structure
excepting these points will be similar to the embodiment of FIG.
1.
[0058] FIG. 3 shows the base 1 used in the false eyelash of FIG. 2.
The spaces will be explained here. The spaces 2a, 2b should be
somewhat smaller than the diameter of a single hair. More
particularly, a distance a.sub.1 should preferably be about 0.1-0.6
mm, and a distance a.sub.2 should preferably be about 0.1-0.6 mm.
The base 1 in this embodiment has length L of about 26 mm,
considering that an average eye size i of a Japanese (shown in FIG.
8(A)) is about 30 mm. Its maximum width is about 2.6 mm (WO for a
single-edged eyelid, and about 4 mm (W.sub.2) for double-edged or
internally double-edged eyelid. The base 1 may have various shapes
depending upon the shape of an eyelid to which it is to be fitted,
as described later based on FIG. 7. Accordingly, the maximum width
is represented generally as W in FIG. 3.
[0059] The hair segments 3 will be explained here. In this
embodiment, the plural hair segments 3 are adhered individually and
separately to the bonding layer 4 in such manner that they are
connected with each other by linear members 31. The above-described
arrangement of the hair segments 3 may have various embodiments.
For example, plural hair segments 3 may be entwined and combined
with one or more linear members 31. For example, FIGS. 4(a) and (B)
show embodiments wherein plural hair segments 3 are incorporated
into two linear members 31, 31 entangling with each other and
inserted into the bonding component of the bonding layer 4. FIGS.
4(C) and (D) show embodiments wherein plural hair segments 3 are
clamped between two parallel-extending linear members 31,31 and
inserted into the bonding component of the bonding layer 4. FIGS.
4(E) and (F) show embodiments wherein plural hair segments 3 are
bonded to a single linear member 31 by bonding agent and inserted,
in this state, into the bonding component of the bonding layer 4.
FIGS. 4(G) and (H) show embodiments wherein plural hair segments 3
are tied with a single linear member 31 and inserted, in this
state, into the bonding component of the bonding layer 4. The
linear member 31 may be thread, silk gut or the like. The length d
of the hear segment 3 is formed to be about 2-12 mm. In most cases,
the width e of the hair segment 3 to be adhered is 10-50 mm. Each
hair segment 3 is curled upwardly even in a hair segment unit 3A
shown in FIG. 4(A)-(H). The hair segments 3 at center are longer
than those in other areas.
[0060] The embodiments of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 will be shipped, after
being cut in a factory to a predetermined shape of a false eyelash,
whereas the third embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.
5 is of a type wherein it is cut by the user. In this embodiment,
the base 1 is cut into a rectangular shape 1M that is larger than a
predetermined false eyelash shape. For use, the user should cut by
herself the base 1 of the false eyelash along a cutting line shown
in FIG. 7. In FIG. 5(A), a reference numeral 1a denotes the base
after having been cut. The structure excepting these points will be
similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0061] Regarding the size of various parts of the false eyelash
shown in
[0062] FIG. 5, the vertical length of a pre-use base 1 is about
20-30 mm (a) for business use, and about 10-05 mm (b) for personal
use where it is cut near to the base end portion 1c. The lateral
length (c) is about 10-40 mm in common. The longitudinal size (d)
of the hair segment 3 is about 2-12 mm. Each hair segment 3 is
curled upwardly even in a hair segment unit 3A (shown in FIG.
6(C)). Several hair segments 3 at center are longer than those in
other areas. The width L (shown in FIG. 1(A)), to which the hair
segments 3 are adhered, is about 10-50 mm. The base 1a in this
embodiment has length L of about 26 mm, considering that an average
eye size i of a Japanese (shown in FIG. 8(A)) is about 30 mm. Its
maximum width W is about 2.6 mm for a single-edged eyelid, and
about 4 mm for double-edged or internally double-edged eyelid. The
base 1 may have various shapes depending upon the shape of eyelid
to which it is to be fitted, as described before based on FIG.
7.
[0063] FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 5 are schematic views, in which the
number of the transplanted hair segments 3 is shown in a simplified
manner.
[0064] <Manufacturing Process>
[0065] The false eyelash according to the present invention is, for
example, manufactured by the following process. The process will be
explained for manufacturing the false eyelash shown in FIG. 5.
[0066] First Step (Base Supplying Step)
[0067] A base 1 for one section is supplied from long-length base
material 1M wound around a reel 13 to above a working position T on
a workbench 12 (FIG. 6(A)). The underside of the base material 1M
is provided with a medical-grade adhesive agent that forms an
adhesive layer 7 for fitting the base to a human body, which is
backed with a release paper 9.
[0068] Second Step (Bonding Agent Supplying Step)
[0069] A bonding agent that will form a bonding layer 4 is supplied
to an appropriate position on the base 1 of a single section (FIG.
6(B)). Although two bonding layers 4 are disposed along a
horizontal direction in FIG. 6(B) and FIG. 6(D), any number of the
bonding layers may be mounted on the single-sectional base material
1M to provide better yield. Supply of the bonding agent is carried
out in such manner that it is supplied linearly by horizontally
moving a supply pipe, not shown, above the base 1 firmly fixed to
the workbench.
[0070] Third Step (Hair Segment Cutting Step)
[0071] The hair segment unit 3A comprising the hair segments 3 with
their end portions 3b being connected to each other are held by a
pair of robot shafts 15 that can open and close. In this state,
this is cut between the end portion 3b and the robot shafts 15 by a
laser beam, not shown (FIG. 6(C)). The cutting line L is shown by
alternate long and short dash lines in FIG. 6(C)).
[0072] Fourth Step (Hair Segment Adhering Step)
[0073] The hair segment will remain held by the robot shafts 15,
even after completing the cutting step. Still in this clamped
state, the robot shafts 15 are lowered so that the cut hair
segments 3 are adhered to the bonding agent (that forms "bonding
layer 4") that has been supplied in the above-mentioned step (FIG.
6(D)). The robot shafts 15 are controlled to be in appropriate
position, so that the hair segments 3 are adhered to the lower end
portion 4a (shown in FIG. 5(F)) of the bonding layer 4.
[0074] Fifth Step (Productization Step)
[0075] Once the hair segments are adhered to the base 1 in the
above-described manner, the base 1 is cut by alternate long and
short dash lines in FIG. 6(D)) which defines a single section. In
the false eyelash shown in FIG. 2, the base 1 is shipped after
being cut by a laser beam R along the cutting line shown in FIG. 7
into a predetermined shape. The cutting operation by which the base
1 is cut by the laser beam R will be described in reference to FIG.
10.
[0076] Then, the next single section of the base 1 is supplied onto
the working position T and the above-described operation is
practiced. Such operation will be repeated continuously.
[0077] FIG. 7 shows size pattern scales 11 for false eyelashes.
FIG. 7(A) shows scales for large-size eyes, FIG. 7(B) shows scales
for medium-size eyes and FIG. 7(C) shows scales for partial
fitting. In these figures, a reference numeral 11A denotes the
scale for a left eye and a reference numeral 11B denotes the scale
for a right eye. In these patterns, the scale provides a
straight-extending cutting line 11d along which the base is cut to
define the end portion 3b and cutting lines 11a, 11b, 11c at the
leading ends that are formed into a patternized convex arc shape in
conformity to an upper curve 21a of an eyeball 21 (shown in FIG.
8(A)).
[0078] In FIGS. 7(A) and (B), a cutting line 11a is used for
forming a double-edged or internally double-edged eyelid that is
formed to have a size of 5 mm at the maximum, a cutting line 11b is
used for forming an internally double-edged or single-edged eyelid
that is formed to have a size of 4-3 mm at the maximum, and a
cutting line 11c is used for forming a double-edged or single-edged
eyelid that is formed to have a size of 2 mm at the maximum. The
cutting line 11d in FIG. 7(A) is 30 mm in length and the cutting
line 11d in FIG. 7(B) is 23 mm in length, which may be cut to
conform with the eye size. In FIG. 7(C), a cutting line 11a is used
for forming a double-edged or multi-edged eyelid that is formed to
have a size of 5 mm at the maximum, and a cutting line 11b is used
for forming a double-edge or internally double-edged eyelid that is
formed to have a size of 4-3 mm at the maximum. The cutting line
11d is 15 mm in length, which may be cut to conform with the size
of a portion to which it is to be fitted.
[0079] <Usage>
[0080] The false eyelash according to the present invention has two
types. One is productized in a state wherein it has been cut into a
predetermined shape shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, whereas the other
is shown as "1M" in FIG. 5, which is cut by the user. The former
type may directly be fitted to the upper eyelid after removing the
release paper 9. On the other hand, the latter type is first placed
on a desired one of the size pattern scales 11 shown in FIG. 7 with
the hair segments 3 upward. Then, the cutting line depicted on the
size pattern scale 11 is transcribed onto the base 1 by the user.
Then, the base 1 is cut along the cutting line by the user. Then,
the release paper 9 is removed, and the false eyelash is used by
adhering the adhering surface onto the eyelid.
[0081] <Cutting Effect by Laser Beam>
[0082] In each of the above-described embodiments, the hair segment
unit 3A is cut into the hair segments 3 by a laser beam, which will
provide the following effects.
[0083] (1) Non-Contact Cutting
[0084] Non-contact cutting by the laser beam will prevent the hair
segments 3 from unraveling and being scattered in various
directions, when cut. The hair segment unit 3A is cut by the laser
beam while it remains held by the robot shafts 15, so that it may
be cut at the connecting portion with the hair tips maintaining the
original curled shape, to thereby separating the hair segments 3
from each other. Accordingly, the hair segments 3 remain in
alignment.
[0085] (2) Cutting with Heating
[0086] The cutting by the laser beam will generate heat, so that
the root portion 5 at which each hair segment 3 is cut will melt
into a spherical shape. As a result, this spherical root portion 5
may be used as a tab for adhesion, which will make it unnecessary
to have a separate step for providing a tab for adhesion to the
base 1.
[0087] Since the root portion 5 of the hair segment 3 is formed
into a spherical shape, any part of the spherical surface of the
root portion 5 may be adhered to the bonding layer 4. The hair
segments 3 may be firmly adhered to the bonding layer 4, while they
remain held by the robot shafts 15, with the tips thereof
maintaining the original curled orientation. Accordingly, in spite
that the respective hair segments 3 are adhered spottedly, the hair
tips will not scatter in various directions, which makes it
possible that the hair segments are fixed to the surface of the
base 1 while maintaining the original orientation of the hair tips,
that is the curled shape thereof as it is. Accordingly, the
underside of the base 1 do not have an uneven surface, which was
required in the prior arts, thereby preventing entry of water, etc.
while in use and preventing displacement and separation of the
false eyelash.
[0088] (3) Effect of Enlargement of Eyelid, Effect of Harmonization
with Own Hairs
[0089] Although the hair segments 3 are adhered to the base 1 while
maintaining the upwardly curled shape and being separated from each
other, once fitted to the eyelid, the upper eyelid 20 will open
into a convex arcuate shape so that the root portions 5 of the hair
segments 3 adhered will also shaped into a convex arc along the
upper eyelid 20. Consequently, the hair segments 3 that have
originally been adhered in parallel will become angled radially,
thereby enlarging the gaps formed between the hair segments 3.
[0090] The lines of the hair segments 3 are adhered just above the
own eyelash 22, as shown in FIG. 8(A) through FIG. 8(C), so that
the own eyelash 22 will appear from the enlarged gaps to be in
alignment with the lines of the hair segments 3. Accordingly, there
is the effect that the false eyelash fitted will be well in
harmonization with the own hairs.
[0091] (4) Effect of Spherically Forming Root Portion of Hair
Segment 3
[0092] Since the root portion 5 of the hair segment 3 is formed
into a spherical shape, any part of the spherical surface of the
root portion 5 may be adhered to the bonding layer 4. This makes it
possible to adjust the angle of adhesion of the hair segments 3,
which facilitate grouping of the products depending upon their use
and extension of the products. For example, a product wherein the
hair segments 3 are adhered to the bonding layer 4 in a crosswise
manner will be suitable to the youth because the eyelash looks
longer, whereas another produce wherein the hair segments 3 are
adhered to the bonding layer 4 in an oblique manner will be
suitable to the aged because the eyelash looks thicker.
[0093] In addition, any part of the spherical surface of the root
portion 5 may be adhered to the bonding layer 4, which facilitates
speedy and effective production.
[0094] <Other Effects>
[0095] The above-described embodiments will further provide the
following effects.
[0096] The false eyelash according to the present invention has a
wide, planar adhesive surface, and this wide adhesive surface is
adhered to the upper eyelid 20. When adhered, the planar base 1
having the substantially straight-extending base end portion 1c and
the convex arcuate leading end portion 1d will be deformed only in
one direction (up-and-down direction), as shown in FIG. 9.
Deformation in other directions could be ignored in substance. In
contrast, the prior art base is deformable in all directions around
360 degrees.
[0097] Accordingly, in addition to the fact that the surfaces of
the base 1 held by the user are wide, planar, easily-handled
surfaces, it is very easy to position the hair segments 3 along the
lower edge of the upper eyelid 20 when fitting the false eyelash,
thereby greatly saving labor and time required for the fitting
operation. Further, the adhesive surface is planar and has a wide
area for adhesion to the upper eyelid 20, which prevent slippage
and separation of the false eyelash while in use. When, as shown in
FIG. 1, the base 1 is formed into a three-dimensional shape that
conforms to the curvature of the eyelid onto which the base is
fitted, it will further improve good-fit and easy-fit to the upper
eyelid 20.
[0098] The good-fit and easy-fit to the upper eyelid 20 will be
described in more detail in relation to the above-described cutting
effect by the laser beam. First, the hair segments 3 in clamped
condition are cutting linearly by the laser beam, so that the root
portions 5 of the hair segments 3 are formed into spherical shape,
and any part of the spherical surface of the root portion 5 may be
adhered to the bonding layer 4. Accordingly, it may easily be
adhered to the upper eyelid 20 while remaining the orientation of
the curled hair tips.
[0099] The base 1 is adhered along the own hair extending from the
lower edge of the upper eyelid 20. The root portion 5 of the hair
segment 3 is adhered to the lower end portion 4a of the bonding
layer 4, which makes it possible to cut the base 1 just along the
adhered hair segment 3 with only a small space 2a therebetween.
Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 8(A) through FIG. 8(C), the hair
segment 3 is substantially aligned with the own eyelash 22 and,
therefore, could not be distinguished from the own eyelash 22,
which provides very good appearance. In addition, the remaining
portion of the bonding layer 4 will not come into view, which
provides good visibility. If the root portion 5 of the hair segment
3 should be adhered to the center of the bonding layer 4, the own
eyelash 22 and the hair segment 3 are vertically overlapped with
each other to thereby greatly reduce appearance, and the remaining
portion of the bonding layer 4 should come into view to thereby
worsen the visibility as if it is in a fog. Such is prevented by
the present invention.
[0100] Let us talk about this in more detail. To cut the base 1
into a predetermined shape shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the laser
beam R is irradiated from the underside of the base 1. If this
cutting operation should be carried out such that, as shown by an
alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 10(A), the laser beam R
is irradiated at right angle to the base 1, especially just along
the line to which the hair segment 3 is adhered, it would damage
the hair segment 3 in most cases. Accordingly, the laser beam R
should be irradiated at an angle of inclination with respect to the
bonding layer 4 (for example, at an angle of 60 degrees inclined to
the bonding layer 4) to cut the base 1, as shown by a solid line in
FIG. 10(A). This manner of irradiation will prevent the hair
segment 3 from being damaged adhered near to the bonding layer 4.
However, when the laser beam R is irradiated aslant, whole or a
part of the adhesive layer 7a formed on the underside of the base 1
would melt, so that it could separate or partly peel off from the
underside. Under such conditions, even when it is fitted to the
upper eyelid, the fittability to the upper eyelid should be lost,
which reduce the fitting power. Moreover, when a part of the base 1
peels off from the upper eyelid, there is formed a gap between the
base 1 and the upper eyelid, so that it really looks a false
eyelash, which can easily be distinguished over the natural hair in
appearance.
[0101] Moreover, when the laser beam R is irradiated in a slant
angle to the bonding layer 4, as shown by the solid line in FIG.
10(A), it might damage a part of the bonding layer 4 adhering the
hair segment 3, by which the hair segment 3 could be separated from
the base 1.
[0102] In accordance with this embodiment, as shown by a solid line
in FIG. 10(B), there is the space 2a on a site corresponding to the
lower end portion 1c of the surface of the base 1 along the
longitudinal direction, and the spaces 2b of equivalent size at the
opposite ends of the bonding layer 4. Accordingly, even if the
laser beam R is irradiated at a slant angle (for example, about 60
degrees to the base 1) to a site to be formed as the lower end
portion 1c, it will not damage the hair segment 3. The output of
the laser beam R may be small, which prevents melting of the
adhesive layer 7 in the vicinity to the irradiated area.
Accordingly, it prevents removal of the fitted false eyelash from
the upper eyelid and separation of the hair segments 3 from the
base 1.
[0103] The hair segments 3 are adhered to the base 1 just along the
lower edge thereof, leaving the small space 2a that is hardly be
recognized by the naked eyes. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 8(A)
through FIG. 8(C), the hair segment 3 is substantially aligned with
the own eyelash 22 and, therefore, could not be distinguished from
the own eyelash 22, which provides very good appearance. In
addition, the remaining portion of the bonding layer 4 will not
come into view, which provides good visibility. If the hair segment
3 should be adhered not just along with the lower edge of the base
1, the own eyelash 22 and the hair segment 3 are vertically
overlapped with each other to thereby greatly reduce appearance,
and the remaining portion of the bonding layer 4 should come into
view to thereby worsen the visibility as if it is in a fog. Such is
prevented by the present invention.
[0104] In addition, there also remain the spaces 2b at the opposite
ends of the base 1, to which no hair segment 3 is adhered, so that
the receding hairline of the own eyelash 22 is conformable with the
adhesion site of the hair segments 3. This will provide an effect
such that the false eyelash thus produced looks more naturally.
[0105] Furthermore, cosmetic material drawing an eye linear may be
applied to a small gap g (shown in FIG. 8(C)) formed between the
space 2a and the own eyelash 22.
[0106] In the embodiments shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 5, the base 1 is
formed planar, which is not processed for specific users, neither
in two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape. The embodiment of
FIG. 5 of a type wherein it is cut by the user, the upper space 1b
(shown in FIG. 5(A)) of the adhered base 1 has a sufficient area
for cutting, so that this can be used by cutting the leading end
portion 1d of the base 1 to form a convex arc shape. This will
provide the effect of lifting up the skin above the upper eyelid
20.
[0107] The skin above the upper eyelid 20 will deteriorate with
time and become flabby little by little, but this lift-up effect
makes it possible to adjust an area to be cut depending upon the
flabby state of the skin above the upper eyelid 20, lift up the
upper eyelid 20 and thereby providing an appearance of a bright
pair of eyes, which is so-called anti-aging effect.
[0108] Furthermore, in the embodiment wherein the base 1 is formed
planar and the hair segments 3 are formed linearly along the lower
end portion of the base 1, when the base 1 is adhered to the upper
eyelid 20, the base 1 is deformed in a convex arc shape in
alignment with the upper lid 20 that has a convex arc shape, so
that the respective hair segments 3, which are adhered separately
and individually, are enlarged radially. As a result, the eyelash
(that comprises the false one in fact) provides a thick line,
thereby providing an appearance of a bright pair of eyes.
[0109] The false eyelash according to the present invention is not
limited to the above-identified embodiments. For example, the root
portion 5 of the hair segment 3 may be of any curved shape (an arc
shape in cross-section, for example) other than sphere. When it is
cut flat, as shown in FIGS. 11(A) and (B), the same effect with
those described above will be achieved.
[0110] The root portion 5 of the hair segment 3 is adhered
perpendicular in the preceding embodiments shown in the drawings,
but may extend aslant downwardly, as shown in FIG. 11(C). The angle
of inclination in this case is 45 degrees, for example, but may be
appropriately determined depending upon the use's purpose, age,
etc.
[0111] A plurality of hair segment 3 may be directly adhered to the
bonding layer 4, without use of linear member 31, as shown in FIG.
1. The hair segment 3 and the linear member 31 may be formed in one
body.
[0112] Regarding the site of application, the false eyelash
according to the present invention is adhered to the upper eyelid
in the above-identified embodiments, but it may be adhered to the
lower eyelid.
[0113] It is to be understood that numeral values indicating the
size of various portions of the base 1, the hair segment 3 and the
like are described merely as examples. Especially, the base 1 may
have various thickness, including, for example, 30 micrometers, 40
micrometers, 50 micrometers, 60 micrometers, 70 micrometers, 80
micrometers and 90 micrometers, as far as it can be called an
extremely thin sheet. The length of the hair segment 3 is not
limitative.
[0114] Non-contact cutting means with heat may alternatively be
carried out by using high frequency such as ultrasonic waves.
[0115] The bonding agent forming the bonding layer 4 may be any
one, as far as it provides instant, firm bonding capability, which
may be an instantaneous bonding agent including cyanoacrylate as a
main ingredient.
[0116] Regarding supply of the bonding agent to the base 1, when
the bonding agent is supplied to the base 1 that remains
stationary, as described in connection with the preceding
embodiments, the base 1 is cut into several sections that are
placed on the workbench 12, to which the bonding agent may be
supplied. In another embodiment, the long continuous base 1 is
placed on the workbench 12, to which the bonding agent is supplied,
and then the base is cut into several sections.
[0117] On the contrary, it can be imagined that the bonding agent
is supplied to the moving base. In this case, the supply pipe is
moved onto the base 1 while the base 1 is moved in one direction,
which is turned on for a predetermined time during movement of the
base 1, to thereby supply the bonding agent linearly to the base
1.
[0118] The cutting of the hair segments at the connecting portion
may be done before application of the bonding layer 4 or at the
same time of supplying the bonding agent.
[0119] The length of the cutting line 11d in the size pattern scale
11 may be changed to different size.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0120] The present invention is applicable to a false eyelash.
EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0121] 1 Base [0122] 1a Base [0123] 1b Upper Space [0124] 1c Base
End Portion [0125] 1d Leading End Portion [0126] 1M Base Material
[0127] 2a Space [0128] 2b Space [0129] 3 Hair Segment [0130] 3A
Hair Segment Unit [0131] 3b End Portion [0132] 31 Linear Member
[0133] 4 Bonding Layer [0134] 4a Lower End Portion [0135] 5 Root
Portion [0136] 6 Leading End Portion [0137] 7 Adhesive Layer [0138]
9 Release Paper [0139] 11 Size Pattern Scale [0140] 12 Workbench
[0141] 13 Reel [0142] 15 Robot Shaft [0143] 20 Upper Eyelid [0144]
21 Eye [0145] 21a Upper Curve [0146] 22 Own Eyelash [0147] L
Cutting line [0148] M Cutting line [0149] T Working Position
* * * * *