Apparatus For Applying An Artificial Eyelash

Abstract

An apparatus is provided for applying artificial eyelashes. The apparatus includes a main body, upon which an artificial eyelash is disposed. The main body has a length extending in a single plane. The apparatus also includes one or more legs extending from the main body. At least one of the one or more legs is angled away from the single plane of the main body.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present invention is a Continuation-In-Part Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/335,306, filed on Dec. 22, 2011, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to cosmetic items, and, more particularly, to an apparatus for applying an artificial eyelash.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0005] As an alternative to or in addition to mascara, eyelash lengthening, darkening or thickening may be accomplished by attaching artificial eyelashes to a user's eyelids to enhance the appearance of eyelashes. Such artificial eyelashes are generally secured to the user's eyelids by an adhesive.

[0006] The artificial eyelashes may be manually applied to an eyelid with the user's fingers. Specifically, an artificial eyelash may be gripped by the fingers, bent to a selected curvature, and applied to the eyelid. Applicators have been introduced for use in artificial eyelash application. Effective application requires the proper adjustment for curvature of the user's eyelid, and also requires accurate placement of the artificial eyelash. However, typically, the location of the user's hands, fingers and the applicator, which are proximate to the user's eye during application, may obstruct the user's view in a mirror, making proper placement of the artificial eyelash difficult.

[0007] The adhesive used to secure the artificial eyelash to the user's eyelid can adhere to the user's fingers and/or the applicator, requiring excessive handling of the artificial eyelash and causing unwanted distortion and bending of the artificial eyelash. Existing applicator devices also do not adequately allow for effective application of the artificial eyelash on different eye shapes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention has been made to address at least the above problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for applying an artificial eyelash.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for applying artificial eyelashes. The apparatus includes a main body, upon which an artificial eyelash is disposed. The main body has a length extending in a single plane. The apparatus also includes one or more legs extending from the main body. At least one of the one or more legs is angled away from the single plane of the main body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a top view of a packaging tray for artificial eyelashes, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a side view of the packaging tray for artificial eyelashes, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an artificial eyelash applicator integrated with the packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a series of diagrams illustrating removal of the artificial eyelash applicator from the packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the artificial eyelash applicator removed from the packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an artificial eyelash applicator integrated with the packaging tray, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of the packaging tray for artificial eyelashes, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 6;

[0018] FIG. 8 provides diagrams illustrating top and bottom surfaces of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a side view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an artificial eyelash application methodology, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIGS. 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating perspective views of an artificial eyelash applicator integrated with a packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating perspective views of the artificial eyelash applicator of FIG. 11, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating removal of a cover layer from an adhesive layer of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 14A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 14B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 14A;

[0026] FIG. 14C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 14A;

[0027] FIG. 14D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 14A;

[0028] FIG. 15A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 15A;

[0030] FIG. 15C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 15A;

[0031] FIG. 15D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 15A;

[0032] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator having a curved middle leg, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator having a shorter curved middle leg, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0034] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator having only a middle leg, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components may be designated by the same or similar reference numerals although they are illustrated in different drawings. Detailed descriptions of constructions or processes known in the art may be omitted to avoid obscuring the subject matter of the present invention. Further, in the following description of the present invention, various specific definitions found in the following description are provided only to provide a general understanding of the present invention, and it is apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented without such definitions.

[0036] Referring initially to FIG. 1, a diagram illustrates a top view of a packaging tray 100 for artificial eyelashes, according to an embodiment of the present invention. A top surface of the packaging tray 100 of FIG. 1 includes first and second integrated artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104. The first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 are attached to the packaging tray 100 and lie in-line with the contours are of the top surface of the packaging tray 100. While the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 1 shows two artificial eyelash applicators, any number of artificial eyelash applicators may be integrated into the top surface of the packaging tray 100. First artificial eyelash applicator 102 has a first main body 106 and two corresponding legs 108a and 108b, while second artificial eyelash applicator 104 has a second main body 110 and two corresponding legs 112a and 112b. The corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b extend in substantially the same direction from one of the main bodies 106 and 110. While the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 1 shows artificial eyelash applicators having two legs, any number of legs may be provided that also allow for proper application of the artificial eyelash. Further, the main bodies 106 and 110 are shown having a slightly concave curvature that results in a slight wishbone shape of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104.

[0037] First and second artificial eyelashes 114 and 116 are disposed on and temporarily adhered to the main bodies 106 and 110 of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104, respectively. Base portions of the first and second artificial eyelashes 114 rest on first and second contoured projections 118 and 120 of the packaging tray 100. The first and second contoured projections 118 and 120 are disposed on a side of the main bodies 106 and 110 opposite that from which the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b extend.

[0038] Both the packaging tray 100 and the integrated artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 may be composed of a synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solid, such as, for example, a lightweight or thin plastic or polymer.

[0039] Referring now to FIG. 2, a diagram illustrates a side view of the packaging tray 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The second artificial eyelash 116 is disposed on the second artificial eyelash applicator 104 in a specific position. The second contoured projection 120 of the packaging tray 100 supports this specific position of the artificial eyelash 116. More specifically, in this embodiment of the present invention, an angle from which the second artificial eyelash 116 extends from its own base is preferably approximately 20-30 degrees from a vertical line representing the top surface of the packaging tray 100. Accordingly, a front surface of the second contoured projection 120 that supports the base of the second artificial eyelash 116 is also angled at 20-30 degrees from the vertical line of the packaging tray 100. The first artificial eyelash 114 and the first contoured projection 118 are angled in a similar manner. This angled disposition of the first and second artificial eyelashes 114 and 116 allows for proper display when the first and second contoured projections 118 and 120 are envisioned as the eyelids of the user. Further, this angled disposition maintains the first and second artificial eyelashes 114 and 116 in the proper shape so that they are not damaged within the packaging.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a diagram that illustrates the first artificial eyelash applicator 102, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 provides a view of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 prior to application of the first artificial eyelash 114. As described above with respect to FIG. 1, the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 includes the first main body 106 and two corresponding legs 108a and 108b. The second eyelash applicator 104 has a configuration that is substantially identical to that described herein with respect to FIG. 3.

[0041] The first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is integrated with the packaging tray 100 through four attachment points 122a-122d. The remaining portions and edges of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 are detached from the packaging tray 100. The four attachment points 122a-122d are preferably disposed on each side of the first main body 106 proximate to an area where the corresponding legs 108a and 108b meet the first main body 106. The four attachment points 122a-122d maintain the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 in-line with the contours of the packaging tray 100. The first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is removed from the packaging tray by breaking the four attachment points 122a-122d. While this embodiment of the present invention illustrates four attachment points 122a-122d, any number of connection points may be utilized that maintain the artificial eyelash applicator 102 in the proper position with respect to this embodiment and also allow for removal of the artificial eyelash applicator 102 from the packaging tray 100.

[0042] The first artificial eyelash applicator 102 also includes a flexible region 124. The flexible region 124 is disposed in a central portion of the first main body 106. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible region 124 is cut to an accordion shape so that the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is easily bent when the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is being used to apply the first artificial eyelash 114, which will be described in greater detail below with reference to FIG. 10.

[0043] Further, with respect to FIG. 3, the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is shown to include a portion of the first contoured projection 118. More specifically, when the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is removed from the packaging tray 100 a portion of the first contoured projection is also removed. Thus, the main body 106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 includes both a substantially horizontal portion and a substantially vertical portion, which form a ledge-like shape. This shape of the main body 106 allows for easier retention of the first artificial eyelash 114, when the artificial eyelash applicator 102 is being used and the first artificial eyelash 114 is being applied.

[0044] The main body 106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 also includes first and second corner regions 126a and 126b. The first corner region 126a is disposed at a portion of the first main body 106 that meets the first leg 108a, and the second corner region 126b is disposed at a portion of the first main body 106 that meets the second leg 108b. Adhesive is applied at both the first and second corner regions 126a and 126b for temporary adhesion of the first artificial eyelash 114 to the first main body 106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102. Adhesive may be applied to a top surface of the main body 106 in the first and second corner regions 126a and 126b, or adhesive may be applied from a bottom surface of the main body 106 through apertures in the first and second corner regions 126a and 126b, as described in greater detail below with reference to FIG. 8.

[0045] Referring now to FIG. 4, a series of diagrams illustrate removal of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 from the packaging tray 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. As described above, the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 lie in-line with the contours of the top surface of the packaging tray 100 when integrated with packaging tray 100. When it is desired to remove the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104, a portion of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators must extend out from the packaging tray 100 so that the user is able to grip a portion of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 for removal. Thus, the user preferably bends the packaging tray 100 along an axis `a` that runs parallel with lengths of the first and second main bodies 106 and 110, thereby causing the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b to extend outwardly at an angle from the top surface of the packaging tray 100. This allows the user to grip the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b and break the four connection points 122a-122d when force is applied, removing the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 from the packaging tray 100. An independent artificial eyelash applicator with an adhered artificial eyelash after removal from the packaging tray 100 is illustrated in FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 represents both the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 with the first artificial eyelash 114 and the second artificial eyelash applicator 104 with the second artificial eyelash 116.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 integrated with the packaging tray 100, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 6 only differs from FIG. 3 in the number of attachment points integrating the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 with the packaging tray 100. Accordingly, a detailed description of the elements of FIG. 6 can be found above with reference to FIG. 3. The second eyelash applicator 104 has a configuration that is substantially identical to that described herein with respect to FIG. 6.

[0047] In accordance with the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 6, the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is only connected to the packaging tray 100 at attachment points 122a and 122b. Accordingly, less force is required to remove the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 from the packaging tray 100. Further, the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 does not lie in-line with the contours of the packaging tray 100 when integrated with the packaging tray 100. While this embodiment of the present invention illustrates two attachment points 122a and 122b, any number of connection points may be utilized that maintain the artificial eyelash applicator 102 in the proper position with respect to this embodiment, and also allow for removal of the artificial eyelash applicator 102 from the packaging tray 100.

[0048] Referring now to FIG. 7, a diagram illustrates a perspective view of the packaging tray 100 for artificial eyelashes, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 6. Specifically, FIG. 7 clearly illustrates that the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 do not lie in-line with the contours of the packaging tray 100 when only two attachment points 122a and 122b are provided. Instead the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b project outwardly at an angle from the top surface of the packaging tray 100. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ends of the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b are approximately 3-6 millimeters (mm) away from the top surface of the packaging tray.

[0049] Accordingly, in the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the packaging tray 100 does not need to be bent in order for the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b to project outwardly, and easier access is provided to the user.

[0050] Although the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 are disposed differently in FIGS. 6 and 7, the artificial eyelashes 114 and 116 are disposed in the same manner and at the same angle as described above with respect to FIG. 2. Further, when the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 are removed from the packaging tray 100 in the embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7, they are still embodied as described above with respect to FIG. 5.

[0051] Referring now to FIG. 8, diagrams illustrate top and bottom surfaces of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the present invention. As described above with respect to FIG. 3, in order to adhere the first artificial eyelash 114 to the first artificial eyelash applicator 102, adhesive may be applied to a top surface of the first main body 106 in the first and second corner regions 126a and 126b, or adhesive may be applied from a bottom surface of the main body 106 through apertures in the first and second corner regions 126a and 126b. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 8 illustrates first and second apertures 128a and 128b in the first and second corner regions 126a and 126b. Adhesive surfaces 130a and 130b, such as tape, is applied to the bottom surface of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 over the first and second apertures 128a and 128b. Thus, the adhesive is accessed from the top surface of the main body 106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 through each of the first and second apertures 128a and 128b for application of the first artificial eyelash 114. The second eyelash applicator 104 may have a configuration that is substantially identical to that described herein with respect to FIG. 8.

[0052] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a side view of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The first artificial eyelash 114 is disposed on and adhered to the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 in a manner that allows for easy application. Specifically, the first artificial eyelash 114 is disposed such that hands, fingers and the first artificial eyelash applicator 102, which are proximate to the user's eye during application, do not obstruct the user's view in a mirror when placing the first artificial eyelash 114 on the user's eyelid. A line extending through the length of the base of the first artificial eyelash 114 is preferably at an angle of approximately 10-30 degrees from a vertical line of the top surface of the packaging tray 100 or the first artificial eyelash applicator 201, in this embodiment of the present invention. This angle allows for proper sight lines during application of the first artificial eyelash 114. The second eyelash applicator 104 has a configuration that is substantially identical to that described herein with respect to FIG. 9.

[0053] Referring now to FIG. 10, a flow diagram illustrates an artificial eyelash application methodology, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The methodology begins in at block 1002 when the packaging tray 100 is bent by a user so that the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 are moved so that they are no longer in-line with contours of the top surface of the packaging tray 100. Instead, the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b now project outwardly at an angle from the top surface of the packaging tray 100. As described above with respect to FIGS. 6 and 7, block 1002 may be skipped in the methodology, when the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 are connected to the packaging tray 100 at fewer attachment points.

[0054] In block 1004, a force is applied to at least one leg of one of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104, such that the attachment points between the artificial eyelash applicator and the packaging tray 100 break. In block 1006, the artificial eyelash applicator is removed from the packaging tray. The artificial eyelash remains disposed on and adhered to the artificial eyelash applicator.

[0055] In order to apply the artificial eyelash, an adhesive at the base of the artificial eyelash is activated, by moisture for example, in block 1008. The user then bends the artificial eyelash applicator to shape the artificial eyelash to the contours of the user's eyelid, in block 1010, and applies the base of the artificial eyelash to the user's eyelid using the artificial eyelash applicator, in block 1012. As described above with respect to FIG. 9, the artificial eyelash is disposed on the applicator such that hands, fingers and the applicator itself do not obstruct the user's view in a mirror when placing the artificial eyelash on the user's eyelid.

[0056] When adhered to the user's eyelid, the artificial eyelash applicator is removed from the artificial eyelash, in block 1014. The artificial eyelash applicator is able to be removed because it has a weaker adhesive than that between the artificial eyelash and the user's eyelid.

[0057] Referring now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, diagrams illustrate perspective views of an artificial eyelash applicator integrated with a packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11A illustrates artificial eyelash applicators arranged side by side, while FIG. 11B illustrates artificial eyelash applicators arranged above and below each other. A packaging tray 1100, a first artificial eyelash applicator 1102, and a second artificial eyelash applicator 1104 have substantially the same shape as the corresponding components described with respect to FIGS. 1-9. However, the packaging tray 1100 also includes a plurality of primary receiving slits 1132a-1132d. Each of the plurality of primary receiving slits 1132a-1132d receives a corresponding end of legs 1108a, 1108b, 1112a and 1112b of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 1102 and 1104. Specifically, a first primary receiving slit 1132a receives an end of a first leg 1108a of the first artificial eyelash applicator 1102. A second primary receiving slit 1132b receives an end of a first leg 1112a of the second artificial eyelash applicator 1104. A third primary receiving slit 1132c receives an end of a second leg 1108b of the first eyelash applicator 1102. A fourth primary receiving slit 1132d receives an end of a second leg 1112b of the second eyelash applicator 1104.

[0058] The packaging tray 1100 of FIG. 11 also includes a plurality of secondary receiving slits 1134a-1134d. Each of the plurality of secondary receiving slits 1134a-1134d receives an extension from a corresponding end of first and second main bodies 1106 and 1110 of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 1102 and 1104. Specifically, a first secondary receiving slit 1134a receives an extension from first end of a first main body 1106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator 1102. A second secondary receiving slit 1134b receives an extension from a second opposing end of the first main body 1106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator 1102. A third secondary receiving slit 1134c receives an extension from a first end of the second main body 1110 of the second artificial eyelash applicator 1104. A fourth secondary receiving slit 1134d receives an extension from a second opposing end of the second main body 1110 of the second artificial eyelash applicator 1104. The primary and secondary receiving slits 1132a-1134d assist in maintaining the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 1102 and 1104 in the packaging tray 1100. The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this number and configuration of receiving slits. Specifically, any number and configuration of receiving slits may be used that achieve the object of maintaining the artificial eyelash applicators in the packaging tray.

[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, diagrams illustrate perspective views of the artificial eyelash applicator of FIGS. 11A and 11B, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12A shows the first artificial eyelash applicator 1102 having a cover layer 1136 that is disposed on top of an adhesive layer 1138. The cover layer 1136 is precut in an area on each of the first leg 1108a and the second leg 1108b, which allows for removal of the cover layer 1136 to expose the adhesive layer 1138 beneath. This removal is described in further detail below with respect to FIGS. 13A and 13B. The cover layer 1136 covers a portion of the first main body 1106. A remaining portion of the first main body 1106 has the adhesive layer 1138 exposed. The adhesive layer 1138 is exposed on this remaining portion of the first main body 1106 for attachment of the artificial eyelash, as illustrated in FIG. 12B.

[0060] FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating removal of a cover layer from an adhesive layer of the artificial eyelash applicator of FIG. 11, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13A, the first and second legs 1108a and 1108b are bent such that tabs 1140a and 1140b are exposed. The tabs 1140a and 1140b are precut in the cover layer 1136 in a midsection of each of the first and second legs 1108a and 1108b. The cover layer 1136 is then peeled away from the adhesive layer 1138 using the tabs 1140a and 1140b, exposing the adhesive layer 1138 on the lower half of each of the first and second legs 1108a and 1108b. The adhesive layer 1138 allows for easier control of the artificial eyelash applicator during application. Specifically, the adhesive layer 1138 adheres to the fingers of a user during application of the artificial eyelash. The second artificial eyelash applicator 1104 may be embodied in a manner substantially identical to that described above in FIGS. 12A-13B with respect to the first artificial eyelash applicator 1104. The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the positioning and shape of the precut lines and the removed portions of the cover layer on the first and second legs illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B. Further, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the shape, size or number of exposed adhesive portions on the main body as illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B. Specifically, any shape, configuration or number of exposed portions of adhesive layer may be used that achieve the object of the present invention.

[0061] The embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 11A-13B may include a packaging tray constructed of a lightweight material, such as, for example, paper or cardboard. Further, the artificial eyelash applicators in this embodiment of the present invention may also be constructed of a lightweight material that includes a paper layer with an adhesive and a wax paper cover layer that covers the adhesive of the paper layer.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 14A, a diagram illustrates a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the present invention. An applicator 1402 has a main body 1404, a left side leg 1406, a center leg 1408, and a right side leg 1410. The left side leg 1406 extends from a left end of a length of the main body 1404, and the right side leg 1410 extends from a right end of the length of the main body 1404. The center leg 1408 extends from a central region along the length of the main body 1404. The main body 1404 has a generally curved length, which mimics the curvature of a user's eyelid. Each of the left side leg 1406, the center leg 1408, and the right side leg 1410 extend in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to tangents of respective connecting points along the curved length of the main body 1404. This causes a general wishbone shape for the main body 1404, the left side leg 1406 and the right side leg 1410.

[0063] The left side leg 1406 and the right side leg 1410 extend from the main body 1404 in the same plane as the main body 1404. The center leg 1408 has a first segment 1412 that extends away from the main body 1404 in the same plane as the main body 1404 up to a specified line 1414, after which a second segment 1416 of the center leg 1408 extends away from the main body 1404 at a downward angle. The second segment 1416 of the center leg extends downwardly away from the plane of the main body 1404 at an angle between 30-60 degrees, and preferably approximately 45 degrees.

[0064] An artificial eyelash 1418 is disposed on, and temporarily adhered to, the main body 1404 of the artificial eyelash applicator 1402. The artificial eyelash 1418 may be temporarily adhered to the main body 1404 using an adhesive disposed at least partially along a length of the main body. More specifically, the adhesive is disposed along a length of a side of the main body 1404 that opposes a side of the main body 1404 from which the left side leg 1406, the center leg 1408, and the right side leg 1410 extend. Adhesive may also be applied to one or more specific regions on the above-described side of the main body 1404. For example, adhesive may be applied in corner regions of the main body 1404. In alternate embodiments of the present invention, adhesive may be applied from a bottom surface of the main body 1404 through apertures at the one or more specified regions of the main body 1404, as described above.

[0065] The left side leg 1406 and the right side leg 1410 may be grasped by the user to properly position the artificial eyelash applicator 1402 and the artificial eyelash 1418 over an eyelid of the user for application of the artificial eyelash 1418 on the eyelid of the user. Due to the above-described substantially wishbone shape of the left side leg 1406, the right side leg 1410, and the main body 1404, the left side leg 1406 and the right side leg 1410 are angled away from each other. This shape prevents a user's hand from interfering with the vision of the user, when the artificial eyelash applicator 1402 is being used to apply the artificial eyelash 1418 on the eyelid of the user. The center leg 1408 is disposed such that it is allows a user to properly position an artificial eyelash in the center of the users' eyeline. More specifically, the center leg 1408 is angled downwardly so that it obstructs the eyeline of the user, when the artificial eyelash applicator 1402 is centered on the user's eyelid. This can make proper application easier when a mirror is not available to ensure that the artificial eyelash 1412 is centered. The center leg 1408 may also be grasped by the user for application of the artificial eyelash 1418.

[0066] The artificial eyelash 1418 is disposed on and adhered to the artificial eyelash applicator 1402 in a manner that allows for easy application. Specifically, the artificial eyelash 1412 is disposed such that hands, fingers, the main body 1404, the left side leg 1406, and the right side leg 1410, which are proximate to the user's eye during application, do not obstruct the user's view in a mirror when placing the artificial eyelash 1418 on the user's eyelid.

[0067] FIG. 14B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 14A. FIG. 14C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 14A. FIG. 14D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 14A.

[0068] Referring now to FIG. 15A, a diagram illustrates a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator, according to another embodiment of the present invention. An applicator 1502 has a main body 1504, a left side leg 1506, a center leg 1508, and a right side leg 1510. The left side leg 1506 extends from a left end of a length of the main body 1504, and the right side leg 1510 extends from a right end of the length of the main body 1504. The center leg 1508 extends from a central region along the length of the main body 1504. The main body 1504 has a generally curved length, which mimics the curvature of a user's eyelid. The center leg 1508 extends in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a tangent of a connecting point along the curved length of the main body 1504.

[0069] The left side leg 1506 and the right side leg 1510 extend from the main body 1504 in opposite directions, which are both perpendicular to the center leg 1508, while remaining in the same plane as the main body 1504. The center leg 1508 has a first segment 1512 that extends away from the main body 1504 in the same plane as the main body 1504 up to a specified line 1514, after which a second segment 1516 of the center leg 1508 extends away from the main body 1504 at a downward angle. The second segment 1516 of the center leg extends downwardly away from the plane of the main body 1504 at an angle between 30-60 degrees, and preferably approximately 45 degrees.

[0070] An artificial eyelash 1518 is disposed on, and temporarily adhered to, the main body 1504 of the artificial eyelash applicator 1502. The artificial eyelash 1518 may be temporarily adhered to the main body 1504 using the techniques described above with respect to FIG. 14A.

[0071] The left side leg 1506 and the right side leg 1510 may be grasped by the user to properly position the artificial eyelash applicator 1502 and the artificial eyelash 1518 over an eyelid of the user for application of the artificial eyelash 1512 on the eyelid of the user. Due to the above-described opposing directions of the left side leg 1506 and the right side leg 1510, a user's hand is prevented from interfering with the vision of the user, when the artificial eyelash applicator 1502 is being used to apply the artificial eyelash 1518 on an eyelid of the user. The center leg 1508 is disposed such that it allows a user to properly position an artificial eyelash in the center of the users' eyeline, as described above with respect to FIG. 14A. The artificial eyelash 1518 is disposed on and adhered to the artificial eyelash applicator 1502 in a manner that allows for easy application, as described above with respect to FIG. 14A.

[0072] FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating top view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 15A. FIG. 15C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 15A. FIG. 15D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 15A.

[0073] Referring now to FIG. 16, a diagram illustrates a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator having a curved middle leg, according to an embodiment of the present invention. An artificial eyelash applicator 1602 is shown having a main body 1604, a left side leg 1606, a center leg 1608, and a right side leg 1610. The main body 1604, the left side leg 1606, and the right side leg 1610 are constructed in a manner similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 14A. An artificial eyelash 1618 is disposed on the main body 1604 of the artificial eyelash applicator 1602.

[0074] The center leg 1608 extends away from the main body 1604 in a same direction as shown in FIGS. 14A and 15A. However, the center leg 1608 has a first segment 1612 that curves downwardly away from a plane of the main body 1604, instead of extending a specified distance in the plane of the main body, as described above with respect to FIG. 15A.

[0075] The first segment 1612 of the center leg 1608 transitions into a second segment 1616 of the center leg 1608, which is straight, at a specified line 1614. The second segment 1616 is disposed at a specified angle with respect to the plane of the main body 1604. Specifically, the second segment 1616 is disposed at an angle between 30 and 60 degrees with respect to the plane of the main body 1604, and preferably, approximately 45 degrees.

[0076] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator having a shorter curved middle leg, according to an embodiment of the present invention. An artificial eyelash applicator 1702 having a main body 1704, a left side leg 1706, a center leg 1708, and a right side leg 1710 are constructed in a manner similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 16. An artificial eyelash 1718 is disposed on the main body 1704 of the artificial eyelash applicator 1702. While a first segment 1712 of the center leg 1708 is also constructed in a manner similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 16. The first segment 1712 transitions to a second segment 1716 of the center leg 1708, which is significantly shorter than the second segment 1616 of the center leg 1608 of FIG. 16, at a specified line 1714.

[0077] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator having only a center leg, according to an embodiment of the present invention. An artificial eyelash applicator 1802 having a main body 1804 and a center leg 1808 is constructed in a manner similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 14A. Specifically, a first segment 1812, a specified line 1814, and a second segment 1816 are similar to respective components of FIG. 14A. However, the eyelash applicator is constructed without a left side leg and a right side leg. Thus, an artificial eyelash 1818 is applied to a users' eyelid by grasping only the center leg 1808 of the artificial eyelash applicator 1802. Alternate embodiments of the present invention may include an artificial eyelash applicator having a main body, a center leg, and one of a right and left side leg.

[0078] Although the embodiments of the present invention describe a specific number and configuration of legs extending from the main body of the artificial eyelash applicator, any number or configuration of legs may be used that allow for proper application of the artificial eyelash. For example, embodiments of the present invention can include an applicator having only side legs, an applicator having side legs that are angled in a manner similar to that of the center leg, and an applicator having more than three legs.

[0079] The artificial eyelash applicator of the present invention may have a cover layer disposed on top of an adhesive layer. The cover layer may be precut on the left side leg and the right side leg, which allows for removal of the cover layer to expose the adhesive layer beneath. The adhesive layer allows for easier control of the artificial eyelash applicator during application. Specifically, the adhesive layer adheres to the fingers of a user during application of the artificial eyelash. The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the shape, size or number of exposed adhesive portions. Specifically, any shape, configuration or number of exposed portions of adhesive layer may be used that achieve the object of the present invention.

[0080] The artificial eyelash applicator of the embodiments of the present invention may be constructed of a lightweight material, such as, for example, paper or cardboard. The artificial eyelash applicator may also be composted a synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solid, such as, for example, a lightweight or thin plastic or polymer. Embodiments of the present invention may include a packaging tray for retaining the applicator that is constructed of similar materials.

[0081] While the invention has been shown and described with reference to certain embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An apparatus for applying an artificial eyelash comprising: a main body, upon which an artificial eyelash is disposed, and having a length extending in a single plane; one or more legs extending from the main body, wherein at least one of the one or more legs is angled away from the single plane of the main body.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one of the one or more legs is a center leg that extends from a substantially central portion of the length of the main body.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the one or more legs further comprise at least one of a left side leg and a right side leg, the left side leg extending from a left end of the length of the main body, and the right side leg extending from a right end of the length of the main body.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the left side leg, the center leg, and the right side leg each extend in directions that are substantially perpendicular to tangents of respective connecting points along the length of the main body.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the center leg extends in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a tangent of its connecting point along the length of the main body, and the left side leg and the right side leg extend in opposing directions from the left end and the right end, respectively, which are both substantially perpendicular to the direction of the center leg.

6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the left side leg and the right side leg extend within the single plane of the main body.

7. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein a length of the center leg is greater than lengths of the left side leg and the right side leg.

8. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the center leg comprises a first segment that extends a specified distance in the single plane of the main body, and a second segment that extends at a downward angle away from the single plane of the main body.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the center leg extends into an eyeline of a user during proper application of the artificial eyelash.

10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the downward angle is approximately 45 degrees.

11. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the center leg comprises a first segment that curves downwardly away from the single plane of the main body, and a second segment that extends at a downward angle away from the single plane of the main body.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the center leg extends into an eyeline of a user during proper application of the artificial eyelash.

13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the downward angle is approximately 45 degrees.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the artificial eyelash is disposed along a length of a first side of the main body and the one or more legs extend from a second side of the main body, which opposes the first side of the main body.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the length of the main body is curved in the single plane.

16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein adhesive is disposed on a top surface of the main body for temporary adherence of the artificial eyelash to the main body.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the main body and the one or more legs comprise a cover layer disposed over an adhesive layer.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the cover layer is precut across for removal of the cover layer and exposing of the adhesive layer.